Why are there so many religions?

TL;DR:

: So many religions exist because of humanity's rejection of the one true God. Rather than worshiping the God of Scripture, people create gods and belief systems that align with their personal desires and preferences.

what does the bible say?

Romans 1:18–21 reveals that God has made Himself known to all humanity through creation and conscience. His eternal power and divine nature are clearly visible, leaving humanity without excuse. However, instead of embracing and glorifying God, people have suppressed and distorted this truth, choosing instead to pursue their own desires and preferences. Suppressing revealed truth ultimately expresses itself in idolatry, which is the pursuit of anything in this world other than the glory of God (Colossians 3:5). Rejection of God and His truth is why there are so many religions.

from the old testament

The Mosaic Law emphasized the exclusivity of worshiping the true God: “It is the Lord your God you shall fear. Him you shall serve and by his name you shall swear. You shall not go after other gods, the gods of the peoples who are around you” (Deuteronomy 6:13-14).
The first two of the Ten Commandments forbids idolatry.
God's existence and attributes are evident in creation (Psalm 19:1-4). The prophet Isaiah writes of how irrational it is for someone to try to turn the created into a creator (Isaiah 44:9–20).

from the new testament

The existence of the true God is plain to see through creation (Romans 1:19). The many false religions show that human beings tend to suppress the truth of God to fulfill their own sinful desires (Romans 1:18).
Jesus said, “If anyone's will is to do God's will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority” (John 7:17). Those who want to know God, will read God’s word, familiarizing themselves with the truth so that they can detect a false teaching when they hear it.
James exhorts us to “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you” (James 4:8).When we draw near to God we can determine truth from lies.
Some religions arise from attempting to know God and discern truth without the wisdom and guidance of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:14).
Idolatry is the worship of anything other than the one true God (Colossians 3:5).

implications for today

Many cults and religions are works-based, meaning people believe they can earn their way to heaven through good works, rituals or following laws. On the other hand, biblical salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-10). It is impossible to please God without faith (Hebrews 11:6).

Some religions emphasize personal freedom, relativism or moral indifference, thus aligning with humanity's sinful nature (James 1:14). These people reject God's standards, preferring instead no rules or self-made standards.

Others reject the idea of a sovereign, personal God who exercises authority over their lives (Psalm 14:1). Instead, they imagine God as a mystical force or universal consciousness. They live without accountability, following their own desires.

Scripture warns believers against pursuing false beliefs (Colossians 2:8). The world’s many religions highlights the need for discernment and faithfulness to the truth of God’s Word. Jesus declared that He is the only way to God (John 14:6).

understand

Creation testifies to the one true Creator.
People reject God because they want to live their own way rather than God’s way.
Idolatry can take many forms and is sinful in all of them.

reflect

How have you personally encountered false religions or teachings, and how did they challenge your faith?
What spiritual disciplines help you stay rooted in God’s truth rather than following your own desires?
In what areas of your life are you most tempted to substitute God’s will with your own preferences?

engage

How can we effectively engage a culture that often elevates personal freedom and relativism above God’s truth?
What modern practices or priorities could be considered forms of idolatry in our lives?
Which false religions or spiritual movements are currently growing in influence, and how should Christians respond biblically?