I can't accept Jesus as my saviour

[Maria Billingsley]

Hello I am new to this website and created this account today. Sorry if I posted this on the wrong thread, but I just have to get this off of my chest I can't find it anywhere on the internet. Basically I am a American muslim, well former muslim. I tried my best to be the most educated and dedicated muslim. I did all the prayers on time, fasted two times each month, recited Quran daily, and very well educated in Islam and Islamic history. Despite all this there were unanswered questions and I never really felt a connection. I always felt interested in Christianity, despite how much I would try to convince myself it is a false religion. I would read christian novels, research christian history, and I would always look and check out the books on Christianity in the library. I remember the one and only time I was in a church my eyes were fixed on this mosaic of Jesus. I felt more disconnected with Islam I tried Quran-only, but there was too much conflict within the community on basic stuff lie prayer or hajj. Not to mention many of them believed in flat earth. One night when I was reading Surah 19, I asked myself, "What is a messiah?" The Quran and hadith make no requirement for the messiah, Jesus is just the messiah. A messiah is supposed to be a saviour, yet Jesus didn't save the Children of Israel from anything. That is like if I wanna be President, but there are no requirements to be President. More and more questions began to appear. "If Muhammad is the last prophet, why will Jesus come back? Why would Allah allow Christians to worship Jesus for 600 years? Why is Dajjal often referred to as the Anti-Christ and why is Jesus the only one capable of killing him? Why would the followers of Jesus immediately worship him after his death? Why would Jesus abandon his followers like a coward?" When I started to examine the scriptures, Jesus is ironically God. 4:171 states that Jesus is a Messenger of Allah(Son), had His Word(Father), and had the spirit(Holy Spirit). Or how in Sahih Muslim book 1 hadith 296 it states Jesus will come down as a "just judge." Who else can be a judge, but God? I can go on and on, but it will take too long. There was too much about Islam that contradicted itself like how idolatry is a sin, yet muslims bow down 5 times a day to the Kaaba, kiss the Blackstone, and circle it 7 times. The fact that in 5:116 and 9:30 it states Trinity is father, son, and mother(Mary) and that Jews believe Ezra is the son of God(even though Muhammad took an oath on the torah Sunan Abi Dawud book 40 hadith 96). Most muslims woud hate to admit this, but Muhammad is heavily idolized in Islam. Allah and Muhammad himself admit that he is a sinner,(47:19 and Sahih Bukhari book 97 hadith 15) but most muslims, specifically sunnis, believe he was sinless and do whatever he does, even if it goes against the Quran. Lastly the Quran/hadiths admits Muhammad is a false prophet. 69:44-46 states if Muhammad made a false saying his aorta would have been cut and in Sahih Bukhari book 64 hadith 450 Muhammad states that he feels that his aorta is being cut. Anyways back to christianity, it took me months to realize that christianity is the religion. The accuracy and reliable of the New Testament, life and divinity of Jesus, sudden conversion of the apostles, the apostles being executed, persecution of early christians, and biggest one, the resurrection. I am currently reading the New Testament and Jesus crucifixion(in all the gospels)and Paul's conversion made me cry, something the Quran never made me do. I can't stop thinking about Jesus, sometimes tears come down from my eyes for the sacrifice he did for me. His name and story makes me smile and feel good inside. I want to accept Jesus, but I can't. I committed many horrible sins in the past including insults/blasphemy against christians and christainity. I will loose my whole family. I can't really go back to my homeland, even though I really want to. I always wanted to move back, but if I convert it will be harder for me over there. Overall just the challenges and guilt I have, it's too hard. I keep telling myself after I finish the New Testament, but I also say I should just confess now. Even if I convert what am I gonna do? I can't go to church, I can't get baptized, I can't do anything on Sunday, and I can't talk to anyone about Jesus. How am I suppose to build a stronger relation with God apart from reading the Bible? My grades are going down and for some reason I am experiencing jealously because of it. I even have an assignment I have to do now. That is all I have to say, sorry that this thread is too long I just had to put this out there.

Jesus Christ of Nazareth is not about conversion it is about knowing the truth. He knows your heart so no matter what situation you are in He will be there for you. Once you have given Him all, He will work in your life, open doors that you never knew existed. Be patience and most of all trust Him who is now drawing you into Him.
Blessings.

