We're so glad you were well loved and fed while you were with us Lydia! Praying you continue to grow at Wheelock and wherever the Lord leads you next. Come and visit when you get a chance. Thanks for sharing your journey and your encouragement to others to seek out a church that is faithful in preaching the Bible expositionally, proclaiming Christ and his good news for us sinners! 🥰❤✝🙏 PS. Have you read Nine Marks of a Healthy Church? If not, I'd recommend you do!
Thank you so much for this!! It made my day. I'd love to come back and visit. Thank you guys for the part you played in my journey. (And no I haven't read that book but my sister has so I'll make sure to borrow it.)☺🙏🏼
I see as a Pastor's wife people looking for the perfect church. It doesn't exist. Look for a church that is solid in doctrine and preaching. It doesn't matter if a church has the " best youth", or " best music". We are there to worship God and learn His Word. So many churches are seeker friendly and are basically like a night club. Thank you for sharing. ❤❤
I love this so much. I’m leaving the Pentecostal church after 18 years because I realize Christ hasn’t been the center. Looking forward to a positive change!
I go to UPC church and absolutely love it 4 years now.Its packed out every service and we have people from all denominations coming regularly,pastors too.
I left RCC, attended Pentacostal church with my husband while seeking other churches. Now I go to a nonDenominational. I have attended a independent Baptist, however I don't believe in calvinism. Nor only kjv bible. I did get tired of pumped enthusiasm in Pentacostal church during worship and silly affirmations as well as prayers to ask for HS to baptised you and showing that by speaking in tongues. If you've ever seen the old Pentacostal women pastors and present ones, I can't condone that either. I don't think I'll ever be totally comfortable in ANY church.
@@KM-zn3lx I think it’s good to be discerning. My church - the Independent Baptist one - doesn’t only use KJV and I’m not sure it’s exact stance on Calvinism. But it’s wise to test each church!
A serious british christian???? I thought i was the only one! I am 19 i read mere christianity by CS lewis after being in the depths. I am reformed my parent is a new age crazy person. God bless you!
Lydia, I appreciate your courage so much. I am also so glad you left that church but stayed with God. I have seen many people not only leave their abusive or legalistic church but also leave God. I have a friend who goes to a very legalistic church but since that's all she knows it has been difficult to help her see that no matter how she dresses, or what she does on the outside, can make her holy... because it can only be worked inside the heart by God. What's interesting is that she doesn't spend time with God but still thinks she's holy.
You’re 100% right, I’ve read many autobiographies with this exact story unfortunately. Equally easy to get wrapped up in legalism and morality - but the gospel is what we need! God bless you.
Lydia - from one young person to another, thank you for so clearly yet lovingly discussing these issues within Pentecostalism (and young Christian culture as a whole). I am a reformed Presbyterian (PCA) but I attend a Pentecostal college here in the United States. Going to the school, I knew I would never fully agree with the tradition, but it saddens me to say that much of the Pentecostal/Charismatic tradition (in the States, at least) is sadly hurtling headlong into fanaticism and hysteria as we speak - real Christians experiencing real deception is one of the saddest things about living in a fallen world. I dearly love so many of my brothers and sisters in the tradition, of course, and I pray that they hold fast to the living and true Gospel of Jesus Christ. Again, thank you Lydia for sharing your story and "keeping the main thing the main thing" - traditions and labels are (in my opinion and experience) far more helpful than many of us would like to admit, but the Gospel is more important than anything else. "So let no one boast in men. For all things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future-all are yours, and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's." (1 Corinthians 3:21-23)
This video has been getting a lot of traction recently and your comment has encouraged me so much, especially you’re use of ‘lovingly’ as I really hoped that came across. Thank you, also, for sharing this with me. We must all pray for all these issues raised. May God bless you in all you do.
@@lydiahoughton I'm so glad you found my comment edifying. If you ever want or need information on this movement feel free to reach out. Long live the fighters. 🫡
Thank you for sharing your testimony. The local church is such an important part of our spiritual health and journey. I pray the Lord will inspire people to have a greater devotion to Him and see the privilege of being a part of a local Christ honoring church.
