House Church Talk - The Purpose Driven List?

[Gary]

Claire,

It's interesting that you used the term "bible-based cults" because in the
pure form of definition, one can reasonably describe the denominations that
I was a part of as that very thing. A great deal of manipulation and
pressure to conform, even though the model was reasonably orthodox and one
would be hard pressed to not call the other members Christians.

I believe the most accurate term is that of abusive church. Whether they
were true or not is for God to decide, but all of the cultish manipulations
were there, made harder to recognize however due to the essential soundness
of the doctrine. I say "essential" because the Biblical basics were there,
its just that the government and practice was more Romish than Rome. (Can I
say that??? ;o)

My wife and I are studying this matter intensely while maintaining contact
with a local IC for the sake of other family considerations. We are already
out froma church that is now subjecting us to "discipline" because we left
without asking permission to do so and because we would not submit the name
of any church we were moving to. Your insights as to leaving a cult will get
a lot of attention from us. Fear could be an accurate definition, since I am
concerned about an emotional rebound that I do not wnat to see harm anyone
else should we begin a house church.

Have your read the articles on abusive churches at
www.christiancounterculture.com ? They were the catalyst the Lord used to
direct me on to this present path of a reasonable (smile) obcession with the
solas.

Thanks for your kind encouragement. No doubt we will see each other on this
list quite a bit.

Earnestly contending,

Gary

(Written using WindowEyes, the premier screenreading program from GW Micro
that makes PCs accessible to the blind and visually impaired.  Contact:
www.gwmicro.com)

"Preach not only so that the people can understand, but so that they cannot
misunderstand if they wish."  CH.Spurgeon

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the
full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the
schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but
against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this
darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist
in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm."  Ephesians
6:10-13
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Claire Bennett" <clairebnntt at cox.net>
To: <House Church Talk  at housechurch.org>
Sent: Wednesday, September 29, 2004 11:27 AM
Subject: House Church Talk -  The Purpose Driven List?


Phil, it looks like you have gotten a number of replies, sometimes you just
need to be patient.  As far as guilting people into another program, most of
us are pretty wary.  I am thankful this is not the Purpose Driven List :)

Gary, a number of people thought they could bring reform to the church they
were a part of or the church in general.  They learned this is not possible.
I believe, that at this time, all we can do is urge the faithful to come out
of her.  It is not reform, but repentence that is needed, and only a few
will repent.

You seem fearful, and some of your qualms are common to people who have been
in cults.  I think if you connect with some of these people and understand
something of the process of manipulation and thought reform that takes place
in bible based cults, you may gain both insight and some light on your
future path.  I pray you will encounter loving people who will help you get
free.  There is such a need for ministry to the wounded stumbling out of
abusive churches.  I've found it so sad that many turn to
atheism/agnosticsm.



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