A "Godless" Generation - Jon Jorgenson | Spoken Word
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- Опубликовано: 16 янв 2014
- While some groups are doing a great job reaching today's youth in a meaningful way, why are so many young people still resistant to the church? Jon Jorgenson sheds some light on this topic.
Speaker/Writer: Jon Jorgenson (@jonjorgenson)
Filming: Danny Hochstatter
Editing: Danny Hochstatter
Music: Cody Martin
Special Thanks: Dave Hunter, Greenroom Productions, Jessie Brady, DJ Ulbert, and Huntley High School
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JonJorgenson
JonJorgenson thank you for all of your videos they are getting me thru a rough time right now.
can i get the lyrics somewhere?
Hey, maybe the reason people don't believe in your religion anymore is because it's not true.
Angelo H. go somewhere else with your negitivity
A church should not be a museum for the Saint it should be a hospital for the sinner
Alex Brokholm wow amen ❤️
Most true,.
Alex Brokholm Amen!!!
i like that
Don't tell me you got that line from Jefferson Bethke's spoken poems 😂
I was a gay atheist with bipolar disorder, tried weird diets, started focusing on other religions than my childhood Christianity. I found it strange that I didn't believe in god, yet studied about it. Everyone told me god was an invisible man on a cloud and was fake. That didn't disprove him for me though, just proved me how much people disrespect it. I thought about converting to Islam because all you do in that is worship one god with no face, no name. I asked Allah to come into my life, but then I thought of Jesus. I then thought of honouring my parents. If I became a Muslim, they would not be happy. So I decided to study Christianity. My father is religious, but also a very intelligent man. I asked him for his knowledge and he explained that Jesus is part of a triune God. That we as Christians believe in a Living God. So like us who are dimensional and breathing, so is and was and will always be God. This made sense to me. I felt called to humility and to just believe. People try to tell me Christianity causes wars. I tell them I follow Jesus. That he caused no war, and that I myself have not either. War is of this world, and God seeks to work in all dimensions. I asked Jesus into my heart before I ever believed in God, and now I love and believe in God. I now honour my parents and have calmness in my life. I don't need to walk by sight, but faith. This is my story. God bless, Jesus does love all.
But why would you not study and learn more about a religion just because you're parents wouldn't be happy? Because in my opinion, it's your life so you should be allowed to choose. What if you read and study Islam and you realise you want to be Muslim? Surely God and his religion should outweigh your parents disagreement? Because at the end of the day we all go to different graves and all will have a different ending. Whether you go to hell, heaven or maybe not believe at all, but surely you should at least try and open your mind to other religions instead of purely following one to please others.
Astarova Jasmine I know christianity is right, but don't be scared to look for knowledge (e.g study Islam) you will be wiser to see through the lies.. I can tell you right now
, the "triune being" is just a blatant human philosophy which distorts the image of God.. If you want to know anything about God, seek in your bible, test whats right and whats wrong.. but at the end of they day, faith is the most important. Then comes knowledge and love, because you can't love something you don't know.
Astarova Jasmine
Aww you're testimony is powerful. If only the atheist can read them or even Muslim.
God bless you sister
Someone was praying fooor you! 😊
Astarova Jasmine God bless you always. He loves you beyond words. Realize that that hunger within your heart, that constant spark was something God gave you because he wanted you SO BAD He just couldn't wait for you to say yes to Him. Love you xo
i am proud to say that i am a teenager who is following my lord a savior Jesus Christ
Sarah Kennedy me too sister.. And i want to continue that path for my life
Sarah Kennedy me too sister
And I also
Sarah Kennedy Me tooo
Sarah Kennedy sorry
So true!!! We as Christians have to love like Jesus loves.....love the sinners, God will deal with the sin.
+Anna Freddie Amen, so hard to get people to think this way today!
profoundly accurate
According to your book he invented sin. And you're enslaved by it.
Isaac Plumbo I don't read a book.... If you're referring to the LIVING holy word of my Lord and Savior then it's very clear to me you either didn't read it properly or you're blind..... Either way I'll pray for you...God Bless!
The book is ALIVE? HOLY SHIT! SORCERY! KILL IT! BEFORE IT KILLS US!
But seriously now. You crazy. It's just a dusty old book full of contradictions brutality and immorality. Just because you give it some fancy name doesn't change a damn thing.
