Read all four of the Gospels of the New Testament. (There is not one Gospel that has all the teachings of Jesus Christ). The Bible is also on CDs and can be read freely online.
Visit churches and compare what is being taught to the four Gospels to evaluate the quantity of substance and to avoid contradiction. Be aware of red flags such as anyone promoting violence or hate against others or a political candidate from the pulpit. And beware of anyone claiming they do not need to repent--since there is no such person on this Earth. Or anyone promising increased wealth, salvation, or healings for a fee or tithing. Also, be diligent with churches seemingly changing their priorities or beliefs overnight to perhaps keep or add new members. God gave us all the gift to repent; however, only time will prove their sincerity.
(Note: if the core of what is individually believed aligns with the four Gospels, especially what Jesus taught in priority, then those will know who to vote for without the need of the religious sect in politics--or anyone else. However, everyone should have the freedom of belief and not dictated by anyone's version. Mark 12:17).
A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit (Matthew 7-18).
We need to remember what Jesus said concerning his words.
(Matthew 24:35) [Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away]. (Also, Mark 13:31 and Luke 21:33).
If we choose not to join a church, take the time on Sundays to read or listen to the Bible with your family or friends starting with the four Gospels, as primary or the bread of the Bible, then branching out to the Old Testament for a better understanding of the history of God, Heaven, and Earth, then the remaining chapters following the four Gospels for additional information and repeat. However, the main emphasis should always be on the four Gospels when God was born in human flesh and spoke directly to us. Also, we need to be consistent, wholehearted, and pray often. We must never forget to repent when we fail and never give up.
(Matthew 6:6) [But thou, when thou prays, enter into thy closet, and when thou has shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which see in secret shall reward thee openly].
(Matthew 18:20) [For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them].
You or your entire family can add volunteer work, such as: soup kitchens, shelters, community service, etc. There is never a shortage of choices when choosing to volunteer. Also, donate to worthy causes. Check their reviews online and find out the percentage of monies that go directly to the cause. God be with you.
© 2009 Elizabeth Daniele
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Posted by Elizabeth Daniele Contact
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