I challenge Cooper! Find an Apostolic Church and submit....

[Old Paths]

Cooper

I challenge you to find an Apostolic Church and submit your life to God.

I challenge you to lose the bitterness that is so prevalent in your posts toward the UPC and pastors.

I challenge you to pray through and live for God while you have a chance.

I challenge you to make it through ONE day without spewing forth venom and hatred.

[SDG]

ouch ...

[Old Paths]

ouch ...




Why?

[Sister Alvear]

I am praying for Cooper. He has been hurt but I hope he considers me his friend. We all deal with hurt and bitterness in different ways. He is a nice person.

[Chan]

Cooper

I challenge you to find an Apostolic Church and submit your life to God.

I challenge you to lose the bitterness that is so prevalent in your posts toward the UPC and pastors.

I challenge you to pray through and live for God while you have a chance.

I challenge you to make it through ONE day without spewing forth venom and hatred.Amen!

[Ronzo]

ouch ...
Yeah really....

I challenge OPie to grow some compassion....

[Steve Epley]

Cooper

I challenge you to find an Apostolic Church and submit your life to God.

I challenge you to lose the bitterness that is so prevalent in your posts toward the UPC and pastors.

I challenge you to pray through and live for God while you have a chance.

I challenge you to make it through ONE day without spewing forth venom and hatred.

There is a challenge if accepted that would change Coop's life and the life of his family for the better. I would hope he would do that.

[Old Paths]

Yeah really....

I challenge OPie to grow some compassion....



Now Ronnie, puleeze don't let yourself get in that judgemental mode like Coopy.

[Steve Epley]

Yeah really....

I challenge OPie to grow some compassion....

This challenge is real compassion.:thumbsup

[jillian]

I believe he challenged him out of compassion and love.

I hope Cooper listens and his heart heals.

[jillian]

oops, I posted at the same time..

[Ronzo]

Sure it was... :killinme

[Sister Alvear]

Let's all pray.

[Sheltiedad]

The problem with the "venom and hatred" thing is that to the "ultra-cons" if you dare question any of their logic or beliefs, then you are filled with venom and hatred... so it is very subjective.

[nathan_slatter]

The problem with the "venom and hatred" thing is that to the "ultra-cons" if you dare question any of their logic or beliefs, then you are filled with venom and hatred... so it is very subjective.

As is most anything else... rebellious, heretical, believing a lie and being damned, and apostolic church just to name a few.

[Old Paths]

I believe he challenged him out of compassion and love.

I hope Cooper listens and his heart heals.



Jillian

Thank you for seeing the true matters of the heart.

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

The problem with the "venom and hatred" thing is that to the "ultra-cons" if you dare question any of their logic or beliefs, then you are filled with venom and hatred... so it is very subjective.

Another shot from the cheap seats.

Perhaps then, threads with titles like this appeal to you.

"Overseeing a Trinitarian Pastor" who does not baptize in Jesus Name at all.

"Apostolic Pastors take a Trinitarian Pastor to play Golf"

This thread simply offers balance to those threads.

[Old Paths]

Sure it was... :killinme



Now Now.....

Shamey on you for questioning my motives.

:largehalo

[Sheltiedad]

Another shot from the cheap seats.

Perhaps then, threads with titles like this appeal to you.

"Overseeing a Trinitarian Pastor" who does not baptize in Jesus Name at all.

"Apostolic Pastors take a Trinitarian Pastor to play Golf"

This thread simply offers balance to those threads.

Sorry friend, that was not a shot... that was an honest post from the heart... the fact that you see it as a "shot" is a "proof" for my previous post. I didn't see anything wrong with the "ask a trinitarian pastor to play golf" thread... I admit the "overseeing a trinitarian pastor" did not make much sense to me... that's like having someone from McDonald's supervising someone that works at Burger King.

[Ronzo]

Now Now.....

Shamey on you for questioning my motives.


back at you for Coop........

Your thread is no different than my comment...


Same lady... different pair of slacks...


:laffatu

[Ronzo]

Sorry friend, that was not a shot... that was an honest post from the heart... the fact that you see it as a "shot" is a "proof" for my previous post.
I'd have to agree with ya, Brad... no surprise though.

[Old Paths]

Another shot from the cheap seats.

Perhaps then, threads with titles like this appeal to you.

"Overseeing a Trinitarian Pastor" who does not baptize in Jesus Name at all.

"Apostolic Pastors take a Trinitarian Pastor to play Golf"

This thread simply offers balance to those threads.



Thanks BOOMM

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

Sorry friend, that was not a shot... that was an honest post from the heart... the fact that you see it as a "shot" is a "proof" for my previous post.

I think the offer of asking someone to submit to God and a Pastor is something good for anyone on this board.

Get over the bitterness and move on. :thumbsup

[Sheltiedad]

I think the offer of asking someone to submit to God and a Pastor is something good for anyone on this board.

Get over the bitterness and move on. :thumbsup I added more to my comments, if you are interested. And I pretty much have moved on, except that I interact here (which I broke down and started posting while I was out of town and now can't seem to stop. lol)

[Sister Alvear]

Cooper, consider visiting us in Brazil for a few weeks for a breath of fresh air...You would love my husband. He would be a blessing to your walk with the Lord. Come as a family if possible...your wife sure looks sweet.
Mother Alvear

[nathan_slatter]

If one disagrees, then he is in the cheap seats, couldn't that also mean that those with which he who disagrees with are in the cheap seats of those who disagree?

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

Thanks BOOMM

What do I know?

I am hateful and full of venom for wanting to show some compassion myself.

[Old Paths]

back at you for Coop........

Your thread is no different than my comment...


Same lady... different pair of slacks...


:laffatu



back at you for RIGHT....

Sure it is....

