Could use some advice

[Rayn]

Here's my situation:

I have been a Christian for many years, but really started living my faith a month and a half ago. I have some friends who say they are Christian, but I worry that they are not living as though they believe what God says. One in particular is a homosexual who still goes to a gay bar on weekends (but is not actively practicing the lifestyle from what I know). These friends say that they are saved because they prayed years ago, and think that will be enough.

My questions:

1. Should I be concerned for my friends' salvation? They do not attend church, do not tithe, do not speak in Godly ways, and I'm not sure about prayer/Bible reading. Or am I just being judgemental and harsh?

2. Other than prayer (which I already do), what else is my role? Do I have an obligation to lovingly tell them I think they are in danger, or is it none of my business?

Thanks for any help you can give me,
Rayn

[HearItAndKnowForYourself]

if they're fellow Christians than you should be able to approach them about it out of concern. my advice is try not to sound too harsh about it. and also remember to pray for them, ask God to give them a desire to serve Him and change their hearts.

[ChristianGal]

Here's my situation:

I have been a Christian for many years, but really started living my faith a month and a half ago. I have some friends who say they are Christian, but I worry that they are not living as though they believe what God says. One in particular is a homosexual who still goes to a gay bar on weekends (but is not actively practicing the lifestyle from what I know). These friends say that they are saved because they prayed years ago, and think that will be enough.

My questions:

1. Should I be concerned for my friends' salvation? They do not attend church, do not tithe, do not speak in Godly ways, and I'm not sure about prayer/Bible reading. Or am I just being judgemental and harsh?

2. Other than prayer (which I already do), what else is my role? Do I have an obligation to lovingly tell them I think they are in danger, or is it none of my business?

Thanks for any help you can give me,
Rayn

I think it's important to be concerned for everyone's salvation. My prayer list is long, not only for my believing brothers and sisters but most especially for those who don't believe.

Attending church and tithing is not an indication whether someone is saved or not. Saying a simple "salvation prayer" is also no indication of whether one is truly saved or not.

Since you've renewed your desire to follow Christ, I think it would be natural to engage in conversations with your friends about what Christianity means to you and how you've rededicated yourself to reading His Word and striving to live your life according to His will.

Just my two cents worth, but I generally like to talk to such friends in terms of telling them the wonderful things Jesus has done for me and the changes I'm seeing Him work in my life rather than pointing out what they are doing wrong. Sincere dialog about our love for Jesus is important to share with other believers and non-believers.

The gay bar thing is definitely a big warning sign. Hopefully you can work your way into a conversation with that friend by first talking about how your heart has changed in your renewed faith. I always like to be careful to not come across as self-righteous...cuz that only turns people off.

Good luck to you and God bless you. Our salvation in Christ is truly the most exciting thing to ever happen to us. Shout it from the rooftops! :hug

[Gideon]

The Children of the Devil John:8
42Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now am here. I have not come on my own; but he sent me. 43Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. 44You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! 46Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don't you believe me? 47He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God."

There is no grey area. Either you hear or you don't hear. Even Satan believes that Jesus is who He says He is.
Is Jesus the Lord of your life? Are you a "Red Letter Christian"?

[JesusInMe]

Hi Rayn, you're praying for your friends and that is excellent, continue to pray for them. Your first obligation is to the Lord and He will lead you and tell you what to say or do. Don't be anxious over what you are going to do or say, if you are living your life for the Lord then He will do it THROUGH you. praying for you friend.

[Rayn]

Thanks much, everyone! I am continuing to pray, but am less anxious--it's God's worry. My job is to pray for my friend and love him as best I can.

Again, thank you all,
Rayn

[ihurt]

Rayn...share with your friends what you learn each day; share how you see God is working....make in natural! :) What really gets people's attention is how prophecy is coming true right in front of our eyes. You can always point that out. Christians need fellowship; church is a great way to warm up the coals, so to speak. I am praying for you that you allow the Holy Spirit to just explode in you! :hug :pray