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Common New Christian Misunderstandings?

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ephraimanesti

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Is there anything I need to be wary of as a new Christian?

What are common mistakes we make?

:scratch:

MY DEAR YOUNG BROTHER,

The most common mistake new Christians make is not getting themselves throughly grounded in the Scriptures before asking for advice from people on online forums.

The problem is caused by not knowing what the Scriptures say in order to be able to properly evaluate the advice given by others--advice which is often contradictory and off the mark.

i would recommend that you read through the New Testament slowly and prayerfully at least twice before asking for online advice in any serious matters you have facing you.

BE CAREFUL!

ephraim
 
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CShephard53

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Don't trust your own opinion, or the opinion of others. Look at the Bible. Utilize search tools. There's plenty of info available in the internet, but it does not compare with the use of logic and the Bible and a mentor. You got an entire body of believers. Don't be afraid to ask about something you are struggling with. I'll speak for myself only by saying I don't mind answering the 'beginner' questions.
 
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TheOrthodoxOne

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MY DEAR YOUNG BROTHER,

The most common mistake new Christians make is not getting themselves throughly grounded in the Scriptures before asking for advice from people on online forums.

The problem is caused by not knowing what the Scriptures say in order to be able to properly evaluate the advice given by others--advice which is often contradictory and off the mark.

i would recommend that you read through the New Testament slowly and prayerfully at least twice before asking for online advice in any serious matters you have facing you.

BE CAREFUL!

ephraim

When I read the OP, I thought to myself, "Oh, goodness, where to start!". Then I read this comment, and said to myself, "That is the greatest thing I have ever heard!"

Take this advice!
 
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heymikey80

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Is there anything I need to be wary of as a new Christian?

What are common mistakes we make?

:scratch:
Welcome!
Biggest mistakes, common mistakes ... :idea:

I think the biggest mistake I made was thinking early that my mentors and teachers had it all together. They don't. And I don't either. It doesn't make us any less authorities and mentors and teachers. But we're at best just "older brothers", a little more familiar with our First Brother.

You grow best when we can be most honest with you. Get past that offense or disillusionment you will inevitably hit, as you realize we're not perfect. Help us to be an example of humbleness and honesty, that we're not perfect. Then you will learn best from us how you are God's child like we are, and yet imperfect. And we will be in closest communion with you -- because we can all be honest about our own struggles.

We're not superheroes of the faith of Christ. We are just slightly older beggars telling you where we found Bread.
 
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MoNiCa4316

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I agree with what the others have said :) Especially the part about reading and properly understanding the Bible!

From my own experience, in the first months of being a Christian my life was awesome, I was feeling close to God, etc (some start out differently though, that's alright)...but then after a while, He let me experience a 'valley' to build my faith. It seemed like He left me, but He never did. Some Christians get discouraged by things like that, and I was too...but remember God is always with you, and choose faith regardless of how you feel :)
Also, some Christians get to a certain stage in their walk with God and feel satisfied, and stop growing. But there is always more to go, and the process would only be complete when we are like Christ. This would probably only happen after this life, so don't beat yourself up about not being perfect, just keep on turning to God for grace and forgiveness. Focus on obedience and following His will, not perfection.
And finally, don't forget to pray...prayer is so powerful, and it's an awesome priveledge to talk to our Creator!

That's just things I noticed in my life, I don't know how much you'll be able to relate.

God bless.
 
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ContentInHim

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My mistake was not beginning to read Scriptures immediately. I did at first and was saved and then didn't for another 3 years. It wasn't time wasted but not utilized to its fullest, for sure.

Begin reading Scriptures and pray for the Holy Spirit to teach you what he wants you to know. Be prepared to rethink EVERYTHING. He's going to rock your foundations - but let him do it - it's for your own good! :hug:
 
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whatfor

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I agree with what the others have said :) Especially the part about reading and properly understanding the Bible!

From my own experience, in the first months of being a Christian my life was awesome, I was feeling close to God, etc (some start out differently though, that's alright)...but then after a while, He let me experience a 'valley' to build my faith. It seemed like He left me, but He never did. Some Christians get discouraged by things like that, and I was too...but remember God is always with you, and choose faith regardless of how you feel :)
Also, some Christians get to a certain stage in their walk with God and feel satisfied, and stop growing. But there is always more to go, and the process would only be complete when we are like Christ. This would probably only happen after this life, so don't beat yourself up about not being perfect, just keep on turning to God for grace and forgiveness. Focus on obedience and following His will, not perfection.
And finally, don't forget to pray...prayer is so powerful, and it's an awesome priveledge to talk to our Creator!

That's just things I noticed in my life, I don't know how much you'll be able to relate.

God bless.
I agree I have felt this and find I struggle a bit at times but I know He is still there.
I feel at times like a child wanting attention from my Father, it can feel bad when it doesn't feel like He is there.
 
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