Questions for Church-going Christians

[Koldo]

Hello all. I am new here and hope that I am posting this in the best possible place. I will give a little background first, before asking my questions.

My six year old son has recently started taking an interest in religious topics, to the point that it is no longer able to be ignored. Many of his little buddies are Christian and they have got him asking me some odd questions and making off-the-wall comments about prayer, Jesus, and God. I am an atheist, so I feel that I can't answer these questions without a natural bias. He has been asking me to take him to church, and because I worry that it will be a negative experience for us, I keep saying "We will see." I am pretty laid back about religion and want to teach my son tolerance and respect for others and their beliefs. I want to let him choose for himself if this is something he wants in his life. I believe that it is only fair not to force my personal thoughts onto him, unless it should cause him harm. This has posed lots of questions for me.

1.) Are there any churches that allow non-believers to attend and participate in their functions?
2.) If so, how will the congregants feel about me being there with my son?
3.) Will we be treated differently if everyone knows about our situation?
4.) Is a larger or smaller church better for this situation?
5.) How do you choose a doctrine when none of them sound right?
6.) Should we meet with the pastor to be approved to attend, upfront? Be open about or situation? Keep it to ourselves?

I want to attend with him to make sure that he is not being taught any type of hate, or to protest. I want to make sure that he is safe, but has an avenue to get answers to questions that I don't feel right answering for him. I would love to get some opinions of church-going Christians, as to how they would feel about us in their churches and any feedback is much appreciated.

Thanks for your assistance.

I couldn't help but wonder why your child keeps asking you to take him to the church. Have you ever asked him what for?

Could it be because his friends go the church, so he doesn't want to be left out? Maybe he wants to go to a specific church, his friends' church. Could this be the case?

 

[blackout]

Thank you UltraViolet.

Do your children not get confused by the many different views? I am confused and I have only been reading about different beliefs for a short time. I can only imagine how confusing it would be for little ones.

They introduce and explore ideas in an age appropriate way.

As this is the christian DIR,
we should probably move this convo elsewhere,
if you want to continue it.

 

[wordmagnifiedabovenames]

I commend you for reading about communion.

What I said is not to try to say that I don't want you or your son to participate in communion, personally I wish both you and your son would participate, but only if you're doing it for the right reasons. Same with baptism. I don't think your son should go swimming in the baptism tank just because "someone else got to go in the water." I'd love it if both you and your son were baptised, but only for the right reasons. Back to communion briefly, I believe the judgement that a person brings on himself by taking it irreverently is between him and God. The example I was giving was from the POV of a kids leader and more about protecting said kids leader from leading a child to sin. I suppose it's also bad to lead an adult to sin, but with an adult it's a lot easier to explain the concept of irreverence and have them an adult make his decision based on the teaching, rather than explain the concept to a 6 year old who's decision to partake is more likely to be susceptible to his being jealous of the kids around him getting food and something that looks like red cordial (which certainly does not help,) rather than the decision being based on the teaching itself.

From what I know, in this day and age most denominations will happily accept children into a Sunday school program, regardless of their parents' beliefs, as long as the child is reasonably well behaved. I've thought that if I can accept kids into Sunday school regardless of religion (of them or their parents,) I can also kick them out regardless of their religion. In terms of behaviour I hold the Christian kids to the same standard as non Christian kids, but the Christian kids seem more willing to behave when I show them verses in the Bible explaining why God says they should. That said, I've sent Christian kids back to their parents for exactly the same reasons as I've sent non-Christian kids back to their parents. Next week is always a clean slate though.

I can understand that people may be a little bit edgy around the children of atheist parents. I think this is largely because the default assumption is that the child's current beliefs (especially if they are 6, with 6 year olds being as impressionable as they are,) will be a reflection of their parents' current beliefs (with the obvious possible exceptions of Santa etc.) People assume that because atheists don't believe in God, atheists have no respect for God, therefore no respect for His laws and values, and don't want their children being influenced by someone who believes these things. While I can understand why people have that mindset, personally I'd hope that parents have raised up their children in the ways of the Lord enough that their kids' own convictions are strong enough to deal with whatever beliefs the child of an atheist decides to put forth or question, and that the kids are "in the world but not of the world."

