As someone who has been raised in the church, I have been dismayed by the reputation it has built for itself here in the United States.
Because of the predominant evangelical/charismatic reputation, I need to explain the sort of "Christian" that I am. I respect all people and their spiritual practices. I am anti-cult and cultish dynamics. I read the Bible for myself and I detest being a pulpit parrot, although I love great preaching. Otherwise, I might be like any other believer and follower of Jesus who has grown past the dogma normally associated with Western Christianity. I was inspired to share this perspective with a friend recently: "The Spirit of God is filtered through everyone who reflects and expresses God, just like those on the council of Nicea. The power of the truth is still and always accessible, even right now.
Exactly which earthly source is pure in your view? None of them are in my view, they all require confirmation from God.
Just like no one's answers are pure truth, it is all filtered, just like this answer I am giving you. The word says, '...we see in a mirror dimly'. I just pray that people are aware of the filter through which they (are) learn(ing).
We need to stop looking for leaders and gain intimacy with Holy Spirit ourselves.
People are not eternal, only Truth is.
... We need to study the word ourselves. Too many people are pulpit parrots." I have especially been dismayed at its handling of social justice issues such as systemic racism and sexism.
Recently, as I picked up a concerted effort around the work of anti-racism education, I ran across this scripture. It occurred to me at the time that the so-called conservative Christians focus a lot on righteousness and progressive ones focus on justice. I have been inspired to balance the throne by living my personal convictions and encouraging others to do the same. I hope you do also!
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