I go to a traditional Christian church...they claim the once saved always saved doctrine. I never joined as a member.
I know their doctrine is false...even when I first started going while I was questioning and unsure of the doctrine of ET.
I knew once saved always saved was wrong...because of personal experiences I've had. But anyway...I've been a firm believer in UR, since March 24,2015. I've been praying for my church and the paster. It's a HUGE church. Last week in his sermon he said the word hell at least 4 times. I never said a thing. Today he did not say the world hell even once and he spoke about when Jesus preached to the demons in prison. He also said those with extreme views are welcome here. He said God wants us to be unified in our faith but we all have different views. He said alot of other amazing things that I know God is speaking to him about the Truth of UR. Please pray for him, that God will seal his truth in his heart and give him boldness to proclaim it in Gods way and time. This is a prayer request and a PRAISE REPORT! Yay!!! Our God is an awesome God!!! :gimmefive:
That would be awesome if the Pastor of a huge gathering believed the good news! Then preached it.... I can just imagine the puzzled look on all the faces in the pews....and the growing concern that the preacher has gone off the deep end..LoL
I like that he welcomes the extreme-view people. :gimmefive: Kind of like a...come let us reason together...approach...that`s good.
And no, I do not attend a traditional "church" anymore. I've had my share of living at parsonnages, missions, and church retreat centers. I have thought about calling various Pastors in the area to set up a discussion with them in their offices to share UR. Many teens / young people in this town, friends of my children, have suggested that I start a church and that they would go.
:laugh:
Only problem is I don't believe in that kind of set up any more. I prefer the idea of all of us living together instead. They didn't seem too interested in that idea....LoL
Besides the usual doctrinal can 'o worms involved in organized Christianity, which was probably enough on its own to end church attendance, I learned that almost all churches operate on a BUSINESS model. Surely, followers of Jesus the Christ should be operating according to another paradigm: love thy neighbor, rather than make a profit.
Its is awesome to pray on the behalf of others , many of the prophets done this Daniel prayed for those in Babylon as well as his own shortcomings
Job prayed for his friends who failed the test of love your associate / neighbour as yourself and spoke wrong things about God
Many prayed to God on the behalf of the people ..........
Life and death are in the power of the tongue and those whom eat the fruit there of ..
the fruit of Life being the HOLY SPIRIT OF TRUTH fruits , love , peace , joy ..
It is good when the Spirit of /Truth Life is not quenched or put out !!
As long as a church, ministry ect, only purpose is to serve God. It is good, I think. We need to submit to Gods calling on or own lives. I'm not trying to suggest we all should or shouldn't go to a church. This website is a ministry. Jesus
spoke in churches sometimes. Anyhow what ever we do and all that we have belongs to God. But I believe this is the Good News that needs to be taught in the whole wolrd before the Second comming of our Savoir. We have a fire in our hearts to share it. God can spread it in anyway He chooses. :dsunny:
I know some folks think they can do something to help from within the institution of systematized deception, but it's not my thing because, even if your pastor sees the light, the hierarchy will come down on him. He'll probably lose his job, and the congregation will be upset. I think all of that is unnecessary if we just realize that the ecclesia, the body of Christ, is a spiritual body all over the earth who can communicate and maybe even socialize in various ways that don't have to include supporting a building to do so. I think the money spent on the building would be better spent helping the brothers and sisters in need. I also think you're participating in the deception when you belong to an organization that dishonors God by preaching that he will torture most of humanity in fire forever. I think it's better to communicate with church people from outside their church. I think the best way is simply to share an accurate translation of scripture. Most of them will persecute you for doing so, but at least they will hear the truth. I don't see the benefit of being in the church to do so even if you don't get kicked out. I think participating in church ritual and doctrine is no different that hanging out at a bar getting drunk with folks to share the evangel with them, or hanging out a crack house and smoking up to share the evangel with folks there, or going to an orgy and participating just so you can share the evangel with folks there. I don't think we have to appear to condone sin to get folks to accept us so they will listen to us when we share the truth of the evangel with them. In fact, you're going to have a hard time explaining that you're not a hypocrite if you're going along with what everybody else is doing. Why subject yourself to preaching about hell when you don't believe it? I understand that you would like to see them know the truth, but I don't think belonging to their church is the best way to do it. I think the best way to reach the most people is to publish information online. You could also speak publicly if you want to do so. You can also just continue to study the inspired written word of God, and share the truth with anybody that God brings into your life in various circumstances. I think, if we just speak the truth when we have an opportunity, we don't have to go into the churches to do so. I pray for your "pastor" anyway, and I hope the whole congregation sees the light. Here's an older video series about a guy who was a pastor preaching about hell until one of his flock challenged him to check out universal reconciliation. He lost his job in the church, but he gained the blessing of the truth of scripture that all on earth and in the heavens will be reconciled to God through Christ's blood on the cross. There are several videos in the series, but they're worth watching to see what he has to say. I think YouTube is a good medium for publishing the truth of the evangel, but, if you do, know that you'll be persecuted by Christians and atheists. Just don't take it personally, and know your scripture. God bless you for trying to help those in darkness see the light.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJoNxjUAAi8
:thumbsup:
JOHN 1 ...3All things came into being through Him,
and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.
4In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.
5The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
You are a city set on a hill that cannot be hid !!
you are called a a CITY !! WOW !! this city // you are Gods creation
MATT 5 Salt and Light
13"You are the salt of the earth;
but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again?
It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. :sigh: [men loved darkness more than light because their deeds are evil /wrong self serving ]
14"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden;
15nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket,
but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house....
the HOLY City of the earth as it is in heaven :dsunny: :HeartThrob: :icon_flower: as God gives the increase of Light and Life though the SPIRIT OF TRUTH
what I've noticed is His words being fulfilled in Luke ch 16. Parable of the shrewd manager caught wasting his master's possessions.
[destroying the flocks etc..worthless shepherds..] when realizing he was losing his position..he lessened the debts to
his master..so to be welcomed warmly by those that were debtors.
I see the pope doing this and some churches now days.
For the people of the world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind...than the people of the light.
there is an account in the scriptures regarding one of Solomon's sons...the elder people counseled that if he would lesson
the burden on the people..that he would win the people's hearts 1 Kings 12;10 the younger peers said 'tell them,
'My little finger is thicker than my father's waist" of which he did.
Jesus told the oppressive religious leaders..'ye bind up heavy loads on men's shoulder's impossible to bear,and yet not are willing to lift
your little finger"
I understand what you are saying Sheila !! :thumbsup:
I also wonder if Jesus loved them / religious leaders in that day , enough to tell them the truth and they hated Him for it :sigh:
I think so, sis, and some like Nicodemus believed him.
Quote from: Tom on April 27, 2015, 07:03:18 PM
I think so, sis, and some like Nicodemus believed him.
AMEN Tom !!! :dsunny:
The Light penetrated the darkness / ignorance
and Nicodemus did not harden his heart but let the Light shine in it :HeartThrob: Nor did Saul / Paul on the road to Damascus
Yep I really feel you guys nailed it 100%. The Truth was not to condemn them but to set them free from their slavery. :HeartThrob: That, I truly believe, (and the Bible clearly states) is always the Heart's motive of our Good and Gentle Shepherd and Father. :HeartThrob:
He is Love, thank God. :HeartThrob:
I go and I pray for them..while I'm there and at home. I haven't given any donations since I've come to the Truth of UR. I love the people in the churhes and pray for them to have eyes that can see and ears that can here. :HeartThrob:
:Pray: I do pray! ..and also for all pastors that they would perceive U.R. and just start, first off, speaking some of the verses..! :happy3:
They will someday marie, speak the truth that is. What is it that Paul said, "how can they hear without a preacher". I have wondered if we shouldn't go to these Churches and speak the truth? I do go to a Church just down the road from me. I am and have been friends with the pastor pretty much all my life and he ask me to sing now and then, also to do Bible Study, so, I get to say some things that normally most could not say, that is why I still go there. It is an Independant Baptist Church. The Pastor does have some good things to say although I don't agree with some things he teaches. How can we be a light or anything to these people if we never see them or talk to them? I don't know, I may be wrong but I don't think we have this knowledge to just keep it to ourselves.
CHB
This definitely seems a matter for conscience, but my perspective is that the system itself is the problem. I liken it to a spiritual prison, that cannot be changed by good intentions. If we are trying to demonstrate freedom to people, is it possible to do that within the confines of their prison cell? I am always open to talk about Christ, but the system is pretty much preset to focusing on man, not Christ.
Ultimately, the call of freedom and the herald of Christ is always "a voice crying in the wilderness". There is a reason John the Baptist was not "a voice crying in the synagogue".....
We don't go to a church since almost 9 years, not because of UR, but because we were sent away from our church when we questioned tithing. :2c:
Since then we had actually more fellowship with other christians than we had before. :friendstu:
I sometimes wonder whether we should be part of a church or something like that. Well meaning friends and family keep admonishing us to be part of a local church or homechurch. I do not know how to answer them from a biblical standpoint. In Acts and the letters of Paul, it seems to me people had special gatherings, and Paul gave some advice/rules for these gatherings. Yet we don't have such a thing. :dontknow: We wonder especially because our lifes set an example to our children.
I agree that we need to share the truth with them, but it's kind of tricky doing that in their church. I think it's better to get them away from their church on neutral turf where there's no offense perceived to the institution which has welcomed you into its midst because the truth will offend those who have been taught to believe otherwise. I think the best way is to just share an accurate translation of scripture to show how God really is love and really is the savior of all mankind. Scripture like that is not canceled out by other verses that are actually mistranslation of the ancient manuscripts. If you can show them that their inaccurate translation is what the problem is, that helps them understand the truth. But you'll get plenty of push back from their authority figures who have to represent the doctrine of their church. That's why I think it's better to have one on one communication with fellow believers outside their church who haven't yet received the revelation of universal reconciliation. They're going to be afraid of the word "heresy" because that's what we believe is considered to be in their church, but you'll have to explain that it's their church doctrine that invalidates the word of God. That will really get the pastor's face red. So I say you're better off discussing it outside the church because you're going to basically have to prove to them that their church that they've been going to their whole lives is wrong and teaching a lie. Nobody wants to hear that about something they believe in. You can do it in the spirit of love by sharing an accurate translation of scripture, but eventually they're going to have to be told that what their church has been telling them all their lives is not what scripture says about God. It's a traumatic experience to give up something you believe in, but it's worth it for the sake of truth. I couldn't believe it when I first heard about universal reconciliation. I had to spend a lot of time searching online and reading a lot of information before I became convinced mostly because, after finding an accurate translation of scripture and seeing what it said, I could no longer deny it. If you feel called to witness in the lion's den, more power to you, but it ain't my thing. God bless you for having a burden for them though.
Sis, don't let them put a guilt trip on you for not belonging to a church because we are the ecclesia, the body of Christ, not bound by space or time. I say just fellowship with fellow believers wherever whenever. I agree with you questioning your old church about tithing because that is an old Hebrew law that the ecclesia is not subject to. All we're required to do is love our brothers and sisters. If you see some in need, help them out, but you're not required to pay the mortgage for a church building or the salary for a pastor or to sacrifice a tenth of your earnings for anything other than your home, your utilities, and food for your family. The church is a business that you don't have to feel required to invest in, and it doesn't even provide you with the truth to console you. So what's the point of belonging to one? You are right now a member of the ecclesia, the body of Christ, and enjoying communication with your fellow believers right here on this forum. When God brings people into your life in the real world, use the opportunity to share the truth with them, but I really don't see the point of going to church to do it because most of what you're going to hear in church is contrary to what we believe. Believers who are like minded can meet in your homes or at the park in the summer. You don't have to support a building for meeting to share lies. Just get together wherever you can to share the truth.
I have been attending a small peaceful church weekly for over two decades. Here, one chooses the Leadership of Jesus Christ and pledges to endeavour to be guided in thoughts, words and deeds by the teaching and example of Jesus Christ. We are few but that is fine.
Christ forever speaks from within
The one who listens can hear
Words from the Living Word
That the letter cannot speak
Spirit communes
Truth reveals
Life soars
The Living God is Spirit
Like a rushing River
Splashes eternity on all who thirst
Nothing is greater than Spirit
Revealed shadows retreat
Wisdom seeks the Saviour Himself
Freed of furniture piled by the mind
Christ is the Great Instructor
I have been persecuted on Facebook by some of my ET believing family members, for sharing UR. I've been made fun of and told my beliefs are of satan. It hurts...but I wish to follow Christ alone. To go were I believe He wants me to. To speak only what He wants, to love as He taught us, to love even our enemies. Not to repay evil for evil, but to overcome evil with good. :dsunny:
I hate..believe me hate the lie of ET and I know how it can torture a loving heart who thinks they must believe it ET to have a relationship with God. Now that I know the Truth..I can love Him and trust Him like never before.
We are very few also, I guess that is why I continue to go there. I look at it like this. No one has all of the truth, not even Universalists. We were all at the same place the rest of the world is at now, God just saw fit to give us a little more understanding of his word. Everyone has a different level of understanding, some have more than others but that doesn't make them any better or worse than the rest. We all learn from one another. I don't think things are the way they should be. Religion is just like everything else it is a seperation of minds. Blacks keep to themselves, whites keep to themselves and so it is with all other races. Look what a mess we have with that. This is true with religion, all of the different denominations meet with those who believe as they do. This is not the way it is meant to be and it will not be so in the next life. Can't wait for that. I have noticed even at family reunions that family members stick with their own imediate family. I believe this is why we have divisions in everything. We have to learn to get alone at some point in time.
CHB
I'm single; so I feel really out of place in church. I've decided to go it alone.
I haven't been to church in a while but I met a very nice guy on Craigslist that is starting a local church. It'll be a saved by grace rightly dividing the word of truth type of church and so far in our email conversations he hasn't focused on ect. I've talked with other saved by grace people on paltalk and they seem to model after how Paul teaches and so they don't focus on hell a lot when they talk so I hope that when this gentlemen starts his church it'll have nice fellowship where I don't have to listen to ect teaching. I really want fellowship in my life but it's so hard to find a church that is out and open of the real Good News so maybe if I find one that doesn't put focus on hell in the teaching, then things will be okay
I think we can fellowship here and wherever whenever it happens sometimes when you least expect it. I think we just need to study the word of God and stay ready to defend the faith and share God's love with those in need which is very often not in church but on the street somewhere. The ecclesia, the body of Christ, is a spiritual global body of believers who have the advantage of the Net to communicate anytime. You can even use video chat if you want to see your brothers and sisters. You don't get to give real hugs or share pot lucks, but you get to share God's word and spirit which is what's most important. Even though people disagree about some things here on the forum, it is a blessing to be able to come together anytime you want to. You don't have to wait until Sunday or Wednesday, and you don't have to go anywhere else but right in front of your computer. You also don't have to worry about paying the mortgage or utilities of a separate building from your house. If it wasn't for the World Wide Web, most of us never would have gotten to know each other. Yeah, sometimes we might get on each other's nerves, but that happens in all families. We're blessed to be able to share our lives with each other even if it is virtually, and you don't have to worry about how much you're going to have to hear about going to hell just to be able to socialize with other people in a place where you know you really don't belong anymore once you believe universal reconciliation. I guess it comes down to what's really important. I understand why some people want to be with other people in the real world, but I don't think it should be at the sacrifice of the truth because we're supposed to worship God in spirit and truth. I've looked online for local like minded believers and gatherings, but the closest thing I found was a Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship in another town kind of close to me. It looked too formal for my taste though. I think the best thing to do is gather in your homes if you have like minded believers close to you, but that's just my thing. I say we should just be thankful for the fellowship we have here. Some come to find out what it's all about, and some who have been around for awhile help newcomers. I think that's what fellowship is all about. There will be differences of opinion on various topics because everybody has a different perspective, but it's good to get together and communicate. So I know some folks want to go to church, but I'm going to remain an ex-churcher in the ecclesia, the body of Christ, online and in the real world if I happen to bump into you on the street somewhere. God bless you all.
