[mizpeh]

Originally Posted by 192281

Its just sad to me..
I havent changed one thing about myself or said one harsh word about them, I just visited a church and it got out I am thinking about leaving. What will happen if I ever do leave. Also its sad because I think what if this happens to someone who cant handle the bashing..what will become of them.

Ferd didn't soft soap his words for you. He was being straight with you. I can understand some of his concerns. Can't you? Put yourself in the place of those you are leaving behind.

Has no one ever left your church before to go to another church that is less conservative? Are you the first? And since you don't agree with everything that is taught (standards) in your church, are you still in leadership or have you stepped down?

You are the one who is leaving so you are the one who will have to be more compassionate than those you left behind afterall a church is like a family and you are leaving a family in which you have been in a leadership role. I would be hurt (as I'm sure they are about you leaving) but would pray that God's will and blessings on their life if someone was considering leaving my fellowship.

Ultimately this move of yours is between you and God. Try to do it in a way that honors God...with love.