 

[gideon123]

Please remember, you CAN always accept Christ as your Savior and keep this private. The Bible does to tell you to put your life in danger, if you live in a land that persecutes Christians.

It seems to me that you have read rhe words of Jesus, and also the New Testament. So now you know the Truth. Once God puts this light in your life, you cannot walk back into darkness. Therefore, participate in Christian worship while you are in the West, and pray that God will open a door for you to worship openly as a Christian in your homeland. But for the time being, keep everything private and do not discuss with your family.

Blessings!!

 

[Der Alte]

Hello I am new to this website and created this account today. Sorry if I posted this on the wrong thread, but I just have to get this off of my chest I can't find it anywhere on the internet. Basically I am a American muslim, well former muslim. I tried my best to be the most educated and dedicated muslim. I did all the prayers on time, fasted two times each month, recited Quran daily, and very well educated in Islam and Islamic history. Despite all this there were unanswered questions and I never really felt a connection. I always felt interested in Christianity, despite how much I would try to convince myself it is a false religion. I would read christian novels, research christian history, and I would always look and check out the books on Christianity in the library. I remember the one and only time I was in a church my eyes were fixed on this mosaic of Jesus. I felt more disconnected with Islam I tried Quran-only, but there was too much conflict within the community on basic stuff lie prayer or hajj. Not to mention many of them believed in flat earth. One night when I was reading Surah 19, I asked myself, "What is a messiah?" The Quran and hadith make no requirement for the messiah, Jesus is just the messiah. A messiah is supposed to be a saviour, yet Jesus didn't save the Children of Israel from anything. That is like if I wanna be President, but there are no requirements to be President. More and more questions began to appear. "If Muhammad is the last prophet, why will Jesus come back? Why would Allah allow Christians to worship Jesus for 600 years? Why is Dajjal often referred to as the Anti-Christ and why is Jesus the only one capable of killing him? Why would the followers of Jesus immediately worship him after his death? Why would Jesus abandon his followers like a coward?" When I started to examine the scriptures, Jesus is ironically God. 4:171 states that Jesus is a Messenger of Allah(Son), had His Word(Father), and had the spirit(Holy Spirit). Or how in Sahih Muslim book 1 hadith 296 it states Jesus will come down as a "just judge." Who else can be a judge, but God? I can go on and on, but it will take too long. There was too much about Islam that contradicted itself like how idolatry is a sin, yet muslims bow down 5 times a day to the Kaaba, kiss the Blackstone, and circle it 7 times. The fact that in 5:116 and 9:30 it states Trinity is father, son, and mother(Mary) and that Jews believe Ezra is the son of God(even though Muhammad took an oath on the torah Sunan Abi Dawud book 40 hadith 96). Most muslims woud hate to admit this, but Muhammad is heavily idolized in Islam. Allah and Muhammad himself admit that he is a sinner,(47:19 and Sahih Bukhari book 97 hadith 15) but most muslims, specifically sunnis, believe he was sinless and do whatever he does, even if it goes against the Quran. Lastly the Quran/hadiths admits Muhammad is a false prophet. 69:44-46 states if Muhammad made a false saying his aorta would have been cut and in Sahih Bukhari book 64 hadith 450 Muhammad states that he feels that his aorta is being cut. Anyways back to christianity, it took me months to realize that christianity is the religion. The accuracy and reliable of the New Testament, life and divinity of Jesus, sudden conversion of the apostles, the apostles being executed, persecution of early christians, and biggest one, the resurrection. I am currently reading the New Testament and Jesus crucifixion(in all the gospels)and Paul's conversion made me cry, something the Quran never made me do. I can't stop thinking about Jesus, sometimes tears come down from my eyes for the sacrifice he did for me. His name and story makes me smile and feel good inside. I want to accept Jesus, but I can't. I committed many horrible sins in the past including insults/blasphemy against christians and christainity. I will loose my whole family. I can't really go back to my homeland, even though I really want to. I always wanted to move back, but if I convert it will be harder for me over there. Overall just the challenges and guilt I have, it's too hard. I keep telling myself after I finish the New Testament, but I also say I should just confess now. Even if I convert what am I gonna do? I can't go to church, I can't get baptized, I can't do anything on Sunday, and I can't talk to anyone about Jesus. How am I suppose to build a stronger relation with God apart from reading the Bible? My grades are going down and for some reason I am experiencing jealously because of it. I even have an assignment I have to do now. That is all I have to say, sorry that this thread is too long I just had to put this out there.