Quote from: lastpost on April 28, 2015, 12:16:11 AM
I have been attending a small peaceful church weekly for over two decades. Here, one chooses the Leadership of Jesus Christ and pledges to endeavour to be guided in thoughts, words and deeds by the teaching and example of Jesus Christ. We are few but that is fine.
Christ forever speaks from within
The one who listens can hear
Words from the Living Word
That the letter cannot speak
Spirit communes
Truth reveals
Life soars
The Living God is Spirit
Like a rushing River
Splashes eternity on all who thirst
Nothing is greater than Spirit
Revealed shadows retreat
Wisdom seeks the Saviour Himself
Freed of furniture piled by the mind
Christ is the Great Instructor
That sounds lovely!
I was a member of the WWCG and they incouraged us not to have any fellowship with anyone outside the Church. I also hear of other Churches that hold to this same view. I was told to move out of town to another city because I would be persecuted by my friends and family. We gave up everything. Later I learned that Church was wrong in their beliefs and for 30 years I had nothing to do with any Churches. I knew they all were wrong in their beliefs and felt the preachers were false apostles/false prophets, false teachers. Well, the pastor, a friend of mine begged me to come to his Church and sing so, that is how I got started going to this Church. I have come to realize that there are a lot of good people in the Churches of the world and we should love them all. I go to this Church but I don't believe some of the things they do. There are more good things there than there are bad. Also, didn't God give us what we know? God has given to all of the preachers the knowledge he wants them to have. I don't know why God seen fit to put me in the midst of this Church but it is probably to teach me a lesson rather than them, I just don't know? I figure when the test is over, whatever that might be, God will remove me from that congregation. Till then, I am going to live for him no matter where I am at!!
CHB
Quote from: Tom on April 27, 2015, 11:04:10 PM
Sis, don't let them put a guilt trip on you for not belonging to a church because we are the ecclesia, the body of Christ, not bound by space or time. I say just fellowship with fellow believers wherever whenever.
Thanks bro, for your encouragement :dsunny:
Quote from: CHB on April 28, 2015, 12:37:49 AM
I look at it like this. No one has all of the truth, not even Universalists. We were all at the same place the rest of the world is at now, God just saw fit to give us a little more understanding of his word. Everyone has a different level of understanding, some have more than others but that doesn't make them any better or worse than the rest. We all learn from one another. I don't think things are the way they should be. Religion is just like everything else it is a seperation of minds. Blacks keep to themselves, whites keep to themselves and so it is with all other races. Look what a mess we have with that. This is true with religion, all of the different denominations meet with those who believe as they do. This is not the way it is meant to be and it will not be so in the next life. Can't wait for that. I have noticed even at family reunions that family members stick with their own imediate family. I believe this is why we have divisions in everything. We have to learn to get alone at some point in time.
CHB
:iagree:
I am fully aware there is no perfect local church, since nobody is perfect, me included :-) Almost all brothers and sisters we connect with, do not belief in the universal salvation of mankind, neither do they know we do... yet we are able to have lovely fellowship on other things God has taught us.
For us, our difference in opinion was not a reason to leave, but our church's belief was that when we would not tithe, a curse would come upon the whole concregation, and therefore we had to leave. Since then we visited very few churches. I feel I'm not terribly critical, yet I find many churches dead, entertainment oriented and/or having a lot of manipulation from leaders. Yet I'd love to gather and being really built up, or being able to build up others (and not being kept busy by all kinds of gatherings, clubs, meetings, committees...) and I don't see that here. I feel a strong aversion against hours of church 'services', especially now our children are young and we find it important to use the weekends to fellowship a lot with them and brothers and sisters who visit.
Quote from: NightFlight on April 28, 2015, 10:24:46 AM
I'm single; so I feel really out of place in church. I've decided to go it alone.
Dear NightFlight, how sad... one of the reasons we feel out of place in church, is that we are a family with young children. In most churches they are not very welcome, unless we drop them in a nursery or some sort of class. It's hard to find a place where families are welcome as they are (not split up)...
One scripture that is regularly quoted to us is Hebrews 10:25, 'not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together...' and I don't know how to answer this to others or to myself. That is, I see in the Bible people habitually come together and we don't.
We're assembling together right here right now, sis.
In our small gathering, God provides healing power which is used to bring alleviation of pain to people physically present, as well as mentally and spiritually healing them.
We also provide absent healing by and through the Grace of God, and the Healing Book on our altar with single names in, has proven to be miraculous, or rather God has proven Himself over and over again to be the Great Healer.
From what I have seen on television of the churches I think that most of you are talking about, I would not recognise a similarity personally.
Peace.
Yet we are living temples...
I believe we are,
Because GOD is.
We have spiritual forces which are indwelling,
Because through God's Spiritual Christ we were made.
So we can turn the world of shadow into the Real.
We are where we are through God's Will,
With no division between us and GOD,
Except a false barrier.
Shadows cause a sense of worldly fear,
When all of God's Goodness is around.
Christ is forever within,
Seated in the Kingdom of GOD.
Neither shall they be declaring 'Lo! here!' or 'Lo! there!'
for lo! the kingdom of God is inside of you
Quote from: lastpost on April 28, 2015, 11:26:20 PM
Yet we are living temples...
I believe we are,
Because GOD is.
We have spiritual forces which are indwelling,
Because through God's Spiritual Christ we were made.
So we can turn the world of shadow into the Real.
We are where we are through God's Will,
With no division between us and GOD,
Except a false barrier.
Shadows cause a sense of worldly fear,
When all of God's Goodness is around.
Christ is forever within,
Seated in the Kingdom of GOD.
Neither shall they be declaring 'Lo! here!' or 'Lo! there!'
for lo! the kingdom of God is inside of you
\o/
The church I go to has 12,000 active members....if God opens even half their eyes...WOW!!!! :dsunny: And I know He can ...when ever how ever He wishes. :HeartThrob:
Last post that is amazing. You all are so blessed to be a part of that.
And I hear you. :cloud9:
Quote from: Abigail on April 28, 2015, 09:31:59 PM
Quote from: Tom on April 27, 2015, 11:04:10 PM
Sis, don't let them put a guilt trip on you for not belonging to a church because we are the ecclesia, the body of Christ, not bound by space or time. I say just fellowship with fellow believers wherever whenever.
Thanks bro, for your encouragement :dsunny:
Quote from: CHB on April 28, 2015, 12:37:49 AM
I look at it like this. No one has all of the truth, not even Universalists. We were all at the same place the rest of the world is at now, God just saw fit to give us a little more understanding of his word. Everyone has a different level of understanding, some have more than others but that doesn't make them any better or worse than the rest. We all learn from one another. I don't think things are the way they should be. Religion is just like everything else it is a seperation of minds. Blacks keep to themselves, whites keep to themselves and so it is with all other races. Look what a mess we have with that. This is true with religion, all of the different denominations meet with those who believe as they do. This is not the way it is meant to be and it will not be so in the next life. Can't wait for that. I have noticed even at family reunions that family members stick with their own imediate family. I believe this is why we have divisions in everything. We have to learn to get alone at some point in time.
CHB
:iagree:
I am fully aware there is no perfect local church, since nobody is perfect, me included :-) Almost all brothers and sisters we connect with, do not belief in the universal salvation of mankind, neither do they know we do... yet we are able to have lovely fellowship on other things God has taught us.
For us, our difference in opinion was not a reason to leave, but our church's belief was that when we would not tithe, a curse would come upon the whole concregation, and therefore we had to leave. Since then we visited very few churches. I feel I'm not terribly critical, yet I find many churches dead, entertainment oriented and/or having a lot of manipulation from leaders. Yet I'd love to gather and being really built up, or being able to build up others (and not being kept busy by all kinds of gatherings, clubs, meetings, committees...) and I don't see that here. I feel a strong aversion against hours of church 'services', especially now our children are young and we find it important to use the weekends to fellowship a lot with them and brothers and sisters who visit.
Quote from: NightFlight on April 28, 2015, 10:24:46 AM
I'm single; so I feel really out of place in church. I've decided to go it alone.
Dear NightFlight, how sad... one of the reasons we feel out of place in church, is that we are a family with young children. In most churches they are not very welcome, unless we drop them in a nursery or some sort of class. It's hard to find a place where families are welcome as they are (not split up)...
One scripture that is regularly quoted to us is Hebrews 10:25, 'not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together...' and I don't know how to answer this to others or to myself. That is, I see in the Bible people habitually come together and we don't.
Hi Abigail,
None of these things apply to where I go, the pastor don't like all of the gatherings, clubs, meetings, entertainments, maybe that is another reason I feel ok about going there. Everyone is involved in things. I am not saying these things to encourage anyone to go to Church because most of them are like being in bondage. They want to inforce too many man made rules on the congregation.
CHB
Yes, it is shocking to find out you've been taught and believing a lie your whole life. And I am careful how I speak or I should say prayerful. I don't tell them hells a lie from satan and you're blind to the Truth....which I know is true...but this is not there doing. They think they have to believe in hell to have a relationship with God. And God still answers there prayers and still offers them love and comfort. So they have a very hard time accepting the Truth. I did, but now I am so in love with God and His love is overwhelming at times...I can trust Him now like never before. And this joy and love is something that is almost impossible not to share. :dsunny:
Quote from: CHB on April 28, 2015, 09:16:32 PM
I was a member of the WWCG and they incouraged us not to have any fellowship with anyone outside the Church. I also hear of other Churches that hold to this same view. I was told to move out of town to another city because I would be persecuted by my friends and family. We gave up everything. Later I learned that Church was wrong in their beliefs and for 30 years I had nothing to do with any Churches. I knew they all were wrong in their beliefs and felt the preachers were false apostles/false prophets, false teachers. Well, the pastor, a friend of mine begged me to come to his Church and sing so, that is how I got started going to this Church. I have come to realize that there are a lot of good people in the Churches of the world and we should love them all. I go to this Church but I don't believe some of the things they do. There are more good things there than there are bad. Also, didn't God give us what we know? God has given to all of the preachers the knowledge he wants them to have. I don't know why God seen fit to put me in the midst of this Church but it is probably to teach me a lesson rather than them, I just don't know? I figure when the test is over, whatever that might be, God will remove me from that congregation. Till then, I am going to live for him no matter where I am at!!
CHB
I grew up in the WWCG, but left as a teenager. Small world!
Hi Shev,
Really? how long were you in the WWCG. I was only in it for 3 1/2 years but what a 3 1/2 years that was. Some very important lessons were learned from that experience. One lesson was, there is only one man between us and God and that man is Jesus Christ. Don't let a preacher who thinks he knows it all, tell you how to live, eat, what to wear, where to live. Another one is, the laws were for Israel not Gentiles.
CHB
I was in WWCG for 20 years until I saw the serious error in their doctrine and life styles of leaders. Interesting that the many people that came out of her ended up in fellowships such as this forum, since many saw orthodox Christianity as bogus. At one time there were 150,000 in WWCG.
Wow!!! didn't realize there were that many. Which Church did you attend?
I was in Asheville, or I moved to Asheville. I wondered how much changed after I left?
CHB
wwcg, the way international, jehovah's witnesses, etc.
They all look like a step up from denominationalism when you first get in, using the challenge to orthodox doctrines and practices to encourage an elitist sense of esteem, while dragging immature believers and seeking non-believers into dominion to legalism and charismatic leaders and the disregard of the spirit of reconciliation.
similalarly, some of the Penetecostal churches I was in operated the same way.
There is nothing new under the Sun :o)
Quote from: Tom on April 28, 2015, 09:40:40 PM
We're assembling together right here right now, sis.
I think I'm getting your point now, Tom! :gimmefive:
I have still have the "christian stigma" to attend a congregation, what I cannot seem to get past(and I have tried) is the adamant hell preaching, the songs of i'll fly away, go to heaven and walk on streets of gold, where the soul never dies, the shouting etc.
Yes if I go I lean toward a pentecostal church, the others I have tried seem more like social get to gathers [more like clubs] now they all seem that way. The Bible is just a book of stories that are expressed and explained so that the natural man gets an understanding. I have just about quit trying.
I have a desire to converse but as in one "sunday school" I was going to offer, the study was in Gal. and about the time I was about to say something it was right about
Gal 1:6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:Gal 1:7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
and before I could speak the teacher continued Gal 1:8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
Well, I did not speak. I always believed my purpose in attending was for learning, being fed. I have not learned nor have I been fed in a "church" for some time. Yes this forum is what I attend and learn and thankful for it, yet it is lacking, lacking a physical fellowship and I believe that is just as important. :2c: :Peace2:
:nod:
:iagree:
I hear ya, bro, but I would rather have a virtual fellowship in spirit and truth right here on the forum than a physical fellowship among those who are trapped by deception. The ecclesia, especially those of us who have received the revelation of universal reconciliation, is so spread out all over the world that it's hard to get together in the material world, but we're a spiritual body not bound by time or space. I think anybody who has found a local group of like minded believers is blessed, but I don't know of one around here. I'd probably be better off converting to Judaism where I live because there are a lot of retired New York Jewish folks here. If anybody on the forum is in the South Florida area, give me a holler.
I'd love to fellowship in person with UR believers. I would still come here as well. Wherever He leads I want to follow :declare: I know there must be some at my church already. And I think I've seen some...the ones with gleaming joyful faces, probably :dsunny: I have a very close friend who's like a sister to me. She goes to a Baptist church..I know she has a relationship with God...she prayed for me when I was seeking a greater understanding of Gods Truth. He gave it to me and sealed it and I know it's the Truth. I so want her to have it, so Im praying for her and I know she will get it in His time. :HeartThrob:
We are all groaning within ourselves for the salvation of all , not just our selves or loved ones , but all
Romans 8
g ...25But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.
26In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words;
27and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
Yes, the hardest part for me...is when I see joy as if they have accepted the Truth...and then they fall back to ET beliefs...this happened to her. Because, I shared with her the results of her own prayers..was that I believe in UR. I told her that I believe in punishment for correcting and those words in greek dont mean eternal. I told her I've never trusted or loved God like I do now..not since I was a small child. Then she talked to other church members and it seems they convinced her Im wrong. She told me her friend knows Greek and Christains are being persecuted all over the world. She doesn't realize, I suppose how firmly I believe in UR yet. I would give my life for the Truth if He willed. I'll get to share with her again soon, I hope. :HeartThrob:
It's sad but true that most folks trapped by the deception of orthodox theology prefer to rely on the words of others who are also deceived rather than the word of God. You need to show them a few verses in an accurate translation to help them realize that what they're being told in church is not the truth.
