The adversity of discipleship

J.D. Hatfield looks at the idea of so-called Christians who choose not to assemble with a church:

You have probably heard it said, or thought or even said it yourself: “I have never had a negative experience studying the Bible or in prayer, but have had many negative experiences in church or from people that I thought (at the time) were Christians.” My answer to that is: if you have never had a negative experience with God, what Bible have you been reading? Did it not convict you? Was there no tension? Did you read the pages and still miss all the adversity found there, even among those who were on the same side?

Good point. If we're really reading and living the Word of God, it's going to do some serious tearing down of our old, comfortable, sinful ways. Being part of an association of believers will too:

If you cannot handle adversity with those of like precious faith, and those closest to you, how do you expect to handle it out in the world?

Good question.