About the only reason I would tell my hypothetical kids to be wary of your son is if I thought your son was going to be disrespectful and get up in the middle of the message and start spouting off about why he thinks Christians are wrong and the preacher's message is flawed, or be violent, or use bad language, or demonstrate other bad habits that I don't want my kids picking up. I'd only get the impression that your son was going to do those things though if you yourself or your son gave me a reason to suspect that such would be the case. I would expect most people would tell their kids to be wary of anyone demonstrating that sort of behaviour, regardless of their parents' beliefs.

If I had kids the same age as yours and you were to turn up in my church and say that you were an atheist, I'd tell my kids that in the case of your son saying something they don't agree with or haven't heard before, or him posing a question to which they didn't know the answer, to remember what your son said or asked and then talk to me about it afterwards, possibly with you and your son present. I'd still want them to be friendly towards your son and not shun him. That said, I'd tell my kids to do that with any new person, regardless their parents' beliefs. I think that if I knew you were an atheist I'd probably tell my kids to put in more of an effort with your son; I'd probably tell them to "be Jesus to him, you may be the only one he ever sees."

With regards to which church or denomination will be a good first experience, it's a difficult question to answer.

I can only speak from my experience, but the vision of Kids Min in the church I go to is to see kids develop their own personal relationship with God, doing what we ( "we" being kids leaders, parents, and other people in the church) can to help them along the way. Excluding kids with atheistic parents doesn't seem a good way to achieve this. If I knew that your son's parent(s) we're atheist(s,) I'd argue that it's probably more of a reason (from a leaders' perspective,) to ensure that he is included in everything; especially as if the parent(s) are atheistic, it's reasonable to assume that the child won't get a huge amount of Christian input at home to help him develop his relationship with God, especially if as you've said, you'd rather not force your views on your child when he has questions about God, Jesus and prayer.

I can only speak for my church, but when I used to be involved kids ministry, I deliberately ran some activities that were all the kids could participate in equally without relying on what the kids' parents believed. This helped develop relationship between the kids so that when it came time to do stuff more obviously about God, kids who weren't Christians or had parents who weren't Christians, were still able to talk to the other kids about it, even if they weren't as involved with it as the Christian kids were. It helped break down any wariness barriers that had sprung up.

I also (it was the church's idea, I was just a small part of the implementation) had the main theme of the Sunday school lesson pretty much mirroring what was being preached about that day in "big church," as the kids called it. This meant that parents and kids, regardless of beliefs, were able to talk to each other about what they'd both heard and there be common threads. The child could ask questions if there was something he didn't completely understand, and if the preaching was done properly, hopefully the parent would be able to answer with the church's (and hopefully the God's) perspective on the matter in a bit more depth, or at least in a way more in line with the child's way of learning.

For the activities that were really for the Christian kids (like communion, or praise and worship etc, well, they're about God, but you get my drift...) Anyway, I always explained why we were doing what we were doing (or got the kids to explain it to each other, and corrected them if they were wrong,) and basically said that even though I (and God) wanted them to do it (for the right reasons,) that I wasn't going to make them, that it was their choice. If they chose not to participate they could either sit down and be quiet and not distract other people, or go and be with their parents (if I knew their parents would be ok with it.)

Of course as these things are what happened in my church I'm biased towards them, what I'm trying to get at is that I'd suggest you find out what is involved in the kids program at a variety of churches and see which one you think will be the best fit for your son in regards to the way it's run and the general doctrine it teaches.

All of what I just said though only relates to what your son would enjoy as his first experience of "church," (and what you'd be happy with in terms of doctrine.) There are more aspects to consider when deciding if a church is actually "right," and if an experience of "church" has to be "right" in order for it to be "good" and worthwhile.

As I said before, the message in the Bible can be difficult and uncomfortable to follow, but personally I'd say that the church isn't a place to make people comfortable, it's a place to make God comfortable. This can mean that there are some things that may be preached about that you may not like, but that doesn't necessarily mean that they're wrong. It can become a balance of finding a church that is correct or a church that is enjoyable. The two are not necessarily mutually exclusive (personally I believe that no denomination is 100% correct in its application of doctrine and interpretation of prophecy,) but finding a church that gets close can take some time (and a fair bit of Bible study,) and could potentially mean that you, (and possibly your son,) could get hurt along the way. Not that anyone wants that, just keep in mind that no church is perfect, because the church has got people in it, and no person is perfect (yet.)

