Born Again Christians Thread-No Bashing please

[JoyG]

Our ladies Bible study has done numereous studies. But I was only involved with one 12 week study. We had done "God at Your Wits' End" by Marilyn Meberg (Women of Faith).

I didn't go back after this study. Even though I have known the ladies for a long time, we are at different spirital levels in our walk with God. Because my viewpoints were different then theirs and more open, I was looked down upon. I was being treated as if my viewpoints were flat out wrong.

Our church does have other Bible studies, but the other ladies' study is done with SAHM's and done while I'm at work. This is the group who is pretty much at the same spiritual level as I am and are open to discussing without putting someone down b/c their viewpoint differs.

Not trying to hijack Buckalew's question, but I'm curious about your church situation too.

You've made a couple of posts that suggest there is some disrespect towards you from some other church members.

Are you comfortable in that church? That doesn't sound like a situation I'd be comfortable in. Have you thought of finding a church that is more accepting of your beliefs?

From the tone of your posts you seem to hold the same beliefs as many penecostals that I know. I was surprised when you posted you go to a Lutheran church. Have you thought about switching denominations? Or are you commited to the Lutheran church you go to?

Sorry if I'm getting personal, I've been reading your posts and they peaked my curiousity.

 

[Saxsoon]

Did you find Screwtape letters more or less difficult and deep as M.C.?

 

[lovethattink]

I'm interested in hearing about the Screwtape letters too. It's the next book my son has to read for his required reading at school. He was starting an independent study with the headmaster. It was reading C.S. Lewis' The Weight of Glory. Unfortunately, the headmaster wasn't able to continue and my son ended up with an extra PE class instead.

 

[luvthatduke]

Another vote for The Screwtape Letters!
IMHO, it's a borderline-brilliant description of demonic influence
(don't let that scare you - keep reading).

C.S. Lewis depicts the demonic influence in and upon our lives
in what I think is a divinely inspired portrayal of how subtle the evil one is.
It's not a huge book, and in terms of depth MHO is that
Mere Christianity is much deeper on a different level.

All of C.S. Lewis' writings are worth a read,
remember he was a devout unbeliever who started out
to disprove Christ - and failed (praise the Lord!).

 

[cybrkitn]

http://www.lifeway.com/believinggod/ It does cost money to do it. It's a go at your own pace. It's designed for a 12 week study, but there isn't a 12 week limit on it. I've started it awhile ago, and have been going at a slow pace.

Thanks!

 

[cybrkitn]

Just wondering what the differing views were, cybrkitn? I've never encountered that type of thing. Well, we're all on different parts of our walks and different maturity levels but nothing so big to divide like that. Usually I learn a lot of the more mature.

A lot of people in our congregation are very close minded (that includes most of the ladies that are in the ladies Bible study I participated in). I have more of an open mind when it comes to God and know never to limit Him (although I am guilty at times of doing that). If I am in a conversation with someone who is not at the same faith level that I am, that person will scoff at me and act very condescending. That person does not have the same understanding that I have. For example, faith.

Our church is going through financial difficulties right now. There are those on our church council who do not believe that God will get us out and are relying on themselves. They believe that whatever amount we have is what God has given us; no more, no less. They don't realize that what they are doing are a few things. They are pretty much telling God that we don't need him and that we can get ourselves out of this (a mistake that I have made in the past myself) and they are trying to limit God. When we had our congregational meeting, there were those who are on the same spirtual level as I am (and maybe even higher) that were quoting Bible passages that were relevent to help our council and congregation understand. Council did not want to hear it. Our council VP even said that the scripture from the OT that was read, was irrelevant . He thinks that we are a NT only church. Although I do believe that he is the only one that thinks that. Even our pastor didn't agree with what our VP had said.

That is an example of what happens. Those of us who are at a different level understand things more so than someone who is not there yet. We are looked down upon like our view is wrong or blasphemy (in the attitude not actually saying it).

