Sociology of Religion (Coursework Sample)

Established Versus Individual Religious Faith, their Advantages and Disadvantages
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Established Versus Individual Religious Faith
The institution of religion has increasingly become part of man’s life, and many studies have revealed a direct correlation of faith to aspects of life. In an argument by Roberts & Yamane (2011), our firm and abiding associations with other people are many at times triggered by our desire to belong, hence motivating us to join various religious groups and community organizations. The need to belong to a religious faith is a central impetus to associate with others as a spiritual being among others. By having assemblage, we develop a feeling of importance and inclusion in societal matters.
Individuals are usually considerate about joining a religious clutch because they are demoralised by the deceit and disharmony of devotees and even the clerics (Dillon, 1980). However, top religious figures and institutions in the world have a unanimity that the objective of a believer is reached at and his faith ascertained a person when belongs to an established religious assembly, and observes the doctrines set forth by the respective institutions. The example of Jesus (who belonged to a structured creed) is prima facie a clear guideline to any Christian believer (Calvin, 1960).
One leads a believer’s life when he belongs to a group. Calvin (1960) points out that among Christians, God’s sovereign grace goes to those who congregate in His house and fellowship together and that He saves them entirely out of his mercy and grace. This ideology cannot be considered contradictory since it aims at giving a sole condition to devotees, stating what they ought to do in order to live to the expectations of the Christian faith.
Another prime purpose the institution of religion is meant to serve is to enhance interaction and foster moral enrichment at a social level. Dillon (1980) argues that the religion has to do with teachings and moral guidance and give one reason to clean up one’s life, something an individual would otherwise miss. One also learns expectantly about his religion.
A social institution, religion, should bring out some sign of bonding and bring people together. It is an institution to belong and have a sense of kinfolk with compatible people. It’s an unconventional social prospect to the world and a place to meet an imminent partner (Roberts & Yamane, 2011). This religious aspect is only attainable at a formal setting with established structures; hence one is bound to be part of similar congregants to be able to meet this relevance religion is meant to enhance.
Whereas leading a spiritual life is laudable, joining an established religious group, for instance, Islam can be disappointing. Dillon (1980) argues that a spiritual life comes in a package with tough regulations, criticisms; societal dispel and seclusion. It is possible for one to attach himself to one religious group but fail to comply with the norms and practices prescribed forth by the particular group manual. The loss of spiritual gravity perception can be attributed to one making premature decisions before he joins that group. Attaching oneself to a particular spiritual identity and fail to conform to it is one of the worst decis...