Whta makes someone a Christian?

[leonardodavinci]

my dh and I have decided to get dd(8) christened and according to the priest the fact that we haven't been to church after we christened ds 7 years ago we haven't fulfilled our obligation to God. We felt like we had failed, thing is we both belive in God, tell our children religiousy type things but we don't go to church as often please don't think am judging church goers here but sometimes church goers can go to church and be nice but do unchristian things to their neighbours. My question is does anyone else feel that going to church makes you a Christian or does having a big heart, praying and believing matter as much. Would be very grateful to anyone who replies to this.

Also i don't take that to mean all other religions are 'wrong' . I believe Christ is the path to God but John is saying that is an exclusive club, and i don't believe that.

So what are you saying Ruty, I am so confused

yeah my brain is a bit addled today sorry Norash! Shouldn't have used a bit of John to ingratiate myself to other Christians. Thing is John said 'No one comes to the Father except through me.' Not Christ. And I believe Christ is the saviour of mankind but its John who is implying members of other Faiths won't get into heaven not Christ. So I don't agree with that bit, OK? Phew. I should stick to Mark in future - he was Peter's secretary and is the only one who really knew what Christ was saying, if not first hand than second. Going now!

Thanks Ruty. I get it all now.

?

Wow, that was all really confusing! But fun

yes sorry about that

Don't apologise! I found it very interesting..and I was exaggerating about it being very confusing. The bible is an interpretation of everything isn't it? Not 'the truth and only truth'.

but custardo... God does want you (and DH)...you are what he wants more than anything.

Wants with a want so achingly desperate- in a way I still have trouble understanding. I'm not a mom (yet), I've just got a bump, but I already think of it as my baby.

How much would I have to want someone that I would willingly sacrifice my only child so they could live? I can't even imagine it!

Thanks ruty that's kind of you

I once said to a lady vicar that I like to think that when we die we see Christ/light or whatever and we have that moment to decide. I don't know if there's going to be a heirachy (sp?) and that the pope will be higher up it than the man next door? I hope we're all equal when we get there. She didn't dispute my thoughts and like she said she couldn't be 100% but she believed we can all be saved if we bow our knee (or something on those lines?). I just hope that we all get our chance at the last moment, it gives me comfort.