“If only the strong survive then how come his power is perfect when we’re weak” TRUTH
I hate when people say that there aren't any real Christians out there anymore. I'm as far from perfect as you can get. But I still strive to be a good Christian everyday.
you are very devoted citizen so dont wry
sry... devoted christian
Your wrong everyone is perfect we werent then god would abandon us the only problem is that we're starting to forget about him
If*
Colton Crawford-Sicz We cant see through something that is infinite and the only things we could hear is the things that allow us to hear them my point is that we are only as perfect as god made us
This made me cry.Not because I felt sad but because every word you said was right.Jesus is right.
Edith D Exactly...
Satan is right
Shawn Lane I honestly feel bad for you.
Shawn Lane u take life as a joke?
Christianity is lies and falsehoods.
WOW. I am an atheist, but this video almost flipped me. It's so sad, churches that are like that. Churches that are hateful, with priests that don't really care. I've seen churches that I liked. Like, I saw a church when I went into the city yesterday that had a garage band inside, and people's stories of struggle outside. A garage band. Not a garage band trying to make God 'cool', though. They sounded like they were singing from the heart. it was nice.
Hunter Meek that's why we must nvr put our faith in men, but God alone. let God be the judge of men. We aren't perfect, nor meant to be, we fall short of His glory everyday, we are all Gods treasures, whom are to encourage one another through a life in Christ. its clear we need Him more and more each day, God bless 💘
CALEB POURCIAU You really need to re watch this video. I'm on the path to becoming a believe in God. And if I didn't already have my influence when I read that, it would just set me even further. I don't mean to be rude, but just re watch it.
Hunter Meek me too.
Hunter Meek please watch his other videos, I suggest The Wall. Even if it doesn't "flip" you, I'm sure it will help you in your life 😊 God bless, I wish you the best
Hunter Meek God bless you love hopefully you’ll find your way to God
Hey everybody. I was doing some reading this morning and 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12 is a great Biblical reference for the themes I discuss in the video..."For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory." Paul's description of how he ministered to the Thessalonians stands as a powerful example to us. We should look to encourage and comfort before we look to correct behavior. Paul's getting down with some authentic love! Thanks for watching! Let's keep discussing!
🙏🙏
Im trying to bring someone closer to Jesus through text and I'm kinda running out of thing say do you have any advice on what to say🙏?
@@adamperez2226 well what have you said to the person? 😊
@@SB-ck9gq true. The bible even told us not yo associate with some brethren.... Not because they are sinner saved by grace but because they hear the word of God abd God has been gracious for years and yet they remain stubborn and gard headed.
Could this be pinned 📌? ❤️❤️
This deserves more views.
amen sista :)
unfortunately this true and I'm pursuing life with Christ and I feel all alone like an outcast and sometimes I call my self that cause I'm tired of being ashamed of it so if being a Christian is being outcast or a big got I'm proud and I love this man its true I'm so tired of propaganda and I wish more people could find God this broke my heart cause I wonder if its the end soon I really do and I pray it isn't and that God works on the lost not us I pray he does it through us
I tell my students that we are not going to fit into this world. I grew up wondering why I didn't fit in and now I am at an age where all I feel is peace. I used to feel like an outkast but now I feel the love of GOd. Now I am okay with not participating in certain activities, or not being able to hang out with certain people on a daily basis. Don't worry our reward is far greater and I just encourage you to keep moving forward. You are doing great and I agree I wish more people experienced the love of God. It is the best feeling ever!!!!! we need to be praying, reading our bible ad fasting more! God bless you :D
+Danielle Michael well tbh I do hang around some really bad kids and Im there Homie there's to kimds of lost too me there's the ones that listen and the ones who never gave it a chance and the reason I hang around them is cause I evangelize and many people say aren't you afraid of your rep and I say no I don't Carr of they think I'm one of them I must be about my father's business so sometimes I hang around the bad people for I was once the bad kid but not no more honor roll perfect attendance playing sports living for God he changed me the one who used to get in fights every summer now its been over a yr since my last fight he can change anyone
+Danielle Michael hey I make songs if get chance check my page I'm gonna make new one called intolerance
Light Has No Fellowship with darkness. Evangelism is great but more often than not you may be trying to pull them up but they end up pulling you down into their mess
Keke Seay I understand
God has become real to me not in just words or in the mind. I have experience his love. Once you have experience his love you will never turn back.
Amen!
Amen
AMEN!
Amen! :)
Amen! God will touch you and you will know. There is nothing like his power!
“You can never underestimate the power of someone who truly cares and who dares to be the one person who will listen when no one else will”
Types of Christians:
Sunday Only: Those who practice the beliefs and precepts of Christianity on Sunday and act differently the 6 other days of the week.
Motions Only: Those who attend church but are disconnected and not paying attention. They sit in church just so they appear normal. Appearing normal is the same as conformity to societies ways.