Different Gentleman.... same pair of slacks

:tease

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

Sorry friend, that was not a shot... that was an honest post from the heart... the fact that you see it as a "shot" is a "proof" for my previous post. I didn't see anything wrong with the "ask a trinitarian pastor to play golf" thread... I admit the "overseeing a trinitarian pastor" did not make much sense to me... that's like having someone from McDonald's supervising someone that works at Burger King.


Great analogy. :highfive

[Sister Alvear]

Do we have to call people names to get our point across? What ever happened to the law of kindness?

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

If one disagrees, then he is in the cheap seats, couldn't that also mean that those with which he who disagrees with are in the cheap seats of those who disagree?



The argument sometimes gets old very quickly here.
:ranting

Sometimes the problem is greatest with the one in the mirror. Been there, got over that. :nod

[nathan_slatter]

The argument sometimes gets old very quickly here.
:ranting

Sometimes the problem is greatest with the one in the mirror. Been there, got over that. :nod

Me too.

[SDG]

Now Ronnie, puleeze don't let yourself get in that judgemental mode like Coopy.

You're the president of the judgmental fraternity ......:laffatu

[Old Paths]

You're the president of the judgmental fraternity ......:laffatu



Danny!

Not you too.

I am crushed that you of all people would falsely accuse me of being judgemental.

[Old Paths]

Cooper

I challenge you to find an Apostolic Church and submit your life to God.

I challenge you to lose the bitterness that is so prevalent in your posts toward the UPC and pastors.

I challenge you to pray through and live for God while you have a chance.

I challenge you to make it through ONE day without spewing forth venom and hatred.



Bump for Cooper

[Old Paths]

Somehow reading some of these posts reminds me of the old saying...

































Birds of a feather

Flock together.

[Sheltiedad]

Danny!

Not you too.

I am crushed that you of all people would falsely accuse me of being judgemental.

I only had a problem with the last sentence... I think Cooper gets a bad rap because of the reputation he has made for himself... I do not believe that everything he posts is full of venom and hatred.

I respect the advice given in the rest of your post, even if I disagree that men need an official pastor to know God.

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

I only had a problem with the last sentence... I think Cooper gets a bad rap because of the reputation he has made for himself... I do not believe that everything he posts is full of venom and hatred.

I respect the advice given in the rest of your post, even if I disagree that men need an official pastor to know God.

:laffatu (I clicked the wrong smiley)

:highfive THIS is the one I wanted.

Sorry Bro. It was a great post!

[Old Paths]

I only had a problem with the last sentence... I think Cooper gets a bad rap because of the reputation he has made for himself... I do not believe that everything he posts is full of venom and hatred.

I respect the advice given in the rest of your post, even if I disagree that men need an official pastor to know God.



Thank you.

I'm too am sure that "everything he posts is NOT full of venom and hatred".

Bound to be some that aren't.

[Old Paths]

Coopy came.

He read.

He departed.

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

Smiley corrected Post #38

Sorry if the wrong one offended anyone.

[Sheltiedad]

Smiley corrected Post #38

Sorry if the wrong one offended anyone.

lol, I saw that... I just assumed I was dense and didn't get the joke :)

[Brother Strange]

It is very easy to tell someone else what to do without the oil of understanding of how one got wounded by the thieves on his journey or the wine of inspiration to get out of the ditch.

If one were to attempt to pour in the oil of understanding, it would soothe the hurt and go along way to healing it. Then the wine of inspiration would be all that he needed as a good Samaritan takes his brother upon his own donkey to a place of convalesence.

[COOPER]

James 3 (King James Version)
King James Version (KJV)
Public Domain



James 3
1My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.

2For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.

3Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.

4Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.

5Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!

6And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

7For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:

8But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

9Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.

10Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.

11Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?

12Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.

13Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.

14But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.

15This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.

[stmatthew]

It is very easy to tell someone else what to do without the oil of understanding of how one got wounded by the thieves on his journey or the wine of inspiration to get out of the ditch.

If one were to attempt to pour in the oil of understanding, it would soothe the hurt and go along way to healing it. Then the wine of inspiration would be all that he needed as a good Samaritan takes his brother upon his own donkey to a place of convalesence.

Bro Strange, at some point the wounded man had to trust and submit himself to the good Samaritan in order to find his healing. Until some are willing to do this, they will continue to die a slow bitter death.

The sad fact is that they usually take those they love the most with them.

[retsambeW]

Bro Strange, at some point the wounded man had to trust and submit himself to the good Samaritan in order to find his healing. Until some are willing to do this, they will continue to die a slow bitter death.

The sad fact is that they usually take those they love the most with them.

Matt...

Great Post...much truth contained in a small volume.

[ThePastorsCoach]

COOPER - I LOVE YOU and we invite you and your family to visit CHURCH ALIVE of Atlanta anytime you can. We believe in LOVE, ACCEPTANCE & FORGIVENESS!

We are a healing center and a hospital for the hurting!
We live and teach that our God is the God of RESTORATION!

Please do not allow judgmental - miserable people to bring more hurt and pain in your life. I am here to help and you can call me any time and we will love you no matter where you are in life!
We love you!

[Carpenter]

The problem with the "venom and hatred" thing is that to the "ultra-cons" if you dare question any of their logic or beliefs, then you are filled with venom and hatred... so it is very subjective.

Yea, and the next thread like this has your name on it pal! :D

[Charlie Brown]

Yea, and the next thread like this has your name on it pal! :D

After 300 anti-UPC threads from Coop, it is about time someone called him on it.


:thumbsup

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

Yea, and the next thread like this has your name on it pal! :D

Carp, don't get to kicking Lassie.....

[Carpenter]

After 300 anti-UPC threads from Coop, it is about time someone called him on it.


:thumbsup


I'm just glad that after 49 posts in this thread no one has compared me to Cooper.

:killinme

[Charlie Brown]

I'm just glad that after 49 posts in this thread no one has compared me to Cooper.

:killinme

You are in a league of your own. :lol

[Carpenter]

You are in a league of your own. :lol

THAT, I can handle...