 

[Kathryn]

OK I am going to add something, at the risk of sounding sappy.

I believe that children are more attune spiritually sometimes than adults are. I believe that they are closer to God in many ways, because their hearts and minds have not been as corrupted with life's baggage and negative experiences as adults' lives often have been.

It seems that there is wisdom in their innocence. "Out of the mouth of babes..."

And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.
(Matthew 18:2-6 ESV)

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven."
(Matthew 18:10 ESV)

Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up to salvation– if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
(1 Peter 2:2-3 ESV)

And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.
(Mark 10:13-16 ESV)

Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.
Psalms 127:3-5

Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.
(Proverbs 29:17 ESV)

But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying out in the temple, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” they were indignant, and they said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes; have you never read, “‘Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise’?”
(Matthew 21:15-16)

Thought you might enjoy these beautiful verses about how Jesus viewed children, and how they are portrayed in scripture.

 

[Bowzer79]

Koldo, yes. He asks because his friends talk about it. When a kid asks him if his mom is in heaven with Jesus and God then it gets some questions started when he gets home from school. I think he likes their answers better than mine.

 

[Bowzer79]

Wordmagnified, thank you for your additional information. My son is very well behaved, and will have no problem with that. I know it is assumed that because we don't believe in a creator God that we are somehow void of morals and ethics.This isn't the case, however. (Well it may be in some cases, but not mine). Being an atheist isn't synonymous with disrespecting gods. In my home we don't go around saying negative things about any god or any religion. I know many do. I don't feel that this is productive or reasonable. It isn't my place to convince the rest of the world that they are wrong. I am a fairly conservative person and display most of the same moral values that you probably do. I have a job that requires me to maintain a certain image in my community. This involves my words and actions at work, off of work, and through the words and actions of my family and the company I keep. This is similar to how you may choose to live your bible's teachings not only at church, but at home, and your children are a reflection of how you live those principles. Some atheists even disgust me, at times, but we aren't all the same. I take each religious person on a case by case basis and would hope they would do as much for me.

 

[Bowzer79]

lol Kathryn, that wasn't sappy. Thanks for taking the time to look those up.

 

[Alceste]

Hello all. I am new here and hope that I am posting this in the best possible place. I will give a little background first, before asking my questions.

My six year old son has recently started taking an interest in religious topics, to the point that it is no longer able to be ignored. Many of his little buddies are Christian and they have got him asking me some odd questions and making off-the-wall comments about prayer, Jesus, and God. I am an atheist, so I feel that I can't answer these questions without a natural bias. He has been asking me to take him to church, and because I worry that it will be a negative experience for us, I keep saying "We will see." I am pretty laid back about religion and want to teach my son tolerance and respect for others and their beliefs. I want to let him choose for himself if this is something he wants in his life. I believe that it is only fair not to force my personal thoughts onto him, unless it should cause him harm. This has posed lots of questions for me.

1.) Are there any churches that allow non-believers to attend and participate in their functions?
2.) If so, how will the congregants feel about me being there with my son?
3.) Will we be treated differently if everyone knows about our situation?
4.) Is a larger or smaller church better for this situation?
5.) How do you choose a doctrine when none of them sound right?
6.) Should we meet with the pastor to be approved to attend, upfront? Be open about or situation? Keep it to ourselves?

I want to attend with him to make sure that he is not being taught any type of hate, or to protest. I want to make sure that he is safe, but has an avenue to get answers to questions that I don't feel right answering for him. I would love to get some opinions of church-going Christians, as to how they would feel about us in their churches and any feedback is much appreciated.

Thanks for your assistance.

I think you should just tell him straight up that you don't believe in that stuff. Let his Christian friends take him to church if he wants to go. If you take him, he will get the impression that you endorse whatever he is being taught there. If his friends take him, and you make it clear you're willing to discuss whatever ideas he is exposed to, he can learn some valuable critical thinking skills.

You're the dad. It isn't up to you to accommodate your six year old son's religious aspirations. It's up to you to let him know where you stand, be a strong role model. At the same time, you can let him know that his thoughts and opinions on this particular subject are up to him, and that as his dad, you'll be behind him 100% whatever he decides.

