Salida

Jesus was most likely not black or white. He was the color of that time period and day. Yes, there is unfortunately prejudism. We live in a world filled with hate, prejudism, jealously etc. because this world is filled with sin and is fallen. I don't take any of the images I see of Jesus seriously no matter what color they are because they arn't reality. It doesn't bother me because what He has done for us - like died for our sins and resurrected is what is important. What Jesus really looks like in reality is far beyond what we can image in the flesh- since he is the Son of God and is God.

Daymon- After a person repents and becomes born again they get the Holy Spirit and it is indeed a supernatural event. Without the Holy Spirit it is impossible to please God and live a holy life. Until this happens, an individual desires to sin and is in bondage to sin;and do not like naturally the things of God. One can't live a christian life without the Holy Spirit - its impossible because we have that sin nature and not the power of God to live it. Our human spirit needs the Holy Spirit. This spiritual transformation that takes place when a person is born again - is more than a mind set. Spiritually one changes because of the Holy Spirit gives them the ability to change and become christ like. God won't force a person to serve Him no matter what. He wants their free will and heart to serve Him. So, yes a person with the Holy Spirit still has a choice to continue on with God or to reject it. We have a free will.

The scriptures say it is important to "assemble yourselfs together" and have fellowship with one another. Did these church members try to explain why they thought such things? According to what you have described they didn't seem very loving. How can they say the terms that your not a nice person or unfit for friendship? There many other churches out there and I would try to find a different one that are filled with the Holy Spirit and demonstrate the love of God. Christian fellowship is very important in this unchristian world - it will strengthen you spiritually.