Pick and Choose: The practitioners that choose only to believe in some of the ideals as laid out according to the Bible, while dismissing other ideals as wrong or untruthful.
Greed Only: People who claim to be Christian yet their actions demonstrate only greed. Greed not only to monetary resources but greed to all resources. The ones who take more than their fair share of gifts we all need to survive.
My Way or Highway: These are the Christians that truthfully believe that their ideals and values are the only ones worthy to God. This group isn't inherently evil but when taken to the extreme results in bigotry.
Everyday: Those Christians who in general follow the path that Jesus wanted them to follow. They try their best to be righteous with sincerity yet they also realize that as humans they make mistakes and break the laws of God. While they may sin they actively seek to be forgiven and try better in the future.
Altruistic: These are the followers that respect others yet follow the path Jesus wanted to follow. They follow this path everyday and rarely sin.. They are inherently givers and not takers. As a giver they respect everyone no matter their belief system.
I don't get what you're trying to say
Denise Espinoza He simply explains different level f christians in our society from the let's say "wrost to the better"
Mark West
You forgot the ones who come on Saturday
David Selimović Those usually fall under the default of "Sunday Only" but occasionally their bad enough to get their own category!
Bad enough? By doing what exactly?
Im a 14 year old Christain and this video made me notice im not as close to God as I should be.I dont pray daily or read my bible but its something im going to start. Im going to try to spread Gods word to others the best I can and bring others to Christ
I think most teenagers who are Christians should watch this. Thank you for this amazing video and information. God bless. Amen. #JesusisLifeJesusisLove.
How many teenagers do I know that are actively pursuing a life with God? I have to say as a teenager, sometimes I feel as if I'm with only one. I read my Bible every day, walk with God, and love him dearly. But standing out in actions to touch some ones heart is difficult when you don't know if it is working in the first place.
Thanks :)
Madison Evans I wouldn't say I'm really close with God and I have my off and on days but I believe he's there. And I still want to try. You're not the only teen 😊
Excuse me I am not trying to be rude but I read my Bible and say my prayers but I'v also been slacking for sometime now. I don't remember if it has been over a year since I got in my Bible it has been a long time I know that.
I do not read my Bible like I used to. I used to read My Bible at least for 30 Min.
Thank you for this. I turned my back on religion because it felt like it turned it's back on us. I know that my generation is far from perfect and that we deserve the blame, but it honestly doesn't get any easier when the ones who are trying to raise us are also the ones who doubt us.
I agree, our generation isn't perfect but that's why jesus died for us. Not because we were good enough, it's because we aren't :)
It's sad how our generation is raised with an endless amount of information yet they still rely on believing a 2000 year old book. The evidence is here, open your mind and look it up. Don't fall back on an easy answer that some god made up the Universe as if you're a cave man staring up in the stars.
Even though this is a nine year old video, I think we need it now more than ever, As a US citizen, it's not even just falling away from God and the church, it's a legitimate fear for my life that the church has placed upon me through the legislation they are trying to pass. I'm scared that if I don't leave, then one day I will be dead because of the law. And I agree because for some reason, even today, all I see is the hatred and the hurting, but not many are trying to fix this. And it hurts to know that a country and a home that I once cared for so much is turning its back on the youth.
I used to be a catholic. I spent every night crying about how I was going to hell. Religion is such a beautiful thing but it's taken so out of context and used to start wars and scare people. I refused to live my life in fear and realised I wasn't sure what I believed in. I can't say I'm an atheist because I don't have the proof of God not existing but nor do I have all the evidence to prove that there's a God. I'm agnostic. I will carry on studying religion but I won't follow something that causes so much conflict.
Hi Niamh, I struggled a lot with the history of Christianity and some of the awful things people do with it. For example, Catholicism was used as a tool of oppression by conquistadors in the Americas. Being of Latino descent, this caused me great conflict. Yet I believe everything the Church teaches. Evil men will use religion for their own purposes but that doesn't make the religion itself bad. Look to the people that love, and show mercy and compassion to others. St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. Mother Teresa, St. Damian of Molokai. There are also all these Christians that share the gospel, and make videos, and art and spread beauty and then there is the Westboro Baptist Church who is agressive and displays hate. It's not the religion that causes conflict it's people. I urge you to continue critically thinking, studying and discovering. I think religion is beautiful and I'm glad you do too. Don't do something or be something out of fear either but out of love. The only reason to fear hell would be because you love God, goodness, joy, truth, and justice so much that to be seperated from that forever, it would be hell. Peace be with you!
