Which church is the best fit for someone?

[persistent]

I’m curious which church would be a good fit for me. Recently I’ve been looking for a church again.

Hey Runningman, other than seismic interests I am somewhat surprised and also glad to see someone concerning themselves with the same issue as I. Or is it me. I have been trying to determine whether or not, 1st...Attend a local congregation and 2nd....If so which? I don't think Chicago is Bible belt but the numbers here are probably more than what you state in your area. I did some calling around the country and talked with some preachers and also lay people and a student at Spurgeon Center in KC. The praying that RA posts is really our best option. According to John's Gospel we are to ask for the Holy Spirits guidance. I thought you were more favorably looked upon than me and I was just this past day doing a search on a KJV search program which I downloaded about 4 yrs ago from my following Mike Hoggard of Festus, Mo. and a verse)))) 1 Peter 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.>> which I wonder if any really qualify as to being 'righteous'.
Now I am almost certain I will one day attend this place posted and might help you in your decision making and they are in transition with preachers and the sermon just 6 Nov 2022 by Paniagua, get that name,..bread & water, scroll to sermons page and select 6 Nov then scroll up to page and play, ff to 40 minutes to skip to Paniagua. He covers a lot and maybe the only thing Biblical is about Peter's faith but apparently he is hoping to get more people back to attending. Myself having been mostly against religion for most of my life find him to be appealing. ps seismicity still active, lol, that is a small laugh>>http://www.mchapel.net/mchapelonline2/httpdocs/ .

 

[Runningman]

Hey Runningman, other than seismic interests I am somewhat surprised and also glad to see someone concerning themselves with the same issue as I. Or is it me. I have been trying to determine whether or not, 1st...Attend a local congregation and 2nd....If so which? I don't think Chicago is Bible belt but the numbers here are probably more than what you state in your area. I did some calling around the country and talked with some preachers and also lay people and a student at Spurgeon Center in KC. The praying that RA posts is really our best option. According to John's Gospel we are to ask for the Holy Spirits guidance. I thought you were more favorably looked upon than me and I was just this past day doing a search on a KJV search program which I downloaded about 4 yrs ago from my following Mike Hoggard of Festus, Mo. and a verse)))) 1 Peter 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.>> which I wonder if any really qualify as to being 'righteous'.
Now I am almost certain I will one day attend this place posted and might help you in your decision making and they are in transition with preachers and the sermon just 6 Nov 2022 by Paniagua, get that name,..bread & water, scroll to sermons page and select 6 Nov then scroll up to page and play, ff to 40 minutes to skip to Paniagua. He covers a lot and maybe the only thing Biblical is about Peter's faith but apparently he is hoping to get more people back to attending. Myself having been mostly against religion for most of my life find him to be appealing. ps seismicity still active, lol, that is a small laugh>>http://www.mchapel.net/mchapelonline2/httpdocs/ .

I’m still keeping an eye on earthquakes. Latest one that I noticed was above 6.5 M was in Fiji.

Anyway we’re similar in a lot of regards. I was against religion in my early 20s after having a horrifying experience at a church I had been attending. Speaking of that, Ghandi felt the same way about church. At one point he wanted to go to church, but was rejected because of his caste. That provoked him to find a different path. We have a duty to be welcoming and helpful to anyone who is seeking Christ and our fellows. Jesus knew what He was talking about.

Anyway, I probably wouldn’t be a Christian now had I not experienced the divine in some kind of tangible way. If the Bible is true, and I believe it is, then confirmation is required. Otherwise, it’s just a book that references itself to prove its own claims.

This is also something that often keeps people from approaching Christianity or religion in general. It comes from a counterintuitive understanding of who God is.

So what I’ve seen in my mostly solitary Christian walk is that miracles are real, spiritual gifts are real, prayer works, and God speaks. I want a church that accepts this, too, like the early church did. That’s the church I want to attend.

 

[Blik]

For me, I looked for a church that denied the way Constantine directed the church to be and kept strictly to all scripture. I couldn't find scripture to tell us to honor the day of the sun and could find it to honor the seventh day, I couldn't find Easter in original language, it was Passover originally with no bunnies or eggs, and there is no celebrating Christ's earthly birth in scripture, only his heavenly work for us if celebrated. .

The closest I found to a church that shared these thought was Messianic Synagogue. They were accused of ignoring that Christ changed OT symbolism. This Messianic Synagogue listened to the words of Christ. I was so pleased.

 

[persistent]

I’m still keeping an eye on earthquakes. Latest one that I noticed was above 6.5 M was in Fiji.