What a breath of fresh air! You are both blessed and a blessing. It's taken me a VERY long time to finally get serious about my faith journey, having called myself a Christian for far longer than my behaviour would ever have witnessed to the claim. When I was at university in the early 1990s, I was part of the Christian Union but my immaturity as a young man then left me too distracted and seduced by my new freedom and the worldly temptations around me for it to take hold as it should. Fast forward 30+ years and I am only now approaching the stage you have described here. Better late than never, I suppose but I do cringe at the person I used to be. God bless you and thanks so much for posting this.
Hello, thank you for sharing. I myself have a pentecostal background and what you are describing is very different from anything I have seen. You are much better off in the type of group that you are now a part of. Sadly, many Pentecostal churches are hyper emotional but very shallow theologically speaking. There are many fine people who love God in those churches but as a whole the movement is lacking.
Same ! I was raised in ghe pentecostal church and there are great churches out there. But as a whole the movement is lacking and not theologically sound. They put more trust in the revelation of the holy spirit and dreams and visions even if it contradicts Gods word. Also do they come up with their own doctrine like demonology or women bishops/pastors etc So yeah feel ya. Although what are your thoughts on calvinism ?
@@lydiahoughton I could never embrace Calvinism. It completely negates the need for evangelism. if God has actually determined the destiny of each one and nothing we do nor the amount of our prayers can affect it then it is an exercise in futility. I will admit that some of their teaching is hard to answer. But in my opinion, the whole doctrine of limited atonement alone would make the whole biblical concept of "whosoever will" a great illusion forced upon us by scripture. If God sovereignty determines everything regarding the minute details of mans will then how can he condemn a man for a response that he himself has determined? The plain reading of scripture is that God desires all men to be saved, it also teaches that God works all things after the council of his will. The grace of God must be available to all or the great invitation given by Christ to all who are labor and heavy laden is meaningless. Also Calvinism allows for no assurance of salvation, there must be a lingering doubt in the mind of the calvanist as to weather he is actually part of the elect or not.
What a lovely testimony! I recently left a denomination to join in another which is, as you were looking for, having a much more expository style preaching and gospel centered. Praise God in your journey!
I love this video! Thank you for sharing your experience. You have definitely opened my eyes on how to view church and I’m glad that I can see my current church preaching the gospel and how Christ centred it is. It’s been great seeing your growth over the past few years and I love seeing God’s joy radiating from you. I personally like the intense kind of worship songs but I’ve found a church that balances it in a way that works for me in my current season❤ God bless Lydia
I am glad you are currently doing well. In my experience, many Christian groups prey on vulnerable people, with all the best intentions to help them, but prey on them nevertheless. The whole evangelistic church service is designed to produce emotions in the participants of guilt and vulnerability and then when you "make the decision" release and relief. It is psychological manipulation, nothing more. I know that you and most of your viewers will disagree with me and that is your right but I also have the right to hold my views.
Hey! Thanks for your comment. I think “the whole evangelistic church service” is a bit of a generalisation because lots of evangelical churches aren’t like that. But I’m certainly familiar with the concept you’re describing. ‘Emotionalism’ is how many reformed speakers I’ve heard describe it, specifically regarding worship and songs that use instrumental build-ups to create emotion
Mike, I agree with so much of what you said... and Jesus Himself would do the same. I've been in abusive , manipulative churches that were subtle and others not subtle at all. Jesus Himself strongly confronted the religious leaders (Pharisees & etc) in His day about these very things... of course hypocrisy being at the top of the list right up there with abuse. He despised religious practices like that... where God was being portrayed in that fashion, and people are being hurt.
Hi Lydia! Happy to see you again in another video I had an interesting trip to becoming a christian. I wasn't born in a christian family, my mom was the one who went to church first like 13 years ago. At the beginning i refused, but eventually got convinced. I admit i kept going because of a girl hehe, but even when she stopped going i still was going. It happened the same as with you, i didn't understand the gospel, couldn't resume it, but still was going. It wasn't until 2019 that i started to go to another church where i was starting to read the gospel. High and lows happened, but since last year (2023), and changing to another church, where i taking it more seriously. Truly reading and trying to understand the gospel, going to church services through the week, etc. I took too long to take this seriously, but it was meant that way by God. Now i feel i have spiritually grown since 2019; still growing! God bless you
Thank you Lydia for sharing your story. I’m happy to hear that you are connected to a sound biblical church that preaches the Gospel. Keep growing in your faith. I love Bryan Chapell and Paul Washer. They’re awesome brothers. God bless you.