+Gabriela Soto read my whole comment. I think religion is beautiful but I just can't follow it. I'm not saying the whole of religion is bad. I'm saying I find it difficult to follow religion. I don't have faith in God and that's okay. I'm not causing pain I'm just trying to understand myself and my beliefs
+Niamh Degregorio no I dont think you are causing pain. Didnt say that. Just encourage you to keep doing what you are doing. Studying, questioning, critically thinking. I understand your disbelief.
+Gabriela Soto okay thank you! :) I misunderstood some of what you said sorry 😂 but yeah religion is great and without it some of my family wouldn't probably be happy near the end of their lives
I'm sorry but I'm living a happy life without God. I don't need a deity to make me feel good. I'm happy how I am and I'm not wasting my life chasing belief
I'm sure it wasn't intentional, but I like the idea of there not being anyone in the seats facing Jon. It adds more of a feel to what he is saying.
I agree!
I'm very happy about found this channel. Thank you
Remarkable.
I'm 31 and I've been a Christian for some time now. My father is a religious man and I've seen his devotion to God, but as a father, I've never been able to connect to him.
Jesus found and called me, according to his word, no one comes to the Father but through me. I also had to fine Christ myself, not because of whom my earthly father is but in spite of that.
I still struggle with some things in my life, but every day, i try to be Jesus's gal.
Jesus is LORD
Thank you for this. I'm 16 and these past months I must say that I have been closer to God more than I've ever been. I have treated him badly before. Never actually listened and paid attention to how he has always been there to listen. I experienced depression on the first months of 2015 and still fighting it now. I believed that He saved me from myself. Whenever I am sad, confused and troubled, I pray. I talk to him like a daughter talks to her Father, like a friend talks to a friend. He has been my friend, my brother and my Father. I hope that this generation of ours could feel His love and be touched by Him. He will never give up on you and will never forsake you. He's always there, ready to listen and cry with you. He saved me. Us. I just wish that other teens do not cringe at hearing His name on a conversation or even hearing us talk about God.
Amen & Bravo brother! I totally agree. Your message reminds me of a time I went to an art show that was held at a church. The denomination is not the problem the problem I had was when a lady ask my friend what church and denomination she was with. When my friend told her the lady was so condescending and rude she said "Oh I see"and turned her back to her because it wasn't her denomination.
There happened to be a beautiful cross hanging up behind the lady and I told my friend it doesn't matter if your this denomination or that because Jesus is a relationship not a religion. Jesus died for you for all of us because he LOVES US. He paid the price for our sins. Not for a particular denomination. My friend smiled and said yes he did thank you Jesus. The lady just stood there. I believe we as the Church need to be more loving and compassionate towards others. Not judgemental but loving. The way Jesus was.
When I walk up to someone I want them to see only christ in me
As someone who grew up with Christianity and has taken some distance from the church. I never really felt like i belonged there and i always admired the queer community for their love and their way of lifting others up to be proud. That confident comfort is something i think church is missing. I was taught about God's love, and i recognized it around those people. I think sharing instead of teaching is a good way to go, but also listing. The church has meet a number of people with shame, ignorance and entitlement, effectively driving people away. Listing, taking the steps to heal and improving is what i want to see in church. Also about how to treat others and laying to rest stereotypes and prejudice. If priests and leaders could lift these conversations up, it could make a big difference.
im going to share my testimony i first got the idea of jesus when i was in middle school but i really didnt even believe in jesus i didnt want him i thought i could live in ky own way i literally did everything i could to avoid the realization of how much I needed jesus i didnt want him i pushed him away so i could choose drugs i was addicted to methamphetamines and my daughter spent two years of her life without a father cause i choose drugs over her and then about a year ago i began actively seeking jesus and trying to fix things for my daughter i honestly can say i am humbled by the amount of grace god has shown me im still here after all these drugs and thats the biggest blessing of all
CALEB POURCIAU irrelevant
CALEB POURCIAU whether it's god or God... it doesn't really matter.
CALEB POURCIAU I prefer God too, but not enough to "correct" people. And no I'm not
CALEB POURCIAU why not???? Because not everyone is a christian. What "am" I??? I'm muslim
CALEB POURCIAU in God. in heaven and hell. in being a good person. not more, not less
I'm in my twenties and live for God every day of my life
Most of the people who need to hear this say "I don't do that."
You made good points! I am going to be a youth pastor and I hope I can be someone who lives faith authentically and invite young people to join along.
Amen! Thanks for this Jon! We need to be reminded of this every single day.
this touch my heart, I love this clip soooo much.
Thank You Jon
I dont care if you're a christian or not, if you're awesome to be around you'll have friends left and right no matter what race or ethnicity you are. Some may be more judgmental than others, but there are a lot of people out there that don't judge and like you as who you are! Don't be afraid to be who you are because this is what makes you different from everyone else.
