New, nervous, and never baptized

[Midlifestart]

I am a very new Christian. I only accepted Jesus as my Savior about a week ago. And I haven't really told anyone yet, although 2 Christian friends know I've been reading the NT and that I went to church last Sunday for the first time. I may never be able to tell my family or many of my friends because I know they will completely freak. That's because I was born Jewish.

I was raised with almost no religious observance but did try to become a religious Jew as an adult, which ALSO freaked out my family (because they found the idea of my becoming more religious than they were to be threatening). But Judaism just never fully "clicked" for me--I could not develop a relationship with God. Something was missing. That something was Christ, not to mention the beauty and simplicity of the Christian faith. So last summer I just stopped having anything to do with my faith of birth.

So here I am. Brand new in the faith, never baptized, excited about this new path I am on, but knowing that the reactions from those around me will be SO negative that it would be unhealthy and unsafe to even venture into telling them. I know I don't have to share this with them, so I won't.

I went to an Episcopal church last Sunday. My friend, who is I think born-again and goes to a megachurch-type place, thought I would feel more comfortable at a liberal-leaning, very open-minded church. And I really, really liked it there. They said that anyone could take communion, so I did. And it felt beautiful. But now I am worried because I've read in several places on the internet that you are not supposed to take communion in an Anglican church if you have never been baptized in the Christian faith. I hope I did not offend anyone. The Reverend now knows my situation because he asked me to email him after Sunday.

So what do you think? I want to go back to this church and maybe make it my spiritual home (although I do want to check some other denominations out). I have the option of crossing my arms over my chest and still going up for communion, but just getting a blessing instead. But I really WANT to take communion. It felt so special and beautiful connecting with Christ that way.

How hard will it be for me to get baptized? Judaism makes it very difficult for people to convert, but I somehow think Christianity will not make it quite so hard. I have zero interest in becoming a "Messianic Jew" or going to that kind of place. So that is not an option. I do not necessarily want to do this quickly, but I want the idea of getting baptized to be on the radar screen sometime in the future.

Thoughts?:o

 

[Bella Vita]

You don't have to be baptized to receive communion (being baptized is still an important step though). That is more of a Catholic practice not a Christian one. Anyways you should not go ahead with being baptized though untill you are fully sure this is the path you want for your life as a Christian you aren't going to look into any other religions or any of that ect. Once you are totally sure and have prayed about it then go ahead and get baptized it symbolizes you washing away your old life and are beginning your new one for Christ (that's why you should be really sure about it). As for your family they will need to know about your life change at some point because you will have to draw boundaries for yourself so you don't sin ect. But right now I would take time to grow in your own walk with the lord become more familiar with your word meet other Christians ect. then tell them once you feel more confident in your faith. As for finding a church you need to make sure they have sound doctrine if the aren't teaching from the Bible you should move on. If they are and you feel comfortable then great. Good luck I am so excited for you God has amazing plans for you. =]

 

[Midlifestart]

Bella thank you so much for the insights. You are right that I need to take my time with this.

The church I attended was certainly Bible based and seemed very sound. I had a good feeling about the place.

One question though--how should I handle tithing and the collection basket? The person who greeted me at the door did not give me one of the envelopes that other people got, probably because he knew I was visiting and not a regular. So when the basket came to me, I just put some cash in it and I felt funny about that because everyone else was able to discreetly put a check or whatever in the envelope. So I think I will ask for an envelope next time, but should I write a check instead? And what is an acceptable amount since I am not really a member yet and just starting to check them out?

 

[paul1149]

Midi,

I'm very happy you've found the Lord. Most of the things you are concerned about relate to church law and practice. Somehow it's all going to get worked out. I would suggest that you speak to the pastor and ask away, just to put your mind at ease regarding how they operate. I think it is a good idea to visit other churches to get perspective, but not out of necessity; if you're happy where you are there should be no reason not to continue there.

