Yesterday, I spoke of the fact that Christianity is about an extremely personal but immensely public relationship with Jesus Christ. There were some irate comments about "forcing our beliefs on others", "narrow-mindedness", and our "religion" being no one's business but our own.

Let me respond by agreeing that I agree whole heartedly. It is wrong to force beliefs on another person. I am very narrow minded. Your "religion" is your own business. Having said all that I stand wholeheartedly behind my comments that "Christianity is about a extremely personal but immensely public relationship with Jesus Christ."

Jesus did not say go force your faith on others, nor did He tell us to kill unbelievers. Instead we are to love those who don't believe and share our faith with gentleness.

But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you
Matthew 5:44 NIV

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
1 Peter 3:15-16 NIV

Sharing isn't an option for Christians, it is a command. The way we share should show respect and love. We must ultimately allow each person to make their own decisions, but we are called to tell them the truth.

Christianity has never made any pretense of being anything but the narrow way.

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Matthew 7:13-14 NIV

There is only one way. That is by definition, narrow by the pluralistic standards of the world.

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.
Acts 4:12 NIV

As for your religion, please keep it to your to yourself. Walking with Jesus has nothing to do with religion and everything to do with relationships. Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ. It is a world view that is different from the world at large. Our faith calls us to stand out simply by following it's precepts. It's a belief in a divine creator, judgment for sin and that same creator loving us so much that He sent His Son to die in our place. It's about many things, none of them religion.

Until next time, let your light shine. Go into all the world and make disciples (say that sounds familiar).

Hallelu Yah (Praise God)

Be blessed

Kevin