No Debates?!?!

[PamL]

I was just browsing the forums and noticed that we don't have any debates going! So, let's discuss something! How about religion...
Do you consider yourself a Christian? What do you think makes someone a Christian?

[AnnW]

Ok..I'll bite

Accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour. I don't think it has anything to do with doing good works or being a good person or being spiritual. I think it is a fundamental acceptance and belief in Christ. Because of that belief, you want to be like Christ; so therefore, you want to be a good person and do good works.

[MaryL]

Yep...I'm a Christian. Catholic!

I also believe there is a difference between being "religious" and "spiritual". You can be one....or both! But I think there's a difference! Do you??????

[Kaylene]

It seems to me that spirituality is born from the heart and religion is more about the deeds and works of someone that are done because they feel it is "right". I should probably look up the actual definitions but that is the idea I get from the two words. Spirituality seems genuine and religion seems more stuffy. Just my thought...

[Mickey]

I agree that accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour definitely fulfills the definition of a Christian.

I believe that what constitutes a "good" Christian is a subjective thing. People who believe they are good Christians and that they are doing everything "right", ARE good Christians...as far as THEY are concerned anyway--but you'll always find someone who will beg to differ.

Regarding spiritual and religious--you can be one or the other or both, imo.

I've known Christians who were great "church people"--more ritual than spiritual--but they didn't live a life you would think a religious person would live (abusing alcohol/drugs, committing adultery, coveting, stealing, etc.).

I also know people who are passionate about their beliefs and very spiritual…and they live honest, decent lives (or so it seems, anyway)--but they don't go to church...or they go late and leave early and don't pay attention to the service.

I also know passionate, spiritual people who live good lives and go to church.

I would think that the last option would be the "best" one--however, I don't feel comfortable judging which of these people are "true" Christians or not--I think that's God's call.

[kat]

If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?

[Linda/NE]

Yes, I am a Christian--Catholic.

I think believing in Christ and accepting him as the Savior qualifies as a Christian, but I don't believe that gives you guaranteed salvation. I personally don't believe anyone is saved yet. I believe you have to live a life worthy of that salvation. I do believe good works (trying to be like Christ) plays an important role in that.

For example: A person believes in Christ,and believes Christ is the savior, but chooses to commit murder or burglary. This person has no remorse for his actions. I don't believe that his belief alone will save him. If, however, he finds a geniune change of heart (which only God would know for sure) I do believe he would be granted salvation.

Further more, I don't think any human being can accurately access which people are true Christians and which people are not. I believe it is between each person and Christ.

That's just my 2 cents! :)