Glenda's comments (member since Jul 16, 2008)

Glenda's comments from the Christian Readers group.

WELL then Glenn, if you really wanna explore my theology ideas then read my book! Actually it's less theology more giggles but some inspiration within; its called "The Embarrassed Evangelist", shameful self promotion I know but I just could not resist! Forgve me!!!!

Had decided I would hate "captivating" before I read it, because it sounded so girly, but am so empowered by it and im only the third way through! Making plans to read "Wild at Heart" as well. Also want to try "Nuture" by Lisa Bevere, anyone read that?

How about a DVD? Louie Giglio's "Indescribable" is awesome for teenagers, very visual and thought provoking and passionate.

Amanda, I really appreciate your comment on this respectful discussion, as I am really enjoying it and learning alot!
I wanted to mention something about your discomfort when people say they are "saved". Because Peter himself said t many times, that he was saved.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-- and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." 2Tim 4:7,8
Now yes maybe there are some people calling themselves saved who aren't because they aren't truly running a good rac or keeping the faith, but its ok for someone to say it, because verbalising it is a sign of their belief. becuase it is those who BELIEVE in Jesus will have eternal life.
Just my perspective, but I plan on walking to the throne of God confident in my salvation, even if it is earned by grace and got nothing to do with me at all!

Amanda, I agree that these catholic rituals that you describe are beautiful. But I worry that those who aren't as passionate about finding the truth as you are, see ONLY the rituals and habits of catholicas and miss the plain facts that a relationship with Jesus must be pursued and sought after.
I think that's why other Christian's have moved away from that, to inform the unsaved people about the truth directly, cleanly and direct from the Bible, not from alternative writings or priestly men.
Yes we both have the same truth and by following it we are both saved. But I would love to have Catholic churches work harder at connecting new people to the basic truth of Christianity, and protestant denominations to find more pleasure in the history of their faith. One can only pray....

I agree with Amanda that Catholics do believe in being saved by grace, as do other christians, but I can identify with Glenn's perspective, in that many uninformed Catholic people try and achieve salvation by works. They go to mass and say their specific prayers and leave it there, and also carry a whole load of guilt around with them.
But I know some very passionate and informed Catholcias who have a beautiful and rich relationship with Jesus because they earnestly seek him. I choose pentecostal Christianity because I don't want to accidently rely on confession and saying rosaries to be accepted into eternity, but I want to have my focus on what God has done for me, not what I am doing.
It's like eating eggs. I have mine scrambled, my dad has them poached, but as long as we are sitting down and eating breakfast, we are well-fed. As long as we are receiving the grace of God and focsuing our lives on Him, then the songs and church service is just a lovely symbol of service to God.

One really good way to discover where you are meant to be is by trial and error. If your motives are based in love and your purpose is not self seeking (which im sure it isnt) then give it your best shot... go for it!
In Joyce meyer's book "I dare you" she says she tried several types of minstry, including children's creche(?) until she found one that felt right and in step with what God wanted. If you don't step out into the possbility, then you limit what God can do in your life. The worst that can happen is that it won't work out and you learn a lesson about yourself. the best is unimaginable! Be blessed!

I havent heard of it until now...I feel compelled to read it. Particularly considering I just had a very bizarro conversation with my four year old concerning animals in heaven. Apparently God told her in a dream they would all be rainbow coloured!!! Hmmm, Think I'll wait and see before I cling to that theological perspective.

Thanks so much Ryan. I'm pretty excited, I really value your encouragement alot! Hope you all like the book!

But then how would we know how much God loves us? No I think God is the ultimate author, Man meets God, man loses god, God saves man, God gets man again..... *sigh*

I know! I find it amazing when really empowered pastors (but of course very well-meaning) tell us to step out in faith, but wen you are face to face with your friend who doesnt want to know Jesus, how do we even say the "J-word"? So tricky!

I would fix me!

Hi Everyone, just thought you might be interested in the release of my very first book, its a humour novel entitled "The Embarrassed Evangelist", about a Christian who knows it's her job to share the gospel but really just doesn't want to!

It's available now on amazon.com or via my website, let me know what you think!

www.embarrassedevangelist.com