Have you ever seen a herd of sheep? One good border collie can herd them anywhere. If you set them in motion they would follow you off a cliff! That’s because sheep like to be told what to do.
The Sheep-effect happens when individuals are herded by the pressure of momentum to imitate the crowd–without thinking. It affects diverse groups of people all the time. When you belong to a group, the most important thing is to know when to follow others and when to lead.
I’ve been a member of many different churches and denominations over the decades of my life. I’m not against churches because they are good schools for moral learning. But like any school, you’ll want to research and choose wisely. And remember nowhere in the New Testament does it say you have to belong to a corporate institution to be acceptable to God. There’s danger in elitism and fanaticism in any religion or culture.
Jesus Christ brought his message to those outside the established Jewish religion in Judea. His early followers met in homes, and hillsides, not churches. In fact, he preached against the hypocritical religious Pharisees. He didn’t just talk the talk. He lived it. He lived by the principles, the celestial laws, that exist in the Kingdom of God.
Jesus Christ healed people by using these principles. We are directly involved in this healing event because Jesus first asked, “Do you believe that I’m able to do this?” And when the blind said yes, he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you.” (Matthew 9:28-29)
According to our faith then, it is done to us and our life takes shape. If we can believe in the metaphysical power of Jesus and the higher celestial laws in which he operates, then we can override our negative circumstances too.
This belief system is what makes you a Believer. Going to church is what you choose to do. If the praise and worship music is good and the sermon inspires you, well then it’s a high point to carry you through the week. But the real power of Faith comes when we make a personal covenant with God and follow the principles of his Kingdom!
“This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.” Hebrews 10:16 NIV Bible
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Church is also a great place for fellow-shipping with like minded Christians, for learning of opportunities to serve, to pray for others needs, developing character and loving those who think differently from yourself. Important though to do the research to make sure it is a healthy, Grace filled church, while recognizing there is no perfect church. After all I go to one and just that fact alone makes that church imperfect. 🙂 God bless.
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