Effective methods for changing a church within?

[Dante]

What is it that you are wanting to change? If a church has things in it that you want to change then perhaps YOU need to change? As in change churches that fit your criteria to your own satisfaction. If you try to change a church you might end up unsatisfied further and fall out completely with God, because things aren't going your way?!

[Hoovie]

Originally Posted by Dante

What is it that you are wanting to change? If a church has things in it that you want to change then perhaps YOU need to change? As in change churches that fit your criteria to your own satisfaction. If you try to change a church you might end up unsatisfied further and fall out completely with God, because things aren't going your way?!

It's often not that simple, though. When a "church" has become your social center and reflects many generations of your heritage you have a right to have thoughts made known IMO. It's unfair to say one should be quiet and accept everything carte blanche or simply walk away.

This may be even more true if the changes you hope for are not a departure, but rather a return, to formally held beliefs of the fellowship. For an example of this see the UPC quote in my signature...

[Timmy]

[Sister Alvear]

I see nothing wrong with talking to the pastor, asking questions...we all have a right to know why things are preached and taught at the local assembly. I think there is a right way to do things however....

[kclee4jc]

Originally Posted by Hoovie

I wholeheartedly disagree my fellow UPCer! If not for yourself then surely you owe the body and specifically the weaker brethren more than this. A pastor is fallible just like other human flesh. He simply does not have blanket authority to preach, much less enforce his whim of choice. He is bound by the authority and limitations of scripture.

Bro Jay is not UPC

[Jay]

Originally Posted by kclee4jc

Bro Jay is not UPC

Thank you. When I saw that post, I thought I might have to explain that myself. Thanks for the catch.

[NorCal]

Originally Posted by AreYouReady?

My husband wants to know what scripture do you based this on? Or is this just your opinion?

Hebrews 13:17 is a good place to start. "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you."

A pastor does not have complete control over a church. Yes he is the leader, but there are Pastor, Preacher, Teachers and Deacons, in which they rule over you also.

If a Pastor is preaching something, he usually has the backing of the Deacons and Elders.

Edit: Can I take this a little further with scripture.
1. Ezekiel 3:17 - Son of man, I have appointed you a watchman to the house of Israel; whenever you hear a word from My mouth, warn them from Me.
2. 1 Corinthians 16:16 - that you also be in subjection to such men and to everyone who helps in the work and labors.
3. Hebrews 13:7 - Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith.

[Digging4Truth]

Originally Posted by Amanah

This kind of thought is why people drink the kool aid.
The Pastor is not infallible like the Pope, er wait . . .

[Digging4Truth]

I think this is a relevant question in the arena of thought that this thread has presented.

Does anyone know of a situation where someone felt that the church needed changing from the inside... and it ever happened?

I've never know of this to ever actually take place. I'd like to hear if anyone knows of an instance where it did.

[Digging4Truth]

Originally Posted by Timmy

By the way... this is hilarious.

And true.