[Sheltiedad]

Carp, don't get to kicking Lassie.....

Next time he's trapped in a well, I might just look the other way. :largehalo

Everybody needs a Lassie... otherwise you are just floundering through life on your own with no one to rescue you from the well.

[chosenbyone]

Cooper,

I read OP's line of suggestions and there was a lot of truth in them. I know first hand how it is to be wounded and bitter because of hurt inflicted by people I looked up to in the UPCI.

God doesn't want us to carry baggage around that would hinder our walk with Him. Just saying you forgave those that hurt you could never be the same as truly walking in forgiveness.

I've read your history and I want you to know that I pray for you to find complete victory in Jesus and just as you received his forgiveness, you would demonstrate that forgiveness on others.

Staying away from a body of believers won't help your circumstance. In fact, you may find yourself deeper and deeper in your despair and separation.

[Brett Prince]

Let brotherly love continue...

[drummerboy_dave]

Yep, mount up those horses and ride.

[Old Paths]

Cooper

I challenge you to find an Apostolic Church and submit your life to God.

Heb 10:25

25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
KJV

I challenge you to lose the bitterness that is so prevalent in your posts toward the UPC and pastors.

Eph 4:31-32

31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
KJV

I challenge you to pray through and live for God while you have a chance.

Titus 3:5
5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
KJV

I challenge you to make it through ONE day without spewing forth venom and hatred.

Col 3:15

15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
KJV


Last night in service you were my "unspoken request" and again this morning during my devotion time I prayed for you.

[Whole Hearted]

Cooper

I challenge you to find an Apostolic Church and submit your life to God.

I challenge you to lose the bitterness that is so prevalent in your posts toward the UPC and pastors.

I challenge you to pray through and live for God while you have a chance.

I challenge you to make it through ONE day without spewing forth venom and hatred.

I'll second that.

[Old Paths]

I'll second that.



Thanks.

[COOPER]

Cooper

I challenge you to find an Apostolic Church and submit your life to God.

I challenge you to lose the bitterness that is so prevalent in your posts toward the UPC and pastors.

I challenge you to pray through and live for God while you have a chance.

I challenge you to make it through ONE day without spewing forth venom and hatred.

Coop watching "Old Path Re-runs":bedtime

[COOPER]

COOPER - I LOVE YOU and we invite you and your family to visit CHURCH ALIVE of Atlanta anytime you can. We believe in LOVE, ACCEPTANCE & FORGIVENESS!

We are a healing center and a hospital for the hurting!
We live and teach that our God is the God of RESTORATION!

Please do not allow judgmental - miserable people to bring more hurt and pain in your life. I am here to help and you can call me any time and we will love you no matter where you are in life!
We love you!

I appreciate you Bishop:thumbsup

[Old Paths]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Paths
Cooper

I challenge you to find an Apostolic Church and submit your life to God.

Heb 10:25

25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
KJV

I challenge you to lose the bitterness that is so prevalent in your posts toward the UPC and pastors.

Eph 4:31-32

31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
KJV

I challenge you to pray through and live for God while you have a chance.

Titus 3:5
5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
KJV

I challenge you to make it through ONE day without spewing forth venom and hatred.

Col 3:15

15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
KJV

Last night in service you were my "unspoken request" and again this morning during my devotion time I prayed for you.

Coop watching "Old Path Re-runs":bedtime

How about this rerun.

[Brett Prince]

Coop...

I have to say I think OP's challenge is sincere and in love. It sure couldn't hurt to give it a try.

[Coonskinner]

Folks, this is a prime example of why people sometimes get tired of reaching out to Coop.

A man prays for him, and he mocks it in a rude and disgusting manner.

[Ron]

Folks, this is a prime example of why people sometimes get tired of reaching out to Coop.

A man prays for him, and he mocks it in a rude and disgusting manner.

One can extend a hand in love and compassion but that doesn't mean that the one being extended a hand has to accept unfortunately.

No, it is sypmtomatic of something much deeper I fear.

It is up to Coop now.

[Steve Epley]

Prayer changes things.

[COOPER]

Cooper

I challenge you to find an Apostolic Church and submit your life to God.

I challenge you to lose the bitterness that is so prevalent in your posts toward the UPC and pastors.

I challenge you to pray through and live for God while you have a chance.

I challenge you to make it through ONE day without spewing forth venom and hatred.
Thank you so much for your prayers and concern, I really apppriciate your open love and admonishment.

Your advice and kindness has deeply touched my heart.

I will ponder your words of advice and will meditate on them in Prayer.

Cooper

[COOPER]

Folks, this is a prime example of why people sometimes get tired of reaching out to Coop.

A man prays for him, and he mocks it in a rude and disgusting manner.
I love you Coon and pray that I will only be an 1/8 of the man you are.

I am so un-worthy of your love and kindness.

Cooper

[Steve Epley]

Thank you so much for your prayers and concern, I really apppriciate your open love and admonishment.

Your advice and kindness has deeply touched my heart.

I will ponder your words of advice and will meditate on them in Prayer.

Cooper

That was very kind of you. I also have been and am praying for you and your family.

[COOPER]

Coop...

I have to say I think OP's challenge is sincere and in love. It sure couldn't hurt to give it a try.

Bret Prince my Brother in The Lord Jesus, Thank you for your advice.:thumbsup

[Brett Prince]

BTW, Coop...

I think your version of "In His Hands" is a wonderful rendition.

[Coonskinner]

I love you Coon and pray that I will only be an 1/8 of the man you are.

I am so un-worthy of your love and kindness.

Cooper

Cooper,

In the first place, I am a man, and you are a man.

Whatever I am that is worthwhile, I am only because of the grace of a merciful God.

That same grace is available to everyone. You are not of less worth than anyone else.

And you aren't unworthy of love and kindness.

I only said what I said to explain why sometimes people get vexed with you and back off from trying to help.