I listen to and watch so many different preachers on TV b/c we have the Sky Angel network (we have satelite TV). So DH and I get a lot more than our local cable provider has as well as most of our congregation. I love watching Ken and Gloria Copeland, John Hagee, Mannafest with Perry Stone, Jr., Sid Roth, Bob Larson, Joyce Myers, 700 Club and when he is on, I also love watching Kim Clement (but mostly I watch his from the internet), etc. On the radio I listen to In Touch, Grace to You and Dr. D. James Kennedy. So, I'm exposed to more of a variety of Christianity than most in our church.

Until recently, our church used just the traditional hymns from the Lutheran Book of Worship (LBW). Very traditional. Since we were without an organist for awhile, our newly formed tech committee installed projectors and have been playing songs from the I Worship CD's with the words up for the congregation to follow along with. Since these praise songs/hymns are more up-beat they are a breath of fresh air for some of us. You will even see some people dancing a little bit! Something that was unheard of before. One person that I know of has already said that she doesn't like the projectors (but she is also 60+ and I don't believe she is used to them yet).

But we are slowly changing and coming around. The "traditionalism" that has plagued us for so long has become stale and more and more of the younger generation is looking for something more "refreshing". We have already lost a few members because we just aren't moving anywhere. We aren't even reaching out to the hugh Hispanic population in our town (as of yet). Most of the "older" people in our congregation won't even hear of that. But I know that we are on the verge of growing thanks to the Blessings that God has for us and has already done.

Sorry if I rambled on too long.

 

[cybrkitn]

Another vote for The Screwtape Letters!
IMHO, it's a borderline-brilliant description of demonic influence
(don't let that scare you - keep reading).

C.S. Lewis depicts the demonic influence in and upon our lives
in what I think is a divinely inspired portrayal of how subtle the evil one is.
It's not a huge book, and in terms of depth MHO is that
Mere Christianity is much deeper on a different level.

All of C.S. Lewis' writings are worth a read,
remember he was a devout unbeliever who started out
to disprove Christ - and failed (praise the Lord!).

DH got the three or four book set for Christmas one year from his friend/co-worker. Looks like I have to start reading The Screwtape Letters.

The demonic influence parts shouldn't be a problem for me. I've read the Dark Prophet trilogy by Frank Peretti. Boy were those an eye opener!
But excellent novels.

That's interesting that C.S. Lewis was an unbeliever. I didn't know that. But usually those who try to disprove Christ, will become a believer.

 

[lovethattink]

Thanks!

You're welcome.


I can understand where you are coming from about your church. All my life I went to the same church. I was asked to be on the committe that was a laison between the pastor and the congregation. Too often I saw decisions made based on personal opinion rather than God's will.

Now I'm in a different church that is definately God driven rather than people driven. The church is truely blessed.

 

[Buckalew11]

Thanks for your POV, Cybrkitn.

 

[cyjmhill]

A lot of people in our congregation are very close minded (that includes most of the ladies that are in the ladies Bible study I participated in). I have more of an open mind when it comes to God and know never to limit Him (although I am guilty at times of doing that). If I am in a conversation with someone who is not at the same faith level that I am, that person will scoff at me and act very condescending. That person does not have the same understanding that I have. For example, faith.

Our church is going through financial difficulties right now. There are those on our church council who do not believe that God will get us out and are relying on themselves. They believe that whatever amount we have is what God has given us; no more, no less. They don't realize that what they are doing are a few things. They are pretty much telling God that we don't need him and that we can get ourselves out of this (a mistake that I have made in the past myself) and they are trying to limit God. When we had our congregational meeting, there were those who are on the same spirtual level as I am (and maybe even higher) that were quoting Bible passages that were relevent to help our council and congregation understand. Council did not want to hear it. Our council VP even said that the scripture from the OT that was read, was irrelevant . He thinks that we are a NT only church. Although I do believe that he is the only one that thinks that. Even our pastor didn't agree with what our VP had said.

That is an example of what happens. Those of us who are at a different level understand things more so than someone who is not there yet. We are looked down upon like our view is wrong or blasphemy (in the attitude not actually saying it).

