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However, the pastor makes a very good point that Jesus broke many traditions in His time putting relationship over religion.

He said, "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple."

You know as well as I do that Jesus meant that statement in the spirit of loving Him so much that any other "loves" you have would seem as hate by comparison. Let's not forget the point of the post which you completely ignored: Jesus focused on relationship, NOT religion. Zaccheus, the woman at the well, the parable of the Good Samaritan, the Prodigal Son, and the list goes on. Recall Mark 12:30-31: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'There is no commandment greater than these."

A.J., you aren't trying to save a single soul by your posts, nor enlighten anyone. I'm simply encouraging people to listen to the man. If you haven't investigated this man or the church then all you are doing is posting based upon how you "feel" about this subject based on the very few quotes in the article cited at the top. You are attempting to turn this into some kind of debate where you "win". I'm sorry but there is no winner in that kind of discussion.

Godspeed to you. I pray you have a wonderful time celebrating the birth of Jesus this year. I also pray you lead someone to a saving knowledge of Him as well!

Shalom.