I personally have prayed for you many times, and have always felt that you had much potential and are a gifted man. I have said that over and over again.

But all that potential is going to be just so much unfulfilled and buried talent unless you can find it within yourself to work in harmony with a truth-preaching body and pastor.

I wish you well, and decided a while back that I didn't want any more shoot outs with you.

It is frustrating as a pastor to see someone who has so much to offer the Kingdom of God not utilizing abilities that many committed and faithful people would love to have to offer.

[berkeley]

A man was fleeing to a city of refuge... he couldn't decide whether ot enter or not... he was killed at the gate of the city... sometimes we run out of time..

[Carpenter]

You know, what does it matter if a person knows that you or I are praying for him? Is it so they can somehow feel...how do I put this...guilt, or compulsion to change their ways through influence, peer pressure, or obligation?

I appreciate the prayers of everyone that would utter my name in intercessory prayer, however, just because someone says they are praying for me doesn't mean I need to change my ways to actually please that person.

This is really common sense that I would hope most every one here would agree with!






















Gotcha...see what I mean? :D

[Carpenter]

Cooper,

In the first place, I am a man, and you are a man.

Whatever I am that is worthwhile, I am only because of the grace of a merciful God.

That same grace is available to everyone. You are not of less worth than anyone else.

And you aren't unworthy of love and kindness.

I only said what I said to explain why sometimes people get vexed with you and back off from trying to help.

I personally have prayed for you many times, and have always felt that you had much potential and are a gifted man. I have said that over and over again.

But all that potential is going to be just so much unfulfilled and buried talent unless you can find it within yourself to work in harmony with a truth-preaching body and pastor.

I wish you well, and decided a while back that I didn't want any more shoot outs with you.

It is frustrating as a pastor to see someone who has so much to offer the Kingdom of God not utilizing abilities that many committed and faithful people would love to have to offer.


This could be said about lots of people, myself included...but only to an extent of course. :D

[Old Paths]

You know, what does it matter if a person knows that you or I are praying for him? Is it so they can somehow feel...how do I put this...guilt, or compulsion to change their ways through influence, peer pressure, or obligation?

I appreciate the prayers of everyone that would utter my name in intercessory prayer, however, just because someone says they are praying for me doesn't mean I need to change my ways to actually [I]please/I] that person.

This is really common sense that I would hope most every one here would agree with!


Gotcha...see what I mean? :D

Carpenter

I don't propose to speak for everyone, but my posting about praying for Cooper was simply to let him know that I was CONCERNED....

PERIOD.

That's all.

The rest is left up to him.

BTW after our mutual friend returned from Colorado and he told me what a nice person you seemed to be, I have prayed or you.

Now go feel guilty. :D

[rgcraig]

I appreciate the turn this thread has taken.

There are different ways to say things:

1. Brother, I'm concerned for you and praying for you to find peace in your life.

2. Brother, I'm praying for you, you need it.

[Carpenter]

Carpenter

I don't propose to speak for everyone, but my posting about praying for Cooper was simply to let him know that I was CONCERNED....

PERIOD.

That's all.

The rest is left up to him.

BTW after our mutual friend returned from Colorado and he told me what a nice person you seemed to be, I have prayed or you.

Now go feel guilty. :D


SSShhhhhh! Don't let my secret out!

Like I said, I covet the prayers of anyone concerned enough to say my name as they are exhaling during prayer. However, I have had bunches of people come up to me in church to say, "oooooohhhh brooother, I bean praaying for Goad to get you back up on that platform..." I have had them tell me they have had dreams, visions, words of wisdom, and yada yada yadas...


...funny though, I have had exactly ONE guy that I remain very very close friends with to even call me to touch base.

:D

[Steve Epley]

SSShhhhhh! Don't let my secret out!

Like I said, I covet the prayers of anyone concerned enough to say my name as they are exhaling during prayer. However, I have had bunches of people come up to me in church to say, "oooooohhhh brooother, I bean praaying for Goad to get you back up on that platform..." I have had them tell me they have had dreams, visions, words of wisdom, and yada yada yadas...


...funny though, I have had exactly ONE guy that I remain very very close friends with to even call me to touch base.

:D

You know sometimes Carp church folks just don't know what to do they don't want to be overbearing and nosy(of course some do) so they tend to shy away not because do not care but do not know to what extent you want them. There have been folks who left I did not know how to work with them if I pursued them I got the idea I was worrisome and annoying. But if I didn't make contact it seemed I was uncaring. It is a real problem to me as a pastor and I am sure it would be to saints to exactly know what to do. But like the others you are on my mind and from time to time I pray for you.

[rrford]

SSShhhhhh! Don't let my secret out!

Like I said, I covet the prayers of anyone concerned enough to say my name as they are exhaling during prayer. However, I have had bunches of people come up to me in church to say, "oooooohhhh brooother, I bean praaying for Goad to get you back up on that platform..." I have had them tell me they have had dreams, visions, words of wisdom, and yada yada yadas...


...funny though, I have had exactly ONE guy that I remain very very close friends with to even call me to touch base.

:D

What am I? Chopped liver?

[Jekyll]

Carpenter

I don't propose to speak for everyone, but my posting about praying for Cooper was simply to let him know that I was CONCERNED....

PERIOD.

That's all.

The rest is left up to him.

BTW after our mutual friend returned from Colorado and he told me what a nice person you seemed to be, I have prayed or you.

Now go feel guilty. :D
:haloplug Key word...




:killinme :lol

[Jekyll]

What am I? Chopped liver?
No, he just has to keep reminding us that we love him...:icecream

[Old Paths]

:haloplug Key word...




:killinme :lol



You are baaad!

Our mutual friend only met with Carp and chatted with him, so the word "seemed".

For all I know he may be an ax murderer.

:D

[Carpenter]

What am I? Chopped liver?