Here is a link to a video by a former Muslim Imam who found Jesus in the Quran

 

[throughfiierytrial]

Hello I am new to this website and created this account today. Sorry if I posted this on the wrong thread, but I just have to get this off of my chest I can't find it anywhere on the internet. Basically I am a American muslim, well former muslim. I tried my best to be the most educated and dedicated muslim. I did all the prayers on time, fasted two times each month, recited Quran daily, and very well educated in Islam and Islamic history. Despite all this there were unanswered questions and I never really felt a connection. I always felt interested in Christianity, despite how much I would try to convince myself it is a false religion. I would read christian novels, research christian history, and I would always look and check out the books on Christianity in the library. I remember the one and only time I was in a church my eyes were fixed on this mosaic of Jesus. I felt more disconnected with Islam I tried Quran-only, but there was too much conflict within the community on basic stuff lie prayer or hajj. Not to mention many of them believed in flat earth. One night when I was reading Surah 19, I asked myself, "What is a messiah?" The Quran and hadith make no requirement for the messiah, Jesus is just the messiah. A messiah is supposed to be a saviour, yet Jesus didn't save the Children of Israel from anything. That is like if I wanna be President, but there are no requirements to be President. More and more questions began to appear. "If Muhammad is the last prophet, why will Jesus come back? Why would Allah allow Christians to worship Jesus for 600 years? Why is Dajjal often referred to as the Anti-Christ and why is Jesus the only one capable of killing him? Why would the followers of Jesus immediately worship him after his death? Why would Jesus abandon his followers like a coward?" When I started to examine the scriptures, Jesus is ironically God. 4:171 states that Jesus is a Messenger of Allah(Son), had His Word(Father), and had the spirit(Holy Spirit). Or how in Sahih Muslim book 1 hadith 296 it states Jesus will come down as a "just judge." Who else can be a judge, but God? I can go on and on, but it will take too long. There was too much about Islam that contradicted itself like how idolatry is a sin, yet muslims bow down 5 times a day to the Kaaba, kiss the Blackstone, and circle it 7 times. The fact that in 5:116 and 9:30 it states Trinity is father, son, and mother(Mary) and that Jews believe Ezra is the son of God(even though Muhammad took an oath on the torah Sunan Abi Dawud book 40 hadith 96). Most muslims woud hate to admit this, but Muhammad is heavily idolized in Islam. Allah and Muhammad himself admit that he is a sinner,(47:19 and Sahih Bukhari book 97 hadith 15) but most muslims, specifically sunnis, believe he was sinless and do whatever he does, even if it goes against the Quran. Lastly the Quran/hadiths admits Muhammad is a false prophet. 69:44-46 states if Muhammad made a false saying his aorta would have been cut and in Sahih Bukhari book 64 hadith 450 Muhammad states that he feels that his aorta is being cut. Anyways back to christianity, it took me months to realize that christianity is the religion. The accuracy and reliable of the New Testament, life and divinity of Jesus, sudden conversion of the apostles, the apostles being executed, persecution of early christians, and biggest one, the resurrection. I am currently reading the New Testament and Jesus crucifixion(in all the gospels)and Paul's conversion made me cry, something the Quran never made me do. I can't stop thinking about Jesus, sometimes tears come down from my eyes for the sacrifice he did for me. His name and story makes me smile and feel good inside. I want to accept Jesus, but I can't. I committed many horrible sins in the past including insults/blasphemy against christians and christainity. I will loose my whole family. I can't really go back to my homeland, even though I really want to. I always wanted to move back, but if I convert it will be harder for me over there. Overall just the challenges and guilt I have, it's too hard. I keep telling myself after I finish the New Testament, but I also say I should just confess now. Even if I convert what am I gonna do? I can't go to church, I can't get baptized, I can't do anything on Sunday, and I can't talk to anyone about Jesus. How am I suppose to build a stronger relation with God apart from reading the Bible? My grades are going down and for some reason I am experiencing jealously because of it. I even have an assignment I have to do now. That is all I have to say, sorry that this thread is too long I just had to put this out there.