Ya...Im gonna buy a Youngs Literal soon. I know only the Holy Spirit can open someones eyes. I can't convince anyone on my own, no matter what I do. So I must follow His lead. My sister inlaw posted something on FB from Chan about hell bringing out the glory of Heaven. Then I posted, If we wish to follow Jesus, we need to love others as ourselves and love even our enemies. That wont change after we die. So, now Im praying for her. :dsunny:
I switched to Young's Literal Translation when I became aware of the inaccuracies of the King James Version, but then later I became aware of some inaccuracies that Young's Literal Translation shares with the King James Version. That's when I found the Concordant Version, and I've been reading it ever since. You don't have to buy it. Here's a link to the free PDF files.
http://concordant.org/online/index.html
Thank you, Tom I have the lovewins Bible site bookmarked on my phone. I think it has both. I just would like a paper one as well. I geuss I'm old school like that. Lol
Quote from: Caffus on May 01, 2015, 04:25:38 AM
Thank you, Tom I have the lovewins Bible site bookmarked on my phone. I think it has both. I just would like a paper one as well. I geuss I'm old school like that. Lol
"Old school" is handwritten on sheepskin or vellum, maybe even papyrus. :thumbsup:
Ok..Im not THAT old! Lol :LH:
I wonder if there was a physical place set apart for UR believers to gather if anybody would come?
Thinking...."Field of Dreams"
I like the youtube option...reading along with, or just listening to, the Concordant version...this one is Hebrews.
https://youtu.be/FVGiOp5duBA
Becca had a big camp get togather years ago.I wasn't able to attend..but I heard all had enjoyed it.
I would love it...so praying for my church and all of them :Pray: Unfortunately, I wont be able to go this Sunday. But my prayers with be.
Quote from: sheila on May 01, 2015, 10:44:57 PM
Becca had a big camp get togather years ago.I wasn't able to attend..but I heard all had enjoyed it.
Nice. :) That`s kind of what I have in mind too, sheila...some land with a camping area for those who prefer to rough it. Some cabins for those, like me, who would rather not rough it that much, a main room with kitchen/ computers/ livingroom to hang out and make music together....a place that would be open all year round for whoever wanted to be a part of it or just visit.
:dsunny:
I just think it would be lovely to all be together for once face to face. So Caffus....you`d come if such a place existed? Then that`s 1 so far. :) yay!
I'd love to...but I dont think Id be able too. To meet with people I met online...no, I have a family to care for. Love camping though. Would be great to sing praises under the stars. I'm hoping my church sees the Light
I understand. It can seem quite risky to meet with people you only know online.
Personally, I am glad I took that risk twice now..and only because they were UR believers one time...quite a few at once.
Then another time I felt led to meet with a person who has a Christian website discussion board...not a UR believer...but a person who was actively fighting the evangel on his board.
I hope your church sees the light, too. You have the truth with you, in you. March on. :)
Actually, it's not that. I meet my husband online. It just wouldn't fit in my life right now. To many responsibilities. But we'll all meet in Heaven and I think we'll remember our chats. :gimmefive:
Quote from: Psalm91:4 on May 01, 2015, 08:22:07 PM
I wonder if there was a physical place set apart for UR believers to gather if anybody would come?
Thinking...."Field of Dreams"
If we build it they will come :o)
:dsunny: :icon_flower: :icon_flower:
https://youtu.be/UmXHkL3xiMU
:)
Quote from: Psalm91:4 on May 02, 2015, 06:47:08 PM
:dsunny: :icon_flower: :icon_flower:
https://youtu.be/UmXHkL3xiMU
:)
Awesome!
Man it's amazing what they can do nowadays!! For a second I was trying to figure out how Celine could've been that old when Elvis was that young... :laughing7:
Quote from: Caffus on April 30, 2015, 11:37:44 PM
My sister inlaw posted something on FB from Chan about hell bringing out the glory of Heaven. Then I posted, If we wish to follow Jesus, we need to love others as ourselves and love even our enemies. That wont change after we die. So, now Im praying for her. :dsunny:
I notice that quite often.. how believers, to me, seem to struggle with somehow trying to put a good face on the hell doctrine.. kinda sad.. tho praise the Lord, we know they will learn the liberating whole truth.. Even pastors (on the radio or such) I hear trying to 'defend' `hell` as being somehow something `good` :faint: I do not envy them that struggle in their heart..
Call me misguided or even an antichrist, but the teachings of the Spirit implore the picking up ones cross and following Christ, always attempting to be His disciple, and if so-called failure should come, arising from ones knees, brushing off the dust, and carrying on until the obstacle is overcome.
The Saviour is indeed the Source of the Life which flows abundantly from the innermost of ones being. Christ's Way, I believe, is that the lost and the heedless are sought for and bound to God in Christ, so that when their time of trial comes, His cloak can cover them and bring them peace. To the heartbroken, the bringing of good news, the scattering of sorrow, darkness and grief, the holding up of the lantern of faith.
The simple trusting in Christ, the way of having faith in Him, the way of bringing understanding to those who do not know of the unending future towards which they head and in which they must account for missed opportunities - simple opportunities, sowing seeds every day with each footstep and not just in springtime, preparing the soil, the effort and toil - little things it may appear to the world, but these are the big things of God, whereas the big things lauded by the world are left to their own devices.
The Christ Way is the lowly heart, it is the patient striving in His Way, yet in that striving, never forgetting those who are too weak to help themselves - it is the desire to be more like Him, to be purer, to be firmer, to be stronger, and to be still more loving, for only those who love can enter into the Realms which are Spirit.
The simple words of the Master Christ have not changed, although the times may have changed, but they have been construed and misconstrued so that man may find excuse for himself to be of the world.
When the one beaten by the world wonders where God is, they can be told in a faith which is perfect and with an understanding that is complete, that God in Christ is with them in their joys and in their sorrows, He is with them in their pains and in their freedom, He is with them in their greatness and in their weakness - they can be told that the One who made them will never let them go - never, never, never let them go.
Rest in action
Peace in Rest
:goodpost: :2thumbs: :HeartThrob:
There are no words to describe the joy unspeakable and full of glory to GOD our savior
It is just ''a knowing it'' that satisfies the unshakable, fulling the void within :dsunny:
HERETICS ,
a person believing in or practicing religious heresy.
synonyms: dissenter · nonconformist · apostate · freethinker · iconoclast
antichrist or misguided , is what UR folks are called, some times by the Et'ers and ED'ists groups , saying '' We believe the lie'' :sigh:
Dear friends,
I know some have had bad experiences in churches and may not thank me for the following (although our peaceful sanctuary is unlike most churches I believe you refer to).
On the first Sunday of the month our very small gathering shares bread and blackcurrant juice in remembrance of our Lord Jesus Christ.
This is never forced on anyone, it cannot be. But I truly believe that a special blessing and connection with the Heart of the compassionate Christ always occurs, for it is a law of Love.
Tonight, I felt the very real Presence of the Master Christ, I also saw Him inside my mind when my eyes were closed. Oh dear people, how can anyone describe the Divine Beauty of the Christ in the flesh, it cannot be done, but it is no wonder that those early ones loved Him with a love that carried them through the hardest and most treacherous times.
As I have spent quite a bit of time here lately, I also felt that some of you were 'there' in spirit - or perhaps I was 'here' in spirit, space makes no difference to emancipated spirits.
God is indeed Love, and when He is seen, it is an education in itself concerning the God whom is adored by myriads of angels glorifying His Name with the deepest reverence.
+
Quote from: Psalm91:4 on May 02, 2015, 06:47:08 PM
:dsunny: :icon_flower: :icon_flower:
https://youtu.be/UmXHkL3xiMU
:)
..aw, man! when I was growing up, Elvis was almost a member of the household! (my parents were quite the fans) ..he sure sang gospel songs passionately! :smile: thanks for the nice reminder..
Quote from: lastpost on May 03, 2015, 11:45:42 PM
Dear friends,
I know some have had bad experiences in churches and may not thank me for the following (although our peaceful sanctuary is unlike most churches I believe you refer to).
On the first Sunday of the month our very small gathering shares bread and blackcurrant juice in remembrance of our Lord Jesus Christ.
This is never forced on anyone, it cannot be. But I truly believe that a special blessing and connection with the Heart of the compassionate Christ always occurs, for it is a law of Love.
Tonight, I felt the very real Presence of the Master Christ, I also saw Him inside my mind when my eyes were closed. Oh dear people, how can anyone describe the Divine Beauty of the Christ in the flesh, it cannot be done, but it is no wonder that those early ones loved Him with a love that carried them through the hardest and most treacherous times.
As I have spent quite a bit of time here lately, I also felt that some of you were 'there' in spirit - or perhaps I was 'here' in spirit, space makes no difference to emancipated spirits.
God is indeed Love, and when He is seen, it is an education in itself concerning the God whom is adored by myriads of angels glorifying His Name with the deepest reverence.
+
:smile: when my heart or spirit is lifted up in the best praise I often feel there are many with me.. that we are in front of His throne.. when we worship and our hearts are lifted up in love, I feel as though we are at His throne, and it seems to me many others are there also.. (and more and more so as `the day` approaches?) :smile:
Quote from: marie glen on May 04, 2015, 04:59:50 AM
Quote from: Psalm91:4 on May 02, 2015, 06:47:08 PM
:dsunny: :icon_flower: :icon_flower:
https://youtu.be/UmXHkL3xiMU
:)
..aw, man! when I was growing up, Elvis was almost a member of the household! (my parents were quite the fans) ..he sure sang gospel songs passionately! :smile: thanks for the nice reminder..
Yes, and the best looking thing on the planet. :HeartThrob:
CHB
Well, I know we've got some Elvis fans out there, but I don't think he was "the best looking thing on the planet." I think there are a lot of ladies who look a lot better.
Well, I should have said "man on the planet". Which is what I meant. Sorry. :winkgrin:
CHB
I figured that which leads me to believe you're a sister even though you seem to want to keep that a mystery by not posting your gender icon which is all right because there is no male and female in Christ Jesus. God bless ya, sis.
Tom, I have heard the men say Elvis was the best looking thing they had ever seen. One on tv said "it should be against the law for anyone to be that good looking". Can't remember who it was that said that but it was someone in the music industry. In the end Elvis looked pretty bad, what a shame, looks aren't everything though. But you are right, I am female. This is not about the original post so, I better stop on this, Jabcat and EW will have my hide. :laughing7:
It is a shame that people like Elvis who could have had it all and did for a little while, gave themselves over to the wrong influences in life. Most of those of fame can't deal with life because they don't know God as we know him. Most of them have troubled lives. I wish they did know him, someday they will. I pray for that day.
CHB
I agree that fame and other worldly power messes with folks' minds, but I think beauty is in the eye of the beholder. These days I prefer a natural woman with the light of holy spirit shining from her eyes. I'm not knockin your crush on Elvis though, sis.
Post....Re: I still go to church, do you?
Now we are speaking of a dead Elvis and some female singer dueting just like Hank Sr. and Hank Jr. when one of them has died? I am sitting here putting all this into perspective and have come up with zilch. I do not still go to church and if Elvis and Hank Sr. were to do a special I would most certainly NOT go to church. :2c:
Sorry micah, it's all my fault!
The song was about wanting a dream to come true, and that movie was too.....about building a certain field and then certain people would show up...even though they had died...like a get together.
Since Elvis died too...and showed up ( by technology only tho ) I saw a similarity there.
But the bottom line is that I was thinking of all those that passed on and showed up as the cloud of witnesses that wanted to be part of the dream coming true, too.
It probably still won't make much sense ...sorry. I just don't think churches should be the only ones who gather face to face. I was agreeing with your sense that ...that is lacking here.
I'm not really into forums as much as I am into real human contact.
Quote from: micah7:9 on May 05, 2015, 04:20:58 AM
Post....Re: I still go to church, do you?
Now we are speaking of a dead Elvis and some female singer dueting just like Hank Sr. and Hank Jr. when one of them has died? I am sitting here putting all this into perspective and have come up with zilch. I do not still go to church and if Elvis and Hank Sr. were to do a special I would most certainly NOT go to church. :2c:
micah, sounds like you'd be "Crying in the Chapel". :happygrin:
Thats really funny Micah, James :laugh:
Quote from: eaglesway on May 05, 2015, 07:14:29 AM
Thats really funny Micah, James :laugh:
Funny and good :dsunny:
Quote from: CHB on April 29, 2015, 07:47:32 PM
Wow!!! didn't realize there were that many. Which Church did you attend?
I was in Asheville, or I moved to Asheville. I wondered how much changed after I left?
CHB
Although I have lived in Canada all my life, I attended the FoT with the WWCG in the USA a number of times.
Attended at St. Pete's 4 times, Tucson, Mount Pocono, Big Sandy, Niagara Falls and Pensacola.
:rolllol:
Just got back from HDC awesome sermon!! They said there was gonna be some changes. The paster said God crucified Jesus to redeem us. That He went all the way to save us..because He loves us that much! Wow!! I'm amazed God is too awesome for words.
In England I go to a nice friendly Methodist Church. The church focuses on the Bible but doesn't teach hellfire. I enjoy going to my church and being part of the church family.
Was so disappointed today.....the senior pastor is back to the traditional doctrine preaching about free will and the possibility of being eternally lost. Im not giving up though...I feel God wants me there. Again, Im not trying to influence anyone else to attend a church congregation. We are all different and God leads us differently. Im praying for this church of 12,000 people to find the real Truth. For now...they have reverted, but I know there are other UR believers there. Sometimes it is just painfully disapionting when I see people going in the right way, turn around and go back. But I know the Truth will stand in the end and we will all spend eternity together which brings much peace, joy and trust in our Father.
That's why my answer to the original post is "no" because I think you can minister to church people outside the institution of the church better than inside it. If you communicate on neutral turf, I think the chances are better for some progress in helping those still trapped by the deception to see the truth simply by sharing some scripture translated accurately.
Where I go, the concept of an everlasting hell has never been taught once in over 80 years. It is all about Jesus Christ and the Love of God, and an expansion on this by the Spirit, which in my opinion, is the way it should be. There has never been teaching by men. God is truly good. God is Harmony, God is Peace, God is Just, God is Beautiful - God is LOVE. What is amazing is how few people seem to actually want a God who is all of these things.
For you, Tom its no...but for me its yes. I do pray for them when I am there and I don't support the false doctrines or give money..I wont until I am sure they are boldy teaching the Truth. I go with my family my husband is not UR. I'm praying for him to of course. :HeartThrob:
Well, I pray for you and your family too, sis.
Thank you..we all need prayers :Pray:
This is very interesting conversation. One thing for sure, nobody here has not stopped meeting together with other believers in spite of "not going to church." The fact that we are here is the fulfillment of Hebrews 10:24. "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works"
Some feel bad for us, some think we are in denial. Others are angry even blaming us for others going to "hell." Our salvation includes them but theirs does not include us.
It is refreshing to be with other like minded believers.
Steve
Quote from: sdileo on June 09, 2015, 02:04:59 AM
This is very interesting conversation. One thing for sure, nobody here has not stopped meeting together with other believers in spite of "not going to church." The fact that we are here is the fulfillment of Hebrews 10:24. "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works"
Some feel bad for us, some think we are in denial. Others are angry even blaming us for others going to "hell." Our salvation includes them but theirs does not include us.
It is refreshing to be with other like minded believers.
Steve
:dsunny: :HeartThrob: :thumbsup: :dsunny: :HeartThrob: :iagree:
Thank you, Micah!
Steve
Steve..I agree this is totally acceptable meeting place for us UR Christains, however I am not going to stop going to my church unless He tells me to. :HeartThrob:
Hi Caffus,
The Lord will not steer you wrong. I trust you are where you should be.
