Ernie wrote:lesterb wrote:Ernie, I think someone should give a talk at this conference on this. It would need careful handling because we don't want to discourage people, but facing reality is important. Otherwise, we are setting up a disaster waiting to happen.
A talk about churches seekers should not attempt to join because of their heresy or their way of treating people?
No, I don't think it needs to be a negative presentation, just a realistic one.
1. No church can offer you Utopia on earth.
2. All churches are works in progress and consist of humans
3. You will face disappointments that can seem insurmountable unless you realize these truths.
4. Since no church is perfect, you will need to look for one that has a package that you can feel at home with. This package will ALWAYS include some things that you don't really like, but if you feel that you want what they are producing, you will be able to overlook such items.
5. Don't get desperate. Take your time. Make friends. Aim towards becoming members but don't make it your holy grail in life.
6. Most of all, keep your eyes on Jesus. Don't look to men because men will let you down (and women). If your peace in life is anchored to Jesus, other disappointments won't derail you as quickly.
This isn't to discourage church membership. Becoming part of a church is important and should be your goal. But don't let it become such an all-consuming goal that problems will destroy you when they arise.