Quote:
Originally Posted by love4truth
The over emphasis on one man's teachings turns me completely off, especially since I have found so many discrepancies in what is studied and taught and the Bible.
I would like the format they used in the meetings, especially the part where every member is expected and encouraged to speak.
I now find that opinions are frowned on, and only Witness Lee "knows the truth," therefore it is only acceptable to repeat his words.
we are not supposed to have friends, not even those of the local church. My "friend" said a strange thing a few weeks ago. "We are to put distance between us and those we care about."
However, when I tell her I am not going back to the LC, she probably will quit calling me anyway. Right? I would like to remain friends with her and her husband. This may not be possible.
I know getting out of the LC is going to be an emotional difficulty, because some of the people are very nice, and some seem to really love Jesus. I would stay if the Bible were the ground of truth and faith there. But I cannot abide this putting of Lee on a pedestal and hanging on every word that he says as though he is the voice of God. The Holy Spirit and the Word of God are the Voice of God to me.
How can we be in unity as the church if we do not love one another? And no pastoral care! Sick people are ignored!!!! Also, I do not understand why no recognition of birthdays or holidays.
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Many fine points that I agree with.
1. Celebration of birthdays in the local churches is a personal matter. As a child in the local churches, I had been to many birthday parties of my peers in my locality.
2. Holidays. Typically holidays are recognized by having conferences. Though Thanksgiving is the only one I recall being acknowledged. In my college years, my parents would always invite friends from another locality or a sister within our locality and her children.
3. Friends. It is rare to develop friendships that endure when one ceases to meet with the local churches. Contrary to what is spoken about distancing those we care about, friendships are cultivated. Sadly many friendships cannot continue when one ceases to meet any longer. It's part of the Us and Them mindset.
4. Pastoral care. In a sense there this care, but based on being partial. If you are one described as "hot for the ministry", you will receive care. If you are one described as "lukewarm for the ministry" or "lacking the vision", you will be ignored. Generally pastoral care is reserved more for the college age with the intent of nurturing and preparing them for the full time trainings.
5. Opinions. It has often been said there are no opinions in the recovery. Given we are all fallen, someone's opinion will be expressed. Generally it is expected to embrace the opinions of blended brothers and the ministry.
6. Meeting format: I have only met in one place outside the local churches (Westminster Church Assembly) where there is an opportunity to speak. Unlike 25 years ago, the current format of speaking is limited to the ministry and not how you were touched by your daily walk with the Lord during the week or relating experiences that could minister to another brother or sister's walk with the Lord.
7. The scope of one man's teaching invariably will omit Biblical teachings he didn't find supporting his ministry or teachings that are convicting to one's spirit. Many times in the local churches the Holy Word for Morning Revival is meant to be positive and affirming the ministry. I have found since leaving the local churches, the best messages I have heard are ones that leave me inwardly disturbed by my spirit being convicted by the message.