I recently decided to learn more about the Bible and what the "grand story" and big picture is really about. To make a long story short, I have been regarding the Bible as truth. I was agnostic for a long time, believing in the principle that the existence/non-existence of God cannot be proven...which I still do believe. However, I personnally have faith in the Bible, but do not feel the need to force it on anyone else. I believe this based on the logic that we humans know absolutely NOTHING about the universe and why things are the way they are. The world is perfect...a bit too perfect. How everything in this world works is like some kind of magic. The Bible also has many historical events backing it up. I also hold many Buddhist beliefs as truth. That's not my question though.

I am very hesitant to join a Church simply because I don't think it is where I belong in life. However, many people view "Christianity without belonging to a Church" not good enough. Why is this? I feel like I do not need to join a community in order to believe in God and the Bible. Would I be considered as having less faith than others just because I don't feel comfortable joining an organized religion? My 7th Day Adventist friend wants me to come visit her church...and she is a very pushy person. But, I WANT to go simply because I want to learn more about the Bible and she is a serious Bible reader. I would like to visit her Church without feeling pressured to join. I don't feel comfortable joining.

Does this make any sense? Is anyone else here beginning to have faith in God, but is unwilling to join a Church?

no. don't join anything.
religion is a huge crock and anyone that buys into it (literally, look at the collection plates) is being misled. [edited by mod]

oh joy!
oi vey!
¡dios mío!

I never felt very comfortable in traditional Protestant churches. My beliefs were always too far to the left of anything I heard from the pulpit. But now I belong to a church where, believe it or not, I've learned a great deal about the Bible - and haven't had "Christianity" pushed down my throat. I've also learned a great deal about Buddhism and Wicca, and native American spirituality... I go to a Unitarian Universalist church, where one of the most important beliefs is that each one of us is on a unique spiritual journey, and it is our responsibility to seek our own personal truths. If you have a UU church near you, check it out - I'm sure you'll find it welcoming and challenging.

I once took a "what religion are you?" test and got UU! I don't have one near me, but that is so cool that you said that! The website for it kind of turned me off because...and do NOT take offense to this...it sounded a little cult-like. But, that may just be my anti-organized religion side talking there. :) I will definitely consider this. I completely forgot about it! Thanks!!!!

My landlord is a pretty hardcore Christian. He has quotes all over the walls, he is a registered preacher/reverend, has prayer lists that fill up notebooks, and doesn't read anything except the sports section and the Bible.

He doesn't go to Church EVER. He is very anti-chuch, for a variety of reasons, but he gets hacked off with all the money that gets involved. He's very outspoken against giving any money to religion, except for charitible groups only.

So, the point is, Christianity isn't Church. Ancient Christians didn't have church, they just met in homes, often in secret.

If you need guidance, then you go to Church, for they study the thing a lot, but anyone who thinks that being a churchless Christian is bad is full of ****. Understand though, that different denominations have different beliefs about the Bible, so I would be hesistant to go to one church for Biblical information, because just by stressing different points, and not others, a radically different POV can come out.

It isn't Hassidic Judaism, which is centered on the community Rabbi, etc. As for the Unitarians, calling them Christian is, well, problematic. I have big issues with the Unitarians, but that's because of how they spend their money, and the causes they support, which I won't go into.

If you're interested, shop around. Personally, I wouldn't feel my spirituality would be complete if I wasn't attending church, but that's me. Don't think about "joining" a church, pick one that sounds interesting, and attend a service. If it's not for you, try another, until you find one that's a fit. If you would feel pressured by going with your friend, try to politely decline. Basically, if you're feeling called to spirituality, let it develop naturally. You might even try to find some Bible study guides on line if you're looking for a more directed study of the Bible that you can do on your own. Good luck!!

Can I be a non-organized Christian?

Yes. Never clean your apartment. ;)

In seriousness, though...
I think it's awesome that you're figuring out bits of who you are and continuing your spiritual journey. No, you don't have to be "in fellowship" with like-minded people, but it sure helps. Definitely shop around. Sometimes, what might come off as a place you don't want to be because of style differences is actually an awesome option. If an emphasis on spirituality is your goal, you might look into Quaker or Catholic options. I currently worship in a Mennonite congregation, which has some drawbacks and some real positives when it comes to involving everyone in church decisions, service, and my views on war.

Forgive me for not knowing where you stand on these things, but if you're veg and passionate about AR, ask the pastor or other church leadership, "What does this congregation think about animals?" or "How would a vegetarian expect to be received here?" If they give you blank stares or consternation, you might want to keep looking.

You could also check out para-church organizations. I don't offhand know of any that might fit the bill besides the Christian Vegetarian Association, and that's mainly an online discussion forum.

I don't like organized religion. I shopped around at many nondenoninatial (spelling way off) churches until I found the right one. Some were too laid back some were too holy roller and some were beyond holy roller almost cult like. I finally found one that I love. I would just visit churches until you find on you like. You may or may find one that you like. If you don't find one just remember that you can fellowship with God anywhere anytime in church or at home.

