Quote:
Originally Posted by Peter Debelak
What sort of basic requirements for a healthy spiritual living exist, according to the Word? Is it possible one still lives in fellowship with others, even submitting to one another - perhaps attending formal congregations occasionally, without being a "member" of a "congregation".
Does the Scripture take a position on this. If so, why? If not, why not?
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When you find the answer to this, please let me know.
Personally, I "joined" a nearby community church several years ago, even going thru membership classes with my DW. My old LC alarms were set off, but the Lord was not so troubled. It was humbling to start from scratch again. We did connect with some families and joined 3 home meetings off-n-on. I continually focused on the positives.
Then the economy went sour, and the pastor with lofty goals, began to oppress the congregation with the need to be "sowing seeds." I became convinced that I could not afford to be a Christian there any more. Apparently half the congregation felt so too and also left, including our friends, who have gone separate ways. Why is it that gifted preachers feel the need to build their empire on the backs of God's people?
This brings me to your point about fellowshipping outside of organized churches. If you can, that's wonderful, but it may be hard to find active believers who are
not in churches. It's even harder when older since most people have their lives and friendships established by then. Yet the Bible assumes that the believers are together in fellowship. Interactions between believers seem to fill every page of scripture.