church wars
I have had numerous discussions lately about church dissension and the hurt that churches are causing people. For the past several months at least twice a week someone has come up to me seeking advice on what to do. I by all means am not a guru at dealing with church dissension although I have definitely been a part of churches that have identity crisis, power struggles, lack of vision, etc. and have hurt me and Alyson by backbiting, lying, lack of support, etc.
I have found that the best thing to do during a church struggle is to go back to Scripture. One of the Scripture that I have read a lot lately in regard to evil in churches is Titus 3:1-11. And so I feel compelled to share it with you all.
1Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,2to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.
3At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. 8This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.
9But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. 10Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. 11You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
From the bottom of my heart, I truly hope that the church you attend is Gospel centered and filled with grace, mercy, and love. If there is ever anything I can do for you please know I am here to listen. I know what’s it like to have been hurt by a church. In the meantime, we can walk together in recovery.
That is said so well, Matt.
thank you.
I realize there are some unbiblical churches out there, I have experienced some myself. For the past few years I have been studying church dynamics. I have listened to many comments concerning how to and how not to “do” church. So….my husband decided to do some visiting to see and listen to the actual heartbeat of some churches. We have found some churches that are truly struggling just to hold their head up. These are the ones that are committed to tradition. They worship God only during a one hour service on Sunday. Truthfully they are not only hurting themselves but they are like leprosy, they hurt everyone they come in contact with. They will DIE. But…. it has been reassuring to find some healthy churches that are alive and well, and are seeking to worship God in everything they do. Interestingly enough they all have had different worship styles, good to excellent preachers, ok to outstanding music, etc. The one element that I observed in all these healthy churches was love. Without love, everything else is worthless. To those who have been hurt. Seek out a God loving church and not only will you recover, you will be able to help others in their recovery.
that was deep, Patsy.
this is good stuff. excited to see what is next for you and alyson.
Thanks,this had nothing to do with what was on my mind today and what I needed prayer for but it did help me to realize where I worship has been such a blessing and support to me and my family. Now I need to get off my toosh and be a blessing and support to my fellowship and focus. Thanks
thank you lindsey. we are too! keep us in your prayers!
that’s awesome andy! keep up the good work.