Expert: Carl Fuglein - 9/8/2009

Question
First question- is it okay not to go to church but still believe in god?  I mean...the thing is, in the past I've had some...issues with churches before, you might say, including a semi-cult once.  It makes me very uncomfortable and afraid to go to churches now, even though I used to really enjoy it.  Does God not like you not going to church?

Second question...Correct me if I’m wrong, but, when a person goes to heaven, they are supposed to be in paradise.  Most people agree you are supposed to be unbelievable happy in heaven.  But....not everyone I know is a Christian, and a lot of them don’t believe in Jesus or god in general.  The bible says they are doing to hell then, because they are not following the path of Christ.   How am I supposed to be happy in this paradise knowing anyone I care about is in eternal suffering?  Better yet, how could I possibly be a good person and be happy knowing /anyone/ was suffering down in hell, rather they deserved it or not?

Answer
Hi Kaylia-

These are both very good questions.  I'll do my best.


Yes, it is okay to believe in God and not go to church, but God would prefer it if you DO go to church.  Community and relationship are very important parts of Christianity.  The last big thing Jesus did before he was crucified was to have dinner with his closest friends.  Going to church gives you an extended family that you can depend on in times of trouble.  Going to church offers you opportunities to grow spiritually and in other ways by offering Bible studies, classes and seminars.  I understand your being uncomfortable - it's unfortunate, but churches are run by people, and not all of them (churches OR people) are Godly.  Sometimes you have to search 2 or 3 before you find one you like.  I would stick with the main protestant churches to ensure staying away from cults:  Presbyterian, United Methodist, Baptist (but not independent), Episcopal, United Church of Christ, Vineyard.

2nd question:  How am I to be happy in Paradise, knowing that some of my friends and family are in hell?  Kaylia, once you get to heaven, you will be so happy to be with Jesus, the memory of those friends will be erased - that's my theory.  You'll be so happy, you just won't know.

But let's look at this question from a practical point of view - if you don't want them to go to hell, then it is YOUR job to tell them about Jesus.  The ultimate decision is theirs, but if you don't tell them, they may never know.  This is the best argument of all to evangelize.  People agonize over their friend or family member because of the life they live, but never tell them about Christ.  I have an agnostic friend.  He knows that I think he's going to hell.  But I've told him about Jesus and presented the whole gospel to him.  It's his decision, and I'll be disappointed if he's not in heaven, but it's his decision.

Go spread the word of the love of Jesus!

Carl

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