Tony Blair

Former British prime minister Tony Blair wrote an article titled “Why Faith Matters” that appeared in the September 12 edition of Parade magazine. In the article, Blair talks about his Christian faith, but he betrays a woeful lack of understanding of that faith.

Blair recalls a time in his youth when he confided in an “ordained” teacher that his father didn’t believe in God. He says that his teacher’s reply made a lasting impression on him. The teacher said, “That doesn’t matter. God believes in him. He loves him without demanding or needing love in return.”

How sad that Blair’s spiritual formation was based largely on a comment that was false. While it is true that God loves everyone, even non-believers, it is not true that faith doesn’t matter. Since we are saved through faith (Eph.2:8), faith matters a great deal.

Nor is it true that God does not demand our love in return for his. In response to the question, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment.” (Matt.22:36-38).

God’s greatest desire is that we love him. He commands us to do so, and Jesus says that this is the greatest commandment of all. If a person refuses to obey the greatest commandment, does that make him the greatest sinner? What do you think?