I am grateful to my parents for taking this approach, and they weren't even atheists. They are Christians, and my father was even a minister.

 

[Alceste]

Thank you UltraViolet.

Do your children not get confused by the many different views? I am confused and I have only been reading about different beliefs for a short time. I can only imagine how confusing it would be for little ones.

There's nothing wrong with being confused. It's the ones who think everything is clear-cut you need to watch out for.

 

[Alceste]

Koldo, yes. He asks because his friends talk about it. When a kid asks him if his mom is in heaven with Jesus and God then it gets some questions started when he gets home from school. I think he likes their answers better than mine.

I am a nanny. One kid I looked after once asked me whether his departed grandmother was in heaven. I replied that nobody knows what happens to us when we die, that there are a lot of different beliefs, and that it is up to him to decide which one appealed to him the most, or which one sounded the most likely. He pressed on because he wanted to know what I thought, so I told him I believe that when we die we become a part of the earth, the flowers, the sky, and everything that he loves. Something along those lines, anyway. I still think that was a good answer.

My point is, what you believe is not inferior to the different picture offered by religion. Find a way to make it beautiful and be honest. Express it to your son. More than he needs answers, he needs to know who his father is, what he believes and what he stands for.

 

[Bowzer79]

I think you should just tell him straight up that you don't believe in that stuff. Let his Christian friends take him to church if he wants to go. If you take him, he will get the impression that you endorse whatever he is being taught there. If his friends take him, and you make it clear you're willing to discuss whatever ideas he is exposed to, he can learn some valuable critical thinking skills.

You're the dad. It isn't up to you to accommodate your six year old son's religious aspirations. It's up to you to let him know where you stand, be a strong role model. At the same time, you can let him know that his thoughts and opinions on this particular subject are up to him, and that as his dad, you'll be behind him 100% whatever he decides.

I am grateful to my parents for taking this approach, and they weren't even atheists. They are Christians, and my father was even a minister.

Alceste, thanks for the advice. Letting my son go to church with the parents of his friends, is an option but doesn't sit well with me. I am against absentee parenting. He knows how I feel about it. I told him that if it was something he really wanted to explore that I would go with him, but if it seemed like something that was dangerous to his personal or mental well being that we would leave and he may have to wait to explore that option when he is older. I don't know where you live or if you have churches similar to the ones we have in the US, but it is very critical to make sure your kids are safe. The fact that his friends go to church there does nothing to make me feel better about the situation. Even kids at the Westboro Baptist Church probably have friends(as hard as that is to believe). If you are not familiar with the church, please research it. There are numerous cults and some very outspoken and violent groups who are very suggestive and manipulative. Those are the ones I am afraid of. I don't want him to be soaking up something terrible that I won't be able to undo. I want my son to know that just because you don't agree with something, that doesn't mean you have to hide your head under a rock. I am man enough to go to a church with him, if that is what he wants to try. I am also man enough to sit there quietly and see exactly what it is that he is being educated on so that I know he is safe. I love him that much.

 

[Bowzer79]

I am a nanny. One kid I looked after once asked me whether his departed grandmother was in heaven. I replied that nobody knows what happens to us when we die, that there are a lot of different beliefs, and that it is up to him to decide which one appealed to him the most, or which one sounded the most likely. He pressed on because he wanted to know what I thought, so I told him I believe that when we die we become a part of the earth, the flowers, the sky, and everything that he loves. Something along those lines, anyway. I still think that was a good answer.

My point is, what you believe is not inferior to the different picture offered by religion. Find a way to make it beautiful and be honest. Express it to your son. More than he needs answers, he needs to know who his father is, what he believes and what he stands for.

That is actually a really good explanation of death. Maybe I don't have the "charisma" required to come up with that kind of stuff. Men are notorious for being cut and dry.

He knows who I am and what I stand for. We are partners. We do everything together.

