Brothers and Sisters, and Beth......I so hope I'm able to put my thoughts into words correctly here.( If I need correction....fire away.) I went to sleep last night with prayers and thoughts about Bam's, and others situation that are similiar, and woke up this morning the same way. I've been in and out of many churches....I guess what you could say 'orthadox', and different denominationals, 'nons', 'spirit-filled', etc etc. There are others here that have also attended several different kinds of churches, and as we look back we can understand His hand of allowing us the opportunity. In my time of fellowship, reading, and studying here....there's always been one thing that perplexes me: why do they feel they "have to" tell the pastor of their desire for leaving, or already have quit? I'm not bringing up the subject of discussing our new found truth, etc...to others, or the pastor, but rather the heavy hearted desire to personally confront the pastor or elders to tell them that you are leaving. In my own belief, the answer to that is, simply .... we dont have to. We are under no condemnation ......." Rom 8:1.. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit". From John 5:24 Jesus said " He that heareth my word, and believeth on Him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life." Here at the forum, and within Ray's papers, you do not see any condemnation, instead, you find encouragement. Within the christiandom churches you will find plenty of condemnation, threats, etc....hidden very sutly within their teachings. Others will be plain outright bible-thumpin dramatics. In 1Cor.14:33 it says "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints".
In all the churches I attended, for all the different "reasons and circumstances"....not once did I feel obligated to "have to" confront the pastor or elders, etc. with my beliefs and reason I would not be attending anymore. In my opinion, even back then without the full truth in my heart....that I didn't have to answer to "them", nor a husband...but only to God.
Beth ..... has so many wonderful brothers and sisters here that have helped her, and have given so many wonderful scriptures, and her heart is opened for wisdom and obedience. I hope you stand strong, Bambam.....you might think you have just a little slingshot....but just think what you can do with it, like young Daniel ! and with just a few peaceful strong words, too...
I understand that many believe they are under the authority or leadership of the church or the spouse, etc...and must obey. But when that 'leadership', or whatever....is not within the truths of God, I would not feel the need to obey nor 'answer to' them. I'm not suggesting to just suddenly fling up our arms, yell "no more going to the church!", and stay boxed in behind closed doors. It's a walk...a process...a trial......and everything is within Gods timing, and we're all at different places in the walk where He will lead us, where, and when He's ready. One thing for sure....when you're at the right place, at the right time....there will be a peace that truly passes your own understanding.
~ Scribbles ~