I think many "churches" contain parishioners that, both, have a personal relationship with Christ, as well as those that don't. Only God can see the heart, though. Within that is the crux of it all.
I don't like church which makes me a little weird. I read the bible and pray to god everyday. Man runs church, so any denomination isn't perfect. I'm not against church. I think it's right for certain people. So if that church endorses homosexuality, it's between them and god. Just as much as another church embraces people with money and power.
:facepalm: I don't know why you are ignoring my point. When I say the closer you are to god, the more you know what's right, is only for yourself. We aren't god and we cannot judge. It's between them and god.
Not God's church, though. Sure, there are a lot of "religions", "denominations", and "man-made" stuff out there. I've left some "churches" because i didn't think what they were teaching stood up to the Scriptures. Sadly, there are plenty of churches out there that are out for themselves (mankind in control). The good news is, there are also plenty that teach the Word of God and want to make disciples of Christ.
Okay maybe I'm a little different than most Christians, but I have a lot of gay friends. I also have a lot of friends that one might consider to be partiers. I have some that have hurt and murdered too. What they choose is on them. I won't ever be able to force them to do what I think is right or wrong, nor do I have the right to. What I try to do is be a great friend. Someone that is always there for them. If that person wants to know my belief I try to witness, nonforcefully. I just try to live a life I think I should, and believe me, it's far from perfect.
I don't doubt it one bit. Unfortunately I was let down by. Any churches. Very judge mental and tend push people away more than help.
Unfortunately, in many cases, "religiosity" has gotten in between seekers and Christ, as well as creating its own demise. (see: Pharisees) I love the things you have been saying here, Mags. Hope I can meet you some day.
No, it's the Bible that says that it is a sin. For a minister's son, you must not have paid much attention to his services. I personally have no problem with who people choose to have sex with, but that doesn't mean I think Christians are morally inferior to my belief on that matter.
Hey thanks man! Yeah I'm coming to PDX in march. I think it's the day we play okc. Sly is picking me up, so we can all hang out.
that makes no sense. what's right for you is right for everyone else, unless you are saying god plays favorites and applies different standards of what is sin for different people.
That's what creates the problem with religious debate. There are those that believe the bible is the true word of god, and others that think it's a book inspired by god and shouldn't be taken literally.
You're like me, except I don't have your faith. I accept people for what they are. I have friends from all walks of life. The common denominator in all of them is that they are very good people, IMO, and I enjoy their company. Other than this board, I don't waste my time on people who are overtly confrontational, or negative. Of course, that part of me also comes out on this board, and it's burned quite a few bridges in this community.
You aren't getting it man. No god isn't playing favorites. He speaks to us individually and he made us all with free will. Look at it in a parents perspective. One child is constantly bring told no by his or her parent, yet the child refuses to obey. Another person is telling their child the same thing and the child listens. They are both the same command but one chooses to listen while the other doesn't. One would think the one that listen has a better communication with their parent. It works the same way.
and those that say they believe it is the true word of god but don't take it literally, which is most.