Please keep praying to Jesus for wisdom and knowledge and understanding. We are called to make difficult decisions at times and we all must forsake worldliness to follow Christ and God works with us individually there. Pray to Jesus to lift your burden and if at all possible make your conversion easy...tell Him you are willing and wait for His lead. He lead the Children of Israel out of Egypt where they were enslaved ruthlessly and brought them into a beautiful Promised land. This can be taken figuratively: Before we come to Christ we are enslaved by our sin and worldly passions, but He leads us out of our bondage and will one day lead us into our Promised Land...Heaven...it's all worth it!

 

[throughfiierytrial]

I guess I am scared for the future. I don't know what will happen when I accept Jesus and I do not know how to honour and worship him apart from reading the Bible and prayers. He deserves much more than that. I really wished I had someone in my life that can talk to me about Jesus.

You have a heavy burden, no doubt, but trust Jesus...in the figurative language (both real and figurative) of the Children of Israel being led out of Egypt to their Promised Land is the account of God parting the waters of the Red Sea for the Israelites to pass on dry ground...the Egyptian armies who pursued them drown. One can understand from this that we have a Mighty God who is willing to not only lead us and save us, but deals with all enemies of this effort. Trust Him then and just as Abraham and Moses once pleaded with God face to face plead your case with Him and remind Him of His promise:
Matthew 11:28-30:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

 

[throughfiierytrial]

Can I confess and get baptized when I can, probably about a year from now instead? If I could get baptized right now, trust me, I would.

I'd like to answer you, do not plan that just yet. Jesus has a way of working everything out and all you have to do is agree or avail yourself of what He says or provides...may be through mutual friends or even a stranger just happening into your life at the right time. Again, pray on it and watch for answers. Baptism can be performed by another Christian...any Christian who is fervent enough to offer you baptism is fervent enough to be acceptable. All Christians have priestly duties...
Revelation 1:5-6:
To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, 6 and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.
Revelation 5:9-10:
“You are worthy to take the scroll
and to open its seals,
because you were slain,
and with your blood you purchased for God
persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.
You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God,
and they will reign on the earth.”

 

[derpytia]

Welcome to the Kingdom

I guess the only thing I have to offer aside from all the previous responses in this thread is to remember that, no matter what happens to you, no matter what sins you've committed or will commit, no matter what other people say about you, God loves you.

I know I've struggled with this a lot, and I was raised Christian, but I think I'm starting to learn how to hold onto that despite all. God can handle our fears, our hurt feelings, our guilt, and our doubt because He CARES about you. You do not bow before a God that cares nothing about you as person. Quite the opposite; He cares so much about you. He cares so much about all of us. Why else would He forgive us over and over again and send His Son to pay for the sins we are ultimately responsible for?

So if you ever feel alone with nowhere to turn, talk to God. You don't have to do a fancy prayer or say words that sound perfect. Because of Jesus you can approach God freely as your Father and tell Him whatever's on your mind and know that He hears you and cares.

 

[Helmut-WK]

When I read the title of the thread I thought there was somewhat with intellectual difficulties or doubts, but this is not your problem ...

Basically I am a American muslim, well former muslim. I tried my best to be the most educated and dedicated muslim.

Islam does not allow to change to another believe. While there are some moderate Muslims that are somewhat tolerant, you always have to fear bad, maybe even deadly consequences if you leave, from radical Muslims. This is the core of your problems.

I want to accept Jesus, but I can't. I committed many horrible sins in the past including insults/blasphemy against christians and christainity.

No sin is too big, if you confess to God and repent, You will be forgiven. It may helpful to confess to another Christians if you can't get rid of the doubts whether you will be forgiven or not.

I will loose my whole family. I can't really go back to my homeland, even though I really want to. I always wanted to move back, but if I convert it will be harder for me over there.

You can start as a secret believer. Pray to Jesus, ask for forgiveness, these are the first steps. If you cannot be baptized, God will not reckon it as a sin.

Maybe you have to run away and hide in the long run. Better when you are so old that no-one can accuse the people who help you in this of kidnapping or the like. So this is not the next step.

I can't go to church, I can't get baptized, I can't do anything on Sunday, and I can't talk to anyone about Jesus. How am I suppose to build a stronger relation with God apart from reading the Bible?

