Comments on: Why are you bothered to be a christian (if you are)? Or does evangelism like charity start at home…

By: Bryan Riley

Bryan Riley — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 13:53:05 +0000

When I first became a follower of Jesus it was because I wanted a daddy. I needed a real fathering presence in my life. It bothered me not to have that. That was very real when I was an 8-10 year old.

I have continued to be bothered by the real sense that when I make life all about me me is all I get. And, I long for relationship with others. When I make life about God relationship ensues.

Practically speaking what this means is a heart that serves and loves God and others is a heart that makes a difference beyond oneself. The best way to serve is by using the passions and gifts God has given us. Showing others that they can invest their gifts with purpose–the mission of God–can be intense!

What bothers people today? Those that let themselves be bothered see environmental concerns, injustice, war, etc. Well, Jesus has answers for all of those nagging issues, and, each individual has gifts that can be used in opposition to the negatives. Of course, many do take up the fight against such problems without Jesus… so, a question I have is how to help people see a difference between just battling social issues and battling those issues on behalf of God.

By: Helen

Helen — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 13:22:28 +0000

I like people – I think that’s why I bother about what I bother about.

I’m not into labels; I’m not sure what I am – well, a human being. I’ll go with that ;-)

By: Paul

Paul — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 11:47:30 +0000

ok me thoughts…

1) why i bother being a christian, i loved the stories of Jesus i read as a kid and just love the love, kindness, compassion and passion it showed. I want that and realise that i am not good at being good by myself. I find christianity is a hope for a better world – i guess i’m learning i need help and at the same time can do things to help…

2. practical differnece – helps me stay married, gives me support, prayer, encouragement not to give in to my selfish impulses when life is hard, helps me change from being sexually self obsessed, offers me a different rhythm than just me me me – and is helping me learn how to be giving…

3. what i do – hmmm not a lot. i give money to church. i serve in church. I try and be friends with the neighbours and there for my friends who aren’t christians. Daniel is being dedicated soon so we have invited all our friends to come along whether they are christian or not. i guess i try and be humble and listen to people rather than expect them to listen to me – although i pretty self opinionated so that doesn’t always work…