@@mimiwilliams8918 I left my Church officially on July 14th of this year. I was there almost 2 years. My soul was connected to the church, the people, the different ministries I served on....omg! Don't get me started, I will cry all over again. I miss them so much😢 I'm still in recovery. It hurts to talk about it and to even think about it. I still can't believe I left. But I had to. My time was up there. But I lie to you not, it feels like I lost a loved one. My soul grieves for the people and being in that atmosphere and singing on stage with my choir members. . Lord have mercy I'm still a mess over it. I guess I'm not ready to talk about it just yet. God I miss them. I never wanted to hurt them. Lord Lord Lord. Pray for me. I'm still going thru it.
Myra J I left church for 5 years. My relationship with God is very good. My relationship with God also improved, because I am free to follow my heart and not have to ask for permission from my leaders. They don’t need to know. Satisfaction! God still talks to me. I get dreams. I ask God a question and within some time, something will come to me and answer the questions I have. An eureka moment. I get revelation from Scripture, and I can sense God’s Presence and love at home (even stronger than in church). I still go to church every once in awhile. I just go to a church where God shows me and I sit at the back. No one knows I am there. Sometimes, the preacher is talking about something I needed to hear. I would go to another church next week and it is like a “part 2” of the same sermon. The tricky part is having the discipline to sit down with your Bible and just feed on the Word. This is not easy initially, if you are the type who finds reading dry. Pray. Lots and lots of prayer. I cannot afford to get into a place of spiritual hunger and dryness. It is not for everyone. You no longer have the luxury of a preacher to feed you the word every Sunday, so you have to find your own spiritual food. You also don’t have the luxury of a worship band, so you also have to find your own water to drink. It’s laborious. That is the only downside, but in exchange for not having to deal with politics and seeing the ugly stuff, the trade off is REALLY GREAT. It is completely worth it to me. Overall, I am very comfortable with this. I still have good Christian friends and stay in contact with them.
Tina Paris how I knew my time was up at that church was God said it to me in my spirit months before it even entered my mind, but I shushed him..smh.. Then, everything began to feel mondane, kinda dry, some of the attitudes changed a little twards the activities of the church and that disturbed me. I started to feel like it's ok if I missed a Sunday whenever and it didn't bother me as much. Things I craved about being there and being apart of became kinda stale and routine, I started just not getting anything out of it. There were more good than not so good Sundays but I knew my time was up. I still miss them and being there and being apart of it all. Now I'm planted and plugged in serving God with my gifts at another Church and I'm happy and looking forward to discovering why he lead me to this place. Hope this helps you.
as a relatively new believer, I left my church during the "quarantine" times in 2020 when the church was only meeting on zoom and a mentor of mine took him and his family to a new church. I was not in a healthy place spiritually and blindly followed him.. It has been nothing but very painful and sorrowful times since. I say this as a warning to anyone listening to this video thinking about leaving your church.. For the love of Jesus, pray, pray and pray some more that your reasons are pure and that the Holy Spirit is leading you to leave, and that it is not for man, or from a place of bitterness or fear/cowardice to face or confront something that is difficult in your church..or things will not go well, you will grieve the Holy Spirit and it will be a very challenging/uphill journey forward
I kept attending the church my late husband preferred which had changed pastors some time after he passed away. One Sunday the new pastor preached a sermon using Tom Hanks movie clips for an hour, pausing them to interject some life lesson. Just one scripture that day and no Biblical message. Only the movie clips. The pastor promised a Summer of Sunday movie sermons. I sat through that message on that morning knowing that I would never return. I heard that after I left they started serving popcorn during the Sunday movie clips services.
That's really sad but I know exactly what you mean😢 I remember feeling anxiety when walking up the street of one before I moved to another larger location... The devil is a liar!
Thank you so much sir John.. I'm really longing to know our LORD JESUS CHRIST more and to effectively use my desire to share the Gospel for others. I'm really sad that there's a church name their denomination "Gospel Church" but the preaching and teaching diminishes the message of the cross. Sometimes, it is far more better to our soul to seek a congregation who also obeying and exercising the same passion of advancing the Gospel. Godbless you Sir John!
The number 1 reason should be when God tells you too. Often times it's easy to lean on our family and friends to make those decisions for us when we should trust God and ask him first if we need to be in a that church or if he calls us elsewhere.
It's as if these "pastors" don't even read the Bible. P The word pride appears 49 times in the English Bible. Never once is it used in a good sense. *The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.* The word proud appears 59 times. Also, always in a bad sense. *Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD.*
@@shangrilaladeda Yep... and good on you! You know what the Bible says on it, which is why you left that place. My comment with specific verses is meant to drive home the point to anyone else who might read Blessings :]
My position at the moment is like this....... I feel like i don't see a real future me being part of my church & in turn i don't think my church see's a future in me.... Really struggling here!.