I am no American and do not live in the USA, so I cannot give practical tips, but in principle you can make secrets contacts to Christians and so get edified and grow.

I don't know what your family knows about your sin (and whether they are sin according to Muslim assessment), but you can try to be a better son (nephew, brother, etc) with the help of Jesus.

My grades are going down

I suppose because of the stress and inner tension you experience.

Hope this helps somewhat, be blessed by our Lord Jesus.

 

[Helmut-WK]

This is because God is in three Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. These three are in absolute unity of character, nature, and purpose. The Father is the great Designer, the Son is the Executive who creates the design, and the Holy Spirit is the power to make it happen. So in a sense, "God" is a plural word. Christians call it "the Trinity".

The trinity matter is always difficult. A concise presentation of trinity is the shield of trinity. I don't know where an English-only version is, so I link to a 3-Latin, 1-English picture from Wikipedia.

There are six statement in the graphic (3 times "A is B" and 3 times "A is not B"). All six can be found in the Bible. In the NT, the Father is often called "God", and the Son often called "Lord", which can be read as the Jewish circumscription of the Name of God revealed to Moses.

There are two dangers: One to stress the unity in such a way that Jesus and the father are seen as just the same, the other to stress the the three hypostases (somewhat simplified: "persons") in a way that would lead into a belief of three Gods. I'm not happy with "plural word", but I suppose that is a sort of carelessness.

@Zeerich: As you see, and I said, this is a difficult question. It took centuries of debate until the Christians reached on a description that did not contradict some Bible verse and could be accepted by the majority. So don't be embarrassed if you don't get all of that in short. But feel free to ask questions if you want to learn more.

 

[Helmut-WK]

After reading all fourty-some postings here, I add some remarks:

• Jesus never promised us a rose-garden, but there is also the promise that "you will not be tempted beyond your strength" (1.Corinthians 10:13). God loves you, maybe he even will protect you in way you can't think of now.
• In case you ever go back to Pakistan, it is a good idea to read the Bible in Urdu (or your mother tongue, if your family speaks a minority language). There are sites with bibles in many languages e.g. biblegate, and I found also Revised Urdu Bible (URD). From there you can read webpages with Urdu Bible text and download an app (I know nothing about that app, but I hope it is useful to you).
• Differences between versions are mostly due to the fact that there are always several ways to translate a text. Differences between manuscripts are the exceptions (in most cases, either the difference is unimportant or it is clear which manuscripts have the correct text and which manuscript has an error). This is both for different translations into English and for differences between translations in different languages. Don't be disturbed, just ask if you feel you need an explanation.

May our Lord Jesus strengthen you and show you the richness of His grace.

 

[JacksBratt]

