I know that I have not posted in a while, other than just lately. It has been a struggle.
I have been the feeling the odd man out for a while now at church. I taught through the Matt Chandler series on Philippians, and thought that went well. But when it comes to what we teach in other areas or what we do in response to the Gospel, I feel alone.
At our recent elder's retreat, there was no vision casting (although that was the supposed purpose). There was little prayer (although the minister did notice that one the last day, and said it was okay, because we were doing God's work).
Can you do God's work without prayer?
A year ago I was asked to evaluate the Student Minister. Today I was taken to task because I was not completely positive in my efforts.
After much discussion with my wife and prayer, we decided to make a move. I do not believe that this decision was made in haste, and we have had many confirmations along the way that we have made the best choice. However, it is not easy as it seems. Finding a good, Gospel preaching church is a challenge.
We have visited a few churches. The first just seemed dead. The second was better, but the messages were lame, lots of opinion and little Scripture. We tried a few more Sundays, but it only confirmed our first impression. I miss not having a church family.
It has been over a month now since we have been to our former church. I resigned as an elder and went to the last meeting so they could ask me any questions about my decision. They didn't.
I have gotten an e-mail from the church's new Executive Director and one from the Minister. I have had one phone call from a friend in our Sunday School class. I have ran into a few folks and they have said that they have missed seeing us.
So I wonder, have I not had a church family for a while and just didn't know it?
2 comments:
I hesitate to comment on your situation, but I would caution you, do not compromise biblical doctrinal purity for fellowship.
Making a move is difficult. If you stay it could take a good length of time to pray for biblical purity, effect biblical change and to be a lynch pin for clarity.
Even the Corinthian Church was the only "game" in town, and believers were there.
Only God can truly give you the release you seek or cause you to remain. I know, I am facing the same choice now.
We are convinced we need to find a place where the preaching is energized by the Holy Spirit.
I will pray for you brother.
Man can I ever relate to you. Similar experiences as an elder back in the late 90s and a similar reaction when we left the church. Sadly I have come to believe that many of my church "relationships" were not too much different than my business "relationships". Even though we called each other brother or sister there was really no familial tie. When we left folks didn't call and much just seemed business as usual.. just like when I left a job.
On the flip side I have to say that I still do occasionally fellowship with folks from churches that I used to attend. Those friendships have seemed to transcend organizational boundaries. And they are pretty satisfying.
I second what Gregg says but I don't think that any of us can find purity in a doctrinal sense. Heck, I do not agree with some of the stuff I once believed. Best to simply be led by the Spirit. As my wife and I often say.. we may not be able to describe it but we will know it when we see it.. the Holy Spirit will bear witness when we are there.
Loved your photos in previous posts. We are in the middle of moving so I have been a bit slow these days in my reading.
Happy Father's Day!!
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