There are first certain requirements for entering into real relationship with God on any level. The basic requirement for our initial relationship is to repent and turn away from sin. As we commit more of our lives to God, through Christ Jesus, in discipleship, we must likewise do so according to His criteria. Jesus's first order of business for being His disciple is as follows:
"If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters —yes, even their own life —such a person cannot be my disciple." (Luke 14:26)
Now, I don't necessarily like the word hate used in this context, but wording is not my call. Yet, for explanation and teaching sake, I interpret the word "hate," in this verse, as...