Speaking of General Discernment

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[everythingchrist]

I posted three posts here on false prophets, seven churches and end time teaching.  It seems I offended some here, indicating that I may be judging GC church, their leaders, etc.  I'm not judging, but we are to discern.  If we are not discerning, then what are any of us doing here on this forum in the first place?  Action reflects belief.  The Book of Revelation offers a look at the churches historically and a trend in current times or future times as a warning.  I'm not saying GC is any particular church, but there are trends as we can all see in many new churches, not only in GC but also, e.g. Willow Creek, Saddleback, etc. that are scary in their teaching.  We are to discern.  I know Paul warned churches about lots of things going on, not just false teaching.  But, again, what's the point in being here at all.

I've been hurt by those leaders (not all the members in any case) at the GC-related church I attended.  Wounded hearts are really up for God to heal and bitter roots are vislble here on this forum, as in myself, which I regret.  Comparison of other Christians is rampant in the GC church, not so much in the teaching of other churches  besides GC, but in individuals who do not do what other individuals in GC do.  It is old, tiring and I think that GC should really get a clue!  But, God, as in the seven churches, will settle the matter.

[AgathaL'Orange]

You haven't offended me, I don't think!   

[MidnightRider]

I wasn't offended. I just don't think the 7 churches in Revelation are 7 ages of church history, or 7 categories into which all churches can be fit. I think they are 7 churches that were around when the Revelation was given to John. Probably they were the churches to which John was most closely connected at that time.

I don't have any problem with any well-founded criticism of GCx, either. I would just say to everyone, me included, that we should line up our ducks when making an accusation.

So maybe we should get back on track. I think you said you left GCx recently. Was there something specific that made you leave?

[everythingchrist]

We specifically left for many reasons:  1) teaching was watered down and every sermon downloaded off the internet.  Little Bible; mostly opinions about everything from homeschooling to spanking to what to wear to small group; 2) focus on growth, new people and only those young couples/families; 3) controlling pastor and his wife (other leaders are oblivious or scared to comment; 4) gossip from pastor, his wife, and those they mentored; 5) false teaching -- almost exclusively related to bearing fruit/works and whether or not you are really saved if you're depressed - maybe you're not saved.  Not tithing?  Maybe not saved.  Not homeschooling? Your kids will likely not be saved. Not sharing the gospel regularly/consistently?  You are NOT and canNOT  be saved. 6) Go on vacation?  "Oh no, we will have plenty of time for that in heaven".  Do I need to continue?  According to this church, the pastor and his wife are the only ones going to heaven (and of course, their kids). 

[lone gone]

Count me in as not offended.

In each of the three threads started, there was a question as to what GC churches believed and taught.  It seems that there isn't much consensus on what they do teach.... apparently it can vary from leader to leader or church to church.

Also, it seems the poster had his or her own understanding about theological issues and several of us posted that we just didn't believe that way. It wasn't about being offended, it was about answering a question with our honest opinions.

I have seen where each poster has responded as needed to clarify his or her statements so as to further understanding, but NOT so as to contradict and foment trouble.

I agree that we need to be discerning, not only of the forces of evil,( the world, The devil, our flesh) but also that there isn't one "right" way to understand scripture that we can all agree on. God knows what is right, and I can add jokingly, that He isn't revealing it very clearly.

 I am patient and will wait until that day when all is revealed. In the mean time I will state my position but not beat anyone up if they disagree with me.

[EverAStudent]

No, not offended here. 

In fact, far from being offended when others propose alternative views of Scripture, I am pleased to evaluate and discuss such things because it helps me to learn and grow.  Though we may end up disagreeing about nuances, we should both walk away better equipped in the Scriptures. 

As stated earlier, I think the Revelation letters to the churches are meant to be warnings and instructions to all churches (including the original historical churches), but it is not possible or preferrable to label any given present denomination as being one of those churches.  Use the praises and the criticisms in the letters to the churches as examples, but avoid lumping an entire congregation into one label or another.

Keep on discerning!

Blessings.