A little more specificity on the Baptism/Communion issue. Different churches have differing practices on this. In the Book of Acts, we repeatedly see new believers get baptized right away - no extended classes, etc. - so I doubt the question of "open communion" was a big issue back then.

The most important thing is to grow in your faith. The beauty of being a Christian is that we are relieved of worrying about keeping endless rules and regulations, and we are free to focus all our love and devotion on following the wonderful person of Christ.

 

[Bella Vita]

Bella thank you so much for the insights. You are right that I need to take my time with this.

The church I attended was certainly Bible based and seemed very sound. I had a good feeling about the place.

One question though--how should I handle tithing and the collection basket? The person who greeted me at the door did not give me one of the envelopes that other people got, probably because he knew I was visiting and not a regular. So when the basket came to me, I just put some cash in it and I felt funny about that because everyone else was able to discreetly put a check or whatever in the envelope. So I think I will ask for an envelope next time, but should I write a check instead? And what is an acceptable amount since I am not really a member yet and just starting to check them out?

Tithing is one of those uncomfortable things that takes awhile to get use to. But don't think of it as giving the money to the church think of it as giving it to God. He only asks for 10% and really that isn't very much at all I mean if we have $100 dollars God only wants $1 from it that's it the rest he gives to us. So think of it like that and it won't be so bad. Even if you move churches that is fine continue to tithe to God because he will bless you for it. It isn't about the building anyways it's about God. Or something else you can do my husband I are starting a church plant and for awhile we didn't really have a church home either so one thing we did to tithe was find missionaries or mission trips we thought were very fruitful and would reap a harvest and we gave money to them to go out and do mission work ect. So you don't have to give tithe in a church setting but if you do give it to God not the building.

p.s. get an envelope next time LOL =]

 

[Terene]

Alleluia my dear sister in Christ!

It is a good thing that you have accepted Christ and have found God's salvation, and how precious you are in God's sight! Here I want to encourage you to steadfastly read God'word, pray and maybe even fast to get more communion with the Father and Lord so that you will grow in your understanding of God and His will for us. This is also a very important part of the faith as we battle against the spiritual darkness in this world.

I also want to encourage you not to fear the reactions of anyone as regards to your faith - and pray to God for courage and strength to face them. But remember that you are not alone, and God is with you in Spirit as well as your fellow brethren in Christ. We are here to support you in your walk with God, and it is pleasing to God that the more mature Christians support the babes in Christ. So do PM me or anyone whom you want and ask for help if needed. Even asking a prayer from us is good.

Be of good courage and know that no weapon formed against you shall prosper, and our faithful God is always with us in every trial and tribulation!

May God bless you and all the brethren!

 

[Midlifestart]

Thank you all again for welcoming me and putting my mind at ease.

I may test out other churches at some point, but I really like the one I tried, so I'll probably go back this Sunday just to see what it's like to be there when it's no longer my first time. The Reverend was really wonderful to me and invited me to email or call him, which I did. We had a really nice email exchange, so I feel good about going back.

The most important thing my dear friend has told me is to take it slow. This is my friend who is the one who inadvertently opened my eyes to Christ when he offered to pray with me regarding my very mentally/physically ill teenage daughter. He knows I have a tendency to jump into things too quickly and too fully and then getting overwhelmed. So I keep having to hold myself back a bit and go slowly. That means, someday I may be able to tell my family, but the storm it would stir right now would be harmful because there is so much dysfunction and warring going on within my family at the moment. I am just glad to have Christ there holding me up and getting me through the turbulence. That is a comfort I have never known before!

Thank you again all.

 

[Midlifestart]

Thank you all again for welcoming me and putting my mind at ease. It is such a huge relief to have a place where I can ask these things!

I may test out other churches at some point, but I really like the one I tried, so I'll probably go back this Sunday just to see what it's like to be there when it's no longer my first time. The Reverend was really wonderful to me and invited me to email or call him, which I did. We had a really nice email exchange, so I feel good about going back.