Steve
:friendstu: ya, Im here for Christain fellowship. Im there for other reasons....He knows. :Pray:
The musis at my church is getting more UR...but not the sermon. It seems many Christian artists are hearing Him. The sermon was very strange..he talked about how God was involved to have Jesus crucified but then said God is just as much as He is love. Then he hinted that if Christ is not accepted before death eternal torment is just becuase He gave his Son. That teaching completely contradicts this verse John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.
This is something that I have been struggling with lately. I am a freelance illustrator/graphic designer, so Sunday is about the only time I get out of the house. The thing is, I've never been terribly comfortable in the church I attend; in fact, the only reason I started attending there in the first place is because it's where my husband was going when we got married. It's just... it seems to me that in the pulpit the pastor talks as if he's seeking God, but outside of the pulpit he says some awfully strange things. I also feel a sense of bondage when he speaks. It's not a feeling that says, "Run away, NOW!" (I've been in a church where I felt that); it's more a feeling that says, "There's something wrong here. Be careful."
I'm thinking of quitting, since my husband hasn't been going lately anyway due to illness, and I can't in good conscious donate or even do much in the way of volunteering lately. :dunno2:
I understand Id like to at least try another church..I actually found a UR believing church recently near me by doing searches on the net. But, my husband seems to like were we are. I'm still praying for them and I believe in time they will come to understanding UR.
:cloud9: I just saw this thread. I didn't go for over a decade; He took me out one day when I was disgusted over what lie I was hearing and in my mind I said, "Oh, Lord! Where can I go to be fed?", not really expecting an answer. Plain as day, I heard, "On the mountaintop," from Isaiah. I got the message.
The last couple of years I go when I can (it's 1.5 hours from my home) to a Messianic Jewish church (they believe in Jesus as their savior and Messiah) that shares the building with an Assembly of God church, since their service days don't conflict.
Aside from the fact I love seeing and participating in what "church" was really like in the first century, the Rabbi is an expert on the book of Isaiah, speaks and teaches the meaning of the Hebrew words and idioms that a western minded audience would not "get". So you CAN be fed here as well, something I haven't found in other churches who primarily give the same salvation or go to hell message every week.
Add to that, beautiful praise and worship, the Spirit so heavy in there you can feel it, and fellowship afterwards, and it's as good as it gets, IMO. Blessings....
I have been to many churches in my time. A few of them were quite elitist believing that they are the "only ones, the true remnant". Then I hooked up with the home church movement and after that got involved with a pretty extreme group of people. My life was pretty much guided by them and my wife and I lived in fear most of the time.
I won't go into the details but God opened up an opportunity for us to leave. We suffered through the poisonous emails, phone calls and we ended up having to move house. I started having OCD and other health problems and my wife became severely anorexic to the point where I almost lost her.
I just couldn't sit in another church or bible study but I was guilt ridden that I was forsaking the assembly. My mind was quiet one day and the Lord pointed me to the scripture that "where two or more are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them".
I realized that me and my wife, plus the Lord is the basic fundamental of the church. I do have some affiliations, TentMaker being one of them. I wouldn't advise anyone to leave their church but God will not punish us for it.
A word to the wise, any person having power over others for whatever reason, had best take care that they use that power in the fear of God, lest he/she/them will be sorely rebuked by the Lord.
Shalom :Peace2:
Jock.
:thumbsup: Jock. Blessings.
Glad you got out of there Jock. :dsunny: My church is open to people who believe differently. There is a senior minister and a few others who speak there. I know we don't have to go to church for fellowship. We can fellowship here as well. I am pretty sure the senior pastor now firmly believes in UR. He spoke about what chosen and elect mean. That through them all people of the earth will be blessed. He has quoted verses supporting UR and no longer speaks of eternal hell. He also seems more joyful and at ease. He also has said "Jesus the Savoir of the world many times recently. So, I praise God for that! :banana:
Caffus, I'm glad that you are happy with your church. I think a difficult time is coming to the church, with this whole challenge of "same sex marriage") Many churches may have to fold up or break up. It would be good for a believer to keep very close to the Lord. Hope your church survives. :2c:
Shalom :Peace2:
Jock.
May His will be done. I'm not so happy anymore...he just made it clear that he is not an UR believer. I'm very disappointed :doh: I don't know what's going on with that church. :dunno2: But I will keep praying for them.
Hi Caffus. You don't have to make any decisions right now. Find that place of rest where the Lord is, and rest in Him. I was sitting by a highland Loch (Lake) one time and I noticed that when the wind was away, we could see the reflection of all the beauty around. It was like a huge mirror. We even found ourselves whispering to each other it was so quiet there.
We ate our picnic that we had brought and we noticed that the wind had whipped up and immediately the Loch lost it's ability to reflect. It became dark. It's the same with us! Just rest Caffus and allow the Lord to be the good shepherd that He is. Wait on Him. :dsunny:
Shalom
Jock.
Thanks Jock..my husband and children like this church...I like the music and most of the preaching. Just disappointed today. I do spend alone time with the Lord everyday...I need to. May God bless you and your family
I am an Italian Protestant - though I hate denominationalism - and for those who don't know, Italy is 99% Catholic (though 98% is Catholic only because they were baptized in a Catholic church), so you don't have a wide choice here. Yes, we have some churches such as one or two Pentecostal churches (I'm in Rome, which has 5 milions inhabitants), two Waldensian (Calvinist) churches, two Lutheran churches, one Methodist church and one Baptist church, but they're not many, and often they have just one or two pastors. Perhaps, in a city like Rome we have about twelve Prostestant pastors from many denominations... Anyway, I'm not here to tell you how many pastors are in my city, but rather to answer your question. I am Methodist, but I go to a Waldensian church, because in Italy they are one single Church (The United Waldensian and Methodist Church), but I have no problems partaking an Orthodox liturgy - I have even been an Ancient Greek Chants Reader, an Agnostes - or a Catholic one (though in the Catholic mass there are parts where the congregations has to pray to Mary, and I don't like it, so I generally change them and say "And I ask my dear brothers and sisters to pray for me" instead of "I ask Mary...".
I am still baptised in the Orthodox church even if I reject much of the extra-biblical things they teach and eternal torment. I've attended Catholic and Protestant service as well.
Quote from: Lorenzo on November 07, 2015, 08:59:29 PM
I am an Italian Protestant - though I hate denominationalism - and for those who don't know, Italy is 99% Catholic (though 98% is Catholic only because they were baptized in a Catholic church), so you don't have a wide choice here. Yes, we have some churches such as one or two Pentecostal churches (I'm in Rome, which has 5 milions inhabitants), two Waldensian (Calvinist) churches, two Lutheran churches, one Methodist church and one Baptist church, but they're not many, and often they have just one or two pastors. Perhaps, in a city like Rome we have about twelve Prostestant pastors from many denominations... Anyway, I'm not here to tell you how many pastors are in my city, but rather to answer your question. I am Methodist, but I go to a Waldensian church, because in Italy they are one single Church (The United Waldensian and Methodist Church), but I have no problems partaking an Orthodox liturgy - I have even been an Ancient Greek Chants Reader, an Agnostes - or a Catholic one (though in the Catholic mass there are parts where the congregations has to pray to Mary, and I don't like it, so I generally change them and say "And I ask my dear brothers and sisters to pray for me" instead of "I ask Mary...".
Lorenzo, I have read up on the long history and great persecution of the Waldensian Church. Were they in fact, Apostolic?
Quote from: Lazarus Short on November 08, 2015, 05:35:21 PM
Quote from: Lorenzo on November 07, 2015, 08:59:29 PM
I am an Italian Protestant - though I hate denominationalism - and for those who don't know, Italy is 99% Catholic (though 98% is Catholic only because they were baptized in a Catholic church), so you don't have a wide choice here. Yes, we have some churches such as one or two Pentecostal churches (I'm in Rome, which has 5 milions inhabitants), two Waldensian (Calvinist) churches, two Lutheran churches, one Methodist church and one Baptist church, but they're not many, and often they have just one or two pastors. Perhaps, in a city like Rome we have about twelve Prostestant pastors from many denominations... Anyway, I'm not here to tell you how many pastors are in my city, but rather to answer your question. I am Methodist, but I go to a Waldensian church, because in Italy they are one single Church (The United Waldensian and Methodist Church), but I have no problems partaking an Orthodox liturgy - I have even been an Ancient Greek Chants Reader, an Agnostes - or a Catholic one (though in the Catholic mass there are parts where the congregations has to pray to Mary, and I don't like it, so I generally change them and say "And I ask my dear brothers and sisters to pray for me" instead of "I ask Mary...".
Lorenzo, I have read up on the long history and great persecution of the Waldensian Church. Were they in fact, Apostolic?
Well, when they began preaching, in XII century, they were really wonderful... now, well, they are much "wordlier", so they sometimes use to do things I do not accept. Besides, they believe that the gifts of the Holy Spirit have ceased, while I do believe they're still working.
Quote from: Lorenzo on November 09, 2015, 07:14:40 PM
Quote from: Lazarus Short on November 08, 2015, 05:35:21 PM
Quote from: Lorenzo on November 07, 2015, 08:59:29 PM
I am an Italian Protestant - though I hate denominationalism - and for those who don't know, Italy is 99% Catholic (though 98% is Catholic only because they were baptized in a Catholic church), so you don't have a wide choice here. Yes, we have some churches such as one or two Pentecostal churches (I'm in Rome, which has 5 milions inhabitants), two Waldensian (Calvinist) churches, two Lutheran churches, one Methodist church and one Baptist church, but they're not many, and often they have just one or two pastors. Perhaps, in a city like Rome we have about twelve Prostestant pastors from many denominations... Anyway, I'm not here to tell you how many pastors are in my city, but rather to answer your question. I am Methodist, but I go to a Waldensian church, because in Italy they are one single Church (The United Waldensian and Methodist Church), but I have no problems partaking an Orthodox liturgy - I have even been an Ancient Greek Chants Reader, an Agnostes - or a Catholic one (though in the Catholic mass there are parts where the congregations has to pray to Mary, and I don't like it, so I generally change them and say "And I ask my dear brothers and sisters to pray for me" instead of "I ask Mary...".
Lorenzo, I have read up on the long history and great persecution of the Waldensian Church. Were they in fact, Apostolic?
Well, when they began preaching, in XII century, they were really wonderful... now, well, they are much "wordlier", so they sometimes use to do things I do not accept. Besides, they believe that the gifts of the Holy Spirit have ceased, while I do believe they're still working.
:Chinscratch: The history I have read of them pushes their history much further back in time. :dunno2:
I believe that it is the Holy spirit that revels spiritual truths...we cant open anyone's eyes on our own...but we must be willing to do whatever we believe He wills for us to do. The sermon this sunday was all about the doctrine of hell..they wanted to make sure that after the UR type sermon they did no one was confused to what the church officially believes and teaches. It was horrible. I wrote them a note about the book Raising Hell..I just said there is a good scriptural book on the topic you shared today called Raising Hell. May God bless you.
Quote from: Lazarus Short on November 09, 2015, 07:35:18 PM
Quote from: Lorenzo on November 09, 2015, 07:14:40 PM
Quote from: Lazarus Short on November 08, 2015, 05:35:21 PM
Quote from: Lorenzo on November 07, 2015, 08:59:29 PM
I am an Italian Protestant - though I hate denominationalism - and for those who don't know, Italy is 99% Catholic (though 98% is Catholic only because they were baptized in a Catholic church), so you don't have a wide choice here. Yes, we have some churches such as one or two Pentecostal churches (I'm in Rome, which has 5 milions inhabitants), two Waldensian (Calvinist) churches, two Lutheran churches, one Methodist church and one Baptist church, but they're not many, and often they have just one or two pastors. Perhaps, in a city like Rome we have about twelve Prostestant pastors from many denominations... Anyway, I'm not here to tell you how many pastors are in my city, but rather to answer your question. I am Methodist, but I go to a Waldensian church, because in Italy they are one single Church (The United Waldensian and Methodist Church), but I have no problems partaking an Orthodox liturgy - I have even been an Ancient Greek Chants Reader, an Agnostes - or a Catholic one (though in the Catholic mass there are parts where the congregations has to pray to Mary, and I don't like it, so I generally change them and say "And I ask my dear brothers and sisters to pray for me" instead of "I ask Mary...".
Lorenzo, I have read up on the long history and great persecution of the Waldensian Church. Were they in fact, Apostolic?
Well, when they began preaching, in XII century, they were really wonderful... now, well, they are much "wordlier", so they sometimes use to do things I do not accept. Besides, they believe that the gifts of the Holy Spirit have ceased, while I do believe they're still working.
:Chinscratch: The history I have read of them pushes their history much further back in time. :dunno2:
Maybe you're right, I'm not quite good at remembering dates. Anyway, according to Wikipedia they appeared in XIIth century (Italian Wikipedia). But you know how Wikipedia works, so... :dunno2:
We gave something along these lines this morning for Christmas Day Service...
"Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem, behold there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying: Where is He that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the east, and are come to worship Him...And, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was." St. Matt.2: 1-9.
FATHER of all Love, we come to Thee this day with humble hearts, offering our thanks for the great gift of the Christ-Child. May we ever remember that unless we become as little children in obedience and purity, in no wise can we enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Grant that many upon the earth may be inspired, as were the wise men of old, to cross the desert of the unknown, and by the Star of Faith find that Holy Place of Grace where Divine Love is manifested before their wondering eyes. May one and all bring their gifts, both great and small, to lay before Thine Altar, so that by this act of personal sacrifice the Christ Teaching may be spread into many lands. Grant that those once strangers to Thy unlimited Love, may go on their way rejoicing, bringing the Christ Message of Goodwill to fellow-pilgrims on the road to Life. Amen.
It is a short and pure Service.
Some who consciously recognise the Christ acting in them, will be able to understand that the wise person, having crossed the desert of misunderstanding, lays aside - surrenders willingly - the physical life of unreality, in order to realise that the King of all is already living in His Kingdom, and that Heaven is within - Christ has always been in His crib, has always been on His Cross, has always been arisen and alive.
The Kingdom of God is not a material place and will not be seen with physical signs - they are an illusion. The Kingdom of God has always been. The Kingdom of God is a reality and that reality in all its beauty comes to this earth in His children and His angels, and His Will is done on earth as it is in Heaven.
That person knows that Christ has returned, and that person begins to let go of the beliefs of the mind to which he has clung out of duty and often out of fear of losing his footing in the only reality he knows. But now that is gone and his life is lived with Christ living in him, even as he wakes, even as he goes to sleep.
His message is that Christ lives in him, not as words or phrases or memorised doctrinal tenets or philosophical realisations or intellectual understandings, but Christ lives in him as the Being who Is and always has Been with the Godhead at all times, where there was no past or no future because He is the great I AM.
And that Being now lives in the person because Christ lives in that person and Christ is in the Father. That person knows now who I AM is, that there is no death because I AM has always been and will always be. The quarrelsome doctrinal concoctions of the mind drop away, seen for the props they were once useful for, and the person lives each and every moment in the present, in the Presence of God the Supreme Being – indeed, he shall never see death because he is now alive forever in Christ.
There is nothing that shall shake him from his joint life in Christ, now they are one, no longer in the sinful land of separation brought on by the devil of the sense-world, that person has overcome such a world because Christ lives in him, now he fears not even to make friends with those living in sinful separation, indeed, his very joy for Christ works in him in His own way, free from the religion of the sense-mind.
