Problem with Christianity I identify as a Gnostic Christian, but my guidance is derived from the 'Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth' by Thomas Jefferson (yes, THAT Thomas Jefferson), it being a stripped down and compiled version of the Synoptic Gospels, minus the 'magic' aspects. I don't see the essential message as 'rules for pleasing God' so much as help in simply 'being better'. As I have noted on other forums, even if one takes the position that Jesus never existed (or God, for that matter) the advice and lessons attributed to this 'fictional Jesus' are still very much valid and well worth implementing in one's life.