An Atheist Named Jesus

How is it that someone is turned away from God after many years of nurturing and exposure to the message of hope found in Jesus Christ? Many questions may be raised at the friends or acquaintances we run into that have a a sour taste in their mouth over all things church. There's even a new term used today called "de-churched". I heard of an atheist named Jesus (his real name is changed), but the shock and questions are still just as valid. How can a person named after the Son of God not believe in the Son of God? Many in the Latina culture are named Jesus in honor of the Son of God. Could it be that we as a church have failed to convey the message of hope to those who cry out for it? Conflict, Power Struggles, Gossip. The Apostle Paul called the members of one of the most immoral churches in the New Testament "saints". Many are turned away from church because of the hypocrisy they see.

How are we to answer the "de-churched"? I believe we are to begin with a deep look into our own souls and the manner in which we are accustomed to following Jesus. Secondly I believe our inward lifestyle must radically change if those watching us on the outside are to see consistency. It's tough living two lives. Nobody's happy. Hypocrisy depletes passion and inflames critics. Humility encourages others to look inward and upward at the God who forgives and heals the broken sinner.

I am aware of my heart, yet at times I am shocked by it's depths to turn away from God. My own hypocrisy...has it turned others away? The times when I am weak, needing strength from the Savior, I pray that the Amazing Grace of Jesus that has provided atonement and forgiveness will forever move me closer to conformity to the life of Jesus. As the Apostle John has written, "I must decrease, He must increase." So goes the battle against living lives for Jesus so that others may see hope and salvation, versus putting to death the works of the flesh, which those not of the faith label hypocrisy. It's not hypocrisy, it's simply one beggar leading another beggar to the Bread of Life.