Anyway we’re similar in a lot of regards. I was against religion in my early 20s after having a horrifying experience at a church I had been attending. Speaking of that, Ghandi felt the same way about church. At one point he wanted to go to church, but was rejected because of his caste. That provoked him to find a different path. We have a duty to be welcoming and helpful to anyone who is seeking Christ and our fellows. Jesus knew what He was talking about.

Anyway, I probably wouldn’t be a Christian now had I not experienced the divine in some kind of tangible way. If the Bible is true, and I believe it is, then confirmation is required. Otherwise, it’s just a book that references itself to prove its own claims.

This is also something that often keeps people from approaching Christianity or religion in general. It comes from a counterintuitive understanding of who God is.

So what I’ve seen in my mostly solitary Christian walk is that miracles are real, spiritual gifts are real, prayer works, and God speaks. I want a church that accepts this, too, like the early church did. That’s the church I want to attend.

I started reading Philipp Schaff's 'History of the Christian Church' and he may be a historian that presents what can be known in a realistic way. Started him some yrs ago and he has so many references always gets me caught in the weeds tracking. How about a real general thought starting around 1500 with reformation 'developing' in Europe and the now British Isles and the Eastern Churches possibly, if aware of reformers, considering some defensive moves. Since primary motivation is to accept ones own position as correct all Asia, Africa, and Europe would most likely have been in power struggle and as some recognize; the co-opting of religious affiliations to aid in dominating as legitimate tactic this co-opting among Princes possibly led to many peoples decisions on which affiliation was best. i.e. Self-Preservation as prime motivator for individuals and Princes. Old saying, 'all is fair in love and war'. Islam also given opportunity to make readjustments here as losses started in Iberian Peninsula and ? Malta region and North Africa. Will continue on next post with Americas'.

 

[persistent]

So what I’ve seen in my mostly solitary Christian walk is that miracles are real, spiritual gifts are real, prayer works, and God speaks. I want a church that accepts this, too, like the early church did. That’s the church I want to attend.

So Blik also sees the co-opting of Constantine as 'Worldly' kingdoms recognize religion as a strong influence in the lives of people. So news of lands in the western hemisphere was no doubt quick to influence Prince & Pauper of the eastern hemisphere. What would come to mind for each as individuals we can only interpret by actions taken by groups that formed to pursue interests and opportunities anticipated by the associations developed due to incoming news, real and exaggerated, of the new discoveries. How big a role did religion play? Were any thinking of pursuing the 'Kingdom of God'? ((((Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.))))) Was co-opting a factor at this time? So what sense of religion was brought to the Americas?

 

[persistent]

Anyway, I probably wouldn’t be a Christian now had I not experienced the divine in some kind of tangible way. If the Bible is true, and I believe it is, then confirmation is required. Otherwise, it’s just a book that references itself to prove its own claims.

This is also something that often keeps people from approaching Christianity or religion in general. It comes from a counterintuitive understanding of who God is.

So what I’ve seen in my mostly solitary Christian walk is that miracles are real, spiritual gifts are real, prayer works, and God speaks. I want a church that accepts this, too, like the early church did. That’s the church I want to attend.

I came to believe based on the incident I posted on the testimony thread. I never believed in anything beyond the here and now until that incident was brought to mind in an unusual thing that happened to my neighbors daughter about 5 yrs ago when she thought someone had broken into the house.

Myself, just didn't like religious peoples ideas. But I also had real negative impact from my mother using alcohol to control me as a kid. I still can't figure out what she was about? Maybe mental problems. But God has reasons for things we can't see and I probably wouldn't be on this chat as life could very easily have taken one of several different paths as I look back.

If you are interested in spending on the call, Anita at Maranatha, is worth it. She is not a preacher but so far the only 'faith' filled person that I have talked with. Well that may be an exaggeration. She is the only person that accepts my antagonistic view of Christianity. You mentioned counter intuitive and there you, or I, have it. If you call her feel free to say Clif that calls you fairly regularly suggested it and she will know who you mean. She even prays for me and if you want I will let her know of your 'dilemma' and she will pray or talk with you no doubt. She also knows I don't care for preachers too much. The umbrella group is AoG and I don't know about them but if you watch some of the sermons I like the way they pray maybe like Gospel of John tells us.

 

[persistent]

So what sense of religion was brought to the Americas?