No, I am talking about the many who when I was stomping around on the platform who wanted to be my friend, but now, are few.

You are a Johnny come lately...and I appreciate it more than you know.

:D

[Carpenter]

You are baaad!

Our mutual friend only met with Carp and chatted with him, so the word "seemed".

For all I know he may be an ax murderer.

:D

Had we more time to spend one on one, his communication to you would not leave you with a seamed impression. :D

Just ask CC1 and RRFord.



HEY! I just realized the thread Opie started about Cooper has digressed to be about ME...How ironic! :slaphappy

[ILG]

SSShhhhhh! Don't let my secret out!

Like I said, I covet the prayers of anyone concerned enough to say my name as they are exhaling during prayer. However, I have had bunches of people come up to me in church to say, "oooooohhhh brooother, I bean praaying for Goad to get you back up on that platform..." I have had them tell me they have had dreams, visions, words of wisdom, and yada yada yadas...


...funny though, I have had exactly ONE guy that I remain very very close friends with to even call me to touch base.

:D

I'm not surprised. We have had just a few call, mostly those we pastored at one time. I do appreciate their phone calls, but no calls from any folks like my old pastor or district officials or anything like that. It's too late now anyway. It's been two years.

[whollyHis]

Cooper,

In the first place, I am a man, and you are a man.

Whatever I am that is worthwhile, I am only because of the grace of a merciful God.

That same grace is available to everyone. You are not of less worth than anyone else.

And you aren't unworthy of love and kindness.

I only said what I said to explain why sometimes people get vexed with you and back off from trying to help.

I personally have prayed for you many times, and have always felt that you had much potential and are a gifted man. I have said that over and over again.

But all that potential is going to be just so much unfulfilled and buried talent unless you can find it within yourself to work in harmony with a truth-preaching body and pastor.

I wish you well, and decided a while back that I didn't want any more shoot outs with you.

It is frustrating as a pastor to see someone who has so much to offer the Kingdom of God not utilizing abilities that many committed and faithful people would love to have to offer.



KEY WORDS HERE- 'commited' and 'faithful'. Commited to WHOM and faithful to WHAT? Pastor Coon, your words struck a proverbial 'chord' with me, and I have a lot I could say about what you wrote here...but, I won't. I will just mull the words over, and allow God to speak through what you wrote to COOP. I can relate to COOP, in a number of ways...thank God for HOPE.

[Hoovie]

I'm not surprised. We have had just a few call, mostly those we pastored at one time. I do appreciate their phone calls, but no calls from any folks like my old pastor or district officials or anything like that. It's too late now anyway. It's been two years.


Too late for what? Perhaps they feel you did the right thing and don't view you as utterly lost. Possible.

[Brother Strange]

One can extend a hand in love and compassion but that doesn't mean that the one being extended a hand has to accept unfortunately.

No, it is sypmtomatic of something much deeper I fear.
It is up to Coop now.

This is exactly right.

Has anyone sought to find the root of the hurt-turned-bitterness? Of course bitterness will lash out? Does anyone understand what caused it all? Perhaps a thread might be started in an attempt to honestly flush out the bottom most of the cause. Coop may or maynot be willing to cooperate. That is another consideration.

Just mere submitting is not the answer. Blind submission is not the answer unless he loves having his mind raped and family abused by some tyrant...which so often happens. Not saying this is the case in Coop's instance.

The bible commands us...(that's you and me)...to KNOW THEM that labor among us. Unless husband/father assumes the God given role in the primary responsibility of being the priest and leader of his own home, that is, the priest in the first church God ever formed, he is a fool to ignorantly subject himself and family (the first church) to someone that could just as well send them all to hell from abuse. Seen it happen too many times.

There is no authority apart from divine love. Authority is abrogated in the absence of divine love coupled together with the calling to office. A pastor that does not love the sheep and who are not only willing but ready to give himself for them has NO authority from office alone.

So, since there is so much concern for COOPER, why not try pouring in the oil of understanding and the wine of inspiration rather than passing him on by with ideas and suggestions without attempting to lift him upon their own donkey.

The Priest could have said, "Well, you poor victim, get up out of the ditch and quit whining about have been beaten and robbed, you should have listened to others and not have made this journey anway."

The Levi might have said, "Well, just look at you down in that awful ditch. Aren't you ashamed of yourself? If you would have submitted to your former pastor and not went off looking for another church to attend, you would not have met up with the highwaymen and got beaten up and robbed. Why don't you get up from there and crawl back to your former pastor and submit?" Tsk, tsk, tsk.

Wonder what the Good Samaritan might have said? "Oh brother, I don't even count myself worthy to be your servant, being only a Samaritan, but I see that you have been grievously treated and left in a terrible condition. Without reward or recognition for myself, I will examine your wounds and treat them. I will pour in the oil to soothe and speed the healing of the wound, I will pour in the wine to ease the pain. Then, after I bind up the wounds, I will take you upon my own beast of burden to a place where you can convalesce with all bills paid until then." Curiously, the name of the Good Samaritan was never known. Such men care not for the glory and fame from good works.

I of course disagree with a lot of people here. With that being said, it naturally follows that there are those that will disagree with me. Big deal. That does not matter at all. But, what does matter is at least these few words might be considered.

Of couse, I do agree with prayer and what I feel is OPs' true heart felt concern for Bro. Cooper. The value of prayer cannot be estimated.

[mizpeh]

KEY WORDS HERE- 'commited' and 'faithful'. Commited to WHOM and faithful to WHAT? Pastor Coon, your words struck a proverbial 'chord' with me, and I have a lot I could say about what you wrote here...but, I won't. I will just mull the words over, and allow God to speak through what you wrote to COOP. I can relate to COOP, in a number of ways...thank God for HOPE.

Wholly,

When I read Bro Coonskinner's words "committed" and "faithful", I took them to mean to Christ and his body, the church.

