Re: Again, misunderstood-definition?

From eavesdropping on the discussion, it appears the intent of the forum is "God without organized religion." It might be, and has been called, personal religion. But many biblical Chritians define religion as man made rules and institutions that may or may not be biblically correct. In contrast, they view their "religion" as not a religion, but a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ (if we're discussing Christianity). In fact, many will say I'm not inviting you to join a church or become religious, but I want to introduce you to a Person with whom you can have a relationship.
For instance, the NT book of Hebrews says not to abondon the gathering of yourselves together, as is the habit of some. We're told it's good to gather with other believers. But nowhere in the NT are we told we must join a church, even attend a church to be "saved." In the Gospel of John, when Jesus is asked what one must DO to be saved, he reponds that the WORK that God requires is belief in the One He sent, namely the Son of God, Jesus of Nazareth.
Baptism is not a requirement for salvation, but is everywhere assumed in the NT as an act that Christians do. Likewise, communion. It does not save one, but is a biblical practice to do in "remebrance of me (Jesus) til I come again."
No, we don't want to kill a forum with overdefining. But at some point we must come to understand each other's language if discussion is to be meaningful.
At least as important is to understand each others presuppositions regarding How we Know anything, epistemology; and authority. What or whom has the last word on truth? Divine Revelation, Church tradition and teaching, Human Reason, etc. etc.

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