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Great topic, Pan. I read something recently that probably applies to the Falwell et al group of teleevangelists. Some people require a very strong leadership figure that brings them comfort in their worldview and silences the doubts and questions that challenge that view. The members of tfp are unlikely to have social relationships with this type of mindset because for the most part we are not fearful of a contradictory belief and may even seek to understand what lies behind that 'other' belief.
Also, there is the false Christian that others have already mentioned, who prey upon the faithful for their own advancement. They are the ones that are most visable to us and it is easy to slip into the belief that the few getting attention represent the whole. I believe there are far more "humble shephards" than grandstanders in the Christian world.
In answer to your OP, I am not a Christian as normally understood. My values have been derived by the New Testament so in that regard it can be said that I follow the teachings of Jesus to the best that I can. I do not follow those who claim to speak for Jesus or that Jesus speaks through them. My relationship to my maker is a private one and is not a part of any doctrine of organized religion of any sect. Does that make any sense?
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