When did Christianity become a four-letter word?

These days, many people associate Christianity with organized religion and sometimes even hatefulness. Unfortunately, I really cannot blame them, because so many people do awful things under the name of Christianity, or, for that matter, any number of other religions. I’m not sure the number of people associated with these acts are truly valid representation for entire religions, but with technology, social media, and the ‘I have to know everything about everywhere right now’ mentality, it does at least appear that way.

Observation #1: Just because someone says they are a “Christian” or  “insert any adjective“, doesn’t mean they are.*

I can tell you all day long that I am an amazing dancer; I believe it to my very core. No one would have any reason to doubt me, that is until they watch me dance.

Definition of a Christian: Follower of Christ/Living Christ-like
Definition of an amazing dancer: Someone who has all the right moves, skill, rhythm, grace, and fluidity.

Observation #2: Actions speak louder than words.

Staying with the topic of Christianity, John 13:34-35 NIV says: 34″A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35″By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.“

So looking at these two observations, it brings me to the conclusion that people who do hateful things, such as telling someone that God hates them (for any reason) does not line up with scripture. The problem is, when someone is charismatic, and able to speak with conviction, they have no problem finding followers. Often times, the people who follow are simply misguided, and that’s a pity. However, I personally believe that you should look things up for yourself, and research the information you are being told. Christianity is not the only place you will see this though, I am pretty sure, many of  the people who have done some horrific things in the name of their beliefs have done so because they believed what they were taught instead of doing the research themselves.

I am fortunate to have friends from a multitude of backgrounds, including various religious beliefs. We respect each other, and sometimes we discuss the differences and similarities. I can tell you that none of my friends can find any text to back up the teachings of these extremists.

I actually have a lot more to say on this topic, and I’m sure I will over time. I will also probably post a few of my previous rants from Facebook here. However, this is probably already so long that most readers stopped reading a long time ago. I will leave you with a little nod to my Trekkie side.

*To be clear, I’m not saying the people are not Christians, that is not my judgement call. I’m saying they are not acting as a Christian. Christians are humans, they are not perfect. I will, however, say that by their actions, I question the validity of their claim – but that is my opinion.