This was incredibly moving to hear... thank you for your words. God has truly given you a gift.
This is so beautiful. Thank you. Please never stop doing what you love
I honestly have watched this 300 times but I'm a mess and I love God. Maybe the way I think is different from others but this is he first video I've seen like this that I agree with
When you usually notice that you like a certain that you usually don't like that could be God trying to talk to you through this man it blows my mind on how God works it will never work if we don't believe. So that could be you message.
Thank you for speaking this up. This is needed to be heard. The generation of today must be led into the right track before it's too late.
So beautiful and true! I'm crying...Thank you Jon!
This is so good, something that has been on my mind for such a long time and it has been hard to share this amongst elders in the church, who don't understand how we're meant to rise up but give us this invisible barrier out of fear of change
Jon I have been watching your videos..I first watched "the wall", somehow I felt that video was made for me.i cried with evry words you spoke about hopelessness but I cried more when you talked about God's glory unfolding at that depths of hopelessness. You are touching not only hearts but lives too..you are a blessing for many like me.!
May you continually be used as God's instrument in bringing about hope to our hopeless lives but only for God's glory!!
Never ever stop doing what you do!! It's a blessing and keep believing that God wil lead you, tank you for spreading tje word of God
This really hit home for me... I grew up in the church and for a while I left and was caught up in the things of the world and became part of the godless generation. When I would go to church I felt condemned and that just pushed me further away. The reason I came back wasn’t because I was scared of hell or because I was taught doctrine, but because of one sister who cared for me and loved me. Through her love I experienced the love of Jesus which is without judgement and full of patience, humility, and genuine care. When I realized how much Jesus loved me, I had no choice but to bow down and surrender all to the One who saved me.
A lot of times we think the way we save sinners is through preaching and teaching, and that is what Jesus did. But He also had another way which He used even more, which was love. He dined with tax collectors, He welcomed the poor, He cared for sinners. That is what we as Christians need to do, so that people don’t think of the church as a place of judgement and hypocrisy, but of acceptance and all the traits of Jesus Christ.
Thank you 💛
Jesus is the proof of God's existence
Amen!
Titus Duncan Jesus is his own person. please explain to me how he represents another person's existence? I don't get ( genuine confusion)
Courtney The trinity is one being, according to the Bible. The father (God), the son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit are one. I know that is confusing, but that is how God designed things. God sent Jesus down to die on the cross, and Jesus told people that multiple times, and He helped people repent and become followers of God. Jesus is God, basically.
Tara-Jo Kitner ooohhhh okay. thank you 😊
Where's he at then? Can you even proof he actually lived and isn't just a legend like Achilles or any other made up character? Your statement is just so dumb lol
Thank you Jesus for this precious word
Amen!!! I feel what you're trying to convey!!! I'LL HELP YOU PRAY FOR THAT WHOLE THING!!!
this really hit home for me and I hope more people will understand this before it's too late.
couldn't said it any better!... Really love The Anima Series and my far, i've been touched by your message. Jon, keep up the good work. I support this project! God bless you and make you wiser for next videos. Hugs from Puerto Rico.
I really want to thank you for every time you bring faith back to my life throughout these awesome movie clips!!
May the Lord gives you strength and Love for what you are doing! Keep it up!
I listen to this every day! God bless you!
This is SO good. Churches will rise and start off doing good and then the enemy will start working through the church and you will see greed, lust, etc. and it becomes less about Jesus and more about THEM, and more about their CHURCH and less about accepting everyone and loving everyone in the way that Jesus did.
If you read through the comments, it's really sad the way some think or ended up! I really think that we (Christians) place tooo much emphasis on "religion" It's not about religion, that's what separates most people from God! It's about having a relationship with Jesus & believing in him, it's a spiritual experience a lot of people never experience because we let "religion" dictate things! Don't believe in religion, believe in God and the son of God Jesus! He wants a relationship with you, but sadly there is like this barrier people place and its religion. Truly sad!
Religion is the way to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the way to God.
Belief and worship in God and Jesus IS religion. It's the very definition of a religion as found in every dictionary.
Jon everything you just said is true...
Thank youuu so much...
AMAZING!!!!
Wow, after reading the comments here I am so happy that the God I believe in doesn't hate anyone for beeing who they are. God is pure LOVE, LIGHT AND FORGIVENESS.
