Recently the Queen opened the general Synod of the Church of England and drew headlines like this, “Queen extols the unique power of Christianity” she said, “When so much is in flux, when limitless amounts of information, much of it ephemeral, are instantly accessible on demand, there is a renewed hunger for that which endures and gives meaning. The Christian church can speak uniquely to that need, for at the heart of our faith stands the conviction that all people, irrespective of race, background or circumstances, can find lasting significance and purpose in the gospel of Jesus Christ.” How encouraging that the Queen agrees with what’s been said in this column for over 20 years.

The Queen very correctly describes Christianity as unique, meaning that it has no equal. There is no doubt Queen Victoria was right when she said, “The Bible is the secret of Britain’s greatness.” There have always been heretics distorting Scripture but where there has been a sincere and balanced proclamation of the Good News of Jesus Christ, morality has triumphed over immorality, truth has triumphed over error, love has triumphed over hatred, generosity has triumphed over greed, and scientific observation has triumphed over superstition. The Christian ethic has given birth to many charities, with voluntary workers caring for the environment and for people from childhood to old age. Finally the gospel has produced stable, law abiding families who form the backbone of any nation.

Above all, the gospel is unique because Jesus is unique. His life was unique because He never sinned. His death was unique because He could offer up His sinless body as an atonement for us. His resurrection was unique because unlike other religious leaders He never remained dead! Today He says, “I am the resurrection and the life, he who believes in Me, will live even though He dies.” [ John 11:25 ]