Hello I am new to this website and created this account today. Sorry if I posted this on the wrong thread, but I just have to get this off of my chest I can't find it anywhere on the internet. Basically I am a American muslim, well former muslim. I tried my best to be the most educated and dedicated muslim. I did all the prayers on time, fasted two times each month, recited Quran daily, and very well educated in Islam and Islamic history. Despite all this there were unanswered questions and I never really felt a connection. I always felt interested in Christianity, despite how much I would try to convince myself it is a false religion. I would read christian novels, research christian history, and I would always look and check out the books on Christianity in the library. I remember the one and only time I was in a church my eyes were fixed on this mosaic of Jesus. I felt more disconnected with Islam I tried Quran-only, but there was too much conflict within the community on basic stuff lie prayer or hajj. Not to mention many of them believed in flat earth. One night when I was reading Surah 19, I asked myself, "What is a messiah?" The Quran and hadith make no requirement for the messiah, Jesus is just the messiah. A messiah is supposed to be a saviour, yet Jesus didn't save the Children of Israel from anything. That is like if I wanna be President, but there are no requirements to be President. More and more questions began to appear. "If Muhammad is the last prophet, why will Jesus come back? Why would Allah allow Christians to worship Jesus for 600 years? Why is Dajjal often referred to as the Anti-Christ and why is Jesus the only one capable of killing him? Why would the followers of Jesus immediately worship him after his death? Why would Jesus abandon his followers like a coward?" When I started to examine the scriptures, Jesus is ironically God. 4:171 states that Jesus is a Messenger of Allah(Son), had His Word(Father), and had the spirit(Holy Spirit). Or how in Sahih Muslim book 1 hadith 296 it states Jesus will come down as a "just judge." Who else can be a judge, but God? I can go on and on, but it will take too long. There was too much about Islam that contradicted itself like how idolatry is a sin, yet muslims bow down 5 times a day to the Kaaba, kiss the Blackstone, and circle it 7 times. The fact that in 5:116 and 9:30 it states Trinity is father, son, and mother(Mary) and that Jews believe Ezra is the son of God(even though Muhammad took an oath on the torah Sunan Abi Dawud book 40 hadith 96). Most muslims woud hate to admit this, but Muhammad is heavily idolized in Islam. Allah and Muhammad himself admit that he is a sinner,(47:19 and Sahih Bukhari book 97 hadith 15) but most muslims, specifically sunnis, believe he was sinless and do whatever he does, even if it goes against the Quran. Lastly the Quran/hadiths admits Muhammad is a false prophet. 69:44-46 states if Muhammad made a false saying his aorta would have been cut and in Sahih Bukhari book 64 hadith 450 Muhammad states that he feels that his aorta is being cut. Anyways back to christianity, it took me months to realize that christianity is the religion. The accuracy and reliable of the New Testament, life and divinity of Jesus, sudden conversion of the apostles, the apostles being executed, persecution of early christians, and biggest one, the resurrection. I am currently reading the New Testament and Jesus crucifixion(in all the gospels)and Paul's conversion made me cry, something the Quran never made me do. I can't stop thinking about Jesus, sometimes tears come down from my eyes for the sacrifice he did for me. His name and story makes me smile and feel good inside. I want to accept Jesus, but I can't. I committed many horrible sins in the past including insults/blasphemy against christians and christainity. I will loose my whole family. I can't really go back to my homeland, even though I really want to. I always wanted to move back, but if I convert it will be harder for me over there. Overall just the challenges and guilt I have, it's too hard. I keep telling myself after I finish the New Testament, but I also say I should just confess now. Even if I convert what am I gonna do? I can't go to church, I can't get baptized, I can't do anything on Sunday, and I can't talk to anyone about Jesus. How am I suppose to build a stronger relation with God apart from reading the Bible? My grades are going down and for some reason I am experiencing jealously because of it. I even have an assignment I have to do now. That is all I have to say, sorry that this thread is too long I just had to put this out there.

Why can't you go to church? Why can't you get baptized? Why can't you do anything on Sunday?

 

[Helmut-WK]

Why can't you go to church? Why can't you get baptized? Why can't you do anything on Sunday?

Read posting #48 for a first answer ...

 

[ViaCrucis]

I committed many horrible sins in the past including insults/blasphemy against christians and christainity.

I really wanted to respond to this the most, just so I could tell you this: God forgives you. I want you to hear those words. God forgives you. I forgive you. Any Christian pastor or priest would likewise tell you this: Your sins are forgiven. Not because you earned it, but because it's the simple truth of the Gospel. This is that Gospel: You are forgiven, God forgives you. God loves you. God isn't waiting for you to accept Him, He already accepts you, He's accepted you since before you were born, He's accepted you since before the foundation of the world. Before you were even a twinkle in your father's eye, He loved you. He forgives you and accepts you.

I will loose my whole family. I can't really go back to my homeland, even though I really want to. I always wanted to move back, but if I convert it will be harder for me over there. Overall just the challenges and guilt I have, it's too hard. I keep telling myself after I finish the New Testament, but I also say I should just confess now. Even if I convert what am I gonna do? I can't go to church, I can't get baptized, I can't do anything on Sunday, and I can't talk to anyone about Jesus. How am I suppose to build a stronger relation with God apart from reading the Bible? My grades are going down and for some reason I am experiencing jealously because of it. I even have an assignment I have to do now. That is all I have to say, sorry that this thread is too long I just had to put this out there.

If there are external circumstances at present beyond your control, God knows them and understands them. Again, He forgives you. If your heart is sunken and in despair, hear this: God loves you, God accepts you, and you are forgiven.

If at any point you are able to, even if it means a possible break with your family (but, Lord willing, that your family continue to love you regardless of what religious path you follow), come and hear. Most mainstream churches have a process of instruction for those seeking to be baptized. But also know that just because you have not been baptized yet doesn't mean you are any less accepted by God. Baptism is important, really important, but not because it is an obstacle you have to overcome to attain God's embrace and love; it's important because it is the normal means by which we enter into God's family. But do not view this with dread, the prospect of Baptism should not fill you with dread, as though because you are unable to currently that somehow you are excluded from God's family. You are, even now, God's family.