The most important thing my dear friend has told me is to take it slow. This is my friend who is the one who inadvertently opened my eyes to Christ when he offered to pray with me regarding my very mentally/physically ill teenage daughter. He knows I have a tendency to jump into things too quickly and too fully and then get overwhelmed. So I keep having to hold myself back a bit and go slowly. That means, someday I may be able to tell my family, but the storm it would stir right now would be harmful because there is so much dysfunction and warring going on within my family at the moment. I am just glad to have Christ there holding me up and getting me through the turbulence. That is a comfort I have never known before!

Thank you again all.

 

[thesunisout]

I know you're just starting out, and you need to work to this, but..do not be ashamed of your Lord. He is saving your life. Your unsaved family needs to hear about Him..and you might be the only one who can get through to them. So keep this in mind as you learn and grow..don't keep your faith a secret. You are to be a light to the world:

Matthew 5:14-16

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.

Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."

Thank you all again for welcoming me and putting my mind at ease. It is such a huge relief to have a place where I can ask these things!

I may test out other churches at some point, but I really like the one I tried, so I'll probably go back this Sunday just to see what it's like to be there when it's no longer my first time. The Reverend was really wonderful to me and invited me to email or call him, which I did. We had a really nice email exchange, so I feel good about going back.

The most important thing my dear friend has told me is to take it slow. This is my friend who is the one who inadvertently opened my eyes to Christ when he offered to pray with me regarding my very mentally/physically ill teenage daughter. He knows I have a tendency to jump into things too quickly and too fully and then get overwhelmed. So I keep having to hold myself back a bit and go slowly. That means, someday I may be able to tell my family, but the storm it would stir right now would be harmful because there is so much dysfunction and warring going on within my family at the moment. I am just glad to have Christ there holding me up and getting me through the turbulence. That is a comfort I have never known before!

Thank you again all.

 

[Terene]

Thank you all again for welcoming me and putting my mind at ease.

I may test out other churches at some point, but I really like the one I tried, so I'll probably go back this Sunday just to see what it's like to be there when it's no longer my first time. The Reverend was really wonderful to me and invited me to email or call him, which I did. We had a really nice email exchange, so I feel good about going back.

The most important thing my dear friend has told me is to take it slow. This is my friend who is the one who inadvertently opened my eyes to Christ when he offered to pray with me regarding my very mentally/physically ill teenage daughter. He knows I have a tendency to jump into things too quickly and too fully and then getting overwhelmed. So I keep having to hold myself back a bit and go slowly. That means, someday I may be able to tell my family, but the storm it would stir right now would be harmful because there is so much dysfunction and warring going on within my family at the moment. I am just glad to have Christ there holding me up and getting me through the turbulence. That is a comfort I have never known before!

Thank you again all.

Your welcome, beloved of the Lord! Just want to remind you that do not rely on your pastor or any church leaders more than you rely on God Himself in regards to understanding His Word and His will. We are all humans and are not perfect in knowledge, so God is the only One we can fully trust for complete and perfect understanding of the Bible. Make it an effort to pray about everything you hear from the church as well as everything you read about God and Christianity. God will give you an understanding that no man can ever give you, so trust in His guidance because He will lead us into ALL truth!

I write the above, because I do know that there are many false doctrines out there that have been propagated by the devil and his servants, and their false doctrines have already penetrated the Christian churches to a significant extent. In fact, we are warned by the Lord and the apostles NOT to believe every spirit, but to test the spirits to see if they are of God. This I believe should be done with praying and reading the Word (the Bible) in God's presence so that we get an understanding from Him and not only from people who may not speak with the right understanding.

If you don't mind, could you share with us on here about your current understanding of the Gospel and what the reverend at your church has taught you?

