Please Forgive Me…
Submitted by Andy on August 03 2000 18:09:45
In reply to Another pothole on the road of life submitted by Forgiven on August 02 2000 18:50:04
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Hi Forgiven, Please forgive me for having misjuged you. I must add my plea to those of Ford and Chris in asking for your forgiveness. I don't know how I missed discerning the pain you are experiencing. I can understand, now, where you are coming from. I have given up attending formal church services for the very reasons that you point up. I must say, however, that from what I have observed, God's church does not exist in the earth in a single collective body of people, but exists in the hearts of individuals with whom He is dealing all over the world. I guess what I'm trying to say is, that you won't find a great assembly of His called in any one congregation, or in one church body, for that matter. As He said in the scripture, He does not dwell in temples made with hands. In order for the Body of Christ to exist, it has to dwell in our hearts… and His flock is scattered just now. But, as He said, My sheep know my voice, and another they will not follow. I was drawn to I Corinthians, chapter 6, when I read your post. When it comes to reporting to authorities, God does not require it, and, for that matter, He condemns it. Anyone who does so is in violation of His word, when dealing with his brother. Further down, it is mentioned that anyone who associates themselves in such a manner with the civil authorities, is like a man who is married to a harlot. The two are one flesh, and are not part of the Body of Christ. Either you are married to Christ, or you are married to the civil system; you can't have it both ways. Your counsellor practically admitted that he (or she, as the case may be) was not qualified to counsel you in your quest for help. He really should have admitted it, and stepped down from his position a counsellor. Child protection laws are one thing, violation of trust is quite another. The story of the problem with the 12 y/o is grave testimony to this. The very people who should be helping are many times the greatest hindrance. What we must ask ourselves is, do these so-called counsellors really want to help, or are they simply filling a position to gain the prestige that goes with it? This is not to say that there aren't good counsellors, but caution must be taken to test the spirits, to see if they, indeed, are of God. I have taken the burden of prayer on my heart for you, and sincerely wish to convey to you my Christian love for you. Again, please forgive me for not having been more understanding. Please continue to post, and keep us advised of your progress. I have been enlightened by many of them, and I am sure there are those here who are willing to help you as well, as you continue in your struggle to live for Him. Andy P.S. Please read I Corinthians, chapter 6. It may help you to understand what has been going on in relation to your "church". |
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