I wasn't raised Apostolic but the past 15 yrs I have believed in One God, obeyed and proclaimed
Acts 2:38, spoken in tongues during prayer and worship, striven to live a holy life, and waited on the soon coming of the Lord Jesus.
The last few years, however, I began to see things a bit differently. I must admit that public forums like this one have a role in it (I was more active in another forum, though). But I wouldn't consider myself as someone who can be easily swayed. I have prayed hard to never fall into false teachings and I have a sincere desire to stay aligned with God's Word. I'm open to discovering deeper truths (even to the point of changing some of my current beliefs) but so far I have been convinced that some of the things I grew up believing are not exactly accurate/sound doctrine.
My apologies if starting this thread is not in order. My intent? I am looking for like-minded folks to fellowship with (online and offline). I am from the Philippines as some of you may have already noted in my introductory post. I have been searching for a church group with whom I can be on the same page on a few "difficult" issues:
- holiness standards including uncut hair on women (im a man, btw)
- tithes
- prophecy
Some folks have been so kind to provide me with some information that they may have regarding churches in Metro Manila. I have also been searching google and facebook but I haven't really found one who would be open to accepting me despite my views on the things I mentioned above.
I have never discussed this with my former pastor nor with anyone in my previous church family (the only one I ever had, actually) because I do not want to cut off my ties with them altogether. I hate labels and its divisiveness but I understand that they are conservative and would probably not change their stance on those topics I mentioned - no not in this lifetime. I love and respect them and I would rather be quiet about my beliefs than cause confusion and division in their midst.
Unfortunately, the past year or so that I have not attended church services, my relationship with God has also grown cold (or lukewarm?). I have not been praying and studying as I should and my, I miss the presence of God during corporate worship! I am also struggling with some personal weaknesses. I know I am not "OK" and I need to have active participation in the kingdom of God again. I feel like I'm dying inside, really.
Problem is, I am in Manila and I haven't found the group that I could fellowship with. I probably have more "choices" if I were in some place like the US. I don't know, but I am hoping that through this thread, God will finally lead me to where I belong.
Please help me pray for guidance.
Thanks,
Mark B.
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