 

[Alceste]

Alceste, thanks for the advice. Letting my son go to church with the parents of his friends, is an option but doesn't sit well with me. I am against absentee parenting. He knows how I feel about it. I told him that if it was something he really wanted to explore that I would go with him, but if it seemed like something that was dangerous to his personal or mental well being that we would leave and he may have to wait to explore that option when he is older. I don't know where you live or if you have churches similar to the ones we have in the US, but it is very critical to make sure your kids are safe. The fact that his friends go to church there does nothing to make me feel better about the situation. Even kids at the Westboro Baptist Church probably have friends(as hard as that is to believe). If you are not familiar with the church, please research it. There are numerous cults and some very outspoken and violent groups who are very suggestive and manipulative. Those are the ones I am afraid of. I don't want him to be soaking up something terrible that I won't be able to undo. I want my son to know that just because you don't agree with something, that doesn't mean you have to hide your head under a rock. I am man enough to go to a church with him, if that is what he wants to try. I am also man enough to sit there quietly and see exactly what it is that he is being educated on so that I know he is safe. I love him that much.

Fair enough. He is still pretty little, after all. When my Christian mother decided she felt closer to God in nature than she did in church, she stopped going. I still went with my friends. But I was over 10 by that time.

I did go to some incredibly nutty churches with my friends, but I got my values at home. I never found the speaking-in-tongues, quivering, shaking, hellfire, bible-thumping, brutal-judgment-of-your-fellow-man approach persuasive, thanks to my parents. I just wanted to do what the other kids were doing.

 

[Alceste]

That is actually a really good explanation of death. Maybe I don't have the "charisma" required to come up with that kind of stuff. Men are notorious for being cut and dry.

Yes, they are. I'm a songwriter, so I feel qualified to make any idea beautiful.

He knows who I am and what I stand for. We are partners. We do everything together.

Then you have nothing to worry about. You can take him to the Westboro Baptists and he'll turn out OK.

 

[jojo50]

First welcome!…secondly,it’s great that your baby want to head in a direction,that’ll hopefully lead him to everlasting life. I know there will be so many here who wants to help,I’ll be one of them. But it might get a little confusing,it was for me when I was hearing things from many denominations. Might might even are told NOT to listen to a few,because of “THEIR” teachings.

I come in the name of my God Jehovah,and I teach what his son Jesus taught us to teach. I’ll answer your questions using as many scriptures a I can find. I’ll try help you to understand with Jehovah’s help . whether you believe or not,it’s up to you.
(1). Jehovah wants ALL non-believers as well as believers,to believe in him. He doesn’t want anyone to die,(Ezek.33:11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel)?
(2,3). NO human should have ANYTHING negative to say concerning you and your son being there. First of all…they should be there trying to get close to their God. secondly if they had something negative to say then,they’re NOT putting on that God-like personality. But thirdly and MOST importantly..YOU shouldn’t care what anyone there says or how they react. Your focus should be on trying to learn about God, hopefully the right God.

(4). Church really are a group of people,NOT the building itself,it’s a place of worship. Many always seem to think,the bigger the building,the more closer to God . When Jesus was on earth the first of people he taught,was the Apostles. THAT…was his church,and he had NO building,you get what I’m saying? The size of a building WON’T save anyone’s life. Only learning about the true God,worshipping him,and TRYING to live right,WILL! You shouldn’t concentrate on the size of the building,but what’s coming out of it.

(5).what Jesus taught,what men before Jesus,(Moses,Noah,John,and others afters who followed), didn’t sound right to many, yet they WERE speaking the truth. ALL THESE men were serving the God of Israel. what then,is the same now,God will continue to have his servants teaching up to the end,even after,(Matt.24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come).Many believe to be they’re doing the will of Jesus. This is why they WORSHIP him. We MUST believe and follow Jesus teachings. Because he’s teachings what his FATHER wants him to…

(a).John 5:30 -I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
(b). many believe,if one wants to get close to god,(Jesus),just go to him,and he'll show you everything. That’s not so,if we did,just as many had,we won’t be learning ALL truth. The ONLY way we would learn the truth, and gain a chance of life,(many are going to hate this part),we MUST BELIEVE in his Father.,(John 17:3 -And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent). Jesus also said…it’s his FATHER who sends man to him,(John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day).

Regardless of what many WANTS to believe..if we REFUSE to believe ALL praise and worship belongs to Jesus Father,then we WON’T learn the truth. Now I showed what Jesus said concerning his Father and humans. But here another of his words,that shows many are NOT serving his Father,as he did.,(Matt.12:50-For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother). If we DON’T serve his FATHER,we NOT his spiritual siblings. So in short,JESUS wouldn’t acknowledge us,because we WON’T acknowledge his Father!