If a church is not consistently preaching and practicing the true gospel of Jesus Christ it may be advisable to leave. If you are not receiving good spiritual food you will feel empty and frustrated. Anyway, be led by the Holy Spirit on such a serious matter. God will not throw you under the bus, He chose you to be in His kingdom.
Hey brother. God bless you for writing this, very well said. God won't throw His children under this bus in such a key area of our spiritual lives as this, nor will He leave us stranded in a place we shouldn't be in 🙌🏿. I can relate to bring frustrated trying to stay in a church you shouldn't be in. God help us all 🙏🏿.
A church I once called home (first church I was a member of and the only one I was a member of growing up & confirmed in) gave me the cold shoulder and I went to another church very late 2021 and now the "new" church I thought of calling home has decided to be more like a concert hall to where it's so unorganized to where they do full songs and the slides only have 1/2 of the song and that itself is pretty bad; requires kids to be in kids ministry and can't be involved during service along with mandatory name tag stickers with a 3 digit code... I was once LCMS, then the local AG and now I'm back to the Church Search to where I can feel home to where I can agree with the pastor's (or priest's) sermons and viewpoints as there are small liberal/progressive churches that have a conservative congregation...I'm a theologically conservative confessional Christian. Still praying to help me find a new home church.
Hello brother. I pray God answers your prayers in finding a solid and biblical church 🙏🏿. I can relate greatly to your point about growing up in a church then realising it's not solid or biblical and it going sour. Currently seeking a church now. May God help us 🙌🏿
Going to church is very good for a Christian but not at all cost. The wrong church will do you more harm than good. I left the last church I attended at the beginning of this year. It had become evident that it was more toxic than useful for all areas of my life, especially my faith. I don't know any good Godly church in the city I live in so I will be on my own and trust God to show me the way but I won't let any man guilt trip me into becoming the slave of any human institution that instrumentalizes the name of Jesus to do business.
Hello brother Kevin. Thank you for writing this, this is so well said. I'm in a similar situation myself. I pray God answers your prayers and leads you to a sound and biblical church 🙏🏿. God bless you 🙌🏿.
Sometimes leaving is better. If course with God's permission. There was a season in my life years ago when I wrestled leaving where I was going because I was simply restless, and outgrew the ministry. Relationships weren't exciting either because I wanted to be around people who loved Jesus authentically, but felt that where I was that some were there more so for social reasons. Some even tried to shut down conversations I'd have with them about God to talk about more carnal things. It's true when my pastor at the church I've been attending for years now says that people are at church for different reasons. Put God above everything
At my church the women always gossip among each other, as a 13 yr old girl, there was one time when I was a bit younger when I found they were talking behind my back.
Hello sister. God bless you for being open like this. It's a shame that this was happening in church where believers are supposed to feel safest surrounded by brethren. It's been 2 years, how is it going now?
Interesting. The True church teaches the Scripture properly. False churches teach false doctrines and misrepresent the ONE TRUE GOD. You don't choose Christ, Christ chooses you.
Let's say I have been having dreams of the church rejecting me, and it's been a while since I have had these dreams. I happen to know someone experiencing not-so-good dreams about the church as well. Is that enough to leave the church?
I am seeing red flags in my church I was going through a difficult season of homelessness and not one pastor or staff member supported me even when I cried out and ask . I feel ostracised and not appreciate. Yesterday a pastor revelled when another staff member got made redundant and one of the apps groups they send messages in Spanish when the majority of people can't speak Spanish. Should I leave? And can I get some support
The church I'm in now is an 8 out of 10 on the charismatic scale. Their 'statement' of beliefs simply says- to be a replica of the Acts church and to rely solely on the Spirit for all things. That being said, the tongues are roaring, people are being 'slain' in the spirit, the teachings are at best wonky. At times I'm reminded of the so called Toronto blessing. Not that wacko, but close. Problem is my son (16) is in the worship band (loves it) and my wife is OK with the church. I go to be with my family. It is very difficult now to find a church that teaches scripturally, teaches clearly, as Paul said, preaches Christ crucified. I simply want to be fed and watered. For years now I've found the church is sliding off a cliff. What to do, what to do? Any ideas?
Hey brother, it's encouraging to know someone else is going through a similar situation. In all honesty I don't know how you could go about this. I'm a relatively young believer, 20 years old, and I'm currently looking at how I should go about leaving the unhealthy church I grew up in (I got saved outside of it). I pray God guides us 🙌🏿🙏🏿.
