I was raised with a lifeless, religious Methodist Church as the place of church for our family. I went thru a rejection of this misrepresentation of who God is, got into some wild things as a teenager, then at 18 became a Christian at a non-denominational church where church services and church was a celebration of who God really is.
In talking to people about God, I have found that I have to make it known that these lifeless religious services and churches (yes, including some Baptist churches) are not representative of the great adventure and calling that God has called us to live.
“...then at 18 became a Christian at a non-denominational church where church services and church was a celebration of who God really is.”
I think THIS is the really interesting question to be had here.
MY onlyconnection to religion was a very-rarely seen interaction, thru grandparents, with the Catholic church. What it did was turn me off religion quite a bit
When I experienced my awakening though, I did so thru Calvary Chapel, hearing the direct Word straight from the Bible with short explanations inserted which were designed to allow everyone, no matter how uneducated or unconnected to understand. Quite often humor was even injected, making it all the more accessible to all. Each teaching was opened with modern CCM-style Worship, which allowed for completely accessible (and honestly, fun) participation for all no matter how new to the game, no matter your background. These teachings were also available at the beach, in youth orientated groups, just for guys, on any day really, etc.
It was all about Him, but in a way which didn’t try to exclude you
Now of course I realize there are tons of similar places to hear such teachings, but at the time I was straight shocked - had I ever known such places existed, I likely would have been more open to the Word earlier in life
So I wonder how many out there are like us, being delayed to our faith because of places of teaching which probably isolates much of the population around them then tries to embrace them