(6). The “pastor” doesn’t have to know why it’s just you and your son. If you choose to tell him fine. But if he did know your situation,and you become part of that group. If you needed some form of help concerning your situation.he might be able to help, personally or can direct you to someone. Even the sisters could help concerning your baby. In other words…you all should be like a family.

Now the pastor don’t have to approve of you being there. UNLESS!…he knows for a fact if you or anyone,(for that matter),are committing acts of abomination, and refuse to change. In this case he has to right NOT to accept you. Many again doesn’t agree with this,some reasons are. They too are committing some form of abomination. Or there’s one who they know personally. See when things hit close to home,that’s when many cry…“it’s wrong,or that’s a lie” but even a member who did those things,wouldn’t be accept back in AFTER being banned. until he rented to God and change his ways.

(a).2Thess.3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.( if they refuse to turn from things like fornicating, committing adultery,etc., then they suppose to be disfellowed, if not, they would cause Gods place to be unclean).

(b). another scripture concerning the congregation, God doesn’t mean judging as he does. it meant if the person refuse to do right, they have to be put out.,(1Cor.5:11,12,13 - But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person).

©. Here it’s NOT referring to cleaning of the body,it’s referring to ones action,the way they’re living,(Num.19:20 -But the man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation, because he hath defiled the sanctuary of the LORD: the water of separation hath not been sprinkled upon him; he is unclean.(they mush be disfellowshipped). MANY religion knows the truth,and practice it,then there's many who doesn't...follow God word. it's more about losing their flock and importancy,than what God wants. Regardless to what anyone WANTS to believe…it ISN’T something Jehovah witnesses made up,I just prove that with scriptures.

You would be welcome in our place of worship. As many would, (especially concerning us),would tell you don’t go there! I wouldn't say that concerning others. because you have the right to go wherever you want. God would have me tell you this…do research NOT just take anyones word. And remember not ALL ministers are sent by Jehovah,( 2Cor.11:13-15, For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works). Peace

 

[blackout]

First welcome!…secondly,it’s great that your baby want to head in a direction,that’ll hopefully lead him to everlasting life. I know there will be so many here who wants to help,I’ll be one of them. But it might get a little confusing,it was for me when I was hearing things from many denominations. Might might even are told NOT to listen to a few,because of “THEIR” teachings.

I come in the name of my God Jehovah,and I teach what his son Jesus taught us to teach. I’ll answer your questions using as many scriptures a I can find. I’ll try help you to understand with Jehovah’s help . whether you believe or not,it’s up to you.
(1). Jehovah wants ALL non-believers as well as believers,to believe in him. He doesn’t want anyone to die,(Ezek.33:11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel)?
(2,3). NO human should have ANYTHING negative to say concerning you and your son being there. First of all…they should be there trying to get close to their God. secondly if they had something negative to say then,they’re NOT putting on that God-like personality. But thirdly and MOST importantly..YOU shouldn’t care what anyone there says or how they react. Your focus should be on trying to learn about God, hopefully the right God.

(4). Church really are a group of people,NOT the building itself,it’s a place of worship. Many always seem to think,the bigger the building,the more closer to God . When Jesus was on earth the first of people he taught,was the Apostles. THAT…was his church,and he had NO building,you get what I’m saying? The size of a building WON’T save anyone’s life. Only learning about the true God,worshipping him,and TRYING to live right,WILL! You shouldn’t concentrate on the size of the building,but what’s coming out of it.

(5).what Jesus taught,what men before Jesus,(Moses,Noah,John,and others afters who followed), didn’t sound right to many, yet they WERE speaking the truth. ALL THESE men were serving the God of Israel. what then,is the same now,God will continue to have his servants teaching up to the end,even after,(Matt.24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come).Many believe to be they’re doing the will of Jesus. This is why they WORSHIP him. We MUST believe and follow Jesus teachings. Because he’s teachings what his FATHER wants him to…

(a).John 5:30 -I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
(b). many believe,if one wants to get close to god,(Jesus),just go to him,and he'll show you everything. That’s not so,if we did,just as many had,we won’t be learning ALL truth. The ONLY way we would learn the truth, and gain a chance of life,(many are going to hate this part),we MUST BELIEVE in his Father.,(John 17:3 -And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent). Jesus also said…it’s his FATHER who sends man to him,(John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day).