Now he calmly offers himself at the crib of humility, and immediately he is given the joy of another burden for He who is the light of men.
The Crib – the making of a human body for the fullness of the Godhead to walk in and teach the little children of the earth – this is but a little miracle for the Lord God Creator of all. But alongside this is that which is a miracle of so gigantic a proportion and from a sphere of humility far beyond the mind of humanity to fathom (because its mind looks at outer truths and clothes them in its various religions which become tradition), the miracle and humility of the Supreme Being – the great I AM – that He should become the Son of Man.
Peace
Jesus said He gave His life for the Church, His bride.
Ephesians 5: 25 - 27
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
That can be interpreted different ways, but I go to Church. I believe it was important to Jesus that we come together as the Body of Christ, to support one another, to love one another, to share with each other, to worship together, to remember His sacrifice for us, and that He saves us.
And that is good enough for me. God supplies all our needs, not the Church.
D.
Yes, it's God the supplies all our needs and when we truly need support from other Christians, He'll see to it..that we have the support we need....we don't have to meet in some place...that "place" could be here :declare:
:dsunny: :HeartThrob:
Quote from: Caffus on December 27, 2015, 12:56:30 AM
Yes, it's God the supplies all our needs and when we truly need support from other Christians, He'll see to it..that we have the support we need....we don't have to meet in some place...that "place" could be here :declare:
Yup! You all are my fellowship!
I do occasionally go to church for the benefit of my husband and kids. And I can find something in each service to uplift me and inspire me, even if I don't agree 100% with the teachings, God can use those clay pots for His purpose too. :)
:dsunny: :HeartThrob:
Funny how we are always listening to all the voices and sometimes they stick in our heads .
I was so busy trying to discern what was good and evil , I forgot how to LIVE ..
I can honestly say the LORD is blessing with a new attitude , loving all despite where ever they are at .... ! I KNOW ITS JESUS !!
Greater is He that is in you than is in the World !!
1 John 5
3For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.
4For whatever is born of God overcomes the world;
and this is the victory that has overcome the world-- our faith.
5Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?...
I struggle with going to church yet I do feel compelled to go. I find more fellowship, support and understanding here. Me and my wife although we both believe my wife doesn't like going to church. Due to this there is a bit of a divide with our kids on the idea.
I would like us all to go but on the other hand I dont think we must go to a building. However I do feel I usually get something from every service however small. I have to say I much prefer to come on here for fellowship though. I feel more free to discuss and give and receive support which I feel is a big part of church. I try to get my kids to go (age 9 and 11) but as I have only been going the last 6 months its harder to convince them as its not been from the start. My stories a bit of a long one and I wont bore you all today with it but lets say I always believed in God, was baptized as a catholic and later fell away from the church. I now go to a christian church, off and on it has to be said. I think if it wasn't for the kids I may well not go so not sure what that says. I guess my kids will loose sight of God but then I just keep thinking concentrate on myself and my light will shine and they will see God is for real. I dont want to push any of them at this point and sometimes at church im on my own and every now and again when I get talking I get wheres you wife, where are your kids?? then Im thinking are they judging me? im sure most are not but when the same ones ask week after week you start to think I cant just drag them here!!!
when I cried out for Jesus when my life when to pot my whole view changed and I was very worried about everything. I tried to push my wife and kids into God and the church. We nearly split up it came very close. Since then I have taken steps back and let God work on them, I pray for them all and they all believe and I do drop in little seeds if you like about how Jesus would like us to live and how we can thank God for all we have. I let them choose to come now and I know some will say at that age I shouldn't but I dont want them growing up and hating me dragging them there. Im not convinced how much they are taught anyhow and I know they do learn at school a little too. I believe God hears my prayers and the spirit will work in each of them. For now I will continue to go, today was ok and there are some nice people there so its 50/50 for me at the minute. :Chinscratch:
:cloud9: I would encourage you to have your children go to children's church. At least they will get the milk of the Word, which is about all most of the churches can minister anyway. You'll have less problems with them when they hit the teen years, if you do. I believe, provided they are not filling them with lies.
I didn't go and so my kids didn't go, and I taught them about God from the time they could speak, but I think in retrospect they might not have had such a hard road getting back to Him if they had received more support than just from me. Just my :2c: Blessings...
Hi Truthseeker
I believe it is a good thing to keep talking to the Lord in prayers and drawing closer with Him and going to church as Cardinal said for your children's sake , mine went when they were little with me
I was given this amazing dilemma one day , I believe it was a test of faith , maybe not , everyone has their own experiences that help change us , shape us or just plain have to choose by faith in what path you are going to walk , under the belief of another mans faith [ preacher /teacher ] or the Holy Spirit ,
I was in a little country hell fire and brimstone church , the last one I attended , but had been to many different denominations over the course of life , as a child it was Baptist and Catholic based schools that was offered in our area as grade schoolers
The preacher was on his way to church and saw a man on the lawnmower and used as an example of , he should be in church , his soul is in danger of hell fire forever !!!
Well that was the time a voice spoke to me pretty plainly , asking , ''Do you believe this ?'' My inner response was NO ! YOU ARE GOD , you can save anyone any time anywhere , You are God !
Than all that was said was '' Why are you here ?'' I got up the children and it was an exodus ,, I never looked back ,,
I could never understand the hate message to the lost , that only their group was truly saved and all the falling away etc ,,, I see these types as very carnal / beastly still ...
It does reminds me of the Sons of thunder ! Jesus Come to save mens lives , not destroy them and not knowing what manner of spirit they are of ..
It is heartbreaking , all one can do is pray for healing , the world needs to be healed of sin sickness , pray to the Lord of harvest to send out the workers
into His Harvest ..
Where 2 or 3 are gathered in His name HE is in the midst of them . :HeartThrob:
:thumbsup:
I agree with both of the above posts, thanks.
If I could have them both with me every Sunday I would and it has bothered me much trust me. My problem is my Wife doesnt belive she has to go to church and I have tried to push before with disasterous results almost. I think if I went down that route I would be looking at a possible seperation. My kids see this they are not stupid and ask why do we have to go if mum doesnt. My eldest is not too bad and just needs a kick up the bum sometimes ha. But my youngest is VERY shy and was upset last time, im not over protective but I have to be realistic and think what is she getting out of this if she is upset all the time. She used to be eith her sister but they have seperated them so me eldest is somewhere else. I did go in the group with her in the begining so maybe I will do that again till she hooks up with someone. They are only in there about half an hour of the one and a half our service and usually they put on a kids Bible story off youtube so I am not over convinced theres anything I couldnt do myself.
I find myself in a funny situation if we was all on the same page I would tell them they are going but I know it will cause a rift. Sometimes I think is that a test of faith. I used to read verses like Matt 10:35 and think maybe God wants me to prove my faith and choose him over my family. Thats when we nearly seperated and just before it got worse Ijust thought NO. God would not want this he wouldnt want all this pain and anger with us. He wouldnt want my wife and kids to walk away from him becuase I was forcing them to a building. I continue to pray one day we will all be together in church but until then I have to work at it slowly. I dont want my kids running away in the future from church because I was one of those dads that pushed them too hard and now they couldnt wait to run away from it. Its not an easy situation and it has and does cause me grieve. I feel a bit of a failure if im honest but I keep going and pray God is with me. :dsunny:
Well God bless you in your efforts Truthseeker ,
I was so much younger as you and your wife are now and
at that time in our lives and marriage , I ''pushed to hard at going to church'' and got ;''religious'' and it almost cost the marriage..
I had no idea how overbearing I had become , Just because it is your time and the Lord is calling , does not mean The Lord has for your wife , in my case husband and the little children suffer , little ones need the security of Mom and Dad showing love and agreement to feel safe ,
That was a hard lesson to learn ..... and so, such a stressful and fragile thing for our marriage ...
I cried many a tear and lone walks with the Lord over them matters of the heart and what the heart wants ,,,Consider it may not be Gods desire , learning to wait on Him to get us though this life .
Difficulty is hard on you ,when you are young and full of zeal for Him , You wish everyone to have it , like you do and ''right now '' and want them to hear you . but they cannot hear you
The Word/ Bible says they don't hear yet , Till the Lord gives them eyes to see and ears to hear and heart to understand , Just as the Lord opened you up to hear Him
Praying to the One whom Can ,is your way of peace in my opinion , it is the best advice as to one who has been though it and so would have wanted the same advice , My own dad helped me some to understand though his experiences with mom ,
I do believe sometimes men and women think entirely different and BOTH need to learn to listen and respect one another , this is how our own marriage made it to 28 years and counting , Giving God the glory here ... learning patience does come with a price .
God bless your marriage and children Truthseeker and mostly here and now God bless your heart .
You hit that one right on the head. :iagree: it sounds like a mirror image our life in the last year. We have been married 5 years now but together a lot longer (did that wrong too!) I wish I came to God earlier but nothing I can do now about that. I cried many times I wont lie and at times still do. At first it was as simple as knowing she belived in God. She tells me she prays and we have good chats and I hoenstly think she does have a relationship with him but just doesnt like the church gathering I guess. I have a couple of friends that come round and theres no issues there. She doesnt read the bible or study so unless it comes from myself or my firends thats it. It does worry me about her salvation but who am i to judge? is it not grace alone? did the thief on the cross do anything? I hope one day she finds the zeal I have found. Most of my days are in study on something if its not the bible its the creation of the universe I find it amazing theres a site called answers in genesis if you are ever interested. As for my girls I will encourage them, I wish I could tell them they are going like it or not but at this stage of our lives I think it would be a step back. My wife has faith (even if its a mustard seed) my two girls do as well and they do learn and have some knowledge. My eldest will come to church to see her friend so thats not too hard but I will have to work on my youngest slowly I think. I know some at the church may look a me silly when I say they didnt want to come but its not always black and white. I am thinking of their hole life with God and I have to trust God that he will help me do what is right. Its been a real struggle coming to God in many ways. My family consists of Athiests, catholics and luke warm christians :rolllol: Im just hoping Gods got my back!!
:cloud9: Maybe you could make it more appealing by making it a family day and doing something they all like after church, so that you're all together? Just a thought....blessings....
GOD is all around us and though us and near us , not very far from anyone of us Brother ,,, I always loved this in Acts 17 ...
26and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation,
27that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope/seeking and inquiring for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us;
28for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, 'For we also are His children.'...
I DO believe the struggles of this life do cause us to seek after GOD , knowing we cannot do it on our own after all .
Pride comes and than the fall , every knee bows and tongue will confess before HIM eventually ,,, I have so much comfort in knowing that and those doubts removed ...
God bless
:thumbsup:
Thanks Rosered,
Sometimes I do have to take a step back and think if God wants this he will make it happen in his time. I do tend to go into panic mode and think im not doing enough to being my family to God. But then I think how does it look if im always stressed out or pushing my faith on people? I`m not saying I should just sit back and do nothing but I think as someone else posted else where sometimes actions speak lounder than words. This year I want to put more of my trust in God and let the light shine through me and hopefully in time things will happen. :dsunny: :dsunny:
Quote from: Truth seeker on January 12, 2016, 12:25:53 PM
Thanks Rosered,
Sometimes I do have to take a step back and think if God wants this he will make it happen in his time. I do tend to go into panic mode and think im not doing enough to being my family to God. But then I think how does it look if im always stressed out or pushing my faith on people? I`m not saying I should just sit back and do nothing but I think as someone else posted else where sometimes actions speak lounder than words. This year I want to put more of my trust in God and let the light shine through me and hopefully in time things will happen. :dsunny: :dsunny:
Those are true words of Wisdom Truthseeker :thumbsup:
:banana: Your peace and calm comes from the Lord and giving your family that same peace and calm , All shall be blessed
This please the Lord and your family can take comfort in that security , one earth and it is in heaven
Jesus double peace , Love is the very action of faith that bears fruit of the Holy Spirit
I do believe you please God by trusting in Him , your faith is very precious thing the very substance of Hope and increase of God ..
Without your faith being exercised /used , it is impossible to please God , for me that means , not so much winning souls to Christ as it means getting your self so fully whole totally ,so far hid in Christ , they can see Jesus working in you and in you , This is what gives glory and honor to Christ and to God the FATHER , in my experiences and opinion .
Stay positive and Happy He saves everyone , that is something to bless our socks off !!! such Joy !! :banana:
Hebrews 11 Aramaic Bible in Plain English
But without faith, no one can please God, for
whoever is brought near to God must believe that he exists and that he is the rewarder of those who seek him.
:dsunny: The Light only gets brighter as Children of the Day [He is our Light and Life and Love ] , become ONE IN HIS PRESENCE ! TO DAY :HeartThrob:
Stars shine in the darkness / ignorance of not knowing God , but the children of the DAY /JESUS CHRIST the lamb of God are experiencing His presence !!
7 times brighter than the sun , that is the fulness of the LIGHT shining on all , everyone , who can resit this warmth and Holy love !!!
:dsunny:
Thank you for your kind words rosered. I pray God is pleased with me even if its only sometimes. I know I get things wrong all the time. My biggest prayer is that the spirit stays with me and continues to work in me and never gives up!
My family was raised in church. My wife still attends a Baptist church. She teaches in a Christian school.
I used to be a deacon and music leader.
I no longer attend a church.
I have learnt more about the reality of God and Christ since leaving the church.
I currently see my role to be a silent witness. This is a slow going process which involves many trials so as to display the power of Christ by the way I live.
You too will be a silent witness. Actions speak louder than words.
Jesus said Lo I am with you..... Truthseeker
Matt 28 Young's Literal Translation
teaching them to observe all, whatever I did command you,) and lo, I am with you all the days -- till the full end of the age.'
Well said Ross !! :dsunny:
Quote from: Truth seeker on January 12, 2016, 12:25:53 PM
Thanks Rosered,
Sometimes I do have to take a step back and think if God wants this he will make it happen in his time. I do tend to go into panic mode and think im not doing enough to being my family to God. But then I think how does it look if im always stressed out or pushing my faith on people? I`m not saying I should just sit back and do nothing but I think as someone else posted else where sometimes actions speak lounder than words. This year I want to put more of my trust in God and let the light shine through me and hopefully in time things will happen. :dsunny: :dsunny:
Psalm 46:10
"Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
Quote from: Tom on April 28, 2015, 06:37:14 PM
I think we can fellowship here and wherever whenever it happens sometimes when you least expect it. I think we just need to study the word of God and stay ready to defend the faith and share God's love with those in need which is very often not in church but on the street somewhere. The ecclesia, the body of Christ, is a spiritual global body of believers who have the advantage of the Net to communicate anytime. You can even use video chat if you want to see your brothers and sisters. You don't get to give real hugs or share pot lucks, but you get to share God's word and spirit which is what's most important. Even though people disagree about some things here on the forum, it is a blessing to be able to come together anytime you want to. You don't have to wait until Sunday or Wednesday, and you don't have to go anywhere else but right in front of your computer. You also don't have to worry about paying the mortgage or utilities of a separate building from your house. If it wasn't for the World Wide Web, most of us never would have gotten to know each other. Yeah, sometimes we might get on each other's nerves, but that happens in all families. We're blessed to be able to share our lives with each other even if it is virtually, and you don't have to worry about how much you're going to have to hear about going to hell just to be able to socialize with other people in a place where you know you really don't belong anymore once you believe universal reconciliation. I guess it comes down to what's really important. I understand why some people want to be with other people in the real world, but I don't think it should be at the sacrifice of the truth because we're supposed to worship God in spirit and truth. I've looked online for local like minded believers and gatherings, but the closest thing I found was a Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship in another town kind of close to me. It looked too formal for my taste though. I think the best thing to do is gather in your homes if you have like minded believers close to you, but that's just my thing. I say we should just be thankful for the fellowship we have here. Some come to find out what it's all about, and some who have been around for awhile help newcomers. I think that's what fellowship is all about. There will be differences of opinion on various topics because everybody has a different perspective, but it's good to get together and communicate. So I know some folks want to go to church, but I'm going to remain an ex-churcher in the ecclesia, the body of Christ, online and in the real world if I happen to bump into you on the street somewhere. God bless you all.
yes, I try to make it to church 'cos I like to worship God in song with others..problem is most churches hold to the 'eternal punishment' doctrine..even if they do not preach it much it's still the backdrop for what they believe and I don't like supporting churches and/or pastors that misrepresent God..i'm currently looking for a 'UR' type church so i feel more comfortable..I abruptly left my last church once I became enlightened 'cos the pastor was all about judgment, eternal hell etc etc (mixed with a bit of 'mercy')..i could not stomach any more of his sermons especially when he preached about 'God's mercy and patience running out'..maybe I'll go back to that 'hellist' church one day and gently confront him but I dont like arguments so I have not been back..it's a pity it's like this but in my experience, even when one shows Scriptural evidence of UR to a 'hellator', they still refuse to give up their belief in 'eternal punishment'...it can be frustrating and sad..still, God will work it all out one day, I'm sure...God's truth will, must, win thru in the end !.
