Transcending Authoritarian Religion
Recognising and Resolving the Inherent Contradiction of “Authoritarian” Religion
Authoritarianism, as a socio-political structure, stands in stark contrast to the universal spirit of religion. While religion seeks to nurture a relationship between humanity and the divine, the method of authoritarian control often undermines this noble intention. Essentially, it is a case of a good intention being misapplied through an unsuitable tool.
To realign religion with its core purpose, we must first distinguish between the inherently altruistic and transformative intentions of religion—as demonstrated by the lives and teachings of avatars, messiahs, saints, and spiritual teachers—and the socio-political structures used to deliver and administer religious messages. This differentiation is critical for understanding how these structures can distort religion’s true purpose.
The Misalignment of Authoritarianism and Religion
Authoritarianism, a socio-political system that has dominated Western culture for centuries, can serve specific purposes in certain contexts—such as in wartime, where centralised control is often necessary for survival. However, religion’s ultimate aim is far removed from such utilitarian goals. Religion exists to awaken and liberate the human soul, fostering a personal relationship with the divine. This process has the capacity to reveal Love as humanity’s True nature and transform both individual and collective consciousness. It appears that such transformation may now be essential for the survival and flourishing of Life, Nature, Society and Self.
The success of this spiritual process depends on the “set and setting”—the mindset and environment in which it unfolds. The social structures and organizational principles that religion adopts must foster an “ecology of flourishing,” supporting this transformation from within. When authoritarian socio-political structures are applied to religious contexts, they contradict, distort, and suppress religion’s original mandate. They stand in direct opposition to the messages of love, equality, and justice embodied by figures like Jesus Christ and other spiritual leaders.
In short, an “authoritarian church” is a contradiction in terms.
The Problem of Authoritarianism in Religious Institutions
Religious institutions often adopt authoritarian structures to maintain control over their members. But why do they seek such power? A foundational justification lies in the doctrine of “original sin”, which posits that humanity is inherently sinful and untrustworthy. This belief leads to the conclusion that individuals cannot rely on their own thoughts, emotions, instincts, or moral judgment. Instead, they must submit to divinely appointed external authorities who claim to discern right from wrong on their behalf.
This authoritarian framework infantilises believers, depriving them of the opportunity to develop moral competence. By discouraging personal responsibility and critical thinking, an authoritarian church creates generations of followers who are dependent on its authority. The generational moral incompetence thus generated, in turn, is interpreted as evidence to justify the doctrine of original sin, creating a self-perpetuating virulent cycle. Over time, this system strips individuals of their freedoms and responsibilities, concentrating power in the hands of an elite class or individual which assumes more control over the lives of its followers.
The result is a religious life devoid of vitality—a dispirited, hollow existence where individuals blindly follow external commands. The spiritual potential of the Soul is actively suppressed, and religion becomes little more than a lifeless, mechanical puppet show.
The Remedy: “Original Divinity” Over “Original Sin”
The antidote to the dehumanising effects of the doctrine of original sin is the recognition of “original divinity”. This concept transcends and integrates the doctrine of original sin into a broader, life-affirming understanding of the human condition. Original divinity sees the human Soul as the True self, a source of inner wisdom connected to the Divine principle within. It acknowledges that the Soul resides at the centre of human awareness, initially obscured in a blind spot in ego-system awareness.
Belief in original sin denies humanities Sacred dimension - the Souls intrinsic potential for right thought and action - and instead directs attention outward, toward external authorities and saviours, rather than inward, toward the Truth within. In contrast, original divinity affirms the Souls capacity for Love, discernment, and moral agency. It invites individuals to reclaim their spiritual autonomy and discover the Divine presence at the core of their being.
Understanding Authoritarianism and Its Religious Manifestation
Authoritarianism is a political system characterised by strong central power and limited individual freedoms. Decision-making authority is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or a small group, with minimal input or accountability to the broader populace. Such systems prioritize obedience over autonomy and often suppress dissent.
Authoritarian religion mirrors this structure by emphasising hierarchical authority, rigid control, and unquestioning obedience. Power is centralized in the hands of clergy or religious councils, who dictate doctrine and enforce orthodoxy. Questioning or dissent is discouraged, and individual spiritual exploration is stifled.
The Conflict Between Authoritarianism and Moral Leadership
Religious institutions are often seen as moral leaders, entrusted with guiding their communities in matters of justice, compassion, and integrity. However, authoritarian structures create conflicts with this role in several key ways:
1. Suppression of Individual Conscience: By discouraging personal interpretation of spiritual teachings, authoritarian religions stifle moral reasoning and autonomy.
2. Power Imbalances: Centralised authority can lead to corruption, abuse, and exploitation, undermining the institution’s moral credibility.
3. Imposition Over Service: Authoritarian systems prioritise control over serving the spiritual needs of their members, alienating individuals and fostering resentment.
4. Resistance to Reform: Rigid hierarchical systems are often resistant to change, even in the face of moral failings or injustices.
Jesus Christ’s Opposition to Authoritarianism
The teachings of Jesus Christ stand in direct opposition to authoritarianism. Key elements of Christ’s message include:
1. Servant Leadership: Jesus advocated for leaders to serve others, saying, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). This principle is antithetical to authoritarianism.
2. Love and Compassion: Christ emphasised love, humility, and compassion over rigid legalism and authoritarian control.
3. Inclusivity and Empowerment: Jesus ministered to the marginalised and rejected, empowering individuals and challenging systems of oppression.
4. Challenging Hypocrisy and Corruption: He openly criticised religious authorities for their hypocrisy and misuse of power (Matthew 23).
5. Personal Relationship with God: Jesus taught that individuals could have a direct relationship with God, bypassing the need for hierarchical intermediaries.
Toward a Non-Authoritarian Religious Structure
To embody Christ’s teachings, religious institutions must adopt structures that reflect his values of love, service, and humility. Key features of such a structure include:
1. Decentralised Leadership: Authority should be distributed among a diverse group of leaders, emphasizing collaboration and shared responsibility.
2. Servant Leadership: Leaders should prioritise service over power, embodying Christ-like humility and compassion.
3. Congregational Participation: Members should have an active role in decision-making, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.
4. Transparency and Accountability: Systems must be in place to hold leaders accountable and ensure transparency in decision-making.
5. Focus on Spiritual Growth: The institution should prioritise personal spiritual development over rigid doctrinal enforcement.
6. Inclusivity and Equality: Reflecting Christ’s radical inclusivity, the institution should embrace diversity and ensure equal participation for all.
7. Adaptability to Change: A Christ-centred institution should remain open to growth and reform, guided by principles of love and justice.
Conclusion
The application of authoritarian structures to religion creates a fundamental contradiction, undermining its universal mandate to awaken the soul and foster love. Jesus Christ’s teachings provide a clear alternative, emphasizing servant leadership, humility, and inclusivity. By adopting non-authoritarian structures, religious institutions can better align with their spiritual mission, embodying the transformative power of love and justice in a way that honours the divine potential within all people.