What does it mean to be a Christian?
I was in Sunday School. Across from me sat this guy who grew up in the ghetto. He liked questionable music, questionable women, was into the drug scene, dressed like a player, talked like a hood. I remember thinking, "I don't think my life is really any different than his. There's probably not a thing he would do that I wouldn't."
What does it mean to be a Christian?
What does it mean to follow Jesus?
What does it mean to be saved?
Hopefully some words of encouragement
Justin,
I did scan your letter and was going to respond before I saw this trend.
One thing I admire about you is that you are a man of thought. You like to think. You are analyical and seek the truth. I admire many of our conversations where we discussed the truths of the Bible together. Even shared some of my own thoughts.
I think you have a lot of questions.. I think philosophy, doctrine, etc is right in thier place. But with the greatest respect, I think its important to not just come up with ideas of our own, but rather seek the truth that the Bible holds for us.
There are basically three directions one can go. One is to believe the Bible. The other is to believe the socialist/liberal world. The third way is to do whatever one wants to and basically make up your own religion that takes parts of each that they like or try to twist the two together.
The question you have to ask yourself is, "do you truly believe the bible to be the word of God?" If you do, and I sincerely hope you do. Then I think you might wish to get away from the influences of the world (in your college, media or elsewhere) that are trying to mislead you and simply read the Bible, meditate on it, and know Jesus intimately. Fall in love with Jesus and say, "not my will, but thine."
My friend, he is the most wonderful caring friend you will ever have. He will change your life for the better as he has always done for people who are willing. and he will fill your heart with the greatest love for Himself and others and give you the greatest happieness and peace possible.
I feel sad that many vain philosophies have distracted you. I think the situation here is not an encouragement where so many are focused on doctrinal differences rather than knowing Jesus.
I pray that you read the Bible. Spend a half hour a day reading the Bible. Spend a half hour a day in prayer and spend a half hour a day reading the books of godly men from the past, like wesley, finney, spurgeon, bounds, etc. Ask the holy spirit to touch you and guide you to the truth before hand. And see if that does not lift your soul as you start spending time with our blessed Lord and getting to know Him.
I pray that this is an encouragement to you to return to your first love.
Respectfully,
George