Which groups had the greatest influence in early development of the Americas by the eastern hemisphere Princes? Generally it seems that the Roman Catholic Church was main influencer of Southern Europe during the 16th century. What is now the British Isles were likewise influenced by the RCC. Central and Northern and Eastern Europe were probably in state of flux.The 'Dutch' Princes may have had a relatively large and powerful influence. Possibly more organized and cohesive than others which were specially subject in the Eastern regions to influence of Islam. I would guess that many were concerned with 'wars and rumors of wars' at this time and Princes would embrace Biblical references as legitimate, and some possibly believing same, to use in influencing actions. So the understanding of the Paupers were certainly varied in the eastern hemisphere and these were the peoples that were now set to influence the Americas. The way history I have read presents a fair number of 'Influencers with strong beliefs in 'their own understanding' contrary to Biblical admonishment per Proverbs 3:5 ¶ Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.


Was this a time where Biblical text such as)))) Luke 21:10 Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom((((..was misunderstood and influenced potential influencers whose ideas of Bible 'Truth' were about to be exported to the Americas. Rather than focusing on the salvation offered to mankind by the sacrifice Jesus made the focus may have shifted to an 'earthly salvation' of the 'New World'.

 

[Elizabeth55]

I’m curious which church would be a good fit for me. Recently I’ve been looking for a church again.

Anyone else just feel like they found a church with a nice group and settled there? Or do you find you’re silently disagreeing with many things they say every day? If you find there is a serious disagreement, do you ignore it or privately confront them in a gentle and humble way?

Any churches that focus primarily on stirring each other up to love and good works and less on doctrine? This is my ideal.

I can’t see a church that fits 100% of what I see in the New Testament. That’s concerning, but it would be nice to find the best possible fit for me.

I took an online quiz and, based off of the questions, it placed me as 89% Pentecostal, but I’m not so confident about that either. There should be way more questions.

hi

I believe the church that upholds ALL of gods word. The living words of the bible.

What are the keys issues in religion today.

State of the dead
Sabbath
Moral standards
Love for one another
Time of trouble
Marriage and divorce
The event of the second coming
Salvation by faith as our works can not save us


Which church up holds the bible in these areas

 

[DJT_47]

any churches have a strong emphasis on the Bible? Last one I went to didn’t.

I’ll need book, chapter, and verse referenced for literally everything they’re saying. I’ll look them all up, too. It’s actually a red flag to me if a church doesn’t do that. And it matters a great deal if they are quoting within context. They better do their homework, I’m not a pew warmer.

I went to a Church of Christ numerous times and the preacher there cited Bible verses heavily and I really enjoyed that aspect of it.

FYI; I've been a member ofvthe church of Christ for nearly 50 yrs and it is 100% scriptural based. You are saturated with scriptures during sermons and not opinions, nonsense, or man made-up ideas.

 

[ResidentAlien]

FYI; I've been a member ofvthe church of Christ for nearly 50 yrs and it is 100% scriptural based. You are saturated with scriptures during sermons and not opinions, nonsense, or man made-up ideas.

I disagree. Not all Churches of Christ agree on what is "100% scriptural."

Churches of Christ have some pretty strange ideas. For example, one Church of Christ I attended did not use musical instruments because there's no mention of their use in the New Testament. However, they used overhead projectors. Where are those in the New Testament? The New Testament churches met in public places or in houses. Why, therefore, do Churches of Christ have church buildings?

I've read articles by Church of Christ people where they debate the validity of using pitch pipes in worship services. Seriously??

 

[Runningman]

I disagree. Not all Churches of Christ agree on what is "100% scriptural."

Churches of Christ have some pretty strange ideas. For example, one Church of Christ I attended did not use musical instruments because there's no mention of their use in the New Testament. However, they used overhead projectors. Where are those in the New Testament? The New Testament churches met in public places or in houses. Why, therefore, do Churches of Christ have church buildings?

I've read articles by Church of Christ people where they debate the validity of using pitch pipes in worship services. Seriously??

I agree the Church of Christ is a bit strange. I’ve been two the musical version and non-musical version before.

The Church of Christ is split into two main groups. Those who use musical instruments and those who don’t. I’m honestly not even so sure if singing is considered Biblical worship anyway.

It seems like singing and/or using musical instruments is for giving praise to God, but it actually depends on the lyrics of the song in my opinion and if the one signing them sincerely means it.

To me praise and worship are two different things. Biblically it seems it’s two different things too. This point might help someone find a good church.

So is praise different than worship?

 

[Runningman]

hi

I believe the church that upholds ALL of gods word. The living words of the bible.

What are the keys issues in religion today.