This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.
The badspel of almost everyone burns in hell is not the gospel of the kingdom.
I still think there will be a renewed evangelization that will burn through the earth like a fire before He comes. His appearing is often called, in the Greek- "epiphanea"
I believe the true ecclesia/church/body of Christ will have(and is having) an epiphany. Like the day dawning, like the mornings star arising in our hearts.
I liken it to the wedding feast, the union of the Bride and the Bridegroom. The Call has gone out. many are too busy to come. Others have no oil in their lamps, but for those who hear and get in the door before the hall closes the door - there is a party goin on :o)
So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts.(1 pet 1)
But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. 14For this reason it says, "Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you."(Eph 5)
Great post John :thumbsup: :HeartThrob:
Daryll,
It is so hard to undo what we have been taught our whole lives ,
I have considered it, the wisdom of the world , that carnal mind that is an enmity against the Spirit of God .
Invoking fear by keeping you trapped by their words and they do believe them .
When you are seeking the Lord and do not know how to help yourself , you hope to learn a few things by those whom KNOW GOD personally
Trusting the preachers with Gods Word , but when they keep that carnal mindset , they are actually preaching against the reconciling message
The good news of the Lord Jesus Christ ,,,, I do believe this is the "forgive them Father for they know not what they do "'
The promise of the Holy Spirit to teach us and comfort and stay , indwell , was going to come though the Cross of Jesus Christ ..
But all in the Fathers timing and way , being gentle and kind , loving and forgiving answering with softs answers why you believe as you do .
Pr 15 1A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable, But the mouth of fools spouts folly....
None are put a stumbling block in our brothers way , the only way to peace in Jesus is to be LIKE HIM .....and where two or 3 are gathered in His name He will be in the midst of them :friendstu:
Quote from: eaglesway on January 17, 2016, 02:51:55 PM
This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.
The badspel of almost everyone burns in hell is not the gospel of the kingdom.
I still think there will be a renewed evangelization that will burn through the earth like a fire before He comes. His appearing is often called, in the Greek- "epiphanea"
I believe the true ecclesia/church/body of Christ will have(and is having) an epiphany. Like the day dawning, like the mornings star arising in our hearts.
I liken it to the wedding feast, the union of the Bride and the Bridegroom. The Call has gone out. many are too busy to come. Others have no oil in their lamps, but for those who hear and get in the door before the hall closes the door - there is a party goin on :o)
So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts.(1 pet 1)
But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. 14For this reason it says, "Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you."(Eph 5)
:iagree: I too believe there shall be a great move of God and I personally don't think it will be too long in coming. I think we are being the prepared evangelists for this move. We may be hidden away now and even introverted in personality a bit but I believe we will experience a suddenly like on the Day of Pentecost. Are we not all hidden away in an Upper Room now so to speak? I was given a word about this move a couple years ago and also had a dream of my family being on the tip of a huge tidal wave of revival 35 years ago. Though it looks impossible considering the stronghold ET has on the masses in this day isn't that when God usually shows up? Lazarus-dead 4 days. Widow woman and son down to last meal-Dorcas dead being prepared for burial-Those stories seem to show that God delights showing up when things look somewhat wore than hopeless. :banana: :HeartThrob: If any want to read that word message me and I'll send you a link to it. :dsunny:
Quote from: rosered on January 17, 2016, 03:48:43 PM
Great post John :thumbsup: :HeartThrob:
Daryll,
It is so hard to undo what we have been taught our whole lives ,
I have considered it, the wisdom of the world , that carnal mind that is an enmity against the Spirit of God .
Invoking fear by keeping you trapped by their words and they do believe them .
When you are seeking the Lord and do not know how to help yourself , you hope to learn a few things by those whom KNOW GOD personally
Trusting the preachers with Gods Word , but when they keep that carnal mindset , they are actually preaching against the reconciling message
The good news of the Lord Jesus Christ ,,,, I do believe this is the "forgive them Father for they know not what they do "'
The promise of the Holy Spirit to teach us and comfort and stay , indwell , was going to come though the Cross of Jesus Christ ..
But all in the Fathers timing and way , being gentle and kind , loving and forgiving answering with softs answers why you believe as you do .
Pr 15 1A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable, But the mouth of fools spouts folly....
None are put a stumbling block in our brothers way , the only way to peace in Jesus is to be LIKE HIM .....and where two or 3 are gathered in His name He will be in the midst of them :friendstu:
yes, true
went to church again today. Been going off and on for the last 6 months but I really struggle to enjoy it. Today was about grow groups/ bible study groups ect which is a good idea but I feel the church pushes us into it. For me I like to do things sometimes on my own. Ive discovered I like my own company lol. Today the pastor said regarding the grow group "if you cant dedicate 6 weeks then maybe you shouldnt be here"
Im sure he may have not wanted it to sound that bad but I didnt like how that sounded. Its like if we are not doing it with the church we are not doing anything! the look I got when I said I wasn't signing up to one lol. I have much to learn right now, anymore and my family will think I have disowned them! I dont mind them offering a service but dont force people and make them feel guilty. I find myself coming up with excuses not to go at the minute. Yet I still try to force myself. I think I do it so my family dont think I have given up God more than anything in the hope that one day they will come closer to God also. Who knows, split decisions at the minute with going to a church
Questions to ask yourself (from my own experiences):
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
went to church again today. Been going off and on for the last 6 months but I really struggle to enjoy it.
Did He tell you to go to church or was it your own decision because you thought it was the right thing to do?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Today was about grow groups/ bible study groups ect which is a good idea but I feel the church pushes us into it.
Does He force us to do anything?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
For me I like to do things sometimes on my own. Ive discovered I like my own company lol.
Which is more important, the company of men or the company of Christ (being alone with Him)?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Today the pastor said regarding the grow group "if you cant dedicate 6 weeks then maybe you shouldnt be here"
Does the Father make you feel guitly or declare your innocence through the forgiveness of sins?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Im sure he may have not wanted it to sound that bad but I didnt like how that sounded.
Red flag for me
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Its like if we are not doing it with the church we are not doing anything! the look I got when I said I wasn't signing up to one lol.
Who is the accuser? You know it isn't the Father
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
I have much to learn right now, anymore and my family will think I have disowned them!
Is going into a religious mindset worth a division in your family?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
I dont mind them offering a service but dont force people and make them feel guilty.
Again, Does the Father make you feel guitly or declare your innocence??
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
I find myself coming up with excuses not to go at the minute. Yet I still try to force myself.
Ever think it might be Him trying to keep you from falling into the religious mindset?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
I think I do it so my family dont think I have given up God more than anything in the hope that one day they will come closer to God also.
Would they think you have given up by your continuing to study on your own?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Who knows, split decisions at the minute with going to a church
A house divided will not stand, trusting in Him to reconcile all things is to walk in faith and you will not be divided
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
went to church again today. Been going off and on for the last 6 months but I really struggle to enjoy it. Today was about grow groups/ bible study groups ect which is a good idea but I feel the church pushes us into it. For me I like to do things sometimes on my own. Ive discovered I like my own company lol. Today the pastor said regarding the grow group "if you cant dedicate 6 weeks then maybe you shouldnt be here"
Im sure he may have not wanted it to sound that bad but I didnt like how that sounded. Its like if we are not doing it with the church we are not doing anything! the look I got when I said I wasn't signing up to one lol. I have much to learn right now, anymore and my family will think I have disowned them! I dont mind them offering a service but dont force people and make them feel guilty. I find myself coming up with excuses not to go at the minute. Yet I still try to force myself. I think I do it so my family dont think I have given up God more than anything in the hope that one day they will come closer to God also. Who knows, split decisions at the minute with going to a church
Dear Truthseeker ,
I trust the Lord God by His own Spirit to lead you and guide you into all truth By His Own Word and By His own Spirit .
I was sitting at the pew one day when I hear a voice speak to me...
After the preacher was judging a poor man mowing his lawn , the preacher saw on the way to his church house .
He was upset this man was not in church , I see this as a twisted view of what the CHURCH / BODY OF CHRIST really is ..
The twist of the serpents mind / carnal mind is to make everyone believe his lies or hold them in death
The voice asked me ''Do you believe this ?'' I said no Lord , you are GOD you can save anyone anywhere at any time , YOU ARE GOD !''
Than why are you here ?
I took my little children and left and never looked back ...
My hope is everyone will hear His Voice and LIVE ...
We are told there comes a time when with the little ones are no longer ''locked up under the law ''' and ministration of death sentence by the teachings of men ,,
But to lead us to Christ whom is the Light and Life and glory of the Father ...
Walking in the Spirit is a continual thing , not just at a service offered by those whom are holding men to their services , saying this is the only way you can enter heaven ... Jesus said I AM THE WAY AND TRUTH AND LIFE , none can come to the Father except by Me ....
I sure hope this helps some how .. God bless :HeartThrob:
JUGG Amen
come to the unity of faith by HIS SPIRIT :thumbsup:
Eph 4 Unity in the Body
...12for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ;
13until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.
14As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming;...
:cloud9: Condemnation ministers death to the hearer. God corrects but He doesn't condemn, so you know who is behind the voice of condemnation.
All I did was share a dream in the beginning of my walk, that I didn't understand. I was about 8 months "old". This woman who had walked with Him for years, got really riled up and attacked me at my own bible study. It was years before I understood the dream, then I knew why what was in her had attacked me so.
But about 3 days later I was in the bathroom, still feeling the same way I did after she attacked me and HE spoke to me the first sentence above, adding that "condemnation is not of My Spirit, cast in down." I did, and went back to feeling the joy of the Lord and peace.
Years later same woman was at an out of town ministry where she had come to hear the guest speakers, one of whom I knew and knew me, from the net. They invited me to sit with them on the pulpit. I didn't want to be rude and did; for about 15 minutes and then I just couldn't, my spirit combined with things He had taught me, were having a "fit", lol.
Anyway, the woman that had condemned me in my bible study decades before, when passing by in the line of people to be seated, I overheard her saying to her companions, "Well.....the baby chick has outgrown the other hens." Pretty much shows what spirit it was, doesn't it? Blessings....
right..God's correction is for understanding..not condemnation.....
Quote from: sheila on February 07, 2016, 08:30:01 PM
right..God's correction is for understanding..not condemnation.....
Amen Sheila
As I have said, many times, I like to go to church.
I love the music, I greatly believe in sharing the Lord's Supper, I enjoy the sermons, I like to worship with other believers, I like to chat with the people, I like to see and know what they are doing....if it is something worthy, I try to take part......and so on. It grounds me, in many ways, for the week. I am accustomed to church, went my entire life, even as an infant; baptized before I was 2 weeks old.
I like to visit different churches, too. Have friends from all different Christian orientations; like to go to church with them, sometimes. I get to see a piece of them, which I believe is important.
I think we need to be discerning and let the Holy Spirit do what He does best....give us wisdom and insight and teach us the ways of God. He leads us down the road of God's will for us.
I do not get upset with things I don't agree with, but try to use it as a tool to better understand others, and to learn how God is reflected in different ways.
There is no church that I agree with 100%, and my perception of God has changed over the years, and I have every expectation that it will continue to do so. I would not be growing in my walk, if this were not the case. I believe I will grow best, by being open to what God reveals through various experiences, people, places and so on. I like to get 'out there' and experience these things. I know this is not everyone's style and that is okay with me.....but it is my style and I continue to enjoy and actually love my life, in this mode.
My role in church has changed dramatically over the years.....I am less involved in anyone one particular church now. That was definitely not always the case.
The concept of 'church' has also expanded greatly for me, over the years, and I see this as continuing to an even greater degree now.
So, in a nutshell, I enjoy church, but I realize there shortcomings, and I use it as a learning experience, and a spiritual centering for me. This fallen world will never give us even church, in a less than fallen mode, but I believe I should use it to grow in my walk, as best as I am able, with God's grace.
Sorry to repeat some of the things I had said before.....for those who did not read or remember my first thoughts on this matter.
D. :2c:
Quote from: jugghead on February 07, 2016, 07:09:36 PM
Questions to ask yourself (from my own experiences):
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
went to church again today. Been going off and on for the last 6 months but I really struggle to enjoy it.
Did He tell you to go to church or was it your own decision because you thought it was the right thing to do?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Today was about grow groups/ bible study groups ect which is a good idea but I feel the church pushes us into it.
Does He force us to do anything?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
For me I like to do things sometimes on my own. Ive discovered I like my own company lol.
Which is more important, the company of men or the company of Christ (being alone with Him)?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Today the pastor said regarding the grow group "if you cant dedicate 6 weeks then maybe you shouldnt be here"
Does the Father make you feel guitly or declare your innocence through the forgiveness of sins?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Im sure he may have not wanted it to sound that bad but I didnt like how that sounded.
Red flag for me
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Its like if we are not doing it with the church we are not doing anything! the look I got when I said I wasn't signing up to one lol.
Who is the accuser? You know it isn't the Father
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
I have much to learn right now, anymore and my family will think I have disowned them!
Is going into a religious mindset worth a division in your family?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
I dont mind them offering a service but dont force people and make them feel guilty.
Again, Does the Father make you feel guitly or declare your innocence??
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
I find myself coming up with excuses not to go at the minute. Yet I still try to force myself.
Ever think it might be Him trying to keep you from falling into the religious mindset?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
I think I do it so my family dont think I have given up God more than anything in the hope that one day they will come closer to God also.
Would they think you have given up by your continuing to study on your own?
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
Who knows, split decisions at the minute with going to a church
A house divided will not stand, trusting in Him to reconcile all things is to walk in faith and you will not be divided
:iagree: :thumbsup :Really enjoyed how you analysed this and broke it down for me. Sometimes you cant see the woods for the trees so really appreciate this.