[ILG]

Too late for what? Perhaps they feel you did the right thing and don't view you as utterly lost. Possible.

I suppose there could be two reasons why people don't call. They could think that it's a waste of their time. Or they could think that leaving was the right thing and they can't call us and let us know that because it might ruin their reputation.

[originalsecretplace]

This is exactly right.

Has anyone sought to find the root of the hurt-turned-bitterness? Of course bitterness will lash out? Does anyone understand what caused it all? Perhaps a thread might be started in an attempt to honestly flush out the bottom most of the cause. Coop may or maynot be willing to cooperate. That is another consideration.

Just mere submitting is not the answer. Blind submission is not the answer unless he loves having his mind raped and family abused by some tyrant...which so often happens. Not saying this is the case in Coop's instance.

The bible commands us...(that's you and me)...to KNOW THEM that labor among us. Unless husband/father assumes the God given role in the primary responsibility of being the priest and leader of his own home, that is, the priest in the first church God ever formed, he is a fool to ignorantly subject himself and family (the first church) to someone that could just as well send them all to hell from abuse. Seen it happen too many times.

There is no authority apart from divine love. Authority is abrogated in the absence of divine love coupled together with the calling to office. A pastor that does not love the sheep and who are not only willing but ready to give himself for them has NO authority from office alone.

So, since there is so much concern for COOPER, why not try pouring in the oil of understanding and the wine of inspiration rather than passing him on by with ideas and suggestions without attempting to lift him upon their own donkey.

The Priest could have said, "Well, you poor victim, get up out of the ditch and quit whining about have been beaten and robbed, you should have listened to others and not have made this journey anway."

The Levi might have said, "Well, just look at you down in that awful ditch. Aren't you ashamed of yourself? If you would have submitted to your former pastor and not went off looking for another church to attend, you would not have met up with the highwaymen and got beaten up and robbed. Why don't you get up from there and crawl back to your former pastor and submit?" Tsk, tsk, tsk.

Wonder what the Good Samaritan might have said? "Oh brother, I don't even count myself worthy to be your servant, being only a Samaritan, but I see that you have been grievously treated and left in a terrible condition. Without reward or recognition for myself, I will examine your wounds and treat them. I will pour in the oil to soothe and speed the healing of the wound, I will pour in the wine to ease the pain. Then, after I bind up the wounds, I will take you upon my own beast of burden to a place where you can convalesce with all bills paid until then." Curiously, the name of the Good Samaritan was never known. Such men care not for the glory and fame from good works.

I of course disagree with a lot of people here. With that being said, it naturally follows that there are those that will disagree with me. Big deal. That does not matter at all. But, what does matter is at least these few words might be considered.

Of couse, I do agree with prayer and what I feel is OPs' true heart felt concern for Bro. Cooper. The value of prayer cannot be estimated.

All I can say about this post is WOW!!!

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

All I can say about this post is WOW!!!

It was a great post

[COOPER]

This is exactly right.

Has anyone sought to find the root of the hurt-turned-bitterness? Of course bitterness will lash out? Does anyone understand what caused it all? Perhaps a thread might be started in an attempt to honestly flush out the bottom most of the cause. Coop may or maynot be willing to cooperate. That is another consideration.

Just mere submitting is not the answer. Blind submission is not the answer unless he loves having his mind raped and family abused by some tyrant...which so often happens. Not saying this is the case in Coop's instance.

The bible commands us...(that's you and me)...to KNOW THEM that labor among us. Unless husband/father assumes the God given role in the primary responsibility of being the priest and leader of his own home, that is, the priest in the first church God ever formed, he is a fool to ignorantly subject himself and family (the first church) to someone that could just as well send them all to hell from abuse. Seen it happen too many times.

There is no authority apart from divine love. Authority is abrogated in the absence of divine love coupled together with the calling to office. A pastor that does not love the sheep and who are not only willing but ready to give himself for them has NO authority from office alone.

So, since there is so much concern for COOPER, why not try pouring in the oil of understanding and the wine of inspiration rather than passing him on by with ideas and suggestions without attempting to lift him upon their own donkey.

The Priest could have said, "Well, you poor victim, get up out of the ditch and quit whining about have been beaten and robbed, you should have listened to others and not have made this journey anway."

The Levi might have said, "Well, just look at you down in that awful ditch. Aren't you ashamed of yourself? If you would have submitted to your former pastor and not went off looking for another church to attend, you would not have met up with the highwaymen and got beaten up and robbed. Why don't you get up from there and crawl back to your former pastor and submit?" Tsk, tsk, tsk.

Wonder what the Good Samaritan might have said? "Oh brother, I don't even count myself worthy to be your servant, being only a Samaritan, but I see that you have been grievously treated and left in a terrible condition. Without reward or recognition for myself, I will examine your wounds and treat them. I will pour in the oil to soothe and speed the healing of the wound, I will pour in the wine to ease the pain. Then, after I bind up the wounds, I will take you upon my own beast of burden to a place where you can convalesce with all bills paid until then." Curiously, the name of the Good Samaritan was never known. Such men care not for the glory and fame from good works.

I of course disagree with a lot of people here. With that being said, it naturally follows that there are those that will disagree with me. Big deal. That does not matter at all. But, what does matter is at least these few words might be considered.

Of couse, I do agree with prayer and what I feel is OPs' true heart felt concern for Bro. Cooper. The value of prayer cannot be estimated.

All I can say about this post is WOW!!!

It was a great post
:nod

[Michlow]

The truth is that those who have not experienced it, do not understand the depths of damage that can be done in the mind.

Though I long ago let of any bitterness or anger that I held and freely forgave those who injured me, even I did not completely understand the effect those past experiences had on my spiritual life.

Firstly, and most importantly, I was taught a distorted view of God. Secondly I was shown a distorted view of authority. This distortion continued to encompass the church/body. These were all tied together with a manipulation and distortion of the Word.