I listen to and watch so many different preachers on TV b/c we have the Sky Angel network (we have satelite TV). So DH and I get a lot more than our local cable provider has as well as most of our congregation. I love watching Ken and Gloria Copeland, John Hagee, Mannafest with Perry Stone, Jr., Sid Roth, Bob Larson, Joyce Myers, 700 Club and when he is on, I also love watching Kim Clement (but mostly I watch his from the internet), etc. On the radio I listen to In Touch, Grace to You and Dr. D. James Kennedy. So, I'm exposed to more of a variety of Christianity than most in our church.

Until recently, our church used just the traditional hymns from the Lutheran Book of Worship (LBW). Very traditional. Since we were without an organist for awhile, our newly formed tech committee installed projectors and have been playing songs from the I Worship CD's with the words up for the congregation to follow along with. Since these praise songs/hymns are more up-beat they are a breath of fresh air for some of us. You will even see some people dancing a little bit! Something that was unheard of before. One person that I know of has already said that she doesn't like the projectors (but she is also 60+ and I don't believe she is used to them yet).

But we are slowly changing and coming around. The "traditionalism" that has plagued us for so long has become stale and more and more of the younger generation is looking for something more "refreshing". We have already lost a few members because we just aren't moving anywhere. We aren't even reaching out to the hugh Hispanic population in our town (as of yet). Most of the "older" people in our congregation won't even hear of that. But I know that we are on the verge of growing thanks to the Blessings that God has for us and has already done.

Sorry if I rambled on too long.

My I ask what type of church you go to? Is it Lutheran? If so which synod is it?

 

[cybrkitn]

My I ask what type of church you go to? Is it Lutheran? If so which synod is it?

Yes, Lutheran. LCMS (Lutheran Church Missouri Synod) Atlantic District. I grew up in my church. I went to Sunday school, was confirmed then was married there and our DS4 was baptized there. We have been going regularly since '98 and our faith has grown so much in that time and is still growing.

 

[cybrkitn]

You're welcome.


I can understand where you are coming from about your church. All my life I went to the same church. I was asked to be on the committe that was a laison between the pastor and the congregation. Too often I saw decisions made based on personal opinion rather than God's will.
Now I'm in a different church that is definately God driven rather than people driven. The church is truely blessed.

That has happened a lot in the last 4 years. Our council is running the church more like a business instead of God's church. I've been praying for everyone though and have already been told about one council member's 180 about 1 week after I started praying for him and others. God has my family here, I believe, to help our church to grow. I feel so blessed by that.

 

[Grandma Bear]

That has happened a lot in the last 4 years. Our council is running the church more like a business instead of God's church. I've been praying for everyone though and have already been told about one council member's 180 about 1 week after I started praying for him and others. God has my family here, I believe, to help our church to grow. I feel so blessed by that.

I'm in total agreement with you! About five years ago we went through a big split. Many of us started praying for some very contecious people who were
trying to cause a big uproar. They split off into their own group and formed another church. We have had five years of bliss and harmony with our pastor who preaches the word of God every week from the Bible. We have grown spiritual as well. Many of those who left have returned with a whole new attitude and appreciation for what we have. Keep Praying! It works!

 

[JoyG]

But we are slowly changing and coming around. The "traditionalism" that has plagued us for so long has become stale and more and more of the younger generation is looking for something more "refreshing". We have already lost a few members because we just aren't moving anywhere. We aren't even reaching out to the hugh Hispanic population in our town (as of yet). Most of the "older" people in our congregation won't even hear of that. But I know that we are on the verge of growing thanks to the Blessings that God has for us and has already done.

Sorry if I rambled on too long.

Sounds like your church is at a crossroads and God has laid it upon your heart to stay and stick it out.

I'm a fan of traditional churches myself. But I have been in Traditional churches that were spiritually dead. You can see it in the hearts of the members...by their fruit you will know them. I spent three years there and I went backwards in my walk with God.

Now I'm at a Traditional church that is alive and vibrant and on fire for God. Yup, it's possible to use Traditional and on fire in the same sentence! However, we did recently lose two dear young couples who chose a more contemporary church.

The body of Christ has so many different worship styles, the most important thing is that everyone is on the same page teaching sound doctrine. Seems like God is at work in your church, I'll pray for your church that He continues working to put everyone on the same page.

 

[JoyG]

New topic-

Anyone else an "emotional" church goer?