As you know Lydia I'm reading Mere Christianity at the moment! One of the quotes that has stayed with me so far is Lewis' analogy for the church and the denominations within it. The church is a house with different rooms. It's an analogy that is full of grace, from believer to fellow believer. Some of us may be in the hallway and yet to find a room where we can settle. And it was a privilege to learn a little more of your testimony in this video. Thank you for sharing it with us. I resonate with your experiences at Wheelock Heath Baptist Church and City Church, your description of them reminded me of the church I went to while at university in Bath, in that every sermon was expositional and pointed to the Gospel, the Lord Jesus. Really i've only ever been a part of two churches, but to my mind it is more like three. I grew up in the church I am now a member of, and I was a member of Grace Church Bath. But since coming home and coming back to my home church it is a very different church to the one I grew up in. It is a privilege to serve there, but without going into too much detail it is a challenge at the same time! Our numbers are dwindling, and we aren't very active in the community aside from a Sunday morning. And I suppose it leaves me with some restlessness because even though no congregation is going to be completely perfect this side of eternity, I know that church can be so much better. But for all that, it is still so worth it for the sake of Hebrews 10:24, to not neglect meeting together as we see His Day approaching. We are not meant to grow in isolation, but in ecclesia, in community with other believers. Which is why, partly, I am so thankful to God for you, and this space He has established through you Lydia. Thank you for this video, and for putting up with my long rambling comments. 🤗
Many people see all the different denominations as a negative thing but each style of church can be a blessing at different stages in our walk with him. I'm in Northwich and there are no decent churches here and even if there was I would just cause trouble, throwing the pastor off the stage and taking over, I'm more the flipping tables type 😁
Hi, Lydia. I really enjoyed this video! It is great hearing about your experiences whilst at Salford, especially after finishing my first year there. When I joined, the CU did a 'church search' and we were taken to a pentecostal church in Mcr (not Audacious). I was researching apostolic Christianity at the time, so going to that church was very shocking for me as it wasn't anything that I had experienced before and it was more appealing to people's emotions than teaching any sound doctrine or the Word. It heavily pushed me and my friend away from pentacostalism, so I understand your point about it being 'too much', if you will. I am part of the Orthodox Church now, officially joining at the start of May. You mentioned at the end of your video that you prefer more traditional hymns, which I certainly agree with. I love traditional Anglican hymns, especially the Christmas ones! I would like to recommend some Orthodox Christian songs, if you would be willing to listen to them?
Hey! I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed your first year at Salford and that you’ve met with the CU. And it’s kind of you to offer, but my Protestant beliefs differ from Orthodox beliefs. I’ll stick to the hymns we sing in my church. God Bless you!
Hi Lydia. I've had the same experience as the early Apostles, in my Pentecostal church. I also became a Christian at 19. Wow what a rush. I got spirit filled and baptised in water in the same day. Thats like the book of Acts. Is there a conservative Pentecostal church in England. There aren't many in the world. Cheers
I am United Pentecostal but what you described sounds more like what I would call charismatic. If there are any upci works in your area, maybe check it out, I think you will find it different. However, I do love your testimony of finding what you needed in a church.
@@lydiahoughtonsad to say some of the upci are in that direction as well. When I first went it was not like that. I have moved 3 times at each time (as I came out of charismatic moderate). As time went on I saw that change move in. I AM TAKING CARE OF MY DISABLED HUSBAND FOUND A WONDERFUL BOOK BY BOOK CONTEXT TEACHING. NOT JUST A TOPICAL MESSAGE. I have a deep love for the people but the change was heartbreaking
Lee,I don’t doubt that Mary was filled with the Holy Spirit.I have been saved for 40 years and continue to repent.All glory and honor goes to Jesus not Mary.
Totally agree with you. However, I find the title of your video a bit misleading. It is not so much about denominations as it is about individual churches. All local Pentecostal churches are different. And so are all local Baptist churches.
Hey! I hear you. And as you’ll know from what I said in the video, I agree that individual churches differ. But I do stand by the title of the video because the church was a Pentecostal one. Lots of the eventual issues I had were unique to the denomination - some of which I didn’t detail in this video. Eg tongues being necessary for salvation. Hope that makes sense. 😊
The only church I've ever found, among the many different churches I've ever attended or visited, that practiced the Matthew 16:19, "Whatsoever shall ye bind on Earth, shall be bound in Heaven," meaning eternal marriage, is the 1 true church, with actual living apostles, & a living prophet today. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has more answers than all the other churches put together.
