Dazed and Confused

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[Innerlight]

I am quite distressed at what I am reading on these pages, as I have close family that belongs to Evergreen and to Walnut Creek.  I myself am Baptist, and have taught numerous Bible studies, sang in  the choir, etc..., and am a big fan of Chuck Smith and the Calvary Chapel Movement, based on the West Coast.  I'm happy to say I have had a joyous walk with the Lord for all of my life.  I am very sorry that many of you have had such negative experiences at the hands of these people. 

Is what I'm reading really happening?  I know my family can act a bit "odd' at times, and we are experiencing the whole dating thing first hand, but I had no idea the influence this church has over its members.  This is scary stuff.  I believe they are in so deep, nothing will change their minds.  I have listened to some of their ministers and conference stuff.  They seem to always be degrading other churches, or pastors, with a clear message, that they have the best way.

Thoughts?

[ISU Alumna]

I'm glad to hear that you're happy with your church. If you suspect that any of your relatives may be disgruntled with their church, then it would be nice if they knew that there are other options available.

How about inviting some of those relatives to some event at your church, so they can experience for themselves how it feels to be among Christians who are friendly and welcoming? Since you are a member of the choir, you might say something like, "Hey, we've been working on some really beautiful numbers for next Sunday's service, and I'd be pleased if you came to hear us."

[Innerlight]

I would love to have them come to our church, or any neutral church, but the answer is always no.  There have been many missed family events, because the church has an event going on. 

In my way of thinking it is God, family and church.  Seems like with my relatives it is Church, God and family.  BTW, I am aware of all the scriptures pertaining to family, and how important it is. 

[EverAStudent]

Welcome to the forum!

Innerlight asked if all this is really happening.  I think the answer is self-evident in all the postings from such divergent individuals who have been through the GC conformity machine.  If only it were true, that conformity to GC is the same as conforming to the image of God's Son, yet, they are two different things after all.

Innerlight, your spiritual growth in your own church (Baptist is what I believe you indicated) is the best witness you can give to your GC family.  When (if?) God reveals to them they have stagnated, your life of testimony will be compelling.

All during my time in GC they kept referring to other churches as "traditional" and "God's second best," however, I was saved in such churches and learned more from such churches in just a few years than I learned in many years at GC.  Viva traditional churches! 

Funny, I am still looking for the phrase "God's second best" in the Bible.  You don't think GC just made that up about other churches, do you??