So what was I left with? A fear of the ministry, a lack of trust in other believers, a dislike, fear, mistrust and feelings of confusion towards God and His word.

How do you just "get over" something like that? What tools does one use? All the sources one would normally turn to, have in the past been sources of abuse.

Perhaps it is different when one has been taught and nuturted in a healthy spiritual environment and then has a "bad experience", but when one is "born" into an abusive church it is not that easy to overcome. Then you are equipped with a defective filter. Even when you hear "truth" it is filtered through the distorted and twisted foundation that was first built.

I have been out of the bad environment for over 3 years and it has only been in the past month that I have begun to make progress. Because I have only now gotten a clear picture of Jesus. My view of Him was so distorted that there was no peace or joy in my walk, for I was serving a God that I despised, feared and had so much anger towards. I found Him capricious, arbitrarily cruel, demanding, domineering and a spiritual blackmailer.

(Anyone interested in reading about how that change, it is posted here: http://www.apostolicfriendsforum.com/showpost.php?p=90026&postcount=23 )

Now that I have rebuilt my foundation, I can begin to deal with the other things.

But to be honest, it's very much a two steps forward, one step back process. Especially when it comes to church, Pastors and the Bible. They were the things that were used to distort my image of God.

[Ronzo]

This is exactly right.

Has anyone sought to find the root of the hurt-turned-bitterness? Of course bitterness will lash out? Does anyone understand what caused it all? Perhaps a thread might be started in an attempt to honestly flush out the bottom most of the cause. Coop may or maynot be willing to cooperate. That is another consideration.

Just mere submitting is not the answer. Blind submission is not the answer unless he loves having his mind raped and family abused by some tyrant...which so often happens. Not saying this is the case in Coop's instance.

The bible commands us...(that's you and me)...to KNOW THEM that labor among us. Unless husband/father assumes the God given role in the primary responsibility of being the priest and leader of his own home, that is, the priest in the first church God ever formed, he is a fool to ignorantly subject himself and family (the first church) to someone that could just as well send them all to hell from abuse. Seen it happen too many times.

There is no authority apart from divine love. Authority is abrogated in the absence of divine love coupled together with the calling to office. A pastor that does not love the sheep and who are not only willing but ready to give himself for them has NO authority from office alone.

So, since there is so much concern for COOPER, why not try pouring in the oil of understanding and the wine of inspiration rather than passing him on by with ideas and suggestions without attempting to lift him upon their own donkey.

The Priest could have said, "Well, you poor victim, get up out of the ditch and quit whining about have been beaten and robbed, you should have listened to others and not have made this journey anway."

The Levi might have said, "Well, just look at you down in that awful ditch. Aren't you ashamed of yourself? If you would have submitted to your former pastor and not went off looking for another church to attend, you would not have met up with the highwaymen and got beaten up and robbed. Why don't you get up from there and crawl back to your former pastor and submit?" Tsk, tsk, tsk.

Wonder what the Good Samaritan might have said? "Oh brother, I don't even count myself worthy to be your servant, being only a Samaritan, but I see that you have been grievously treated and left in a terrible condition. Without reward or recognition for myself, I will examine your wounds and treat them. I will pour in the oil to soothe and speed the healing of the wound, I will pour in the wine to ease the pain. Then, after I bind up the wounds, I will take you upon my own beast of burden to a place where you can convalesce with all bills paid until then." Curiously, the name of the Good Samaritan was never known. Such men care not for the glory and fame from good works.

I of course disagree with a lot of people here. With that being said, it naturally follows that there are those that will disagree with me. Big deal. That does not matter at all. But, what does matter is at least these few words might be considered.

Of couse, I do agree with prayer and what I feel is OPs' true heart felt concern for Bro. Cooper. The value of prayer cannot be estimated.
Excellent post.

[COOPER]

For those concerned about the hurts I have......I can honestly say I did not leave the UPCI because of a hurt.

I move to Amarillo while my old UPC church was going through a change of how standards were taught and viewed.

I moved to Amarillo with my Pastors blessing as new thinking UPC man concerning Holiness doctrines.

My old Church was very Black gospel and contemporary in music.

We were almost 1/2 white 1/2 black mixed with Spanish/Latino.

When I moved to Amarillo and visited Elms and Johnson's church it was very backward from want I knew as UPC for the last Seventeen years.

Also with the new way I viewed standards; I knew..... I could not and would not be involved in UPC anymore.

I just did not agree anymore and I knew it was Gods will not to live the UPC anymore and that he has something better.

After time I began to look back on my UPC life and realized I was put through Allot of UN-necessary doctrines.

It greived my soul to know that some of the doctrines I fought to hold to; were not truth.

[ILG]

For those concerned about the hurts I have......I can honestly say I did not leave the UPCI because of a hurt.

.

I didn't leave the UPC because of hurt either. But some here say "Yes, you did". What can you say after that? ;)

[Michlow]

I didn't leave the UPC because of hurt either. But some here say "Yes, you did". What can you say after that? ;)

You keep denying it to the point that they accuse you of "being in denial" or "obviously deceived" :heeheehee

[COOPER]

The truth is that those who have not experienced it, do not understand the depths of damage that can be done in the mind.

Though I long ago let of any bitterness or anger that I held and freely forgave those who injured me, even I did not completely understand the effect those past experiences had on my spiritual life.

Firstly, and most importantly, I was taught a distorted view of God. Secondly I was shown a distorted view of authority. This distortion continued to encompass the church/body. These were all tied together with a manipulation and distortion of the Word.

So what was I left with? A fear of the ministry, a lack of trust in other believers, a dislike, fear, mistrust and feelings of confusion towards God and His word.

How do you just "get over" something like that? What tools does one use? All the sources one would normally turn to, have in the past been sources of abuse.