Quote from: rosered on February 07, 2016, 07:30:24 PM
Quote from: Truth seeker on February 07, 2016, 06:23:47 PM
went to church again today. Been going off and on for the last 6 months but I really struggle to enjoy it. Today was about grow groups/ bible study groups ect which is a good idea but I feel the church pushes us into it. For me I like to do things sometimes on my own. Ive discovered I like my own company lol. Today the pastor said regarding the grow group "if you cant dedicate 6 weeks then maybe you shouldnt be here"
Im sure he may have not wanted it to sound that bad but I didnt like how that sounded. Its like if we are not doing it with the church we are not doing anything! the look I got when I said I wasn't signing up to one lol. I have much to learn right now, anymore and my family will think I have disowned them! I dont mind them offering a service but dont force people and make them feel guilty. I find myself coming up with excuses not to go at the minute. Yet I still try to force myself. I think I do it so my family dont think I have given up God more than anything in the hope that one day they will come closer to God also. Who knows, split decisions at the minute with going to a church
Dear Truthseeker ,
I trust the Lord God by His own Spirit to lead you and guide you into all truth By His Own Word and By His own Spirit .
I was sitting at the pew one day when I hear a voice speak to me...
After the preacher was judging a poor man mowing his lawn , the preacher saw on the way to his church house .
He was upset this man was not in church , I see this as a twisted view of what the CHURCH / BODY OF CHRIST really is ..
The twist of the serpents mind / carnal mind is to make everyone believe his lies or hold them in death
The voice asked me "Do you believe this ?" I said no Lord , you are GOD you can save anyone anywhere at any time , YOU ARE GOD !"
Than why are you here ?
I took my little children and left and never looked back ...
My hope is everyone will hear His Voice and LIVE ...
We are told there comes a time when with the little ones are no longer "locked up under the law "' and ministration of death sentence by the teachings of men ,,
But to lead us to Christ whom is the Light and Life and glory of the Father ...
Walking in the Spirit is a continual thing , not just at a service offered by those whom are holding men to their services , saying this is the only way you can enter heaven ... Jesus said I AM THE WAY AND TRUTH AND LIFE , none can come to the Father except by Me ....
I sure hope this helps some how .. God bless :HeartThrob:
Rosered your comments always help! :dsunny:
Quote from: Cardinal on February 07, 2016, 08:14:16 PM
:cloud9: Condemnation ministers death to the hearer. God corrects but He doesn't condemn, so you know who is behind the voice of condemnation.
All I did was share a dream in the beginning of my walk, that I didn't understand. I was about 8 months "old". This woman who had walked with Him for years, got really riled up and attacked me at my own bible study. It was years before I understood the dream, then I knew why what was in her had attacked me so.
But about 3 days later I was in the bathroom, still feeling the same way I did after she attacked me and HE spoke to me the first sentence above, adding that "condemnation is not of My Spirit, cast in down." I did, and went back to feeling the joy of the Lord and peace.
Years later same woman was at an out of town ministry where she had come to hear the guest speakers, one of whom I knew and knew me, from the net. They invited me to sit with them on the pulpit. I didn't want to be rude and did; for about 15 minutes and then I just couldn't, my spirit combined with things He had taught me, were having a "fit", lol.
Anyway, the woman that had condemned me in my bible study decades before, when passing by in the line of people to be seated, I overheard her saying to her companions, "Well.....the baby chick has outgrown the other hens." Pretty much shows what spirit it was, doesn't it? Blessings....
so true Cardinal :iagree: thank you.
Quote from: Dandelion on February 07, 2016, 09:44:17 PM
As I have said, many times, I like to go to church.
I love the music, I greatly believe in sharing the Lord's Supper, I enjoy the sermons, I like to worship with other believers, I like to chat with the people, I like to see and know what they are doing....if it is something worthy, I try to take part......and so on. It grounds me, in many ways, for the week. I am accustomed to church, went my entire life, even as an infant; baptized before I was 2 weeks old.
I like to visit different churches, too. Have friends from all different Christian orientations; like to go to church with them, sometimes. I get to see a piece of them, which I believe is important.
I think we need to be discerning and let the Holy Spirit do what He does best....give us wisdom and insight and teach us the ways of God. He leads us down the road of God's will for us.
I do not get upset with things I don't agree with, but try to use it as a tool to better understand others, and to learn how God is reflected in different ways.
There is no church that I agree with 100%, and my perception of God has changed over the years, and I have every expectation that it will continue to do so. I would not be growing in my walk, if this were not the case. I believe I will grow best, by being open to what God reveals through various experiences, people, places and so on. I like to get 'out there' and experience these things. I know this is not everyone's style and that is okay with me.....but it is my style and I continue to enjoy and actually love my life, in this mode.
My role in church has changed dramatically over the years.....I am less involved in anyone one particular church now. That was definitely not always the case.
The concept of 'church' has also expanded greatly for me, over the years, and I see this as continuing to an even greater degree now.
So, in a nutshell, I enjoy church, but I realize there shortcomings, and I use it as a learning experience, and a spiritual centering for me. This fallen world will never give us even church, in a less than fallen mode, but I believe I should use it to grow in my walk, as best as I am able, with God's grace.
Sorry to repeat some of the things I had said before.....for those who did not read or remember my first thoughts on this matter.
D. :2c:
I think its great that you love church and you should continue! I dont want to come across that church is wrong or anything. For me I think for all of us the spirit will guide us in different ways that will bring us closer to God. I used to go to a catholic church with my gran before she passed away when I was young and despite it being quite mechanical (the service) I did enjoy it. These days I have moved to a christian church as I dont agree with Catholicism. I too like talking to people but it does take me time! Even when I was young I would get "oh he`s coming out of his shell now" as I began to know people. Again I like the music so its not all bad and as you say no church is 100% right. I find at the minute the few church`s I have tried always push the tithe thing/offering or bible study/grow groups and so on. Our service consists of about half an hour of songs then the offering with a video played as to why we are doing this, then a little bit on the bible then today for example it was a study group thats happening costing £15 for a ticket, signing up to a grow group giving email and mobile details so they can call you, selling a book for £8 that someone has wrote on living daily with Jesus and evening and weekly meetings. None of this is bad and we should learn but for me I feel it has to be organic it has to grow and sometimes at our church they come across its their way or no way. The church is part of a group so I understand to a point they are a business so this will be factored in when creating the service. Right now my priority is to know Jesus personally, to understand the truth and to make him know I am trying to do my best. Studying the truth is much bigger than I first thought but if I dont have the foundations right how can I begin to please him and become a light for others to see?
Us few regulars sang this hymn tonight...
We Love the Place, O God
We love the place, O God,
Wherein thine honour dwells;
The joy of thine abode
All earthly joy excels.
It is the house of prayer,
Wherein thy servants meet;
And thou, O Lord, art there
Thy chosen flock to greet.
We love thine altar, Lord;
O what on earth so dear?
For there in faith adored,
We find thy presence near.
We love the word of life,
The word that tells of peace,
Of comfort in the strife,
And joys that never cease.
We love to sing below
For mercies freely given;
But O we long to know
The triumph-song of heaven.
Lord Jesus, give us grace
On earth to love thee more,
In heaven to see thy face,
And with thy saints adore.
And indeed, I can say that regardless of what others have experienced in their churches, each person that comes to a service in our little church comments on how quiet and peaceful and uplifting and healing is its atmosphere. It is my favourite place on this earth personally, my spiritual home on earth. It is a simple little church. Some need to see God as a grand Ruler with a house stuffed full of earthly treasure, so be it, but we have our Guide and Leader the Master Christ, and His Way is simple and humble.
We also received a little about the Spiritual meaning of Fraternity, not just applying to brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, but indeed to all of God's creation, even those parts which might not seem so lovely to the mind of the body.
The vast inherent responsibility of the children of God to all of creation is generally not given as much consideration as should be, but we are told that the great Parent God is totally aware of even the tiniest sparrow that might fall, and that we, when this brief earth life is over, will be staggered at our own inescapable and inseparable affiliation with all of creation (which extends far, far beyond anything the earthly mind has conceived) because of the very fact we are of God, interconnected, One with Him through His gift to us of life out of Himself.
Yet while the child of the God still chooses to eat of the tree of earthly good and evil, his at-one-ment with the One True God remains beyond his ability to achieve or even recognise that the God within and without is the only one true Reality that is Divinely good.
Also tonight we had our Communion Service as it is the first Sunday of the month. I cannot put into words how close the Saviour is in my consciousness due to this little re-enactment tonight, but suffice it to say that to the open heart the earthly body in which the fullness of the Godhead dwelt was like and yet unlike any other human, for His spiritual might and majestic humility cast abroad the powerful emanations of the Being of Love whom resided in that body - and any free enough from the fear of the world of earthly good and evil, any free from the spiritual pride of the ruling elite who thought themselves the learned pinnacle of all things Divine - such as these were overcome with awe even before their eyes met His, and when their eyes met His they were overcome with love. It did not take His miracles to win over His little flock that should carry His Message through the millennia of the baby stages of the human race, into the millennia of the time of its youth which is yet to come, and on into the full maturity of the children of the earth as they learn their lessons in true love and peace as God intended from the beginning.
Quote from: rosered on January 11, 2016, 02:25:51 AM
I was in a little country hell fire and brimstone church , the last one I attended , but had been to many different denominations over the course of life , as a child it was Baptist and Catholic based schools that was offered in our area as grade schoolers
The preacher was on his way to church and saw a man on the lawnmower and used as an example of , he should be in church , his soul is in danger of hell fire forever !!!
Well that was the time a voice spoke to me pretty plainly , asking , "Do you believe this ?" My inner response was NO ! YOU ARE GOD , you can save anyone any time anywhere , You are God !
Than all that was said was " Why are you here ?" I got up the children and it was an exodus ,, I never looked back ,,
I could never understand the hate message to the lost , that only their group was truly saved and all the falling away etc ,,, I see these types as very carnal / beastly still ...
It does reminds me of the Sons of thunder ! Jesus Come to save mens lives , not destroy them and not knowing what manner of spirit they are of ..
It is heartbreaking , all one can do is pray for healing , the world needs to be healed of sin sickness , pray to the Lord of harvest to send out the workers
into His Harvest ..
Where 2 or 3 are gathered in His name HE is in the midst of them . :HeartThrob:
Amen !...it feels good to get out from under the umbrella of fear !..it doesn't stop the rain, its full of holes anyway !
Quote from: Joanna on May 13, 2015, 11:15:50 PM
In England I go to a nice friendly Methodist Church. The church focuses on the Bible but doesn't teach hellfire. I enjoy going to my church and being part of the church family.
sounds like a good church..no 'eternal hell fire' preaching !.
:cloud9: Bottom line is: we're all in different places in our walk, and we have to hear the Spirit's instructions for US, individually, which is why we're not to judge another man's "meat". I didn't go for 26 years. I do go OCCASIONALLY, now to where He's placed me, a Messianic fellowship. Blessings..... :HeartThrob:
I have seen a Methodist church I would like to try. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Also (dont take this wrong way please) its ran by a female reverend. I have no issue with this but I know it might be biblically??? im still learning so if anyone can help please do or feel free to drop me a pm. :HeartThrob:
Dandelion and Lastpost,
I especially enjoyed your recent posts in this discussion.
I too attend church Sundays and usually Wed. P.M., along with a 'home' fellowship/bible study/dinner on Thurs. P.M.. I attend Tentmaker every morning when I get up and every night before bed.
When I came to the truth of U.R., a lot of what I read was an effort to convince believers to quit the church scene, and I nearly bought in to it. What I have discovered though, is that there really is no difference in 'them' and 'us' save some gracious insights from our lord: all of us are God's children, all of us are sinners, all are in need of the same thing. In the church I attend there are those that think they are the ones with the truth, at Tentmaker there are those that think they are the ones with the truth, no difference; maybe each has a little piece?. IMO the higher command is to love everyone - from our neighbor all the way to our enemy. Tough sometimes, but to me this is the command we have been given.
I am fortunate that at my church, the pastor does not preach hell, so this makes it easier for me, even though most are of the 'traditional' hell camp. To me, this just means that don't have IT, yet!
We are all being refined in our (His) own way.
I can't wait until we are all together in the light with no shadows. But for now these three remain: faith, hope and love.
Thank you God for this tent and all that dwell here!
Pat
I could not agree with you more Patinak ,
and humbled by your words , Thank you for this post .
We all have experiences and share and reason with one another ,,, We are all so blessed of God and do also thank Truthseeker , Dandelion and Lastpost and you for the
positive influences of services and gathering together in the LOVE OF GOD ...
Babylon is something within a human heart " a knowledge " that ceases and pride is its source of strength NOT LOVE ..
Love is patient love is kind and anyone anywhere at any given time is blessed to be touched by the Love of God , It is an unforgettable and unmovable
thing when the Lord takes ahold of your life and gives it meaning and purpose .
I am thankful also for those whom continue to be blessed in the serving the LORD .
It is the most beautiful thing .
1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NASB)
4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant,
5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered,
6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;
7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away;
if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away.
9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part;
10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away.
11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child;
when I became a man, I did away with childish things
. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known.
13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.
Love conquers all ....... :HeartThrob:
Quote from: darryl on February 08, 2016, 12:11:36 AM
Quote from: rosered on January 11, 2016, 02:25:51 AM
I was in a little country hell fire and brimstone church , the last one I attended , but had been to many different denominations over the course of life , as a child it was Baptist and Catholic based schools that was offered in our area as grade schoolers
The preacher was on his way to church and saw a man on the lawnmower and used as an example of , he should be in church , his soul is in danger of hell fire forever !!!
Well that was the time a voice spoke to me pretty plainly , asking , "Do you believe this ?" My inner response was NO ! YOU ARE GOD , you can save anyone any time anywhere , You are God !
Than all that was said was " Why are you here ?" I got up the children and it was an exodus ,, I never looked back ,,
I could never understand the hate message to the lost , that only their group was truly saved and all the falling away etc ,,, I see these types as very carnal / beastly still ...
It does reminds me of the Sons of thunder ! Jesus Come to save mens lives , not destroy them and not knowing what manner of spirit they are of ..
It is heartbreaking , all one can do is pray for healing , the world needs to be healed of sin sickness , pray to the Lord of harvest to send out the workers
into His Harvest ..
Where 2 or 3 are gathered in His name HE is in the midst of them . :HeartThrob:
Amen !...it feels good to get out from under the umbrella of fear !..it doesn't stop the rain, its full of holes anyway !
Dear Darryl,
The pride of the human heart controlled by the carnal mind id what makes Babylon so dangerous.
We are all humbled by it
There is much good in learning of the Lord and gathering in the LOVE OF GOD , it should be the ONLY motive
to even endure "all things " the Lord released me of a prison house , but not all gatherings are of Babylon / pride of the human heart ...
GOD KNOWS it is the truth ...
I do believe the "gift of discerning spirits " is also an important part of learning what the righteousness of Jesus Christ is in the earth .
Being humbled is a a major part of God working in you , to be considerate of others, before your own temptation of pride to rise up and cause a fall from Gods good graces ...
Philippians 2New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Be Like Christ
2 Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion,
make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.
Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit
, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;
do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. 5 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, [The Glory of God, was[ is ] a servant to all ]
6 who, although
He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped,
7
but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. 8 Being found in appearance as a man,
He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
9
For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence,
work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.
Do all things without grumbling or disputing; so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world,
holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain. But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.