Hi thanks for your comment. I’m not a Mormon as I believe in the Bible alone and that anything added to it is not God’s word. I believe in salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. God bless you.
Don’t give ever up on trying to find a church that is being led by the Holy Spirit , that’s what the devil wants you to do. I started going this Pentecostal church and I tell you I love the music , they sing hymns, every verse PTL . I hadn’t been in a church where hymns were sung for years because the other churches got away from them , so I didn’t really get anything out of the music , the music wasn’t really uplifting like the hymns and gospel music at the church I’m going to now. As crazy as it sounds I’ve been writing down the name’s of the songs so I can hear them on my phone. I pray you find a Holy Spirit filled church in Jesus Christ name Amen.
Ugh "motivational sermons" and "sprinkled in the bible verses" - it is frustrating to listen to that and take things out of context, seen too much of this, it is really one of the most dissatisfying things about church Glad to hear you appreciate the gospel-centred and expositional delivery - there is a lot of prep and study that goes into it to get it right, but only a few decent churches hold this standard
Church shopping is a very appropriate thing to do as a Christian, people stray from their faith for many reasons, but what people neglect to know is that many churches lead people astray with false doctrines and keeps people delusional to the truth of the Bible. I’m looking forward to your next visit to an Anglican Church ahah
@@lydiahoughton I also started off in a Pentecostal church, then a non-denominational church, both with flashy coloured lights, cool effects, loud band music. The more I matured in my faith in the Christ, the more I valued the simpler services and biblical centred sermons like you mentioned. I appreciate attending an Anglican Church that centres biblical values, not all Anglican churches adhere to this so church shopping was essential wherever I move. Anglican churches are more consistent overall and they place emphasis on reciting Bible segments and psalms, this is what I was looking for, I could probably find that in a good Baptist, Lutheran or Methodist church. So like you discovered, there’s convenience in attending a local church, with services that last 90mins max, more community-oriented, a church that is involved in charities and local issues.
Hebrews 10:25 - Don’t neglect gathering together. Fellowship is important, as is hearing God’s word explained clearly. Yes, we are the church but meeting with other believers is crucial. God bless you.
@@lydiahoughton Not in a building. Nowhere does the gospel say to go to a building every Sunday. Especially these days, the church should be out in the streets spreading the gospel.
@@RuthKing-qn4xx we are also extremely blessed to be able to meet together at all, where in many countries you’d face immense persecution just for that.
We're so glad you were well loved and fed while you were with us Lydia! Praying you continue to grow at Wheelock and wherever the Lord leads you next. Come and visit when you get a chance. Thanks for sharing your journey and your encouragement to others to seek out a church that is faithful in preaching the Bible expositionally, proclaiming Christ and his good news for us sinners! 🥰❤✝🙏 PS. Have you read Nine Marks of a Healthy Church? If not, I'd recommend you do!
Thank you so much for this!! It made my day. I'd love to come back and visit. Thank you guys for the part you played in my journey. (And no I haven't read that book but my sister has so I'll make sure to borrow it.)☺🙏🏼
It's a good one. Let us know what you think of it! @@lydiahoughton
I see as a Pastor's wife people looking for the perfect church. It doesn't exist. Look for a church that is solid in doctrine and preaching. It doesn't matter if a church has the " best youth", or " best music". We are there to worship God and learn His Word. So many churches are seeker friendly and are basically like a night club. Thank you for sharing. ❤❤
Absolutely!! I love this comment. God Bless you ❤️❤️
True.
Very very true 😕.
I love this so much. I’m leaving the Pentecostal church after 18 years because I realize Christ hasn’t been the center. Looking forward to a positive change!
Oh wow I'm honoured you shared that with me. May God bless you.
I go to UPC church and absolutely love it 4 years now.Its packed out every service and we have people from all denominations coming regularly,pastors too.
@@mikehardy4474 that’s great! Like I said, every church is different and as long as there’s sound teaching 😊
I left RCC, attended Pentacostal church with my husband while seeking other churches. Now I go to a nonDenominational. I have attended a independent Baptist, however I don't believe in calvinism. Nor only kjv bible. I did get tired of pumped enthusiasm in Pentacostal church during worship and silly affirmations as well as prayers to ask for HS to baptised you and showing that by speaking in tongues. If you've ever seen the old Pentacostal women pastors and present ones, I can't condone that either. I don't think I'll ever be totally comfortable in ANY church.
