My first post

Welcome to De-Commissioned, a place for former members of the Great Commission movement (aka GCM, GCC, GCAC, GCI, the Blitz) to discuss problems they've experienced in the association's practices and theology.

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[Truet]

I was with GCC in Ames Iowa for 8 years in the 1980's and I quit the church in 1988. It wasn't hard to leave because everyone in knew or liked disappeared to plant a church and care I joined them. I feel I need to keep my contact with this forum secret from my wife. She's would worry if she knew I joined. I realize that Jim McCotter wrecked my faith, but I don't want my faith back.

[Huldah]

Hello, Truet, and welcome to the forum. If you've had a chance to look around at some of the older posts, back when the forum was more active, you'll probably find a lot of experiences you can identify with. I'm very sorry that GC managed to wreck your faith, but sadly, that isn't an unusual story.

I look forward to hearing more of your story, if and when you feel ready to share.

[Janet Easson Martin]

Welcome, Truet.  You were in GCx Churches very close to the years I was (~1980-1990 in MD). It seems quite a few people in the Ames Church have written here. Most people who write here are understandably anonymous. As Huldah said, McCotter has wrecked the faith of others also. You are not alone. It sounds like you may have experienced painful rejection which sadly is not uncommon in GCx churches.

I love what God says to us regarding choosing us and not rejecting us:

But you, O Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I HAVE CHOSEN,
 you descendants of Abraham MY FRIEND,
I took you from the ends of the earth,
from its farthest corners I CALLED you.

I said, ‘You ARE my servant’;
I HAVE CHOSEN YOU and HAVE NOT REJECTED YOU.

So, do not fear, for I AM WITH YOU;
do not be dismayed, for I AM YOUR God.
I WILL strengthen you and help you;
I WILL uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:8-10

(Emphasis mine)