Why is it so hard?

[OneLight]

I have been involved in a church for the past few months. It's not a big church, but it is usually filled with many people. Yet, when I sought to become a member, I found that their beliefs are very lax according to His Word. They allow certain things to go on that are spoken against in the Bible. Until I found out what they foundations were, I felt at home ... now I must admit, I'm bummed. There are a lot of other churches around, but all that I have visited seemed dead ...

OneLight

[Grace1479]

I have been involved in a church for the past few months. It's not a big church, but it is usually filled with many people. Yet, when I sought to become a member, I found that their beliefs are very lax according to His Word. They allow certain things to go on that are spoken against in the Bible. Until I found out what they foundations were, I felt at home ... now I must admit, I'm bummed. There are a lot of other churches around, but all that I have visited seemed dead ...

OneLight

We have the same problem. Since we arrived in NZ nearly two years ago, we struggle to get a church were we just know God wants us there. We did "church crawling", end up in a "great" church for a few months, until the Holy Spirit showed us that there is things that's not right. Went to another few, end up in the one we're in now, but again the same story. Great church, but no real food for our souls.

I keep praying and believing that God will bring us to a church were He wants us.

[Guest man]

What if just found a study group and hung out with them?

I don't attend church myself...I see no need for it. But that's just me.

[OneLight]

What if just found a study group and hung out with them?

I don't attend church myself...I see no need for it. But that's just me.

I live in an area that is very spiritually chilly. There are more new agers and nonbelievers here then Christians. The only study groups I have found are those from within a church. If you don't belong, they don't ask.

[Trusting Jesus]

Too many churches are "seeker friendly" and politically correct instead of Biblically correct. I think each church takes some things out of Scripture and builds around that, ignoring other things that are equally important. Personally I like Calvary Chapel. To me it seems as if they, for the most part, a very sound. If you are interested in looking for one near you, here's a link to a list (there are some in New Hampshire): http://www.calvarychapel.com/?page=churches-list

I know that they are going through some troubles with "new age" ideas coming in, but Chuck Smith (the head of Calvary Chapel - or second under Jesus) has told them that if they go new age that they cannot be affiliated with Calvary Chapel anymore.

It took us a long time to find a church that we wanted to join. Have you thought about starting a home fellowship on your own? Not necessarily "church" but a Bible study in the evenings. You have a very good insight into the Bible and I think you would be good at teaching.

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Nathele

[Guest man]

If you don't belong, they don't ask.

I know what you mean.

I'm pretty much a loner. I find that it's easier to study by myself. Instead of someone telling me what something means, I actually have to put some effort into it. I feel closer to God when I'm alone then when I'm with a group of people. At times it does get lonesome...but it passes...it always does.

Why don't you start your own study group? All you really need is one other person. Maybe someone from one of those churches you've attended. Put a ad in the local paper...who knows, maybe there's others out there just like you...looking for a place to belong.

Just a thought.

[backontrack]

I have been involved in a church for the past few months. It's not a big church, but it is usually filled with many people. Yet, when I sought to become a member, I found that their beliefs are very lax according to His Word. They allow certain things to go on that are spoken against in the Bible. Until I found out what they foundations were, I felt at home ... now I must admit, I'm bummed. There are a lot of other churches around, but all that I have visited seemed dead ...

OneLight

Hi Onlight

Chear up the wind is coming can you hear it! Just lean on Jesus change is coming. Give your all to him and see the Glory of God in your Life. I am trying and it is amazing how when we yield he ignites our spirit. The more you give out the more he gives to you, not money gifts of the spirit! Oh so Good!

[backontrack]

I have been involved in a church for the past few months. It's not a big church, but it is usually filled with many people. Yet, when I sought to become a member, I found that their beliefs are very lax according to His Word. They allow certain things to go on that are spoken against in the Bible. Until I found out what they foundations were, I felt at home ... now I must admit, I'm bummed. There are a lot of other churches around, but all that I have visited seemed dead ...

OneLight

We have the same problem. Since we arrived in NZ nearly two years ago, we struggle to get a church were we just know God wants us there. We did "church crawling", end up in a "great" church for a few months, until the Holy Spirit showed us that there is things that's not right. Went to another few, end up in the one we're in now, but again the same story. Great church, but no real food for our souls.

I keep praying and believing that God will bring us to a church were He wants us.

Listen the Church is inside you and it contains no walls!

[OneLight]

Too many churches are "seeker friendly" and politically correct instead of Biblically correct. I think each church takes some things out of Scripture and builds around that, ignoring other things that are equally important. Personally I like Calvary Chapel. To me it seems as if they, for the most part, a very sound. If you are interested in looking for one near you, here's a link to a list (there are some in New Hampshire): http://www.calvarychapel.com/?page=churches-list

I know that they are going through some troubles with "new age" ideas coming in, but Chuck Smith (the head of Calvary Chapel - or second under Jesus) has told them that if they go new age that they cannot be affiliated with Calvary Chapel anymore.

It took us a long time to find a church that we wanted to join. Have you thought about starting a home fellowship on your own? Not necessarily "church" but a Bible study in the evenings. You have a very good insight into the Bible and I think you would be good at teaching.

<>< ><>

Nathele

Your encouraging words touch me deeply. I have thought about it, but I would have to find someplace to have the study. Sadly, those in my house would only make others feel uncomfortable instead of welcomed. Anything to do with bible teachings is frowned at here. Even when I am online with this family, I get the evil eyes. They think I am addicted and lost in cyberspace Christian boards. They have indicated that I may need help, yet, they play their computer games for hours ... go figure.

[Grace1479]

I live in an area that is very spiritually chilly. There are more new agers and nonbelievers here then Christians. The only study groups I have found are those from within a church. If you don't belong, they don't ask.

O Man o man, I've never seen a country with more churched than here. On every corner there is a church, but it's really a Godless country.

I love going to church, for the worship, the communion, the Word, aw everything. We had such a fabulous church back in SA, but now... well I'll just keep praying.