State of the dead
Sabbath
Moral standards
Love for one another
Time of trouble
Marriage and divorce
The event of the second coming
Salvation by faith as our works can not save us


Which church up holds the bible in these areas

Just from our previous discussion in a different thread, I would say you’re referring to the Seventh Day Adventist church.

Many things are problematic about them in my opinion.

They share most, if not all, of the central doctrines of the Bible, but I’m not sold on the soul sleep doctrine being the state of the dead, the application of the seventh day sabbath rest to the church, Ellen White, or the great controversy.

Can you prove the “war in heaven” has already happened, Lucifer and his angels cast down to earth, or is Lucifer currently an angel in good standing who is often assigned to do unpleasant tasks?

Before attempting to answer this question, please do investigate what the Bible says about it.

There’s so much more, but let’s take this step by step.

 

[Runningman]

FYI; I've been a member ofvthe church of Christ for nearly 50 yrs and it is 100% scriptural based. You are saturated with scriptures during sermons and not opinions, nonsense, or man made-up ideas.

The Church of Christ congregation I visited did saturate with Bible verses very frequently. I was impressed by that aspect. I don’t know if that’s representative of all congregations or if it’s just special to some.

Listening to a preacher isn’t a study though. Reading or hearing verses without studying how they apply, and to who, has been a source of a lot of confusion. Nothing can substitute someone taking time every day to study the Bible.

In any case, many churches do not use a lot of verses.

 

[Elizabeth55]

Just from our previous discussion in a different thread, I would say you’re referring to the Seventh Day Adventist church.

Many things are problematic about them in my opinion.

They share most, if not all, of the central doctrines of the Bible, but I’m not sold on the soul sleep doctrine being the state of the dead, the application of the seventh day sabbath rest to the church, Ellen White, or the great controversy.

Can you prove the “war in heaven” has already happened, Lucifer and his angels cast down to earth, or is Lucifer currently an angel in good standing who is often assigned to do unpleasant tasks?

Before attempting to answer this question, please do investigate what the Bible says about it.

There’s so much more, but let’s take this step by step.

Revelation 12.7

 

[Runningman]

Revelation 12.7

The devil is the main antagonist in the great tribulation, a puppeteer of sorts for the beast and false prophet. If that war in heaven has already happened and the devil cast down to earth then the great tribulation has already happened. There’s no mention of a span of thousands of years between then and the present day.

Revelation 12:12
12Therefore rejoice, O heavens,

and you who dwell in them!

But woe to the earth and the sea;

with great fury the devil has come down to you,

knowing he has only a short time.”

The “short time” is most likely in reference to the great tribulation which, according to Revelation, seems to last 7 years as far as I can honestly tell.

The war in heaven is a future event, imo.

 

[Elizabeth55]

Just from our previous discussion in a different thread, I would say you’re referring to the Seventh Day Adventist church.

Many things are problematic about them in my opinion.

They share most, if not all, of the central doctrines of the Bible, but I’m not sold on the soul sleep doctrine being the state of the dead, the application of the seventh day sabbath rest to the church, Ellen White, or the great controversy.

Can you prove the “war in heaven” has already happened, Lucifer and his angels cast down to earth, or is Lucifer currently an angel in good standing who is often assigned to do unpleasant tasks?

Before attempting to answer this question, please do investigate what the Bible says about it.

There’s so much more, but let’s take this step by step.

Daniel 12.2
Ecclesiastes 9:10

Food for thought:

If everyone is already in heaven why does christ need to come back to earth to raise the dead? Sure the living I understand but it's says the righteous are called from their graves?

 

[Runningman]

Daniel 12.2
Ecclesiastes 9:10

Daniel 12:2 - body resurrection, not soul sleep.

Ecclesiastes 9:10 - doesn’t say what you seem to be alleging

 

[Elizabeth55]

Daniel 12:2 - body resurrection, not soul sleep.

Ecclesiastes 9:10 - doesn’t say what you seem to be alleging

Then please explain this text in its content

 

[Komentaja]

Here’s a link to the quiz if anyone feels like looking at it. It’s 16 questions long.

https://www.gotoquiz.com/which_christian_denomination_do_you_belong_to

I got Methodist. I got no idea what they teach, very few of them in my country. Time to find out!

 

[Runningman]

Daniel 12.2
Ecclesiastes 9:10

Food for thought:

If everyone is already in heaven why does christ need to come back to earth to raise the dead? Sure the living I understand but it's says the righteous are called from their graves?

Them which are asleep are those who have died and will rise again like how Jesus died and rose again. God will bring with Jesus the souls of those dead people for the resurrection.

1 Thessalonians 4
13But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.