@@KM-zn3lx I think it’s good to be discerning. My church - the Independent Baptist one - doesn’t only use KJV and I’m not sure it’s exact stance on Calvinism. But it’s wise to test each church!
A serious british christian???? I thought i was the only one! I am 19 i read mere christianity by CS lewis after being in the depths. I am reformed my parent is a new age crazy person. God bless you!
Great to meet you! I LOVE that book so much!
It's very nice to see someone being self aware and open minded.
Thanks for sharing,
James
Hi James, thanks for your comment, how encouraging!
Lydia, I appreciate your courage so much. I am also so glad you left that church but stayed with God. I have seen many people not only leave their abusive or legalistic church but also leave God. I have a friend who goes to a very legalistic church but since that's all she knows it has been difficult to help her see that no matter how she dresses, or what she does on the outside, can make her holy... because it can only be worked inside the heart by God. What's interesting is that she doesn't spend time with God but still thinks she's holy.
You’re 100% right, I’ve read many autobiographies with this exact story unfortunately. Equally easy to get wrapped up in legalism and morality - but the gospel is what we need! God bless you.
Lydia - from one young person to another, thank you for so clearly yet lovingly discussing these issues within Pentecostalism (and young Christian culture as a whole). I am a reformed Presbyterian (PCA) but I attend a Pentecostal college here in the United States. Going to the school, I knew I would never fully agree with the tradition, but it saddens me to say that much of the Pentecostal/Charismatic tradition (in the States, at least) is sadly hurtling headlong into fanaticism and hysteria as we speak - real Christians experiencing real deception is one of the saddest things about living in a fallen world. I dearly love so many of my brothers and sisters in the tradition, of course, and I pray that they hold fast to the living and true Gospel of Jesus Christ. Again, thank you Lydia for sharing your story and "keeping the main thing the main thing" - traditions and labels are (in my opinion and experience) far more helpful than many of us would like to admit, but the Gospel is more important than anything else. "So let no one boast in men. For all things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future-all are yours, and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's." (1 Corinthians 3:21-23)
This video has been getting a lot of traction recently and your comment has encouraged me so much, especially you’re use of ‘lovingly’ as I really hoped that came across. Thank you, also, for sharing this with me. We must all pray for all these issues raised. May God bless you in all you do.
@@lydiahoughton I'm so glad you found my comment edifying. If you ever want or need information on this movement feel free to reach out. Long live the fighters. 🫡
Which Pentecostal Collegedo you attend? I do not know many Pentecostal College/Universities.
What an amazing journey, you are so spot on, I’m glad you’re in a comfortable place.
Thank you so much for this, how encouraging!
Oh, BTW, please read God Without Religion by Andrew Farley. Thoroughly biblical. So good! You'll be blessed.
Thanks for the recommendation!!
Thank you for sharing your testimony, God is Good!!! 🙏
Thank you for sharing your testimony. The local church is such an important part of our spiritual health and journey. I pray the Lord will inspire people to have a greater devotion to Him and see the privilege of being a part of a local Christ honoring church.
God bless you, thank you for your comment
What a breath of fresh air! You are both blessed and a blessing. It's taken me a VERY long time to finally get serious about my faith journey, having called myself a Christian for far longer than my behaviour would ever have witnessed to the claim. When I was at university in the early 1990s, I was part of the Christian Union but my immaturity as a young man then left me too distracted and seduced by my new freedom and the worldly temptations around me for it to take hold as it should. Fast forward 30+ years and I am only now approaching the stage you have described here. Better late than never, I suppose but I do cringe at the person I used to be. God bless you and thanks so much for posting this.
Thanks so much for sharing and praise God for His work in your life.
Hello, thank you for sharing. I myself have a pentecostal background and what you are describing is very different from anything I have seen. You are much better off in the type of group that you are now a part of. Sadly, many Pentecostal churches are hyper emotional but very shallow theologically speaking. There are many fine people who love God in those churches but as a whole the movement is lacking.
Thanks for your comment, God bless you 🙏🏼
Same ! I was raised in ghe pentecostal church and there are great churches out there. But as a whole the movement is lacking and not theologically sound. They put more trust in the revelation of the holy spirit and dreams and visions even if it contradicts Gods word. Also do they come up with their own doctrine like demonology or women bishops/pastors etc So yeah feel ya. Although what are your thoughts on calvinism ?
