Based on some of the comments above (and even spread out to other threads/posts), one of the biggest problems with some people in the traditional apostolic churches, at least some within those I've known of, is this: someone, or a family, who's been "going to church" for however long start showing up less often. Thus the gossip begins. Immediately, some "saints" start backsliding that person or family without even knowing all the details (like they really need to know anyway, right?). For the other "saints" of us, all we might know is that person or family had a genuine spirit with a good heart and loved God. After all, they were faithful and transparent, not only "at church," but also away from it in the community.
"Oh, but did you see Suzie-Q (or Billy Bob)? Wearing those shorts/pants, etc?"
"Suzie-Q (or Billy Bob) just won't ever make it. They got that TV in their house and Lord knows what they watch! Can you believe it?"
"Ya know? I was walking down the street past Billy Joe's house the other day. He was working on his car and that devil music coming from his radio!" Ugh, no wonder he always struggles.
Three examples above are not word for word, however not very far from it. So, while I'm not broadbrushing (as I don't firmly believe all people of the Faith are the same way), it's an alarming issue going on among some circles of people. At some point, it has to stop. We weren't called to "call it like it is," or "well, that's just how I see it." No, it's how God sees it; we're simply His messenger, and a vessel for His message. An imperfect one at that. So, while we wonder why the "Ultra cons" (or ANYONE for that matter) are quitting church, perhaps if we stopped and listened to all the ridiculous murmurings going on within and amongst ourselves, we'd actually allow God to do His work and will without even having to call into question some of the very minute issues we create and enable. God is still working on every person He created...NONE of us "have arrived."
As God could be saying to us, "Just shut-up and listen to me," from the bottom up, and from the top down. (my blunt-version of "Be still and know that I am God..."
