My Story

[KeptByTheWord]

It takes a storm to be able to see the rainbow clearly, and that is how I look at the storms we have been through. The rainbow made all the clouds worthwhile, and I recognize that same spirit in your post. Praise God for what He has done in your life! I can certainly relate to your experiences with a heavy-handed ministry. Thankful that the Lord has seen fit to bring you out, into better things.

[StillStanding]

It's wonderful that you and your family were able to separate your love for God from the way you were being treated by those representing the church. Many "abused" church members give up on God too, because to them the local church and God are one and the same thing.

It may be impossible to not resent how you were treated, but it appears that you have done a good job of moving on. Keep the faith!

[AreYouReady?]

Most people who love God and leave churches that have a stronghold on them [over the people] know that it is God who brought them out.

[Michael The Disciple]

Today I don't put my hope in manmade interpretation of scriptures because that's all doctrine is but instead I put on my blessed hope and know that mercy triumphs judgment and God desires mercy over sacrifice.

So are you still Oneness as to the Godhead? By the way doctrine is not just mens interpretation. Doctrine is the teaching of the words of God. Of course it must be rightly divided. We are to study to show ourselves APPROVED TO GOD. It is important to him that we walk in truth. When men disagree with him that should get us riled.

[navygoat1998]

Michael I am not sure how I would describe myself as the Godhead is concerned. I don't believe in 3 gods if that's what you're asking. I do believe in the Oneness of God. I have also settled in the fact that if I don't fully understand the Godhead it's Ok because the created will never know as much as the creator.

As far as doctrine one day God Himself will sort out doctrine and we all maybe a little surprised who we see seated and who is not at the wedding feast.

[AreYouReady?]

It took me a little while to settle on the same thing Navygoat. I consider myself Oneness, but I also recognize that "trinitarians" do not believe in three "separate" Gods. They believe that the three are one.

The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost is One. I think "trinitarians" believe that too.

[Titus2woman]

We haven't been out as long as you but your story is by no means unique in our experience.

Glad to find you among those who have been able to separate God from the muck and mire.

[Michael The Disciple]

Originally Posted by navygoat1998

Michael I am not sure how I would describe myself as the Godhead is concerned. I don't believe in 3 gods if that's what you're asking. I do believe in the Oneness of God. I have also settled in the fact that if I don't fully understand the Godhead it's Ok because the created will never know as much as the creator.

As far as doctrine one day God Himself will sort out doctrine and we all maybe a little surprised who we see seated and who is not at the wedding feast.

The surprise is going to be in how few actually ARE there. Jesus said FEW there be that find the way to life. That will be the surprise. As far as escaping a heavy handed false leadership Im happy for you.

I have seen as heavy handed leadership among Trins as I have among Oneness so it might be good to think in terms perhaps your search is not over.

[BroJoe]

Originally Posted by AreYouReady?

It took me a little while to settle on the same thing Navygoat. I consider myself Oneness, but I also recognize that "trinitarians" do not believe in three "separate" Gods. They believe that the three are one.

The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost is One. I think "trinitarians" believe that too.

Got this off wiki and it pretty much sums up trinitarians

"The Christian doctrine of the Trinity defines God as three divine persons (Greek: ὑποστάσεις):[1] the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. The three persons are distinct yet coexist in unity, and are co-equal, co-eternal and consubstantial"

I, as a oneness apostolic pentecostal, do not believe in three co-equal, co-eternal beings. It's not even supported in Scripture.

One God, His name is Jesus Christ.

[BroJoe]

Originally Posted by Praxeas

How long ago was that? Most churches, and I'd even say all, in the So Cal District are VERY moderate and progressive. That would never happen in my circle of churches

This is true. It's amazing what a few hundred miles do. I'm currently in the Western District of the UPCI and we are about as conservative as it gets. Take a trip down a few hours and you get cut hair, make-up, and light shows in the sanctuary.

I find that his experience to be a very unique one considering how "progressive" and liberal upc churches are down there.