Quote:
Originally Posted by Indiana
Dear brother, My guess is that you came into the church life after 1974.
After 1974 things changed.
|
Steve, OnlyByGrace is not a brother, and she has never met in the Local Churches. You can read her testimony in this subforum.
I always enjoy your testimonies. You are very earnest, determined, honest, and straightforward in my view. I always appreciate your thoroughness. You report what one of the 3 brothers said who escorted you out: "You know, Steve, you know". I would not have mentioned this telling detail, probably.
To me it is revealing because that's all the brothers could say. They are terrified to say something not found in a footnote or outline written by Witness Lee, and there is nothing in Lee's ministry which addresses the notion of uncovering the truth as you've been doing. He gave it lip service at one point, and your weakness was that you took brother Lee at his word. Now look where it's gotten you. The brothers are terrified of you because you represent a bright light shining in the dark places. So they cannot even speak in your presence.
Some day the earth will stand before her King. Some will be asked where is their wedding garment. They will be speechless before the bright glory of the Bridegroom, and this silence, along with their condition, disqualifies them. Let us all endeavor to not hide from the truth. The truth heals us, and sets us free. We can speak; it's okay. May we not hide, nor be dumb.
OBG, I think Steve persists in attempting reconciliation with the group which has shunned him because the Lord said that if we have anything against another, first leave our gift at the altar, go and be reconciled, and then come and offer the gift. Some think it is okay to not be reconciled with another believer, and still offer the gift of praise and worship to God. I commend Steve on his persistence. He has a tough nut to crack however, because he wants both reconciliation and the truth, but hallelujah for his persistence!
Steve, I had the same experience as you when I went "back into christianity". I went into the small group meetings and had a lot to say. One adult sunday school teacher, who taught before the big meeting, turned it over to me (with relief, I might add) because I had so much to say. I also spontaneously was in a "lead" role in many of the small-group christian gatherings as well.
But I eventually realized something very important, which changed my christian walk forever. A lot of the people who had "nothing" in the way of teaching had walks with Jesus that made mine look pretty grim. I had teachings upon teachings; but some of these folks had reality upon reality; grace upon grace, and love and joy that went on and on, long after mine ran out. So I had to humble myself and admit that I wasn't "there" yet. I still have my teachings, but many of them had to get drastically recalibrated in order for me to continue my journey of faith.
This is not in any way a judgment upon your testimony; it is merely mine, which is similar in that I also went to the "mainstream" groups and attempted to function there. I also struggled initially to get something of value there. Eventually I did.
Today, I can speak of my time and adventures in the Local Churches, and also the amazing things God has shown me since.
Peter Debelak's word in 1 Tim. 5 on "elders" and
YPO's idea on /ekklesia/ being a verb not a noun, an experience and not an institution; these are examples of some of the light that may still be waiting to be poured out from God's Word on His blessed children. Peace to you. I always enjoy your sharing, and I believe Jesus loves your portion too. Grace always. aron