I once took a "what religion are you?" test and got UU! I don't have one near me, but that is so cool that you said that! The website for it kind of turned me off because...and do NOT take offense to this...it sounded a little cult-like. But, that may just be my anti-organized religion side talking there. :) I will definitely consider this. I completely forgot about it! Thanks!!!!
I've been to a Unitarian service, in Bellevue WA. It was entirely positive and supportive and not even remotely cult-like. I suggest that you attend a service at a convenient location and see if it's for you.

The ideas at the core of real Christianity (not the fake stuff a la Pat Robertson) are how you live your life and interact with the people and things around you. If an organized community works for you -- great! If it doesn't -- great! What's important IMHO is not if you sit in a church once a week and sing songs, but the spirituality you get and how you go about living your life.

While I'm not "religious", people who parrot diatribes about the evil of "organized religion" are frustrating. I knew people who had a coven who constantly ripped on what they called Organized Religion, yet their group had a formal name, formal membership, and held regularly scheduled meetings and rituals -- which seemed rather Organized to me.

...or Catholic options...

:p I was raised Catholic. So that'd be a no. lol. :D I will shop around, I just don't know if I want to join anything.

:p I was raised Catholic.
So was I. What of it?

No, she suggested joining the Catholic Church and I thought it was ironic because that was the very Church I left to begin with. lol. Nothing of it, I have nothing against the Catholic Church at all. I just don't happen to agree. I am thankful I was raised in some sort of Christianity though, but that one wasn't for me.

I've been to a Unitarian service, in Bellevue WA. It was entirely positive and supportive and not even remotely cult-like. I suggest that you attend a service at a convenient location and see if it's for you.

The ideas at the core of real Christianity (not the fake stuff a la Pat Robertson) are how you live your life and interact with the people and things around you. If an organized community works for you -- great! If it doesn't -- great! What's important IMHO is not if you sit in a church once a week and sing songs, but the spirituality you get and how you go about living your life.

While I'm not "religious", people who parrot diatribes about the evil of "organized religion" are frustrating. I knew people who had a coven who constantly ripped on what they called Organized Religion, yet their group had a formal name, formal membership, and held regularly scheduled meetings and rituals -- which seemed rather Organized to me.

I agree with the statement you made about living your life and the way you interact with others.

I think I made an error in my original post. The main reason I don't want to join anything is that I haven't found a religion that believes the Bible to be true, but does not try to convert others. I would join my friend's Church, since it consists mainly of Bible study, but they seem very, very pushy and a little too into it for my comfort level.

Right now, I will just keep on aligning my actions with my convictions and remember everytime my head gets too big, that I truly do not know the half of it. :)

So was I. What of it?

You tell her anthony, lol.

I was too. :) I still kinda am. I don't like labels because there is no such thing as a label that fits everyone under that label. If I say I'm Catholic people judge me according to what their impressions are of Catholics.

I would suggest joining a bible study group from any church and seeing how you like it. It's more about group dynamics than the church that's sponsoring the study. Some groups are open to discussion and stuff and some aren't. I even like listening to conservative preaching even though I don't agree with most conservative positions on most issues. But I take the parts I like and learn and have fun.

:p I was raised Catholic. So that'd be a no. lol. :D I will shop around, I just don't know if I want to join anything.

Aha. You should consider what it was about Catholicism that didn't jive with you. It might give you clues about what you're looking for in a faith community or your faith experience in general. If it was liturgy and ritual that turned you off, don't expect an Episcopalian or Lutheran church to recharge you. Your OP sounded like you were looking for an individual expression of your faith--Protestants tend to be more individualistic, and Catholics more collectivistic. (Granted, Mennonites are more collectivistic than the norm in Protestant circles.) I can't make other guesses about what you might have experienced in your parish growing up because every parish is different.

I wish you the best!

I always visit Lancaster county and I learned a lot about the Amish, Quaker, and Mennonite religions. They are all such peaceful people and do not push their beliefs on others. They lead by example. And I love that. Kudos to you! :rockon:

You don't *have* to go to church to be a good Christian.

I was also Catholic once, but I left the Catholic church about five years ago and I'd really never go back...I'm a born-again Christian now and I haven't been to church in three years, but I still study the bible and pray and join every Christian Teen message board I can find (until I find a decent one, where the others don't swear so much).

Oh, and I like the Amish, Quakers, and Mennonites, also. And for the same reason--they are so peaceful and don't push their religion on others. I met an Amish woman on my way to South Dakota--so nice. :D

Did you learn that Mennonites vary quite a lot in outward expression of faith? Hopefully so. Some are almost identical to Old Order Amish (the strictest, most "uniformed" and separatist branch of the Amish), whereas others, like my congregation, have no "dress code" and aim their efforts at things like serving the poor, creating a consensus-seeking community of believers, and peacemaking. The Amish are more likely to live in their own closed and semi-closed communities. The Old Order Amish and some conservative Mennonites are the ones who don't use electricity in their homes, drive cars on a daily basis, or embrace modern technology like TVs and computers.

