Awkward Christianity
Do any of issues resonate with you?
- Far too many people, including friends and family, feel the church is irrelevant in their lives. (My paraphrase of Jeff Henderson)
- I know I’m supposed to share my faith, but I just don’t know what to say. Worse, I fear my attempt could push people away!
- I see people who call themselves Christians who don’t seem to fit, even a little, what I expect. Am I wrong in my expectations? Am I judgmental? Are they as messed up as it seems?
- I have friends, family, who I’m pretty sure are far from Christianity. Do I really believe they will go to hell when they die? What am I supposed to actually do?
- In Christian circles, we hear phrases like “keep repeating the gospel,” or “preach the gospel to yourself.” Am I supposed to know the whole book of Matthew (or Mark, or Luke or John)? Or is “the gospel” somethings shorter and simpler? I’m not sure I can describe what “the gospel” is?
- How can we have so many Christian denominations that have such different beliefs? Is there an essence to Christianity we can agree on?
- I know people — nice people, helpful people, people who are involved in serving others — “Good people.” No claim of Christianity; sometimes claims of something else. Are they going to hell?
- What is the fundamental basis for Christianity? The Bible? (can it be trusted?) Tradition? (How well has that ever worked out?) My feelings? I’m embarrassed that I just can’t quickly, clearly, explain what Christianity is
- People speak of being “Led by the Holy Spirit.” I have no confidence I’ve ever heard the Holy Spirit speaking to me
- Following Jesus. Friendship with Jesus. Sitting at the feet of Jesus. These all sound very physical and tangible. Do you have this experience? Do you know others who do?
- Who are your models of real Christ followers? How often do we see Spiritual Leaders who miss the mark a little? Does that turn you away from Christianity?
- What is worship? What is praise? What is it to give glory to God?
- Who created hell? Who “administers” hell?
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