I love watching this, it puts into words exactly how I feel as a teenager who wants to connect with God but finds that church puts me off rather than bringing me closer to him. I love your spoken words xx
im glad of been part of this movement!!! keep it up guys
As a Christian and a spoken word artist, I have always wanted to do Christian poetry. Your poem is really inspirational and beautiful. The message is powerful ❤️
this is one of my favorite spoken words! this is an eye opener and a great reminder for everyone!
Thank you. Thank you for voicing my thoughts. Thank you.
This is amazing, and everything said is really true.. made me think!
iLoveJESUS! Gods' Not dead HE's TRULY ALIVE!
Thank you. 🙌🏿
I am balling my eyes out. you just gave me hope, which is something I haven't had for a while. Thank you
guy i love that we fight for what we believe but our god is greater then all and dosen't need us to prove him when he already has a plan for everyone.
God*
Speaking from experience (I'm 17 who fell out of religion about 2 years ago) I didn't lose my faith because I thought it was 'uncool' or 'embarrassing' or because none of my friends were religious or because I felt excluded by the Church... I lost my faith simply because it didn't make sense to me, nothing added up and although I would have loved to be religious and would still love to be religious because it made me feel like I really belonged to something when I had gone through my whole life feeling helplessly alone, I just couldn't believe. It was never a choice to become an atheist, it just happened. The Church didn't need to change, it never did need to change, and contrary to what a lot of people think, teenagers don't lose faith because they are angry at God, or feel left out by the Church, we lose faith because it doesn't make sense. I could never tell how we 'knew' it all to be true, how we could take the Bible as fact and how we 'knew' which religion was the right one when they all seemed to similar yet so different. Being told to 'just believe' was never enough, how did I know what I should just believe?
Hi, Eleanor! You have a very classy name :) I really understand what you're talking about. Would you be alright with talking about this a little deeper in a separate message?
My experience has been quite a bit different. My mom never forced religion or faith on me or my sister. She did, however, impress that we be people of good character. Things like trustworthiness, compassion, and empathy were common lessons. She is an ordained minister, so it's not as if the subject of God was not brought up. My sister and I, given the freedom to explore whatever we felt "made sense", went through different religions almost together. We were Pagan, we were semi-Buddhist, and we were almost Atheists at one point. That being said, within the past few years, we have both become Christians. We have found that religion is flawed and following anything blindly is folly. As such, we are non-denominational and call ourselves "People of Faith". We believe that He loves us and has forgiven us our sins. Because of my new faith, I was able to get out of horrible decisions I made. I stopped doing drugs, stopped drinking, stopped having sex, and have become the person I have always wanted to be. I'm sorry you feel the way you do. It's a sad place to be in when you feel alone, I know, I've been there. I can only hope that you find where you belong and gain happiness.
kyle shumate Thanks haha! Sure that would be no problem :)
Eleanor, you are what we call "wise beyond your years". People do not "become" atheists; we are born atheists. Religion is merely an answer to a question but its one that comes without proof. Sadly, many people are willing to bypass evidence in the name of faith but the cost of faith is the loss of personal responsibility be it positive or negative. Scarlett is the perfect example; she is an amazing woman that changed her life and is living happily but instead of accepting responsibility (credit) for her strength and courage, she assigns it to a deity. Instead of accepting responsibility for her prior "sins", she will say that god allowed it to teach her valuable life lessons - lessons that she apparently could not have learned on her own.
Keep living your life Eleanor. Keep loving others and accepting love from them. Prove to the world that life can be wonderful without the great puppet master in the sky. Give people assurance that they can accept credit for their achievements so that they too may feel confident and fulfilled.
Thank you so much for that response! I completely agree with you, there are so many times that I have wished that religious people would give themselves a little more credit. Since leaving the Church I have begun to see how amazing people actually are, everything that they credited to God was actually their doing, and a lot of the time what they did is actually as amazing as they are saying it is, but I have a feeling if they knew it was them doing all the things they say that God is doing then they wouldn't view them as so amazing any more. I have actually gained a lot more confidence and happiness since leaving Christianity as I have realised that I am responsible for a lot of the good things in my life, things which I had previously thanked God for doing. Thank you so much for your kind words, they really mean a lot!
WOW! I am speechless! Thank you for blessing us with this video!!
I have been feeling this way about the Church (where we are at least) for so long. We aren't supposed to bash people because of their sin. We ALL ARE SINNING!!! I am no better than anyone! How can I pretend to be so and bash someone down cause of their actions. This video sums up so much. It is a shame too cause I know a lot of Christians that won't listen to this even though there is such truth to it! We are told to LOVE not hate.