When I was a teenager...I couldn't stand sitting by my mother in church because she'd spend the whole service weeping! And now that I'm an adult, I've discovered I'm just like her!

Today was a particularly emotional service....or maybe it was my mood.

I did notice that while I was ironing my clothes this morning and listening to a local pastor on tv, the water works had already started.

Then again during Sunday school, and by the time church rolled around, my nose must have been red!

I bet there are people at church who think I'm emotionally unbalanced!

 

[cyjmhill]

Yes, Lutheran. LCMS (Lutheran Church Missouri Synod) Atlantic District. I grew up in my church. I went to Sunday school, was confirmed then was married there and our DS4 was baptized there. We have been going regularly since '98 and our faith has grown so much in that time and is still growing.

I am also a member of the LCMS. I have been an elder for our congregation in the past. I have also been through similar circumstances with our church.

My advice is that you sit down with the board of elders (or the church council) and the pastor and let them know how you feel.

There are reasons why the church does certain things and that may not be well communicated (and it should be). I would also refer you to the book of Concordia The Lutheran Confessions. In 2005 CPH published a readers addition and it is very reader friendly.

I hope this helps.

 

[lovethattink]

New topic-

Anyone else an "emotional" church goer?

When I was a teenager...I couldn't stand sitting by my mother in church because she'd spend the whole service weeping! And now that I'm an adult, I've discovered I'm just like her!

Today was a particularly emotional service....or maybe it was my mood.

I did notice that while I was ironing my clothes this morning and listening to a local pastor on tv, the water works had already started.

Then again during Sunday school, and by the time church rolled around, my nose must have been red!

I bet there are people at church who think I'm emotionally unbalanced!

Usually I'm not emotional, but tonight was a different story. I went to a Heaven's Gate, H's Flame service. I was so choked up through out the performance. At the end there was an altar call, and somewhere between 200 and 300 unbelievers were saved. Just seeing these people come forward and accept Christ was so emotional for me. My friend's daughter was among them!

 

[luvthatduke]

...The demonic influence parts shouldn't be a problem for me. I've read the Dark Prophet trilogy by Frank Peretti. Boy were those an eye opener!

No worries, cybrkitn, Lewis and Peretti are nothing alike, IMHO.
I just didn't want anyone reading my post to avoid
The Screwtape Letters because of my brief description.

 

[cybrkitn]

Sounds like your church is at a crossroads and God has laid it upon your heart to stay and stick it out.

I'm a fan of traditional churches myself. But I have been in Traditional churches that were spiritually dead. You can see it in the hearts of the members...by their fruit you will know them. I spent three years there and I went backwards in my walk with God.

Now I'm at a Traditional church that is alive and vibrant and on fire for God. Yup, it's possible to use Traditional and on fire in the same sentence! However, we did recently lose two dear young couples who chose a more contemporary church.

The body of Christ has so many different worship styles, the most important thing is that everyone is on the same page teaching sound doctrine. Seems like God is at work in your church, I'll pray for your church that He continues working to put everyone on the same page.

Thank you

 

[cybrkitn]

I am also a member of the LCMS. I have been an elder for our congregation in the past. I have also been through similar circumstances with our church.

My advice is that you sit down with the board of elders (or the church council) and the pastor and let them know how you feel.

There are reasons why the church does certain things and that may not be well communicated (and it should be). I would also refer you to the book of Concordia The Lutheran Confessions. In 2005 CPH published a readers addition and it is very reader friendly.

I hope this helps.

Thanks for the advice. I've already talked to our pastor b/c I felt God was laying on my heart to start a prayer group. This group would pray for our Council, Pastor, church congregation as well as our building. He's all for it and it looks like there is a group that is slowly starting to come together. When I spoke to Pastor about it, he told me it sounds like God is calling people and there are slowly coming together. So it looks like I'm not the only one in our church who is looking at forming a prayer group.

He also told me about four people from our congregation that he would like to ask to be Elders. I believe two have already served that he wants to ask. One of the current Elders is our former President of our church council. He is one that has his faith in God and is at a higher level in his walk with God than I am. But he is one of the people that is somewhat involved with praying for the church.