You have not yet been baptized, are not yet with us in body; nevertheless God is with you, His love is for you, His peace is upon you. Christ's work is already yours through the faith you already have received. In your current trials cling to these things: That God is yours and you are God's. Do not be filled with hopelessness and despair; but remember these things: Christ died for you, God loves you, you are forgiven, and all which God desires for you is yours already in Jesus Christ who has already given Himself to you and for you. Allow yourself to hear this good news, and trust in it.

-CryptoLutheran

 

[throughfiierytrial]

Here is a link to a video by a former Muslim Imam who found Jesus in the Quran

Wonderful to see the conversion...the convert is still not clear on some of his theology however, so viewer beware.
One should rely only on the Christian Bible and come away fully from the darkness of the Quran. In this instance we see God using the Quran...which is what this fervent searcher of Truth was using...to point to Jesus and the Holy Scriptures. The Quran appears to use some of the tantalizing bits and pieces of various religions within its body.
Long and short of it then, in my view, the sincerity and earnestness of this former Muslim can be imitated, but beware of some of his teachings...he has yet to leave some of the old teachings and ways of Islam behind him. I trust that God will make this all clear to him over time.

 

[KingGeorge]

Hello,

I don't claim to be knowledgeable about Islam or Christianity, or any religion in particular. I do however recognize the agony you are in, and I don't have an exact solution for you. But maybe I can offer some of my thoughts, and you don't have to believe in them, but they may help, so read forth!

From what I read, you're clashing through all these different religious questions. It seems difficult, because you connect with Christianity more so than Islam. But it's difficult. So here are some thoughts of mine, maybe this will give you a different perspective.

First, who is God? Is God a Jew, a Muslim, a Christian? Neither. God is God, He is uncomprehendable. He didn't specifically choose any religion to be true or false. He sent messengers in different times and cultures to prosper the lifes of those who lived there (heck, even Buddha might be a messenger of God, with or without belief in God). The point is, let's not worry about right or wrong here. I'm sure God, who loves you as YOU ARE, doesn't really care whether or not you say "Jesus is my Lord and Saviour". Really, He cares not. What does He care about, then? Well, do you love Him, God? Yes? Well, you're already a child of God! You're in the family! Now, what does it mean to get to heaven? Maybe some Christians believe, putting your faith in Christ as Lord and Saviour. What does that actualy mean? When Jesus says "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No-one goes unto the Father but through Me", could he be suggesting that only through the life HE LIVED, the LOVE and CARE he provided for all other humans and of creation itself, is the path to GOD? Ok, that seems plausible. Anyway, the point is you can love God without feeling so bad that you're not Christian, or Muslim, or etc. You are a child of God, when you were born you were devoid of any religious idealogies. I'm sure that if God cared so much whether you believe in that or that, He would surely have you come out of the womb with a Bible, or a Quran! What to take away: There are sooo many questions and view points on God. The Jew has his own, the Christian, his own. But really, is our relationship with the creator based upon what belief system we adhere to? Is it not love, our hearts, which connects us to Him? So be still, and happy. Know that God is okay with who you are now.

Again, you don't have to become a KingGeorge-ist, and believe me. These are my thoughts, and perhaps, this can help you. Just take some time to reflect about your relationship to God, focus on what matters to you, and take it easy! Don't get too caught up with figuring things out (Which I struggle SO much with!). Many good wishes to you!

 

[NBB]

God/Jesus forgives you of anything, just be humble and ask him, and say to him that you want him to be your lord, any sinner can be accepted, even the worst. Because Jesus sacrifice is enough.

 

[Presbyterian Continuist]

The trinity matter is always difficult. A concise presentation of trinity is the shield of trinity. I don't know where an English-only version is, so I link to a 3-Latin, 1-English picture from Wikipedia.

There are six statement in the graphic (3 times "A is B" and 3 times "A is not B"). All six can be found in the Bible. In the NT, the Father is often called "God", and the Son often called "Lord", which can be read as the Jewish circumscription of the Name of God revealed to Moses.

