Quote:
Originally Posted by Hoovie
Ladybug, what are your thoughts? Were you there? Was it well received?
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I preface this response with this is my opinion and I am not a confrontational person just one who strives for truth. I also apologize because it is a BOOK!
Thanks for the inquiry, Hoovie. No, I was not in attendance as I am looking at churches in Knoxville, as I may possibly be attending in that city.
I did not write this for opinions to talk about any pastor or church. This video was just too difficult for me to let go. I wanted to confirm what I heard in this message or if it was just my feelings. I do not believe in tearing down a person or church. I just have a hard time with harshness. If you put your church on the worldwide web, you should be able to win the lost with your message. I did not feel this would win the lost or encourage the saints to live above sin.
From what I could hear, it sounded like people backed whatever was said but you cannot see the entire congregation or know the hearts of men. I have been in churches where people are afraid not to yell out because they might be isolated, so you never know.
I agree with One Accord's synopsis and I agree with Atlanta Bishop that he does seem angry (not righteous anger, either).
I was once similar to this (4th generation as a matter of fact) who lost my way for a few years, but found my way back to God, a much more effective witness, if I might add. The only thing that brought me to Him, because I have seen some things which have been unbelievable, was His love. I believe in doctrine or I would not be looking for a church like this but you will win noone by your doctrine, you must show them God's love to present the doctrine and I am not talking about standards.
When you cannot put yourself in the shoes of others, you become harsh to the point of no longer being effective. Our goal is to see everyone we can saved even if they be a backslidden saint, a lost and dying sinner or a saint going through discouragement. We should never be SICK of anyone. If we are, we are saying, we don't care if you go to hell because you are a repeat offender. Thank God, He does not do that with anyone of us. As I watched this video, I could not help but think what a pastor is called, a Shepherd. I also think of the story of the ninety and nine. He left the ninety and nine to go after the ONE who was lost. He did not say I am sick of you getting lost or coming through this prayer line, week after week, STAY LOST. Thank God for His Amazing Grace!
I have watched some videos that would shock even the staunchest. I have seen pastors telling their saints to not talk to new converts or backsliders about standards, just wait till you get to know them and then you can tell them what they are doing wrong and what they should wear or not wear. You just told the world what you plan on doing. I think sometimes they think only their congregation or people like them watch their videos. What about relocaters or unchurched people? On the other hand, not in this area, I have seen church videos which make me cry and I felt the presence of the Lord. As a matter of fact, I think I will paste one here to show the contrast. Btw, I do not know this church so I cannot endorse it, just the video to the world touched my heart and I could see how someone who does not or does know the Lord, might want to join this service.
http://www.clsconnect.org/#/media/4544742559
I understand the above video is not the weekly message but if you are going to show all of your messages, then you need your message to reach someone other than the people on the platform behind you or the saints in your seats, who may or may not be afraid to disagree. From an “outsiders” perspective, this message did not reach saints or sinners. We are to be salt and light!
Sorry Hoovie, you can’t get me started
…thanks again, everyone. I have been on your forum for years, just reading…I covet your prayers for our family as we endeavor to make decisions and find a home church. God Bless!
PS In regards to the Facebook comment, I just thought that was funny because you can share their message link on Facebook so it must have some good use or maybe a backslidden Pentecostal should share the web links on Facebook?? Just kiddin’