” It makes one no less a Christian to understand the differences and similarities in other religions. That is not a conversion to what they believe and a rejection of ones Christianity, but rather a strengthening of ones own beliefs.”
I wholeheartedly agree.
I'd be thrilled, because they would be coming closer to Truth. But then again, Buddhism doesn't express itself in an exclusive manner like Christianity does.
I think to reject such as this out of hand is something that is short-sighted. It makes one no less a Christian to understand the differences and similarities in other religions. That is not a conversion to what they believe and a rejection of ones Christianity, but rather a strengthening of ones own beliefs.
Pointing out similarities and differences is laudable, but that doesn't make it right to put the writings of pagans (righteous ones perhaps, but pagans nonetheless), on the same level as divinely-inspired Scripture. In addition, there are some teachings/presuppositions of Buddhism that are in complete contrast to Christianity - which can be the beginning of weakening one's Christian faith.
Buddhism is not a religion per se. It is more of a philosophy.
I would not welcome Buddhist readings in my church, neither Islamic nor Hindu. If one wants to understand the differences and such, there are plaenty of books to read, those ‘teachings’ do not belong in Christian worship.
Similarly, I ‘ll warrant that in your local mosque, not only would proclaiming Jesus to be the Son of God and the Saviour of mankind not be appreciated, it might be met with physical ‘resistance’. If a ‘philosophy’ wants to also discuss Christ, I say more power to them. But non-Christ teachings do not belong in church.