I'm a little torn about what I think of this. The overall message is good, and as an older teen myself I can identify with the whole instructing-before-loving problem you SOMEtimes find in the church. Sometimes we need this reminder, but I also think it's important to keep in mind that ultimately teens are "falling away" because they never knew the Lord at all, NOT because the church failed them. The Holy Spirit is really what's life changing. In the end, maybe our problem is that we send our kids on fun trips in the name of God more often than we actually preach to them. :)
Agree completely, well said. A lot of false converts because the gospel has been changed from repent and put your trust in Christ to, God has a plan for your life, accept Jesus, invite Jesus into your heart. Truth is the only reason someone falls away from Jesus is because they never knew Him. Truth is once the teen truly repents they will bear fruit that is evidence of their repentance and they will not require a list of do's and dont's because they will have the Holy Spirit who will convict of righteousness and sin and they will seek to know God for themselves because they not have affection for Him, and no longer the world.
Yep. Black and white simplicity. =) I'm actually a Christian songwriter on RUclips, would love it if you checked out my channel =D
You two are exactly what he is talking about lol
What, Bible believing Christians? (hahaha jk jk not trying to be insulting)
Theres no such thing as falling away. Once a chirstian always a christian, if tou left you werent there in the first place
DANG......that awkward moment when you feel that your alone watching youtube and you feel God lauphing in heaven saying "you need some aloe for that burn?"
You are so right. Thank you for bringing it up.
This is the first of Jon's videos I ever watched. It changed my life and I still love it!
Some of these comments are so disheartening.
Love this though. God has blessed you with an awesome talent. Keep doing what you're doing :)
while people are posting their encouraging or degrading comments I'm just gonna say. Beautiful poetry man.
This is the reason....
This channel is one of my favourites.
Thank you Jon.
Thank you Jesus!
Amazing! Thanks for your influence!
i am a teenager muslim, i spent alot of time questioning religion and what was life for this past year, and that lead me to islam. ofcause being in a muslim open minded family really helped everyone was so suportive and helpful . i really respect and love jesus peace be upon him.
Hi Lilia
Jemimah Briggs hi :)
Maryam مريم yeah we really do
Jemimah Briggs i don't have fb. do you have instagram?
yes. Its Jema Briggs
Not only is this powerful but it's so true, I'm not a teenager (I'm 33 ) but it's so true because people in the church want to be so self righteous but they always want you to do what they want (they teach individuality but not at the risk of "conforming to the world " . They try to desegregate us by gender ( separate bible studies based on gender) plus the fact that people like myself (who are tomboys , girls who like sports ) have to be told that we MUST be feminine (wear dresses instead of jeans like I do ) in order to be "perfect " in God's will when it's not my style & it's frustrating & I just want the church to STOP being so hypocritical & just love ya for who we are : here's a original poem I wrote to explain the aforementioned
I am the raging fire that shuts up bones..,I am the raging storm with no end in sight
Im he sparking lingering tyrant...That is smashing bones to dust
So help me for being me
The cavernous hovering downfall of society...An amalgamation of all things wrong with this society...The girl who would rather break bones the way others break hearts ...The one that would rage blazes because she's anarchy
So Help me for being me...The one who is not bound by indignity...The one who's forged by her own destiny
The one who's trials had made her who she's bound to be...The one who's not bound by anyone else INDIGNITY
SO HELP ME FOR BEING ME
Thank you 💕
beautiful in every way!
Why are you torn this was amazing. God is love. He is not a guy in the clouds. He, She, It, is just love, light, and compassion. That is why i am not religious, but spiritual. He is exactly right.
This was 4 years ago and it's still my favorite one so far
I'm a teenager too. Yea we do struggle sometimes, but Greater is HE that is in me than the one that is in this world.
I Praise GOD for changing my life and I am a brand new creation in CHRIST JESUS .
authentic Christianity is Jesus. Jesus is the Word - 5 minutes of sharing the word teaching vs preaching can change the world. Jesus did. HE has built an app to help, who among you can put His truth teach just His word in 5 minutes? Arise and call us.
I'm not a teen, but this touched my spirit. I am a 39 year old woman who has grown up agnostic. I believe in God, but have had a very hard time understanding the rules that every church I have been to has. To me they all come from a book that some men wrote a long time ago, translated in so many different ways, changed into so many different religions. Good and evil, I understand. Complete love, I am a mother of two of the most amazing teenage girls, so that I feel I do understand. I do not like going into the churches anymore. I have tried all kinds of religions and feel the ceiling is going to fall down on me and I feel sorry that the whole congregation is going to have to go with me. Anyway, I digress. I have been feeling really torn about religion and I am very happy that I actually clicked on this particular video. Now, Off to watch more.
Jon I love this. This ways 4 years ago but still has so much power and still very relevant in today's society. A positive outlook is what we need and u bring ot everytime.
