More Christian Than the Christians?

Periodically you see someone saying that some one who isn't a Christian is more Christian than actual Christians. This is usually in the context of politics and is meant to point out hypocrisy among some groups of Christians. While I certainly understand the point that is being made, there is a fundamental problem with that kind of comparison. The problem is assuming that Christianity is the yardstick by which we measure morality and that any goodness among non-Christians is due to them living according to Christian principles. I disagree with that assumption.

This isn't because I necessarily believe that New Testament-based morality is wrong, but that it isn't unique. An obvious example is that of the "Golden Rule", usually quoted as "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you". (Do unto others what you want them to do to you - Matthew 7:12) This same "rule" can be documented as far back as 550 B.C. in Confucian China; The Code of Hammurabi contains similar wording another 1200 years earlier. Many of the world religions contain a concept virtually identical concept: Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism and Zoroastrianism all have their versions.

All religions have as part of their ethical core guidelines for getting along with others and for the smooth operation of society. Setting aside dietary and ritual considerations, religious systems codify a commonsense system for people to interact with others with minimal friction. Don't lie, don't cheat, don't steal, be nice to those weaker than you, respect those in authority over you, share your bounty when you are able, do your duty, follow through on your commitments, etc. You can expand on any or all of these and come up with a workable moral foundation. At the root, these moral standards are simply a framework to avoid societal chaos.

While pairing these behavioral expectations with worship of a deity or with ritual observances is common, there is no reason for it to be necessary. Most religious adherents, or even non-adherents, i.e. atheists, would have strong motivation to live harmoniously within society. It doesn't take belief in gods to understand that lying and cheating eventually result in lack of trust by others; that stealing is going to result in some kind of retaliation; that anarchy in government or business is unproductive and dangerous; basically that you act in such a way that you would want to be treated and hope it all works out.

This isn't to suggest that everyone will naturally act ethically without the influence of religion any more than everyone who is a religious person will automatically act ethically. No, I'm just suggesting that telling a non-Christian that they are a good Christian ignores and denigrates their own ethical and moral choices.