@@lydiahoughton I could never embrace Calvinism. It completely negates the need for evangelism. if God has actually determined the destiny of each one and nothing we do nor the amount of our prayers can affect it then it is an exercise in futility. I will admit that some of their teaching is hard to answer. But in my opinion, the whole doctrine of limited atonement alone would make the whole biblical concept of "whosoever will" a great illusion forced upon us by scripture. If God sovereignty determines everything regarding the minute details of mans will then how can he condemn a man for a response that he himself has determined? The plain reading of scripture is that God desires all men to be saved, it also teaches that God works all things after the council of his will. The grace of God must be available to all or the great invitation given by Christ to all who are labor and heavy laden is meaningless. Also Calvinism allows for no assurance of salvation, there must be a lingering doubt in the mind of the calvanist as to weather he is actually part of the elect or not.
What a lovely testimony! I recently left a denomination to join in another which is, as you were looking for, having a much more expository style preaching and gospel centered. Praise God in your journey!
@@ajw9975 thank you so much for your encouragement, it’s comforting to find people who are zealous for biblical, expository preaching. God Bless you!
Maam your so special and I love you with all my heart. Im a 11 year old who loves jesus
Hey! It's so great that you love Jesus 😆
I love this video! Thank you for sharing your experience. You have definitely opened my eyes on how to view church and I’m glad that I can see my current church preaching the gospel and how Christ centred it is.
It’s been great seeing your growth over the past few years and I love seeing God’s joy radiating from you.
I personally like the intense kind of worship songs but I’ve found a church that balances it in a way that works for me in my current season❤ God bless Lydia
Thank you Caitlin, this is so encouraging. God bless you☺️❤️
Thank you for sharing. God bless you!
God bless you!!
I am glad you are currently doing well. In my experience, many Christian groups prey on vulnerable people, with all the best intentions to help them, but prey on them nevertheless. The whole evangelistic church service is designed to produce emotions in the participants of guilt and vulnerability and then when you "make the decision" release and relief. It is psychological manipulation, nothing more. I know that you and most of your viewers will disagree with me and that is your right but I also have the right to hold my views.
Hey! Thanks for your comment. I think “the whole evangelistic church service” is a bit of a generalisation because lots of evangelical churches aren’t like that. But I’m certainly familiar with the concept you’re describing. ‘Emotionalism’ is how many reformed speakers I’ve heard describe it, specifically regarding worship and songs that use instrumental build-ups to create emotion
Mike, I agree with so much of what you said... and Jesus Himself would do the same. I've been in abusive , manipulative churches that were subtle and others not subtle at all. Jesus Himself strongly confronted the religious leaders (Pharisees & etc) in His day about these very things... of course hypocrisy being at the top of the list right up there with abuse. He despised religious practices like that... where God was being portrayed in that fashion, and people are being hurt.
Hi Lydia! Happy to see you again in another video
I had an interesting trip to becoming a christian. I wasn't born in a christian family, my mom was the one who went to church first like 13 years ago. At the beginning i refused, but eventually got convinced. I admit i kept going because of a girl hehe, but even when she stopped going i still was going. It happened the same as with you, i didn't understand the gospel, couldn't resume it, but still was going. It wasn't until 2019 that i started to go to another church where i was starting to read the gospel. High and lows happened, but since last year (2023), and changing to another church, where i taking it more seriously. Truly reading and trying to understand the gospel, going to church services through the week, etc. I took too long to take this seriously, but it was meant that way by God. Now i feel i have spiritually grown since 2019; still growing!
God bless you
Thank you so much for sharing, this was really amazing to read. God bless you
Thank you Lydia for sharing your story. I’m happy to hear that you are connected to a sound biblical church that preaches the Gospel. Keep growing in your faith. I love Bryan Chapell and Paul Washer. They’re awesome brothers. God bless you.
Both brilliant teachers!!! Thanks for your encouragement!!
As you know Lydia I'm reading Mere Christianity at the moment! One of the quotes that has stayed with me so far is Lewis' analogy for the church and the denominations within it. The church is a house with different rooms. It's an analogy that is full of grace, from believer to fellow believer. Some of us may be in the hallway and yet to find a room where we can settle.
