I always resented the way some of the bible teachers seemed to enjoy painting such frightening pictures of what would happen if a person didn't obey or dared to analyse what was going on.  Also, the mixed messages.  These guys used to talk about God's love and power, yet they made God out to be a jealous, manipulative monster in the sky.

Another thing I had difficulty with was the stuff about idols...if you enjoyed doing something, then it could be an idol that needed forsaking.  (Abraham being willing to sacrifice Isaac, the son he loved, etc, etc.) This was particularly hard for me, being a trained classical musician who loves playing the piano.  I used to torture myself with thoughts that God might want me to give up the piano. I also like socialising and drinking, and I used to resent the idea that I mustn't "fellowship" with "unbelievers".

I hated the hymn Set My Spirit Free That I Might Worship You.  The music is set in 3/4 time and sounds a bit like a ballroom dance.  But to me, it sent out one message - the body and mind ("the flesh") are bad, the spirit is good. I used to question why God had created a world so full of beauty and given people such powerful desires if the world and everything in it is so bad and evil.




Last Edited By: lozza Feb 2 10 2:08 PM. Edited 1 times.