Regardless of what many WANTS to believe..if we REFUSE to believe ALL praise and worship belongs to Jesus Father,then we WON’T learn the truth. Now I showed what Jesus said concerning his Father and humans. But here another of his words,that shows many are NOT serving his Father,as he did.,(Matt.12:50-For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother). If we DON’T serve his FATHER,we NOT his spiritual siblings. So in short,JESUS wouldn’t acknowledge us,because we WON’T acknowledge his Father!

(6). The “pastor” doesn’t have to know why it’s just you and your son. If you choose to tell him fine. But if he did know your situation,and you become part of that group. If you needed some form of help concerning your situation.he might be able to help, personally or can direct you to someone. Even the sisters could help concerning your baby. In other words…you all should be like a family.

Now the pastor don’t have to approve of you being there. UNLESS!…he knows for a fact if you or anyone,(for that matter),are committing acts of abomination, and refuse to change. In this case he has to right NOT to accept you. Many again doesn’t agree with this,some reasons are. They too are committing some form of abomination. Or there’s one who they know personally. See when things hit close to home,that’s when many cry…“it’s wrong,or that’s a lie” but even a member who did those things,wouldn’t be accept back in AFTER being banned. until he rented to God and change his ways.

(a).2Thess.3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.( if they refuse to turn from things like fornicating, committing adultery,etc., then they suppose to be disfellowed, if not, they would cause Gods place to be unclean).

(b). another scripture concerning the congregation, God doesn’t mean judging as he does. it meant if the person refuse to do right, they have to be put out.,(1Cor.5:11,12,13 - But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person).

©. Here it’s NOT referring to cleaning of the body,it’s referring to ones action,the way they’re living,(Num.19:20 -But the man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation, because he hath defiled the sanctuary of the LORD: the water of separation hath not been sprinkled upon him; he is unclean.(they mush be disfellowshipped). MANY religion knows the truth,and practice it,then there's many who doesn't...follow God word. it's more about losing their flock and importancy,than what God wants. Regardless to what anyone WANTS to believe…it ISN’T something Jehovah witnesses made up,I just prove that with scriptures.

You would be welcome in our place of worship. As many would, (especially concerning us),would tell you don’t go there! I wouldn't say that concerning others. because you have the right to go wherever you want. God would have me tell you this…do research NOT just take anyones word. And remember not ALL ministers are sent by Jehovah,( 2Cor.11:13-15, For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works). Peace

Rather makes you understand why dad wants to go to church with his son.

 

[Bowzer79]

First welcome!…secondly,it’s great that your baby want to head in a direction,that’ll hopefully lead him to everlasting life. I know there will be so many here who wants to help,I’ll be one of them. But it might get a little confusing,it was for me when I was hearing things from many denominations. Might might even are told NOT to listen to a few,because of “THEIR” teachings.

I come in the name of my God Jehovah,and I teach what his son Jesus taught us to teach. I’ll answer your questions using as many scriptures a I can find. I’ll try help you to understand with Jehovah’s help . whether you believe or not,it’s up to you.
(1). Jehovah wants ALL non-believers as well as believers,to believe in him. He doesn’t want anyone to die,(Ezek.33:11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel)?
(2,3). NO human should have ANYTHING negative to say concerning you and your son being there. First of all…they should be there trying to get close to their God. secondly if they had something negative to say then,they’re NOT putting on that God-like personality. But thirdly and MOST importantly..YOU shouldn’t care what anyone there says or how they react. Your focus should be on trying to learn about God, hopefully the right God.

(4). Church really are a group of people,NOT the building itself,it’s a place of worship. Many always seem to think,the bigger the building,the more closer to God . When Jesus was on earth the first of people he taught,was the Apostles. THAT…was his church,and he had NO building,you get what I’m saying? The size of a building WON’T save anyone’s life. Only learning about the true God,worshipping him,and TRYING to live right,WILL! You shouldn’t concentrate on the size of the building,but what’s coming out of it.

