Hi All
This is an interesting discussion and a good check about my attitude towards the church. I did share some of the truths that Ray teaches with my closest friend some time back, initially we got into an animated discussion, I pulled back and left it for a while. I showed them my thoughts which I had written down, on the cruel doctrine of hell, well a week later my friend was excited to share their understanding that judgment/punishment just cannot be eternal and there is coming a restitution of all things! I was so happy but decided not to push it anymore, God was already doing things. They know I don't believe in hell fire or eternal punishment, so I've left the door open for them to discuss the topic again.
On the other hand, I witnessed first hand God's blinding of someone, a baptist pastor, it is quite an amazing thing to witness when you know it is God who is doing it.
I received a flyer/ad in my letterbox from his church that's in my area. After reading the heresy on the back of the pamphlet I felt compelled to correct him via email. The discussion went well, however, he would not and could not let go of the literal eternal burning in hell doctrine. Leaving Christendom is only for the few, and it was confirmed by that email with the pastor, he just could not see through the fog. Perhaps one day, God willing
.
I think what Craig said is important, we show them the truth and then let God do the rest, for He does the dragging
. So I may give my friend a few more nuggets of truth at a gentle pace and then leave it to God.
Gena, you've done well with you emails, I don't have that kind of self control yet
.
God's peace to you all.
Andrevan.