The Wizard Behind the Curtain

[Pro31:28]

ILG,

Beautiful, transparent post. I feel your pain, and while our course was somewhat different, I understand. I remember thinking to myself whenever doubt would appear "but these men who I love and respect believe and preach it, so it has to be true!".

We are now in a church that we absolutely love, but I will tell you something, transparency is what makes this church unique. Our pastor and assistant pastor make no bones about the fact that they are fallible, and so money records are always accessible and they are always wanting ideas.

I really appreciate what you wrote and I am praying for you, for your hurt, and for all of the people who let you down (my childhood and yours have much in common). God has plan, and often fallible people are a part of it, but through it all He adores us, and the fact that you are here and seeking cyber fellowship with us liberals is a great thing- YOU GO GIRL!!! I got your back

[Praxeas]

Originally Posted by Sam

But if God "leads" ILG to a "trinity" church, some of us would really think that was wrong.

some of you.

I have a friend that goes to a trinitarian church. The reason is she moved up north and went to an Apostolic church and told the pastor why she left the UPC she was attending down here. The issue was her disagreement over standards. She told the pastor she would comply with his teaching and obey, but the Pastor wanted nothing of it.

Now she goes to an AOG, still believes in baptism in Jesus name and Oneness.

On the other hand there is a newer UPC in the area and she has gotten to be friends with the Pastor. So far that pastor has not tried to rebuke her or convince her she is a sinner but has been very friendly in return.

Sorry but sometimes these kinds of threads to appear to be broadbrush in general, though that may not be the intent.

It's not synonymous with Apostolic or Oneness. It happens in Apostolic or Oneness churches. It also happens in Trinitarian churches

[Mr. Smith]

Originally Posted by Mr. Smith

Thank you for writing.

Those that take the time to read may say you're bitter, painting with a broad brush....the cliches are always the same. But your words are loudly heard.

Thanks again.

Originally Posted by Praxeas

some of you.

I have a friend that goes to a trinitarian church. The reason is she moved up north and went to an Apostolic church and told the pastor why she left the UPC she was attending down here. The issue was her disagreement over standards. She told the pastor she would comply with his teaching and obey, but the Pastor wanted nothing of it.

Now she goes to an AOG, still believes in baptism in Jesus name and Oneness.

On the other hand there is a newer UPC in the area and she has gotten to be friends with the Pastor. So far that pastor has not tried to rebuke her or convince her she is a sinner but has been very friendly in return.

Sorry but sometimes these kinds of threads to appear to be broadbrush in general, though that may not be the intent.

It's not synonymous with Apostolic or Oneness. It happens in Apostolic or Oneness churches. It also happens in Trinitarian churches

I think I'm gonna change my name from "Mr. Smith" to "Prophet Smith".

[ILG]

Originally Posted by Mr. Smith

Thank you for writing.

Those that take the time to read may say you're bitter, painting with a broad brush....the cliches are always the same. But your words are loudly heard.

Thanks again.

Thanks Mr. Smith. I am well aware of the "bitterness" accusations and I feel I am past all that. I really don't care anymore. It's just more smoke and mirrors.

[ILG]

Originally Posted by nahkoe

I struggle with the wizards behind the curtains too. It's difficult to separate God from the Christianity that's all over the place...the Christianity I refuse to have anything to do with.

Yes, indeed, it is.

[ILG]

Originally Posted by iceniez

Very interesting, I don't have much faith in the Machine , I do believe it is broken , and in need of repair..... But still there is hope God is different , He is not a man and can't lie. We have to please him,and Him alone .I am trying to learn that and how to do that. { according to what He teaches me in his word } Not based on religion, or tradition.The hard part is being looked at as sinners by those who say they are Christian [ apostolic ] because we don't fit in.

It's hard at first, but it gets easier in time. I never fit in anyway, and many never have. Really, that's a large part of what I am writing about. After a while, you kind of give up trying to fit in. What are people trying to fit into anyway and is it worth it? Those are the real questions.

[ILG]

Originally Posted by Sarah

ILG, I was feeling an overwhelming helplessness while reading this, 'til I got to the last paragraph. He's not a respector of person, dear....and He WILL make it all right! I believe you really desire that.

I'd like to offer a suggestion. Get off the computer, get alone and pray, and ask God to direct you to a church in your area. He never fails!

I've read your posts for several years now, and my heart has always gone out to you. I pray for you...

I appreciate the prayers, but I'll leave the advice, as well intended as I know it is.

[ILG]

Originally Posted by Sam

But if God "leads" ILG to a "trinity" church, some of us would really think that was wrong.

LOL! For sure!

[ILG]

Originally Posted by Dedicated Mind

Good words ILG. Do you think there is a role for churches in the salvation of the lost or have you given up on churches altogether?

Yes, I guess maybe. But I do not feel at all called to be involved in it anymore. I don't understand all the ins and outs of all that and don't claim to, which is one reason I don't try and tell people how to run their lives. I strongly felt and believed I was supposed to be where I was back when I was doing the things I was doing (although I question a lot of that now). I think people largely have to find their own way and figure things out for themselves, which is why I would not tell people to quit church or anything like that. On the flipside, I expect the same respect for my journey and choices.

[Praxeas]

Originally Posted by Mr. Smith

I think I'm gonna change my name from "Mr. Smith" to "Prophet Smith".

And? Did u get it all?
I said these kinds of threads appear to generalize. That's my honest opinion. I didn't say she did, but most often that is how they appear. It may not be the initial poster, but some later responding in generalizations. I was in fact respondig to what you said.