I grew up in a very Conservative Baptist Church. They were fundamental in their Christian doctrine and mixed into that doctrine many added “rules.” For example: One rule was that no guitars could be used in worship services because rock bands use guitars! They didn’t see the irony that rock bands also used organs. Another rule you’ve probably heard of is that no card playing was allowed. (Perhaps the reasoning was that the cards had demonic symbols or something). When our high school youth group would go to Denver for a YFC rally they kept the lights on in the bus even though we were good kids. These are just a few examples.

There was a big emphasis on behavior and outward appearance. Even though I’m sure it was preached, I don’t remember a big focus on God’s love for me. I actually tuned out most sermons because they were…