Without Love being the motive and of the purest intent of the heart , it will amount to nothing in Gods sight :sigh:
That is something to consider wholeheartedly as a useless branch to be cut off and burned in the fire , as the pride of life amounts to nothing .
Tonight we sang this hymn...
"One There is Above all Others"
One there is, above all others,
Well deserves the name of Friend;
His is love beyond a brother's,
Costly, free, and knows no end.
Which of all our friends, to save us,
Could or would have shed his blood?
But our Jesus died to have us
Reconciled in him to God.
When he lived on earth abased,
Friend of sinners was his name;
Now above all glory raised,
He rejoices in the same.
Oh, for grace our hearts to soften!
Teach us, Lord, at length, to love;
We, alas! forget too often
What a friend we have above.
We also heard a little more about fraternity which took us closer to the great Heart and Mind of God, and it left me in a state of adoration. To be able to take such wonder and hand it on to someone else is the urging of received love.
Ah yes, as the hymn says: "We, alas! forget too often". Man often holds this and that back for himself when giving, or perhaps he holds back one thing. Not so with God the Giver of all good things. He gives and gives and His greatest joy is to pass on what He has to those willing and able to take.
i dont mind going to church so long as they dont start with the 'eternally lost' stuff..that bugs me.. :doh: :sigh:
:cloud9: The important thing to me is that we remain open to the Spirit to lead us as HE wills.
I've been the only white person in a black church for a season, the only white person in an all Native American church for a season, the only "Pentecostal" in a Baptist church for a season, had a weekly bible study with a JW for months that we both enjoyed very much yet we crossed swords over coffee without hurt feelings, ect., ect. If we ourselves seek to be one with Him, then we can find agreement in His SPIRIT alone, and that will edify and lift up everyone. My :2c:
Christ went through all the tax collectors and other "bad guys. Did not affect Him. He knew fully the plan and intentions of mankind.
We also know that now that he has revealed that plan.
Romans 14 and 15 goes through the church life with reference to the weak and the strong.
Either way, seems to be up to the individual as God develops us.
Paul went away and referred to know one.
Christ had no one pray with Him in Gethsemane.
All will live, but each in his own turn.
We currently live in this age, but a follower of Christ is no longer part of this age. John 17 explains this quite well.
For me to live is Christ. To die is gain. Seems to highlight that concept.
I personally do not attend a church because the leaders threw me out since I did not agree with their doctrines. The people in the church were not even told that information. They think I left and have drifted away from Christ.
I now know more about Him than when in the church.
The truth sets us free. Like Christ knew the Pharisees and scribes were the one causing problems for the people, I.M.O the leaders of the church can be a problem. So depends on their methods. If they are encouraging- sweet. If derogatory, not so sweet. So each church should be checked out if uplifting for us as individuals. All personal beliefs really.
Either way, as Paul says, Christ gets talked about.
:cloud9: Know that feeling. It's taking on the image of sinful flesh and the shame of the cross. They think we're backslid but I was WAY closer to Him after I left when HE told me to. And, of course, to all of them, I'm backslid, lol.....the servant is not greater than the Master and we ought to expect it to come. Same way with believing in UR. Anytime truth is revealed, the tares raise up exponentially. :Peace2:
Quote from: Cardinal on February 15, 2016, 04:24:08 AM
:cloud9: Know that feeling. It's taking on the image of sinful flesh and the shame of the cross. They think we're backslid but I was WAY closer to Him after I left when HE told me to. And, of course, to all of them, I'm backslid, lol.....the servant is not greater than the Master and we ought to expect it to come. Same way with believing in UR.
Anytime truth is revealed, the tares raise up exponentially.
:Peace2:
:dsunny: Christ in me, the hope/expectation of all glory. No if's, buts, or maybe's.
QuoteI personally do not attend a church because the leaders threw me out since I did not agree with their doctrines. The people in the church were not even told that information. They think I left and have drifted away from Christ.
BLESS YOU BROTHER ROSS!!!
Dennis
Quote from: Ross on February 15, 2016, 04:35:18 AM
Quote from: Cardinal on February 15, 2016, 04:24:08 AM
:cloud9: Know that feeling. It's taking on the image of sinful flesh and the shame of the cross. They think we're backslid but I was WAY closer to Him after I left when HE told me to. And, of course, to all of them, I'm backslid, lol.....the servant is not greater than the Master and we ought to expect it to come. Same way with believing in UR.
Anytime truth is revealed, the tares raise up exponentially.
:Peace2:
:dsunny: Christ in me, the hope/expectation of all glory. No if's, buts, or maybe's.
I dont want to add to what seems a lot of negatives to going to church as I know some get great love from them. I got a call from my friend because I didnt go asking if we are going soon and if im bringing the kids. "dont want you all backsliding do we" was the jist of it. As well as the last time the pastor trying to get us to sign up to a 6 week bible study and "if we couldnt commit then maybe we shouldnt be here" that really hurt me maybe im being sensitive but im fed up of this "we are the church" "the people" then on another note its if your not doing it our way you are not giving anything to God! how is that loving! I find it really enoying that we are to preach the good news and belief in Jesus will save you and change your heart ect but then its oh but you have to attend our church building, give to our church only, abide by our rules, attend mens breakfast, bible study or pay for certain extra courses.
I would much rarther bring 10 people to know Jesus than try to push 10 people in church.
However I do feel in its right enviroment then church meetings can be great. I went to a tradditional methodist church on Sunday and that was nice no pushy ness. It was my wifes birthday so I didnt hang around but might give it a go again this weekend.
:cloud9: My clash was almost immediate. After only 3 months, my friend who changed from being Baptist to Spirit filled Pentecostal, decided to join AOG. I was going to COG in another town, where HE literally supernaturally led me to be for my first 3 months. She invited me to see her "ceremony of induction" and I was shocked.
It was not about Him in any way, it was about swearing to uphold the doctrines of AOG and present them in a positive light, ect. I was appalled and later told her I was not pledging allegiance to what amounted to a pile of bricks, and since we had both already passed up most of their teachings anyway, to me she was essentially lying to fit in. I immediately cancelled my own soon coming joining to COG.
I told her beforehand I could not find anywhere in there that it said to join A CHURCH, only that we, ARE THE CHURCH. She had been saved 17 years before, so I figured maybe she knows something I don't and went along for the ride. It was a short trip. For two years, I watched changes in her and told her that it was idolatry, respect of persons, ect., that was crushing the Christ in her.
She must have told her pastor what I said, because it was not long before he publicly from the pulpit, blackballed me from coming there (I had only visited a handful of times at her request mostly), and told his elders they were not to be in my presence, nor let me pray for them at the home bible studies she and I were having together. The problem was the Holy Ghost was doing things and healing people at the bible study, but not in his church, and so many members were coming to the bible study.
Finally, she went to a AOG assembly of 5000 ministers and she was given a vision of Christ in each one, looking at her pleadingly, saying, "Set me free!" She came back and resigned.
You can talk till you're blue in the face, but more often than not, it takes a sovereign act of God to bring someone out of the manmade system that more often than not, sadly, quenches His Spirit. We are to be IN the world (and that includes churches) but we are not to be OF the world. My :2c: Blessings....
When looking for the Christ in the churches to me was like ''bar hopping '' trying to find your place of rest among friends .......
But the drunkards of Ephraim https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+28 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+28)
This really opened my eyes :eek:
I am not saying all churches are bad for business.
But many lull you to sleep , or get you drunk on the Spiritual wrath of God , many say every thing is EVIL , but you are safe with us ,,,
We are the chosen the elect of God .... I am just so leery of these types
and you could say many get burnt out with them fast .
Some have excellent experiences and may have found the Sabbath rest
But having found great comfort in knowing the Lord pours out HIS SPIRIT on all flesh
Jesus said simply ask for the Holy Spirit ,.
Luke 11 Ask, Seek, Knock
...12"Or if he is asked for an egg, he will not give him a scorpion, will he? 13"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?"
John 6:45
It is written in the Prophets: 'They will all be taught by God.' Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him comes to me.
John 14:16
And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever--
John 14:17
the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.
John 14:26
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
1 Corinthians 2:12
What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us.
2 Corinthians 1:21
Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us,
1 Thessalonians 4:9
Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other.
Hebrews 8:11
No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, 'Know the Lord,' because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest.
My church is a quiet affair apart from a little hymn singing, so different it would seem to those large churches often described by people who attend this forum.
We are so used to words spoken from mouths here on earth but before a word reaches the mouth there has been a thought behind the word. I say this because we are told to keep our churches spiritual, and thought plays such a meaningful part in that. In my belief communication is instant in the Spirit because time and space belong to man, they are man's doing in the sense that a pure clear timeless river is poisoned and corrupted by the sins of man.
I think that it is an often occurrence that the more people there are in one place, the more likely that material thoughts will eventually attempt to drag down the spiritual thoughts to their level. We are told that where people gather to learn of the Light of God, the adversaries will also gather seeking to damage if possible. For people to remain spiritual they must have come to a place where they desire to inhale the truth rather than for any other reason or the enemy gains a foothold. Too much of this and the results for the community are dire indeed, even if it is not noticed by them.
On the other hand, I believe that where two or three are gathered together and the desire for truth is sincerely first and foremost in their hearts and minds, and their faith is strong that the words coming to them are of the Holy Spirit alone, then the beautiful word of communion is received. There should never be a tone of fear but of tenderness, endearment, devotion and care. This does not mean that the words that come shall not be without instruction but such instruction shall be accompanied with love and will make itself known.
Great things can come from such a meeting in the sense of spiritual upliftment and enlightenment, and yet it is possible that the world closes in and the necessary concentration lapses, the thoughts turn to the work of the day, the anxieties of the week, and the spiritual aspiration is attacked to the point that understanding is hindered.
My own belief is that 10 groups of 3 dedicated to learning the truth in Christ is more effective in the God sense than 10,000 people in 1 group. We do not see what is going on behind the scenes. The Holy Spirit is at work in this world in a more powerful way than anyone has ever conceived - being in a physical world it would seem to the eyes of the false sense body that evil gets the upper hand, but to the eyes of the spirit God is seen to be firmly in control of it all, and faith for His sake is bringing countless blessings to the children of God who as yet know Him not.
This is just how I look at it according to what I have learnt in my opinion.
Well just to bring balance on my thoughts/trials of going to church I did go the the methodist church last Sunday and they were lovely.
Granted they were twice my age (im 36 lol) and some believed in evolution and Adam and eve being a story to explain things but no one knows it all I guess.
Whats important is we all Follow Jesus. They invited me in for a coffee afterwards which turned out to be a tea and we had a bit of a chat. All in All it was an old school church with old hymns and the organ needs some tuning but I did find some comfort from being with other souls and just being there with God. I dont think i`ll be there every week but I reckon I will be back this Sunday. :dsunny: :dsunny:
His commands are not burdensome because He does the work in us. He says, come to me and I will give you rest.
The "work"we do for the Kingdom, does not feel like work..we long to share the Truth of the love of God with others.
Quote from: Caffus on February 28, 2016, 11:09:16 PM
His commands are not burdensome because He does the work in us.
He says, come to me and I will give you rest.
The "work"we do for the Kingdom, does not feel like work..we long to share the Truth of the love of God with others.
:thumbsup: :dsunny: :iagree:
The key to victorious life. Our breastplate of righteousness is Him.
Our helmet of salvation is knowing that truth.
Tonight we had one of favourite hymns, so pleasant, so positive, so much like the Christ who promised that those who believed in Him and did His will would never see death...
There Is No Death
There is no death! Our stars go down
To rise upon some fairer shore,
And bright in heaven's jewelled crown
They shine forevermore.
There is no death! The dust we tread
Shall change, beneath the summer showers
To golden grain, or mellowed fruit,
Or rainbow-tinted flowers.
There is no death! The leaves may fall,
And flowers may fade and pass away--
They only wait, through wintry hours,
The wam, sweet breath of May.
There is no death! The choicest gifts
That heaven hath kindly lent to earth
Are ever first to seek again
The country of their birth.
The voice of birdlike melody
That we have missed and mourned so long,
Now mingles with the angel choir
In everlasting song.
Although with bowed and breaking heart,
With sable garb and silent tread,
We bear their senseless dust to rest,
And say that they are "dead,"
They are not dead! They have but passed
Beyond the mists that blind us here
Into the new and larger life
Of that serener sphere.
They have but dropped their robe of clay
To put their shining raiment on;
They have not wandered far away--
They are not "lost" nor "gone."
Though disenthralled and glorified
They still are here and love us yet;
The dear ones they have left behind
They never can forget.
And sometimes, when our hearts grow faint
Amid temptations fierce and deep,
Or when the wildly raging waves
Of grief or passion sweep,
We feel upon our fevered brow
Their gentle touch, their breath of balm;
Their arms enfold us, and our hearts
Grow comforted and calm.
And ever near us, though unseen,
The dear, immortal spirits tread--
For all the boundles universe
Is Life--there are no dead!
The Peace Rest and Joy which is of Christ is only found in Service to Him.
Tonight, being Communion Rite on the first Sunday of the month, I was reminded of how special it is to be invited to remember Him and the Body and Blood He gave for all.
There's something about mutually paying respect and reverence to Christ - when it is done from the heart - that makes all differences of opinion fade into a meaningless noise.
O Thou Who Makest Souls to Shine
O Thou who makest souls to shine
With light from brighter worlds above,
Now send Thy glistening dew divine
On all who seek a Saviour's love!
Give those that teach pure hearts and wise,
Faith, hope, and love, all warmed by prayer;
Themselves first training for the skies,
They best will raise their people there.
Give those, who learn, the willing ear,
The spirit meek, the guileless mind;
Such gifts will make the lowliest here
Far better than a kingdom find.
O bless the shepherd! bless the sheep!
That guide and guided both be one;
One in the faithful watch they keep,
Until this hurrying life be gone.
If thus, good Lord, Thy grace be giv'n,
Our glory meets us ere we die;
Before we upward pass to Heav'n,
We taste our immortality.
Music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rW3gE4BrWEg
We heard many wonderful things in our inner beings tonight in our little gathering. The last two versus of the hymn we sung struck me with special emphasis.
Truly, joy overflows when the heart is set on connection with the Saviour; He does not wait in some far heaven until the end of time to be with His loved ones – no, no, perish the thought! What kind of Shepherd is not amongst His sheep protecting them and giving them comfort? He said "I am with you always", and indeed His pure Divine Presence is felt in all contrast to the drudgery of life without Him – He is here and He keeps His promises.
There was also one who has had many visions: As a sinner in his lonely room he was visited by a creature, a man and yet with the appearance of a diseased animal. In shock the sinner asked what the terrifying visitor wanted with him, and in answer the vile creature said to be even as him. But what is your story the frightened sinner asked the creature. The horrific voice answered: I followed the world, my form, what I am composed of, are my thoughts and acts as I made my way through life for myself alone and gave not a thought to God, even rejecting Him. The disturbed sinner was surrounded by a chilling fear which seemed to emanate from the creature. But suddenly guidance came into his mind and he saw the Saviour washing the feet of His servants, and in an instant he reached out and held the beast-like creature in his arms. After much pain had passed between them the creature resembled a normal person. The vision faded but the truth remained for the sinner - who declared that at that time he had received his salvation. In healing, he was healed.
And through the Grace of God in His Saviour Christ, we can taste of immortality before we die, before He upward calls us to our heavenly home.
There is no life without the Saviour.
Peace, Harmony and Joy – All of Love