And it was a privilege to learn a little more of your testimony in this video. Thank you for sharing it with us. I resonate with your experiences at Wheelock Heath Baptist Church and City Church, your description of them reminded me of the church I went to while at university in Bath, in that every sermon was expositional and pointed to the Gospel, the Lord Jesus.
Really i've only ever been a part of two churches, but to my mind it is more like three. I grew up in the church I am now a member of, and I was a member of Grace Church Bath. But since coming home and coming back to my home church it is a very different church to the one I grew up in. It is a privilege to serve there, but without going into too much detail it is a challenge at the same time! Our numbers are dwindling, and we aren't very active in the community aside from a Sunday morning. And I suppose it leaves me with some restlessness because even though no congregation is going to be completely perfect this side of eternity, I know that church can be so much better.
But for all that, it is still so worth it for the sake of Hebrews 10:24, to not neglect meeting together as we see His Day approaching. We are not meant to grow in isolation, but in ecclesia, in community with other believers.
Which is why, partly, I am so thankful to God for you, and this space He has established through you Lydia. Thank you for this video, and for putting up with my long rambling comments. 🤗
I love the long comments! God bless you Joseph
Love hearing your story ❤ And we are sooooooo blessed to have you and Beth!
Thanks Nat☺☺❤
Many people see all the different denominations as a negative thing but each style of church can be a blessing at different stages in our walk with him. I'm in Northwich and there are no decent churches here and even if there was I would just cause trouble, throwing the pastor off the stage and taking over, I'm more the flipping tables type 😁
I hope you find a good church!
Truly inspiring thanks Lydia.
God bless you thanks for your comment
Hi, Lydia. I really enjoyed this video! It is great hearing about your experiences whilst at Salford, especially after finishing my first year there. When I joined, the CU did a 'church search' and we were taken to a pentecostal church in Mcr (not Audacious). I was researching apostolic Christianity at the time, so going to that church was very shocking for me as it wasn't anything that I had experienced before and it was more appealing to people's emotions than teaching any sound doctrine or the Word. It heavily pushed me and my friend away from pentacostalism, so I understand your point about it being 'too much', if you will.
I am part of the Orthodox Church now, officially joining at the start of May. You mentioned at the end of your video that you prefer more traditional hymns, which I certainly agree with. I love traditional Anglican hymns, especially the Christmas ones! I would like to recommend some Orthodox Christian songs, if you would be willing to listen to them?
Hey! I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed your first year at Salford and that you’ve met with the CU.
And it’s kind of you to offer, but my Protestant beliefs differ from Orthodox beliefs. I’ll stick to the hymns we sing in my church. God Bless you!
Thank you 😊
God bless you ☺️
If you don’t mind me asking what church were your parents part of?
Independent Baptist church for many years, and then a gospel-preaching CofE church 😊
Hi Lydia. I've had the same experience as the early Apostles, in my Pentecostal church. I also became a Christian at 19. Wow what a rush. I got spirit filled and baptised in water in the same day. Thats like the book of Acts. Is there a conservative Pentecostal church in England. There aren't many in the world. Cheers
I’m glad to hear you’ve had a positive experience. 😊
I am United Pentecostal but what you described sounds more like what I would call charismatic. If there are any upci works in your area, maybe check it out, I think you will find it different. However, I do love your testimony of finding what you needed in a church.
Thanks for this comment, God bless you!
@@lydiahoughtonsad to say some of the upci are in that direction as well. When I first went it was not like that. I have moved 3 times at each time (as I came out of charismatic moderate). As time went on I saw that change move in.
I AM TAKING CARE OF MY DISABLED HUSBAND FOUND A WONDERFUL BOOK BY BOOK CONTEXT TEACHING. NOT JUST A TOPICAL MESSAGE. I have a deep love for the people but the change was heartbreaking
You are 100% correct.Every Pentecostal church is not the same.Mine is the most popular church in the town.
UPCI is a heresy, even a bigger heresy then pentecostal/charismatic. at least mainline pentecostal got the doctrine of the godhead right.
What is the difference?I bring all types of people to my UPC church every week.
Congratulations
@@nathanielbables8652 God Bless you
Do they have a church like that in the US?
As far as I know, the denominations I spoke about in this video are worldwide!
Lee,I don’t doubt that Mary was filled with the Holy Spirit.I have been saved for 40 years and continue to repent.All glory and honor goes to Jesus not Mary.
