That there are stated to be more followers of Buddhism than of Christianity is no proof of any efficacy in the former or lack of power in the latter.

Buddhists help to swell that very large class of persons who prefer a flattering picture to a plain original; or who, sheep-like by nature, finding themselves all together in one meadow, are too lazy, as well as too indifferent, to seek pastures fresher and fairer.
"Through the divine influence of an Electric Thought, then, the world unconsciously grew to expect SOMETHING--they knew not what.

The old creeds of the world, like sunflowers, turned towards that unknown Sun; the poets, prophets, seers, all spoke of some approaching consolation and glory; and to this day the fated Jews expect it, unwilling to receive as their Messiah the Divine Martyr they slew, though their own Scriptures testify to His identity.
"Christ came, born of a Virgin; that is, a radiant angel from God's Sphere was in the first place sent down to Earth to wear the form of Mary of Bethlehem, in Judea.

Within that vessel of absolute purity God placed an Emanation of His own radiance--no germ or small flame such as is given to us in our bodies to cultivate and foster, but a complete immortal Spirit, a portion of God Himself, wise, sinless, and strong.
This Spirit, pent up in clay, was born as a helpless babe, grew up as man--as man taught, comforted, was slain and buried; but as pure Spirit rose again and returned in peace to Heaven, His mission done.
"It was necessary, in order to establish what has been called an electric communication between God's Sphere and this Earth, that an actual immortal, untainted Spirit in the person of Christ should walk this world, sharing with men sufferings, difficulties, danger, and death.

Why?
In order that we might first completely confide in and trust Him, afterwards realizing His spiritual strength and glory by His resurrection.