You wrote:
“If I am a Protestant ... am I damned?”
No.
” I have had Catholics here on Free Republic tell me that there’s only ONE TRUE CHURCH and it’s theirs?”
And they’re right.
“I don’t want to disrespect you Catholics... but don’t you think you are overcomplicating salvation?”
Nope. Not in the least.
“Is there such a thing as “born again” Catholics?”
Yes, every single one of them. That doesn’t mean they all always cling to Christ of truth. Everyone is capable of backsliding.
“Please excuse my exuberance and clarity ... but I was raised Lutheran... and became an agnostic/atheist .... Jesus saved me in 2005 when I found my stupid self on my knees begging...”
Okay. As a “raised Lutheran” maybe you should read this: http://www.amazon.com/There-Stood-Here-Stand-Rediscover/dp/0759613206
One of my dearest friends in this world is a former Lutheran minister - now a Catholic.
“I’m just shocked to read Catholics saying I’m NOT saved by that grace.”
Anyone saved is saved by grace. Not all who think they will be saved will be, however. There’s a lot of presumption out there. Jesus warned us against it (Matthew 7:21-23).
” I have had Catholics here on Free Republic tell me that there’s only ONE TRUE CHURCH and it’s theirs?”
And they’re right.
So the only legit Christian religion is Catholicism?
(I’ve actually read quite a bit .... and I’m a Protestant....)