The Definition of an Independent

[OP_Carl]

Originally Posted by Thumper

You apparently don't know very many independents. Independent churches are are governed like any other local assembly. With a constitution and bylaws and some sort of oversight. I've never met one that wasn't.

I've dealt extensively with one that was owned and governed solely by the pastor. I've had a little exposure to two others. The rest I hear from pastor friends.

You appear to be railing against an inaccurate construct. Best get your facts in order before you spout off like this.

I only appear to be doing that to the eyes of those who believe that all independents are governed like any other local assembly. They're not. Maybe it would be fair to say most. But not all.

Pot, meet Kettle. Kettle, meet Pot.

[Thumper]

Originally Posted by OP_Carl

I've dealt extensively with one that was owned and governed solely by the pastor. I've had a little exposure to two others. The rest I hear from pastor friends.



I only appear to be doing that to the eyes of those who believe that all independents are governed like any other local assembly. They're not. Maybe it would be fair to say most. But not all.

Pot, meet Kettle. Kettle, meet Pot.

Three huh?

Oh yeah and some third hand gossip. Sounds like a terrible problem going on in your area.

I can only speak from my experiences. I attended a UPC church with my grandmother for years before she passed away. I know to this day that these people do care about me but at the same time would be a bit stand offish. I was not raised in the church and have just been a member for 2 yrs. I have struggled with my walk with Christ and the standards. I now attend a Independent church and would not change it for the world. These people have took me for what I am and have loved me through all my struggles that I have. I love my church family!!!! I do not know where I would be without them today. This is just my opinion, but for me, I will take a independent church.

[Nahum]

Originally Posted by The Closer

The best that I have been able to come up with is: Doesnt want to pay dues. Do you think different?

I once had a bible college instructor tell me that he didn't trust any independent minister. He said anyone unwilling to submit to an organizational authority was rebellious and a "loose canon".

Can't say as I agree with that.

[Sherri]

Originally Posted by Pastor Poster

I once had a bible college instructor tell me that he didn't trust any independent minister. He said anyone unwilling to submit to an organizational authority was rebellious and a "loose canon".

Can't say as I agree with that.

We are independent, but are set up as an actual organization and have other churches and pastors ordained under our covering. However, my husband is accountable to men in his life, and he also has a deacon board at each church. Just because you don't belong to some organization that people recognize doesn't mean that you are loosey-goosey and have no one speaking into your life. I do know some pastors like this, who totally rule the roost, but they are not the majority.

[Nahum]

Originally Posted by Sherri

We are independent, but are set up as an actual organization and have other churches and pastors ordained under our covering. However, my husband is accountable to men in his life, and he also has a deacon board at each church. Just because you don't belong to some organization that people recognize doesn't mean that you are loosey-goosey and have no one speaking into your life. I do know some pastors like this, who totally rule the roost, but they are not the majority.

Suuuuuureee Sherri,

we believe you.