And the brother above is right that you should not be afraid of sharing your faith with anyone, because we are the light and salt of the world. I'm not saying you should start sharing your faith immediately, but you should pray to God for guidance so that He will put into your heart what and when you should share your faith. We are not to fear mankind, but to fear God only. This is not easy, but as we slowly learn to trust more and more in God, He will give us the courage and strength to overcome all fear of men, just like how Peter changed from a fearful man who denied the Lord to an apostle fearlessly declaring the Gospel. May our God bless you and guide you!

 

[heymikey80]

Welcome, sister!

It's good to work among the church where you've found such communion.

The real need is to rely on Christ; once there, baptism is useful and important, very much like the depth of communion.

Churches often wish you to understand enough to where the depth of baptism is also experienced as you go through it. As you may know, most churches accept other baptisms, and attempt to perform this sacrament only once.

Communion itself is among those who rely on Christ. Churches normally advise baptism before communion because they would like to help validate your faith. Once again, your communion is enhanced by this validation.

Baptism itself is a function of what your church will allow you to do.

Neither baptism nor communion should be engaged in lightly; but neither is "fragile". Both allow you to approach the Savior humbly and trustingly, and when you're doing that, it's unlikely you are engaging in some horrible error over it.

I'll also tell you: in some cases the feeling of devotion in communion won't be there, but the communion itself really continues to be there even when the feeling strengthens or weakens. So it's not good to make a depression or alienation into a reason not to take communion.

A Jewish background can be the hardest to explain your faith to. I'm not sure I could be much help explaining, there're some books out there that may help.

 

[Midlifestart]

"If you don't mind, could you share with us on here about your current understanding of the Gospel and what the reverend at your church has taught you? "

Terene I don't even know how to answer this question. I've only been to church twice. What the priest (didn't realize until now that in Episcopal churches Reverends are considered priests--at least that's what a friend told me) has taught me amounts to what I have heard in 2 sermons. What I have learned is that Jesus took my sins upon himself when he died. I do not have to beat myself up day in and day out with anxiety about things I did long ago, things that have been eating away at my spirit because there was no way I could rid myself of them before. And I know now that when I turn the many sad things in my life over to God, rather than trying to control everything on my own, things will work out in some way. They sure weren't working out when I tried to "play God" and control them myself.

My understanding of the Gospel is that Jesus is the Son of God, that he came here to die for us and was resurrected, that we have a Holy Trinity that is both one and three (just read about that in a Beginner's guide to Christianity), and that the Holy Spirit resides inside me and helps guide me to act appropriately and with compassion and also gives me peace.

Hope that answers your question. As you can see I am far from well-versed in any of this as yet. I am just learning and have only just recently accepted Christ as my Savior. It feels so right though. The love and protection I am experiencing cannot compare to anything I have ever had in the past. When I envision Christ, I envision him holding me and beckoning me to "Bring it on"--bring my sins to him, bring my heavy load to him and he can lift it, because that is why he exists and why he had to die for us.

I read the Bible daily and continue to be amazed at what I am reading and absorbing.

 

[chilehed]

...Thoughts?:o

You should respect the traditions of the denomination of which you are a member, or of which you are visiting provided doing so won’t violate your conscience.

In the Catholic Church, which is the original Christian church from which all others split, Baptism is held to be a Sacrament: an outward sign which imparts God's grace of which it is symbolic. It's the fulfillment of both circumcision and of the mikveh, just as Christ's sacrifice is the fulfillment of that of the Passover lamb. As circumcision created a physical sign that one was part of God's covenant, so Baptism creates a spiritual sign of belonging to Christ. It cleanses the us from the stain of original sin, thus bringing us into a special and intimate relationship with God that we otherwise would not have. It enables us to believe in God, hope for Him and to love Him; provides the power to live and act under the prompting of the Holy Spirit; and allows us to grow in goodness. It makes us a member of the Body of Christ.

Those who are not formal members of the Catholic Church are asked to not receive communion, just as non-Jews in ancient times were not permitted to partake of the Passover meal. To partake in communion is to say by one's action that one is a part of the Church, that one believes as the Church teaches. So he lies, who is not a part of the Church and yet receives the Sacrament.

