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Trail Blazers

Daniel Boone is a figure from American history that is famous for seeking out paths for settlers to follow. In a way those who first put up web sites on the Internet were also pioneers. Someone who had an interest in old coins would find those of similar interest finding a path to his web site and contact could be made with those of similar interest. In the past those dissatisfied with the church they were attending could visit another church and see if they liked it any better. With the Internet, they can now visit any church they want to around the world.

Many people search for a church using consumer criteria such as child care, coffee bar, or contemporary music. Social media influencers (trail blazers) can point the way to those churches that offer the best amenities. However, this may not be the “trail” that some would like to follow. For some, finding the right church is not a simple matter of finding the right denomination, amenities, doctrine, or even personalities. In the past someone seeking a deeper Christian life might have been directed to the priesthood, convent, or seminary. However, even these often prove unsatisfactory.

It is at this point where a seeker may have to consider that he will have to become a trail blazer himself. It is much easier to follow someone else. There is less discomfort from anxiety. Wanting to grow and mature in faith can often put one at odds with other Christians. The new trail blazer may first want to identify what it is he is searching for. Is it to learn to walk by the Spirit and not the flesh, grow into the full stature of Christ, or increase in the knowledge of truth and wisdom. It is at this point where one begins to recognize the limitations of most churches. However, since churches are so common and locatable, they often seem the only place one can search. This usually results in contact with a pastor which often results in being pigeonholed in a class, program, or other scripted process and does not often lead to the deeper Christian life.

The trail blazer is often on a solitary path. However, he can occasionally encounter another seeker. These chance encounters can be refreshing opportunities to exchange encouragement and information as to what each other has been learning. In a world where relationships of any kind are becoming increasingly rare and thin, one should expect that the bible will be the main source for inquiry. Bible teachers can be found on the Internet (sermon audio for example). However, one has to get efficient in determining if a “nugget” or two of new truth can be gleaned or if one needs to move on.

Avoiding paths that stir emotions can be a useful tip. It can also be useful to avoid those who mock or denigrate (someone may be more correct doctrinally, but their lack of charity is concerning)..As one grows in humility, one can receive more grace (James 4:6). New information can be useful to add to what is known, correct what was assumed, or dismissed as being in error. Sometimes one takes new information and uses it to make a particular doctrine more or less likely. One does not have to make a final absolute determination of every doctrine.

Most Christians are settled into their denomination or tradition. For better or worse, they are seldom inclined to question or seek. However, for those not satisfied with minimal Christianity, there exists the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow in knowledge, understanding, and wisdom.

Information about Christianity and the Christian life.