Totally agree with you.
However, I find the title of your video a bit misleading.
It is not so much about denominations as it is about individual churches.
All local Pentecostal churches are different. And so are all local Baptist churches.
Hey! I hear you. And as you’ll know from what I said in the video, I agree that individual churches differ.
But I do stand by the title of the video because the church was a Pentecostal one. Lots of the eventual issues I had were unique to the denomination - some of which I didn’t detail in this video. Eg tongues being necessary for salvation. Hope that makes sense. 😊
The only church I've ever found, among the many different churches I've ever attended or visited, that practiced the Matthew 16:19, "Whatsoever shall ye bind on Earth, shall be bound in Heaven," meaning eternal marriage, is the 1 true church, with actual living apostles, & a living prophet today. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has more answers than all the other churches put together.
Hi thanks for your comment. I’m not a Mormon as I believe in the Bible alone and that anything added to it is not God’s word. I believe in salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. God bless you.
Mormonism is polytheist.
Billy carson has a great video on orgins of religion if anyone is interested.this man study for over 20 years very interesting.
Haven't heard of him!
I just left one too. They had too much false doctrine.
Thanks for your comment, I hope you find a church with sound teaching 🙏🏼
Don’t give ever up on trying to find a church that is being led by the Holy Spirit , that’s what the devil wants you to do. I started going this Pentecostal church and I tell you I love the music , they sing hymns, every verse PTL . I hadn’t been in a church where hymns were sung for years because the other churches got away from them , so I didn’t really get anything out of the music , the music wasn’t really uplifting like the hymns and gospel music at the church I’m going to now. As crazy as it sounds I’ve been writing down the name’s of the songs so I can hear them on my phone. I pray you find a Holy Spirit filled church in Jesus Christ name Amen.
@@Retiredjourneyman the church I’m at now is definitely Holy Spirit led. God Bless you 😊
Ugh "motivational sermons" and "sprinkled in the bible verses" - it is frustrating to listen to that and take things out of context, seen too much of this, it is really one of the most dissatisfying things about church
Glad to hear you appreciate the gospel-centred and expositional delivery - there is a lot of prep and study that goes into it to get it right, but only a few decent churches hold this standard
@@peter_587 you’re right. And amen, God Bless you!
Hi! Are you British miss?❤
I am indeed!
Church shopping is a very appropriate thing to do as a Christian, people stray from their faith for many reasons, but what people neglect to know is that many churches lead people astray with false doctrines and keeps people delusional to the truth of the Bible.
I’m looking forward to your next visit to an Anglican Church ahah
This is a really great point! And my parents go to an Anglican Church!
@@lydiahoughton I also started off in a Pentecostal church, then a non-denominational church, both with flashy coloured lights, cool effects, loud band music.
The more I matured in my faith in the Christ, the more I valued the simpler services and biblical centred sermons like you mentioned.
I appreciate attending an Anglican Church that centres biblical values, not all Anglican churches adhere to this so church shopping was essential wherever I move.
Anglican churches are more consistent overall and they place emphasis on reciting Bible segments and psalms, this is what I was looking for, I could probably find that in a good Baptist, Lutheran or Methodist church.
So like you discovered, there’s convenience in attending a local church, with services that last 90mins max, more community-oriented, a church that is involved in charities and local issues.
You should join the one true apostolic Church, the Catholic Church
Hey! I believe Protestant doctrine, not Catholic doctrine. God bless you
@@lydiahoughton God bless, i enjoy your videos
@@bobsbobbs Thanks for your kind words, I'm glad you're here
That’s funny.Catholics are as far away from Pentecostal as possible.
The Catholic Church is dead as a doorbell and I am commanded to only call God father,not some priest.
Does anyone realize that going to a building once a week isn’t biblical? We are the church. Stay out of these modern day churches
Hebrews 10:25 - Don’t neglect gathering together. Fellowship is important, as is hearing God’s word explained clearly. Yes, we are the church but meeting with other believers is crucial. God bless you.
@@lydiahoughton Not in a building. Nowhere does the gospel say to go to a building every Sunday. Especially these days, the church should be out in the streets spreading the gospel.
@@RuthKing-qn4xx I think street evangelism is great 😊
@@RuthKing-qn4xx we are also extremely blessed to be able to meet together at all, where in many countries you’d face immense persecution just for that.