i have heard many stories over the years that individuals have lost faith because of the church, or i should say religion. the different denomination of a church is just different interpretations of the bible. we are baptist. i found this denomination to be the closet to the interpretation of the gospel, but others have found that their denomination is. i don't believe any of them to be wrong, because we all worship the same GOD. what i do find wrong is that just because you attend a church on sunday morning, does not make you a christian.
you have to read the bible, learn the gospels, and accept his words into your heart, to be a christian. GOD does not give you a choice on this - he has told you what you have to do. his words are the only the truth on how you should be living your life - the only truth.
when CHRIST died on the cross, a curtain was torn. "and when JESUS cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. at that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom." (matthew 27:50-51) my interpretation of this verse is that GOD at the moment gave you the freedom to worship him without the priest, the pastor,or the rabbi to step in your way. what i mean by this is that just you can have a relationship with him - just you and him. When CHRIST died the old covenant was lost and the new began.
our pastor did a sermon a while ago, and his quote was "being a christian is not a religion, but a relationship with CHRIST." before becoming a christian, i have to say that i had preconceived ideas about what the church was. i have been fortunate that the church i attend has made my journey incredible. of course the biggest example of how the churches should be teaching the gospels is through paul. god gave him the words "literally" of what the churches should be doing, but remember the church is run by sinful men and women just like you and me, so they are being judged also. i am not trying to tell you not to go to church, i'm just telling you that you shouldn't fear the church. churches are there for the fellowship and the teachings of CHRIST - go!
i found that i was afraid of the gospel, not the church in the end before accepting HIM. so that is the question; are you afraid of his words and failing, or are you afraid of the church? having a relationship with CHRIST is the greatest gift that will ever be given to you. i cannot say enough how beautiful it is to be in his word. GOD gives you so much love and grace! i believe every story, every word, and every prophecy is true in the bible - all of it (these were HIS words given to man to write down).
"for the word of GOD is living and active. sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even the dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." hebrews 4:12
"fix these words of mine to your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads." deuteronomy 11:18
"the holy scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in CHRIST JESUS. all scripture is GOD-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." 2 timothy 3:15-16
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