(5).what Jesus taught,what men before Jesus,(Moses,Noah,John,and others afters who followed), didn’t sound right to many, yet they WERE speaking the truth. ALL THESE men were serving the God of Israel. what then,is the same now,God will continue to have his servants teaching up to the end,even after,(Matt.24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come).Many believe to be they’re doing the will of Jesus. This is why they WORSHIP him. We MUST believe and follow Jesus teachings. Because he’s teachings what his FATHER wants him to…

(a).John 5:30 -I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
(b). many believe,if one wants to get close to god,(Jesus),just go to him,and he'll show you everything. That’s not so,if we did,just as many had,we won’t be learning ALL truth. The ONLY way we would learn the truth, and gain a chance of life,(many are going to hate this part),we MUST BELIEVE in his Father.,(John 17:3 -And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent). Jesus also said…it’s his FATHER who sends man to him,(John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day).

Regardless of what many WANTS to believe..if we REFUSE to believe ALL praise and worship belongs to Jesus Father,then we WON’T learn the truth. Now I showed what Jesus said concerning his Father and humans. But here another of his words,that shows many are NOT serving his Father,as he did.,(Matt.12:50-For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother). If we DON’T serve his FATHER,we NOT his spiritual siblings. So in short,JESUS wouldn’t acknowledge us,because we WON’T acknowledge his Father!

(6). The “pastor” doesn’t have to know why it’s just you and your son. If you choose to tell him fine. But if he did know your situation,and you become part of that group. If you needed some form of help concerning your situation.he might be able to help, personally or can direct you to someone. Even the sisters could help concerning your baby. In other words…you all should be like a family.

Now the pastor don’t have to approve of you being there. UNLESS!…he knows for a fact if you or anyone,(for that matter),are committing acts of abomination, and refuse to change. In this case he has to right NOT to accept you. Many again doesn’t agree with this,some reasons are. They too are committing some form of abomination. Or there’s one who they know personally. See when things hit close to home,that’s when many cry…“it’s wrong,or that’s a lie” but even a member who did those things,wouldn’t be accept back in AFTER being banned. until he rented to God and change his ways.

(a).2Thess.3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.( if they refuse to turn from things like fornicating, committing adultery,etc., then they suppose to be disfellowed, if not, they would cause Gods place to be unclean).

(b). another scripture concerning the congregation, God doesn’t mean judging as he does. it meant if the person refuse to do right, they have to be put out.,(1Cor.5:11,12,13 - But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person).

©. Here it’s NOT referring to cleaning of the body,it’s referring to ones action,the way they’re living,(Num.19:20 -But the man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation, because he hath defiled the sanctuary of the LORD: the water of separation hath not been sprinkled upon him; he is unclean.(they mush be disfellowshipped). MANY religion knows the truth,and practice it,then there's many who doesn't...follow God word. it's more about losing their flock and importancy,than what God wants. Regardless to what anyone WANTS to believe…it ISN’T something Jehovah witnesses made up,I just prove that with scriptures.

You would be welcome in our place of worship. As many would, (especially concerning us),would tell you don’t go there! I wouldn't say that concerning others. because you have the right to go wherever you want. God would have me tell you this…do research NOT just take anyones word. And remember not ALL ministers are sent by Jehovah,( 2Cor.11:13-15, For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works). Peace

JoJo, thank you very much for all of the effort you put into your response to my questions. I did have a question regarding part of your response. What does it mean by even the sisters might be able to help with my son? Is that in relation to how some congregations don't allow women to counsel the men there? If that is the case, I am not sure how I feel about that, but I was under the impression that it only applied to fellow believers and maybe even only your husband or heads of the congregation. I may just have it all confused. Each group is so different. I can't keep any of it straight.

 

[Bowzer79]

Rather makes you understand why dad wants to go to church with his son.

Yes ultraviolet. That is the sole reason. I love my fellow people but have very little trust in them.

 

[Katzpur]

I want to attend with him to make sure that he is not being taught any type of hate, or to protest.

If you want to make sure that nobody tells him that his atheist dad is going to Hell, try taking him to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (aka "the Mormon Church"). And yes, I'm entirely serious.

 

[Bowzer79]

If you want to make sure that nobody tells him that his atheist dad is going to Hell, try taking him to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (aka "the Mormon Church"). And yes, I'm entirely serious.

Katzpur, thank you. I wasn't even aware of that. I looked into it a bit. I think he will be confused about the difference between a temporal hell and a permanent one, but it does sound a lot less threatening. Thank you for sharing.