I am a Christian. This pronouncement is not a popular thing to claim in this climate or world. My 'label' will get a visceral reaction from those who know nothing of what true Christianity is. The whys are as vast as the human race. Often those who 'hate' what I believe, have never taken the time to study for themselves true Christianity. They make their opinions based on 'sound bites' from others and do not think for themselves. They have formed opinions based on people who say one thing but act differently. The hypocrisy of leaders in their past, may have pushed them from seeking God. They were disappointed in man, as we all will be. They may have not gotten their way in a religious setting and walked away. They may have been abused in a religious setting. They base their feelings towards 'religion' and know nothing of a 'relationship with Jesus Christ. He is not a religion. They might have been wounded by a 'christian' and now lump every Christian into their enemy camp. They may hate Christianity because they hate God and want to be their 'own' god. They may hate Christianity for all they perceive, is restrictions for things they want to do. No matter the reason, I am sad for the loss in their life.
Why am I deciding to put my neck in a noose so to speak, declaring what is dear to me? Because, nothing is more important than people knowing Jesus Christ! He is not a religion. He hated the religious system! We are sinners (look at our world), it is not getting better! He is the antidote to all of the ills of this world. Of all 'religions' known to man kind, God through Jesus Christ came to draw us to Himself. He did not leave us guessing whether we would make it to heaven or not. We actually get a choice!! Performance is not how He works. He came knowing we were a mess and offered to clean us up. He does the cleaning up, we cannot do it on our own. No gimmicks, no hoops to jump through, no lists of 'to dos'. Jesus Christ did it all.
In this 'Age of Rage' ( a new description for our times) with talking heads, mostly angry 'talking heads', shouting at each other with a plan for our lives and nothing good happening, where do you put your hope? Do you really believe that one piece of legislation, one set of politicians, is going to change the world? No government can control the heart of man! No government can meet your needs! When all is said and done and you are alone who will you turn too?
Before you condemn me for being a follower of Jesus Christ, can I ask that you check His claims of being God? I am not an ignorant, mindless worshiper. Jesus Christ changed my life and gave it meaning! Do yourself a favor. Check Him out! Your very eternity depends upon it. He changes lives for the better. He brings hope!
(Curious? Suggested reading: Mere Christianity, C S Lewis (former atheist). A Case for Christ, Lee Strobel, Bible - Start with the book of John or Mark, the index will find your page.)
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