There are two dangers: One to stress the unity in such a way that Jesus and the father are seen as just the same, the other to stress the the three hypostases (somewhat simplified: "persons") in a way that would lead into a belief of three Gods. I'm not happy with "plural word", but I suppose that is a sort of carelessness.

@Zeerich: As you see, and I said, this is a difficult question. It took centuries of debate until the Christians reached on a description that did not contradict some Bible verse and could be accepted by the majority. So don't be embarrassed if you don't get all of that in short. But feel free to ask questions if you want to learn more.

The Bible does describe three separate persons, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, but does not explain how the unity of these form the plural word "God". I think we are expected to just believe it. If God wanted us to know the ins and outs of his essential nature, He would gave explained it clearly.

I think that we need to just accept it, because that is the way it is, and then get on with getting a clearer understanding of God plans and purposes for each of us. We could have a intimate knowledge of the size and nature of God's big toe, and still be lost in our sins if we did not have a clear understanding of what Jesus did for us on the cross of Calvary.

 

[NeedyFollower]

I guess I am scared for the future. I don't know what will happen when I accept Jesus and I do not know how to honour and worship him apart from reading the Bible and prayers. He deserves much more than that. I really wished I had someone in my life that can talk to me about Jesus.

Since the scripture says that love hopes and believes all things ( 1st Corinthians 13 chapter ) I will hope that you will be my brother in Christ . Many Christians will not tell you this but to choose love over self is difficult but rewarding. Following Jesus has cost me many things and many people but I had to choose love because love ( Jesus ) chose me . I did not love him ..had committed so many atrocious sins and what was His response ...to come and find me ...Not because of anything I had done to deserve his forgiveness but because of who He is ..not because of who I am . Read the story of David and Bathsheba in the Old Testament if you wish to see just how much God will forgive . Ask the Lord for someone with whom you can talk and DO NOT follow Christianity ...follow Jesus . Do truth ..Know it will not be easy ..be humble ..do not strive for position or power ...strive for meekness .

 

[AllDayFaith]

If you cannot go back home after choosing to be Christian, was it really a home? And if your family rejects you after you choose Jesus, were they really family in the first place? No one has to right to persecute you or reject you because you chose to believe in Jesus. But Jesus warns us that we will suffer because of our faith. You should accept the persecution as a part of the process to develop perseverance and character within you.

 

[Helmut-WK]

Hello,

I don't claim to be knowledgeable about Islam or Christianity, or any religion in particular.

This explains what you say ...

First, who is God? Is God a Jew, a Muslim, a Christian? Neither. God is God, He is uncomprehendable.

Therefore, we need revelation from God to know more than that he is mighty and incomprehensible. The true religion is the one based on the true revelation from the true God, as opposed from speculations of men, distorted messages from God or revelations from Spirits that claim to be God, but are not.

(heck, even Buddha might be a messenger of God, with or without belief in God).

God may use many means, I remember that (as a child) I heard the story of a man whose first step to Christianity was reading in Buddhist writing that Buddha cannot forgive sins ... But I don't believe God sent messengers with conflicting messages.

The point is, let's not worry about right or wrong here. I'm sure God, who loves you as YOU ARE

That's part of the Christian message. Your next words are not.

When Jesus says "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No-one goes unto the Father but through Me", could he be suggesting that only through the life HE LIVED, the LOVE and CARE he provided for all other humans and of creation itself, is the path to GOD?

Well, we Christians believe that this means that by dying for our sins, He made it possible for sinful humans to come to God.

You are a child of God, when you were born you were devoid of any religious idealogies.

There is a sort of presumably inborn "ideology" which says "my parents (or their surrogate, if the situation is exceptional) are always right" - up to the point that a little child abused blames himself for deserving such a treatment. That means in practice: we don't have persons "devoid of any religious ideologies" (you should include atheism in the set of these ideologies, of course), since everyone who can read or write has got some input.

But really, is our relationship with the creator based upon what belief system we adhere to?

A belief system is no living faith, God wants a relationship, you speaking to Him and listening what He tells you. And loving Him.

And since there are so many possibilities to go astray, Christians are not called to use force to convert or suppress people with other believes, we should be patient and ready to suffer in the name of Christ. If you encounter Christians that manipulate or propagate violence, you know that there is something wrong with their Christianity.