Christianity, at its core, is a faith built on love, compassion, and grace. But, like any religious tradition or institution, it can be misused, misinterpreted, and poorly represented. For those who have witnessed or experienced the negative rhetoric and actions of extreme Christian right-wing evangelicals, it can be disheartening. It’s important, now more than ever, to focus on honing discipleship skills to navigate through these turbulent waters and understand the true essence of Christ’s teachings.

What are Discipleship Skills?

Discipleship skills refer to the various qualities and abilities that a follower of Christ develops to deepen their understanding of His teachings, emulate His ways, and help others in their faith journey. These skills include studying scripture, practicing spiritual disciplines like prayer and meditation, fostering deep and meaningful community, engaging in reflective listening, and much more.

Why Are They Crucial?

• Returning to the Core of Christianity: By cultivating discipleship skills, one can get back to the heart of the Christian faith and discern between cultural or political adaptations and the genuine teachings of Jesus. It helps filter out the noise and focus on Christ’s core message.
• Building Genuine Community: Solid discipleship skills emphasize the importance of community. The early church thrived on the bond shared between believers, and it’s through this bond that many find solace, especially when they feel alienated by louder, more divisive voices.
• Developing Personal Convictions: Grounded discipleship ensures that one’s faith is resistant to outside influences. It allows for a robust personal faith, independent of the actions of others.

Addressing the Elephant in the Room: Extreme Right-Wing Evangelical Behavior

It’s essential to acknowledge the pain, confusion, and distrust the actions of some Christian right-wing evangelicals have caused. Some individuals within this group have portrayed a version of Christianity that seems to prioritize politics over people, judgment over grace, and exclusion over love.

However, it’s crucial to remember that these voices, however loud, do not represent the entirety of the Christian faith. By focusing on discipleship, believers can bypass this distortion and reconnect with a faith rooted in love, grace, and community.

Steps Forward for the Struggling Christian

• Seek a Faith Community: Engage with a church or group that resonates with your beliefs and provides a safe space for exploration and growth.
• Study Scripture Intently: Dive into the Bible with an open heart. Allow the words to speak to you, rather than approaching it with preconceived notions.
• Engage in Conversations: Discuss your doubts, fears, and concerns with trusted friends or leaders. Authentic conversations can bring clarity and healing.
• Practice Grace: Just as Christ extends grace to all, practice grace towards those you disagree with. This doesn’t mean you have to accept or endorse harmful behaviors, but it does mean acknowledging the humanity in everyone.

In conclusion, while it can be distressing to see a faith you hold dear misrepresented, it’s essential to remember that Christianity is vast and diverse. With a focus on genuine discipleship skills, one can navigate the complexities of modern Christianity, rediscover the love and grace at its center, and build a faith that is resilient and compassionate.