If you walked around my house, you might guess that we are Christians, but you wouldn't be able to narrow it down to Mennonites by anything distinctive we own or don't own. Well, you could tell we're not conservative Mennonites, considering that we have three computers, a TV, a VCR, and a DVD player.

Sometimes, though, it IS nice to get away from all the "noise" and go off in the wilderness for a mental break. Nobody said that embracing technology meant you didn't also enjoy simplicity.

So, if you're looking for a way to work out the social Gospel and connect with people who believe in getting their hands dirty, a Mennonite or Church of the Brethren church might do well for you. Be forewarned--they, as a general rule, don't "get" veg*nism, but what established group does? You're more likely to find sympathetic people among the less conservative ends of both denominations.

Anywho, can you give me a more specific idea about what you're seeking? If you had to sit down and think of the five most important things you want to find in a faith community, what would they be? (This is assuming, of course, that you end up deciding you want a faith community.)

Basically, a community that DOES believe in Christianity, but dares to question it on occaison. And does not push it on others or judge others. I believe that God is the only true judge...and far too many religious faiths have members who take it upon themselves to judge. Basically, I just want to find out why the Bible is true. What makes it true. And find out some answers.

I am kind of still figuring what I believe. I am a devout believer in God and am starting to understand that the Bible is probably the best explanation of it all.

Basically, a community that DOES believe in Christianity, but dares to question it on occaison. And does not push it on others or judge others. I believe that God is the only true judge...and far too many religious faiths have members who take it upon themselves to judge. Basically, I just want to find out why the Bible is true. What makes it true. And find out some answers.

I am kind of still figuring what I believe. I am a devout believer in God and am starting to understand that the Bible is probably the best explanation of it all.
I think you will find that many devout Christians question their faith on a regular basis. Faith is what keeps most Christians going. My suggestion to you is to ask God to lead you to a Christian community that He wants you to be in. If you visit churches He will let you know which one is right. I think it's wonderful that you're searching. If you don't search you will never find answers. Best of luck to you on your journey. :)

Of course you can be a disorganized Christian. I am one, and boy you should see my closet! (*ahem*) The Bible does say that we should not "forsake the assembly of ourselves."

Pushiness, expectations and forced accountability are the things I fear most from organized religion. These are the main reasons I go to a Quaker church once in a blue moon. They are one of the least "pushy" denominations and you can gather with other Christians, but pursuing God and the Truth is very much your own responsibility.

The Seventh Day Adventists know the Bible like the back of their hand, and they are a very good Church to learn from. They are also EXTREMELY vegetarian-friendly and would likely congratulate you on your diet.

What I would probably advise is trying out several churches while reading the Bible fervently yourself. If a church seems pushy or like they want to be in your business all the time, don't be afraid to keep looking.

Also, be sure you ask God for guidance, because I don't think He would tell us not to forsake the assembly of ourselves and not provide us a place. Of course, that place might be where you least suspect. You might create that place yourself. I hope that all goes well for you. Congratulations on pursuing your faith. :)

I am kind of still figuring what I believe. I am a devout believer in God and am starting to understand that the Bible is probably the best explanation of it all.

Some of us "older folk" are still working on that whole "figuring out what we believe" thing...
Even though I have always believed in God and was raised in a religious home, I avoided "organised" religion and services for many years.

But, I am starting to see the value, once again, in fellowship and getting together with others who can understand, help and support me as I "figure out" the specifics of what I believe, and why...

Good luck to you.

Another thing--be careful what you label "pushy". Sometimes people who are outgoing and friendly can seem "pushy" if you're on guard against anything remotely invasive. To be part of a faith community, you have to participate, and that includes making yourself vulnurable to other people. You have to let them in your life. I totally get what you're saying about wanting to be allowed to make your own choices--I have never felt fulfilled at a church where no one knew me and no one cared. Extremes, yes, but I didn't want you to think "The best church is where no one bothers me at all."

i think you'd get on well with quakers.

but, that being said, to answer the question directly--no, you don't need to join a church. it can be helpful, but it isn't required.

Howabout when a shop sales assistant comes and bothers me skylark! :D I would call LadyFaile from that point on for something even more rad than religion, like NO, you cannot help me Mr SaleStaff! ;) hoho.

I think you don't need a church, but a graveyard might do it.....A wise crack I know, but also very true if you happen to be goth at all or whatever slimelight creature... Holy is the creature that becomes what dark is afraid of, yes the dark is afraid of me!...hehe :yes: And are gravestones not shrines!? Ok, I'll shutup now. :p

btw: I find this thread to be cool :cool: .....Good luck with what you want and what suits you CK okay yo !....

Don't you people just love helping people choose?.... God, what is a guy to do.... or girl in this case.... I guess the main question is where not to get married ;) over and above where to get married, being that they'll be ideally no church, sheesh, just a thought. How important is marriage in the case of this subject we call KC in relation to religion? That maybe worth a moment of thought or then again maybe thats just detail, hehehe.

eta:
A countess should serve God in a castle surely?