Furthermore, the Church teaches (and I believe) that the Sacrament is truly the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Lord. If this is so, then to tell a falsehood in receiving the Sacrament is to commit sacrilege. So the prohibition on non-Catholics receiving the Eucharist is a protective measure for their own good:

"Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a man examine himself, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For any one who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment upon himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died." 1 Corinthians 11:27-30​

There are non-Catholic denominations which believe that the elements of communion are not merely bread and wine, and as far as I know they all have closed communion. It’s proper to respect that.

I was raised non-Catholic, and married a nice Jewish girl. Once I started studying Judaism I began to have difficulties with a number of non-Catholic ideas, which seemed entirely divorced from the Jewish vine of which Christianity is the flower. I have since found that the Catholic Church is the most Jewish kind of Christianity in existance, and I invite you to investigate it. Please feel free to PM me if you like.

Catholic Answers: Catholic Apologetics, Catholic Evangelization, Catholic Teachings, Catholic Radio, Catholic Publishing, Catholic Truth

AHC Home

 

[thesunisout]

Hello sister..I've noticed a few people in this thread trying to say their church is the church and sway your opinion. The problem with that is that we are not saved by churches. It's only Jesus who saves, and we need no earthly mediator for Him. The true church is the body of Christ. Every Christian is a member of that church. So, when you choose a church let the Holy Spirit lead you. You'll know what fits best for you. The sacrements are unnecessary, but if they make you feel good about it, it couldn't hurt. Welcome to the faith and know that you are loved and supported here. God bless.

I am a very new Christian. I only accepted Jesus as my Savior about a week ago. And I haven't really told anyone yet, although 2 Christian friends know I've been reading the NT and that I went to church last Sunday for the first time. I may never be able to tell my family or many of my friends because I know they will completely freak. That's because I was born Jewish.

I was raised with almost no religious observance but did try to become a religious Jew as an adult, which ALSO freaked out my family (because they found the idea of my becoming more religious than they were to be threatening). But Judaism just never fully "clicked" for me--I could not develop a relationship with God. Something was missing. That something was Christ, not to mention the beauty and simplicity of the Christian faith. So last summer I just stopped having anything to do with my faith of birth.

So here I am. Brand new in the faith, never baptized, excited about this new path I am on, but knowing that the reactions from those around me will be SO negative that it would be unhealthy and unsafe to even venture into telling them. I know I don't have to share this with them, so I won't.

I went to an Episcopal church last Sunday. My friend, who is I think born-again and goes to a megachurch-type place, thought I would feel more comfortable at a liberal-leaning, very open-minded church. And I really, really liked it there. They said that anyone could take communion, so I did. And it felt beautiful. But now I am worried because I've read in several places on the internet that you are not supposed to take communion in an Anglican church if you have never been baptized in the Christian faith. I hope I did not offend anyone. The Reverend now knows my situation because he asked me to email him after Sunday.

So what do you think? I want to go back to this church and maybe make it my spiritual home (although I do want to check some other denominations out). I have the option of crossing my arms over my chest and still going up for communion, but just getting a blessing instead. But I really WANT to take communion. It felt so special and beautiful connecting with Christ that way.

How hard will it be for me to get baptized? Judaism makes it very difficult for people to convert, but I somehow think Christianity will not make it quite so hard. I have zero interest in becoming a "Messianic Jew" or going to that kind of place. So that is not an option. I do not necessarily want to do this quickly, but I want the idea of getting baptized to be on the radar screen sometime in the future.

Thoughts?:o

 

[Midlifestart]

Thank you again for sharing insights with me.

Thesunisout I appreciate your putting into words what I did not feel comfortable saying. I will choose the church and denomination that the Holy Spirit leads me to, the place where I can best make that spiritual connection.

So while I do understand that people are making recommendations out of true generosity, please respect my decision to stay put for now at the Episcopalian church where I have truly felt God's presence. I will maintain an open mind, but for now, this is home for me.