The Religious Life and God

[Aslan10]

What is the meaning of religion, specifically Christianity? I am thinking this through and trying to understand it better. Is it all about salvation, that is to say, is God just a fire insurance (clearly a reference to hell) salesman? Or is it all about the knowledge of him, the human condition, and that journey here and now? Should we, as Christians, fret more over the present world we live in, or the world to come and where we stand in relation to it?

I find it morally irresponsible to follow the “fire insurance” God. I’m not denying the reality of hell, but I certainly do not hold to st. augustine’s massa damnata.

 

[Aloysium]

Matthew 22:37-40: Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

It is all about coming together in communion with God.
Christianity demands that we surrender ourselves to Him in worship.
Opening our hearts and our wills to God who is Love,
we find that which gives life meaning and brings joy to all we do.

 

[friardchips]

What is the meaning of religion, specifically Christianity? I am thinking this through and trying to understand it better. Is it all about salvation, that is to say, is God just a fire insurance (clearly a reference to hell) salesman? Or is it all about the knowledge of him, the human condition, and that journey here and now? Should we, as Christians, fret more over the present world we live in, or the world to come and where we stand in relation to it?

I find it morally irresponsible to follow the “fire insurance” God. I’m not denying the reality of hell, but I certainly do not hold to st. augustine’s massa damnata.

All of the above, preferably without worrying, and living with God in mind that you might come to know Him in heart - the first two commandments. The other poster said it all nicely. The more we live our lives in God the more willing we are to give up time for others and not always put ourselves first. Being the servant is the best part - fulfilling in this world and leads to our salvation in the next.

St. Augustine is a Doctor of The Church and well worth reading, and life-changing, when you do - Confessions is a great book. His prayers are always very reassuring too. A powerful Saint.