Perhaps it is different when one has been taught and nuturted in a healthy spiritual environment and then has a "bad experience", but when one is "born" into an abusive church it is not that easy to overcome. Then you are equipped with a defective filter. Even when you hear "truth" it is filtered through the distorted and twisted foundation that was first built.

I have been out of the bad environment for over 3 years and it has only been in the past month that I have begun to make progress. Because I have only now gotten a clear picture of Jesus. My view of Him was so distorted that there was no peace or joy in my walk, for I was serving a God that I despised, feared and had so much anger towards. I found Him capricious, arbitrarily cruel, demanding, domineering and a spiritual blackmailer.

(Anyone interested in reading about how that change, it is posted here: http://www.apostolicfriendsforum.com/showpost.php?p=90026&postcount=23 )

Now that I have rebuilt my foundation, I can begin to deal with the other things.

But to be honest, it's very much a two steps forward, one step back process. Especially when it comes to church, Pastors and the Bible. They were the things that were used to distort my image of God.
Hang on Mich.:thumbsup


I didn't leave the UPC because of hurt either. But some here say "Yes, you did". What can you say after that? ;)
exactly!

But after I stepped back and looked back on "my UPC life'; it's enough to make me sad and angered to know how something I loved for so long had such a un-healthy control on my life.

[ILG]

You keep denying it to the point that they accuse you of "being in denial" or "obviously deceived" :heeheehee

Yes, if I don't agree with them, I am decieved. You either give in to their wishes and ideas or you get called some very nasty names.

[Sheltiedad]

Ya know,when Moses was wandering through the wilderness for all those years, I bet people were telling him to just settle down somewhere too... ;)

[Ferd]

Ya know,when Moses was wandering through the wilderness for all those years, I bet people were telling him to just settle down somewhere too... ;)

actually he was submitted to Jethro his paw in law... and went to him for advice. He did what old Jethro told him to do too.

[Sheltiedad]

actually he was submitted to Jethro his paw in law... and went to him for advice. He did what old Jethro told him to do too.

But he wasn't Pentecostal was he? :D

[Michlow]

actually he was submitted to Jethro his paw in law... and went to him for advice. He did what old Jethro told him to do too.

But he wasn't Pentecostal was he? :D

Wasn't Jetho a priest of Midian? Worshipper of a false God? An Idolator???

[Ferd]

But he wasn't Pentecostal was he? :D

nope. he sure wasnt. he was an idolator!

[rgcraig]

I didn't leave the UPC because of hurt either. But some here say "Yes, you did". What can you say after that? ;)

Nothing. They know you better than you do - :heeheehee

[nathan_slatter]

The truth is that those who have not experienced it, do not understand the depths of damage that can be done in the mind.

Though I long ago let of any bitterness or anger that I held and freely forgave those who injured me, even I did not completely understand the effect those past experiences had on my spiritual life.

Firstly, and most importantly, I was taught a distorted view of God. Secondly I was shown a distorted view of authority. This distortion continued to encompass the church/body. These were all tied together with a manipulation and distortion of the Word.

So what was I left with? A fear of the ministry, a lack of trust in other believers, a dislike, fear, mistrust and feelings of confusion towards God and His word.

How do you just "get over" something like that? What tools does one use? All the sources one would normally turn to, have in the past been sources of abuse.

Perhaps it is different when one has been taught and nuturted in a healthy spiritual environment and then has a "bad experience", but when one is "born" into an abusive church it is not that easy to overcome. Then you are equipped with a defective filter. Even when you hear "truth" it is filtered through the distorted and twisted foundation that was first built.

I have been out of the bad environment for over 3 years and it has only been in the past month that I have begun to make progress. Because I have only now gotten a clear picture of Jesus. My view of Him was so distorted that there was no peace or joy in my walk, for I was serving a God that I despised, feared and had so much anger towards. I found Him capricious, arbitrarily cruel, demanding, domineering and a spiritual blackmailer.

(Anyone interested in reading about how that change, it is posted here: http://www.apostolicfriendsforum.com/showpost.php?p=90026&postcount=23 )

Now that I have rebuilt my foundation, I can begin to deal with the other things.

But to be honest, it's very much a two steps forward, one step back process. Especially when it comes to church, Pastors and the Bible. They were the things that were used to distort my image of God.

Mich -- that was an excellent post. Thank you.

[nathan_slatter]

I didn't leave the UPC because of hurt either. But some here say "Yes, you did". What can you say after that? ;)

Nothing. There is a point when they have to believe what they believe to make themselves feel better about where they are. And, truthfully, isn't that what we all do? The difference? Some of us realize and admit it.

[COOPER]

Nothing. There is a point when they have to believe what they believe to make themselves feel better about where they are. And, truthfully, isn't that what we all do? The difference? Some of us realize and admit it.

:rockband

[nathan_slatter]

:rockband

ROCK -N- ROLL

[Michlow]

Mich -- that was an excellent post. Thank you.

:highfive

[Charlie Brown]

For those concerned about the hurts I have......I can honestly say I did not leave the UPCI because of a hurt.

I move to Amarillo while my old UPC church was going through a change of how standards were taught and viewed.

I moved to Amarillo with my Pastors blessing as new thinking UPC man concerning Holiness doctrines.

My old Church was very Black gospel and contemporary in music.

We were almost 1/2 white 1/2 black mixed with Spanish/Latino.

When I moved to Amarillo and visited Elms and Johnson's church it was very backward from want I knew as UPC for the last Seventeen years.

Also with the new way I viewed standards; I knew..... I could not and would not be involved in UPC anymore.

I just did not agree anymore and I knew it was Gods will not to live the UPC anymore and that he has something better.

After time I began to look back on my UPC life and realized I was put through Allot of UN-necessary doctrines.

It greived my soul to know that some of the doctrines I fought to hold to; were not truth.

Why start the 300 threads to tear down the UPCI then? Are you bitter?

If you have moved on, why have you not moved on? Your words are speaking volumes to all but yourself.