Why we come to Christ? Church discussion
Q: Why do we come to Christ?
I had a discussion with the people that lead the Bible study at my Church, and they expressed that the sole reason people follow God's word is to evade hell. Additionally, they claimed that individuals only attempt to lead a righteous life because of judgment day, which will decide whether they go to hell or not. They also stated that if hell wasn’t the consequence of not following God, they wouldn’t care to follow him. I made sure to ask if they were referring to other people or themselves -and they said themselves.
So my question is, is THAT really even giving your life to him? Just so you don’t go to hell? I’m considering a new church. I understand that’s 1 reason you would want to follow Him, but not the ONLY reason.
A: We come to God because we are sinners, broken from the Fall, in need of restoration. The reason we come to Jesus for salvation is our desire to have righteousness. But we don't get that desire without God drawing and saving us. The focus is righteousness and being right with God.
We love Him because he first loved us. How did he love us? The Cross of Jesus is the key.
At salvation God transforms us onto a new creation. After salvation we have the indwelling Holy Spirit who gave us the Fruit of the Spirit so we live in righteousness and living out those attributes of God's character that man can, being made in His image. That's why we lead a righteous life. God in us.
Yes being redeemed from the wages of sin, and the judgment of Hell is a benefit. Jesus bought us back from destruction, and made us useful to God, and to live out our design & life purpose to Glorify Him.
There are many churches and pastors ignorant about this, especially in last 30 years, and so the congregants are clueless too, having embraced a false gospel. They lack understanding. But it is important to educate them. Tbh most in churches today aren't saved even if they profess Christ. Matt 7:22-23.
Also even if God didn't save us, and we were hellbound... as His creation He rightfully deserves our worship and glorifying Him, and we would do so. Or I should say, would be expected to, [but as sinners we cant].
All are already hellbound, but by His grace through Christ chose to save some. And those who die in their sins are already judged per Scripture (See John 3:16-21 as one example). In addition only those unsaved will stand before God on Judgment Day. Believers will stand before the Bema seat for Rewards Day. A big difference!
Also, there is good fear, that is your friend not your enemy. It is meant to preserve your life. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom". Proverbs 9:10
In this verse I think the keyword is beginning. For some people, it starts off as fear but as you grow in knowledge and understanding of who God is, our purpose (Romans 8:28-30), then that fear or reverence/respect turns into love.
In their personal walks but it sounds like they either don't understand the Gospel or haven’t moved past elementary teachings. Good on you for recognizing it. Those teachers are not qualified to teach if they don't have a mature firm grasp on this, and I would address it with the Pastor, since these folk are in a shepherding leasership role they have no business in, or if he doesnt replace them. then find another church where they rightly teach the Word of God. But keep them in your prayers regardless.
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