Most people like Jesus but don’t like Christianity.

The reason for this is because they see Jesus as loving, tolerant, and affirming. Whereas they perceive the church to be hateful, intolerant, and judgmental. They feel that Jesus wants them to be happy and fulfilled, but the church wants to tell them what to be and how to live and how to think.

The problem with this perspective is that it is not consistent with the actual words and life of Jesus. In reality it is Christians who are dull and harmless. Jesus is strongly opinionated and demanding.

Jesus says:

“He that is not with me is against me.” (Mat. 12.30)

“You are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either cold or hot! So because you are lukewarm, I am going to vomit you out of my mouth!” (Rev. 3.15-16)

Jesus demands that you either love him or hate him. Worship him or reject him. But how dare you only like him. He is either your Lord and Savior or you judge him to be a likable lunatic. He doesn’t need you to like him; but you do need him to save you.