posted
I've shared that my wife & I left an IC at the end of '08 and had a few "transitional" issues.
I want nothing to do with an IC & she missed the fellowship and joined an IC where an old friend attends.
Nice, small, intimate "church" but affiliated with a national "Apostolic/Prophetic" organization.
To keep the peace, I attend from time to time and as a former Associate Pastor, have been asked to share bible studies. I've done so, but made it a point to let the pastor ("Apostle") know where I stand.
Recently this church has felt, what I'll call, "the stings of affiliation" and the politics that go with it.
I've grown to care for these folk but I don't want to shout "Ichabod" or "come out" during a meeting.
Pray for my guidance.
THANX!
-------------------- You don't really know how much you believe in something until it becomes a matter of life or death.
posted
Frank, my fence-walking brother - I wish I could give you and your family a big hug, today. I feel your pain on these issues which are some of the most difficult.
As you know, there are principles of separation and principles of unity in Christ.
Apostleship? That's a hard one for me... Let's look at that sometime.
Think of it - the church should bring unity to a family but alas, sometimes this doesn't happen at all... hopefully for a season, in this case.
It speaks volumes that you "care for these folks", have voiced your concerns, want to keep peace, and that you would be called upon to teach.
I know that you are not looking for perfection of church or home but still, some of your core principles are being tested, are they not? Do you need more time and patience or should you just depart? I generally lean toward the former but cannot prescribe to you, my brother.
Prayers going up today for you, brother - that I know.
posted
What good advice to Frank, D! We have been reading through 1st Sammual in our house church and talked about king Saul last night and how he fought his battles his way, failing to seek God out for direction. He seemed to call on God publicaly a couple of times but it seemed as if he were really seeking to use God to accomplish his own purposes rathere than to submit to God so that God could accomplish His purposes through Saul. When speaking to Sammual he refers to God as your God rather than as my God. This seeking Gods voice and listening for His direction is so nebulous, but I think is what so often is what we need to do. I will pray for you today too as you seek Him.
Agreed, some of my core principles are being challenged. I will not compromise those principles and will allow God to work in and through me as I walk this path.
His will is my only desire & if He leads me to complete separation, I will.
In the meantime, balance is the key.
-------------------- You don't really know how much you believe in something until it becomes a matter of life or death.
posted
My wife and I just left the Wesleyan denomination after being raised in it. My late Dad & Mom pastored forty years. I was an ordained minister, pasturing. We were hurt by and lied about by district leaders. 100 % of our congregation left with us. This is something that the Holy Spirit spoke to me. You can forgive them and release them and give the gift the gift of forgiveness they don’t deserve or you can allow them to hold you captive and never be able to move forward. I choose to forgive and let go. It was amazing the freedom that we now feel. Only Jesus can do something like that. We will pray for you and your family. Blessings as you move to another level in your walk!
Email this page to someone.
