Does it matter which church you stay away from?
2006-09-01 08:03:30 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Avoid false religion.
Jehovah’s Witnesses have demonstrated that it is possible to achieve unity in belief and action even in today’s disunited world. In their ranks are former members of many different religions and ethnic groups. Other Witnesses were formerly agnostics or atheists. Still others simply gave no serious thought to religion. Out of this diversity of religions, cultures, and philosophies have come individuals who now enjoy a religious unity that is not otherwise seen in the world today.
The basis for such unity is God’s Word, the Bible. Of course, Jehovah’s Witnesses realize that they cannot dictate to others what to do. But they appreciate the privilege of encouraging others to learn from the Bible so as to base their choice in matters of worship upon that solid foundation. In this way, many more can share in the benefits that come from worshiping God “with spirit and truth.”
Associating with genuine worshipers of God is a protection. The Bible, therefore, reminds us: “Let us consider one another to incite to love and fine works, not forsaking the gathering of ourselves together, as some have the custom, but encouraging one another, and all the more so as you behold the day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24, 25) What a blessing when true friends, spiritual brothers and sisters, lovingly assist one another to fulfill their responsibilities before God!
Ottmar affirms this view. Raised in a Catholic family in Germany, he discontinued going to church. He explains: “Whenever I attended church, I came out feeling as empty as when I went in.” Still, he retained his faith in God. Then he came into contact with Jehovah’s Witnesses and became convinced that they are true servants of God. He saw the need to associate with them. He now says: “Being active in a worldwide organization, I enjoy peace of mind and heart. I am progressively being helped to have a more accurate knowledge of the Bible. That is something of great value to me personally.”
An Invitation to Those Seeking
Like-minded people working closely as a group can accomplish a task far more effectively than individuals working independently of one another. How could such a task be satisfactorily accomplished if there were no organization? How could one obey this Scriptural injunction if he tried to serve God independently?
During the last year, Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide distributed 91,933,280 Bible-based books, booklets, and brochures, plus 697,603,247 magazines, thereby reaching hundreds of millions of people in 235 lands with the message from God’s Word. What outstanding proof that united, well-organized group effort accomplishes far more than unassisted individual effort ever could!
In addition to distributing Bible literature, Jehovah’s Witnesses conduct Bible studies free of charge to assist people to get an in-depth understanding of what God requires. Last year, on an average, 5,726,509 such Bible studies were conducted each week with individuals or groups. This Bible instruction has helped millions of people to acquire a solid basis on which to make their choice in matters of worship. You are invited to learn of the divine requirements as set forth in the Bible. Then you can make your choice.—Ephesians 4:13; Philippians 1:9; 1 Timothy 6:20; 2 Peter 3:18.
If you want to please God, religious affiliation is vital—but not with just any religious group or denomination. You need to base your choice of religion on accurate Bible knowledge, not on unproved dogmas or hearsay. (Proverbs 16:25) Learn the requirements for true religion. Compare them with your own beliefs. Then choose accordingly.—Deuteronomy 30:19.
If you would like further information or a free home Bible study, please contact Jehovah's Witnesses at the local Kingdom Hall. Or visit http://www.watchtower.org
2006-09-01 08:30:15 · answer #1 · answered by Jeremy Callahan 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Try out other churches, and see if you feel the same way. I have been to about 10 or 15 during my lifetime. They are all different. Some churches operated like a country club, self-serving and totally fake. I nearly gave up my faith because of the hypocrisy I saw in the church. I have now found a Presbyterian church with a very genuine congregation. Read the teachings of Jesus. Find out what He stands for. If a church you attend does not reflect His values, find a church that does. They are few and far between, but they do exist.
2016-03-27 03:32:31 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I stay away from churches that do not follow the bible. Some churches "pick and choose" what to preach about. I am all for learning about the entire bible word for word, line for line in church.
There is something prevalent in today's society in America. It is called "Christianity Light" or "Easy Believism". A lot of mega churches won't teach that one needs to repent for their sins. & There are a lot of churches that teach a "heath and wealth" doctrine that doesn't line up with scripture.
The really interesting thing about all of this is; God knows this happens in churches, from the earliest to now. In Mark 7:6-8
"This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far away from Me. But in vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men. Neglecting the commandment of God, you hold to the tradition of men."
And the book of Jude verse 3b-
"contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain persons have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord Jesus Christ.
SO YES it does matter which church you stay away from. Pray for wisdom to find a bible beleiving church where they take the Whole Councel of God seriously and don't leave out or add to His Word.
I hope this helps.
2006-09-01 08:22:57 · answer #3 · answered by redeemed 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Dear ukwatcher,
Your question is kind of unclear. But in general i stay away from churches that do not teach the Bible clearly and accurately. Church is also a place we go to serve God and so God doesn't want us bouncing around from one church to another- but to faithfully serve in one location- so we are not just doing work- but developing a heart for the people and community that we are serving...
hope that helps,
Nickster
2006-09-01 08:09:03 · answer #4 · answered by Nickster 7 · 4⤊ 1⤋
Well for me I'd stay away from any church that doesn't believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God.
If they don't preach the bible or believe that Jesus IS God then stay away.
2006-09-01 08:11:05 · answer #5 · answered by N3WJL 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Because some "churches" don't believe in the literal Word of God, or that sins that were sins then, arn't necessarily sins now, revising things to fit in their customized faith boxes.
Though they claim to be Christian, you must believe the whole word, or the whole word becomes null and void in thier "faith".
2006-09-01 08:11:24 · answer #6 · answered by Linn E 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I am with NewCatholic - I don't stay away from any Catholic Church.
2006-09-01 08:09:01 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
most of the ministers are saying in their basic sermons " all right ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls you're going to either heaven or hell. the choice is up to you. which will it be ? "
2006-09-01 08:15:05 · answer #8 · answered by Marvin R 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't stay away from any Catholic Church.
Peace!
2006-09-01 08:06:48 · answer #9 · answered by C 7 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Because all around me I see gullible people and they don't know they are gullible.
2006-09-01 08:07:21 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