True vs False conversion

[BrokenGhost]

I have been reading a book in which the author talked about his first 18 months as a "Christian". How he learned the law and much of the theology terms great, but had no real relationship with God. Then at a later point someone pointed out that all the theology means nothing without a Christ-centered life. Does anyone have any opinions on this? Because I feel as though I am somewhat in this same style, because Im a bit of an armchair theologian as well, and over the past few months, my family has even stopped attending church.

 

[snoochface]

I think the author is right - the only important thing is to have Jesus in your heart and live for him.

He said if we love him, we'll follow his commandments. His commandments are to love the Lord God with all our heart, mind, and soul; love our neighbors as ourselves; and go out to spread the gospel to all nations.

Loving God has to include having a relationship with Jesus. Anyone can know and study scripture and theology, you don't have to be a Christian for that. Making God and Jesus first in your life is what counts.

But I think maybe reading that book and asking the question might be God's way of tugging on you a little to help you figure all that out for yourself.

 

[Johnnz]

Christianity is about having a relationship with God through Jesus. However,Jesus said we are to love him with our whole mind as part of our whole being. It is important to learn about God and to think deeply about our faith, but we must always be careful that information does not become a substitute for relationship.

John
NZ

 

[Rowan]

I agree with the sentiments expressed here. It's so easy to get wrapped up in the rules, especially if everyone is.

That's why prayer is important; it keeps us connected to Christ.

I think people come to Christianity with a "performanced-based" faith and think that being saved depends on how many gold stars you can earn from God. While it is very important to please God, the action should be spirit-filled and obedience, not out of obligation. When really, being saved (while it is awesome ) is just one piece of the puzzle, God also wants us to grow in Christ in this life.

 

[VerdantTruth]

I've had my doubts, but CF has really boosted my faith by helping my understanding of who I am.

Now, try this. Hold you hands up as your read this. Do you know that your hands bleed? When you became a Christian, you died with our Messiah on that Crucifix. You're dead. Your hands have the same holes as he does. Now tell me that Christ has nothing to do with your life.

You and him are one in the same now, he in you as your shepard, and you in him as his sheep, bound together by spikes driven through wood. How can you live without the prescence of Christ?

Whenever I feel alone, I just look at my hand.

I will come to you. At that day ye shall know that I am
in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.
Lo, I am with you always,
even unto the end of the world.

May God bless you and give you the knowledge you seek. =)