Brilliant.
Thank you.
Me being a teenager I know lots of teens who is active in youthgroup teens who wants to be missionary and pastors teens who loves the Lord and will do anything for him. No there is not enough I agree and yes i is not all the teens fault but there are teens.
Really.. I'm a teen too and its hard for me to find Christian friends
crazybandgeek14 Do you go to a youth group?
yeah i am homeschooled :)
There seems to be this thing that puts people off because they take everything so so literally and are missing the message in the bible.
SHRUNKD I agree everyone is looking to disprove Christianity that they miss the message in the Bible.... they will never understand
SHRUNKD AGREE!!!
This was so inspiring! It spoke right to my heart! Thank you Jon!!!
Y'all I'm 13 and I have a life with the Lord, I attended Cobb's Creek Baptist Church in Butler Tennessee. This video spoke to me on a personal level. Thank you John Jorgenson
Wow, the reason why teenagers dont come to Christ anymore is bc the world is so messed up and people just dont want to leave their sin behind, they want to live for their pleasures.... Im a teenager & i seek God & God has changed me , & now i live for God & i love God & the His word says if you love Him you will keep His commands. It's not the church, it's their desire to sin that takes over some of their hearts. We dont have to change the truth in order for it to seem more appealing to young teenagers, you preach the truth and if they are indeed seeking God, then they will be wise and choose to live for God no matter what
Leidy Benavides best comment!
Or maybe other people believing in other things, opening there minds to pursue what they want to believe. I'm gonna get hat for this but, honestly, I'm tired in believong in a fairy tale that has helped no-one outside of a psychological way. Believe what you want to believe but I'm gonna go where I know that there is something.
You are tired of believing in a fairy tale? Do you mean you are tired of believing in God?
Danielle Michael what? Was that not implied?
So you think that believing in God has helped no one except psychologically? What about those movements and organizations that has helped a lot of people in terms of food, shelter, and clothing? What about those missionaries who go to the remotest areas in the world providing for their needs especially those with no water, food, etc. Are you disregarding them? Sure, there have been organizations as such founded by non Christians but why discredit the works motivated by believing in Christ?
Ruby Ann Is that god or the people?
Thank you for your inspirational words
Thank you so much. God bless you
I'm actually not sure what I believe in... It's kind of hard to for me.
+Abi “je vous déteste tous” Thomas im not trying to force my religion on you but me living for God has been a complete blast man :D
+Abi “je vous déteste tous” Thomas You can start by learning about what he was talking about :) Learn about who Jesus is. Not the person who the world or society tells you He is.
I will pray for you, seek him and he will make himself known.
+Abi “je vous déteste tous” Thomas Open your heart to let god help you. It will change you and your life in a much better way. he loved us and died on the cross for us. Start getting more involved at your church and take part in any small groups so you can start to BELIEVE more and more each day
+Ricardo Bartlett Agreed, well said brother.
Satan told eve that she wouldn't die, but become like God when she ate the fruit. Adam and her were already created in the image of God, so what died and what God did they become like? Satan is god of this earth... Little g. We took on his nature. Became selfish and self serving. Jesus came to restore our identity back to what we were created to be in the first place. condemning those that do not know their true identity, and Yea there are those who grew up in the church, heard scripture their entire lives and don't understand what they were created to be. They base their identity on those around them, spouse, kids, parents, friends, church... Some pay thousands to be told they suffer from the human condition. It's not about the world, it's not even about that building full of people you call the church, it's about sacrifice and what he did so we could be free of shame, guilt, condemnation, worry, lust, anger. Your past, your human nature and human experiences don't define you. Jesus does. He wasn't kidding when he asked us to pick up his yoke and go where he leads. All he asks for its your surrender, not your weekly church attendance.
Omplete subservience without any evidence and amazingly dreadful consequences coming out of questioning it doesn't seem very inviting.
Fillie Blasey , wow that is sooo true. thanks, this is deep
this is so true, God Bless You!!!
Fillie Blasey nobody is obligating you to go weekly but if you have the desire to go cuz you have..the desire to know about God and full filled you soul with the Holy Spirit then there you go..
Fillie Blasey "This is my Body... This cup is the new covenant in my Blood... Do this in rememberance of me." - Luke 22: 19-20
This is why we attend Mass every Sunday :)
You are an amazing follower of Christ, and He has told each one of us to share in His sacrifice every day/Sunday at Mass, so we do.
“If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." - Matthew 16: 24
Sometimes, even if it's against our own bodily will, we must do things for love of Christ
Thank you.
Absolutely stunning words