Our church didn’t outright teach cessationism… for 2 years. now leaders are teaching cessationism. My family and I are continuationists. I see this as an essential doctrine. I don’t want my children influenced by a doctrine that I adamantly oppose, and furthermore, cessationism is both spiritually AND physically dangerous. If a person goes to an elder for prayer for healing (James)- spiritually or physically - if the elder is a cessationist: HOW IS IT NOT A DOUBLE MINDED PRAYER? There is explicit doubt.
God is taking good care of me, in spite of everything. And honestly, I don't think I could deal with another woman at my age. I'm actually helping wife #2 get settled with living in L.A. she finished her MBA, got her CPA, and now working from home for an Indian casino, making 6 figures. She came from a village in Romania so she's struggling having money.
I'm looking for a christian spouse. But I have to leave because the church lacks of available singles... It hurts so much but it seems there is no other choice..
@@shaquillekiragu i moved to another church 5 month ago.. still single.. still in agony. There are a lot of groups but in our group there are no girls close to my age. I have to wait another few months until the group changes. Agony 24/7, that's my life right now
@@user-nsj5csgwk I'll pray for you brother. Do you mind elaborating on what you mean by agony and in what way? From what I understand, I also can resonate with the desire for a spouse. Wait on the Lord and take note and constantly remind yourself of His promises to His children. All things work for our good 💪🏿. God is sovereign and has a purpose in everything we go through. Trust in Him and feed your faith. I hope he answers your prayers soon. Sometimes we should see things spiritually more than we do naturally. God bless you 🙌🏿.
You wouldn't even get to this inquiry if you are at a bad church. If it's a bad church per the guidelines outlined at the beginning, you leave. Only if it's not so clear do you get into the inquiry of what your mature brothers/sister say and your usefulness weighed against the pitfalls.
Do you think God wants me to start teaching at a different church? My church I haven’t been able to teach Sunday school since March. I was asking God what should I do and I went to a funeral viewing at my friends church and the first thing she said was that they would give me a class teaching kids. Does that mean God wants me to come there
Hello sister. Good question, it could be God has opened a door for you in that new church, but I wouldn't leave based on that alone. Pray and seek the Lord on this. It's been 2 years, how did it go in the end? God bless 🙌🏿
What if your church is preaching the same thing over and over again? I've been attending this church for 1 year and 5 months already and what they are always preaching about is the end time? The end of the world, how the world is going to end. I have a zeal for getting to know God and I feel like my knowledge of God is not growing.
I know this is late but I recommend reading Hebrews 6 on more knowledge on this topic. A church shouldn’t grow stagnant and they should grow to understanding. Hope this helps 🙏
I recently left my church. It was extremely hard, and I'm still suffering over it. I had been away from church for a long time and I thought I had found a good biblically sound and loving church. Then about 6 months in they started pushing membership. I learned that even though I thought I was a faithful member, I was not actually one. To become one, I had to interview and apply like a job. This implied that I could be rejected. It started raising red flags. When I started rejecting becoming a member, instead to just decide to attend as a non-member my eyes started to be opened. When I'd hear elders state that their responsibility was to the members (which I previously considered myself) the context took a new meaning. I started feeling like an outsider. But I persisted. Love is about giving, not receiving, and it mattered more to me that my brothers and sisters received love from me than I love from them. Until one day in philosophical discussion about free will vs destiny an elder interrupted to tell us that God has already predetermined who will be saved and who will go to hell and we have no part in the matter. We cannot come to salvation unless he predetermined we could; that salvation was only for a limited few arbitrarily chosen. My jaw dropped. I had never heard anything so horrific at church (or elsewhere) in all my life. Everyone is entitled to their beliefs, so I persisted. But I was noticing more and more members pulling away from me. I started making the connections of Calvinism which I dived into the teachings of (normally I avoid denominational things because I think they are divisive and unbiblical). I wanted to really understand this theology. The more I looked into it, the more horrified I became. A few months later, I met with my pastor and asked him if John 3:16 tells us that God loves all men and that He died to provide salvation to any who would believe in Him and have faith. He told me no. That "God so loved the world" meant that he loved all the nations, but not everyone in those nations. That "whosoever shall believeth in Him" was referring only to the Elect that God allows to believe. I had read out church's very lengthy statement of faith and agreed to all of it. I had heard my very gifted pastor give nothing but powerful, biblically sound sermons for 8 months. I asked why our supposedly Baptist (historically an enemy of Calvinism) church did not include the Calvinist pillars in it's statement and also why was Calvinism no where to be found on information about the church. He said it was; it's called "Doctrines of Faith." And sure enough, our statement said the church believed in doctrines of faith; the new code words for Calvinism that they know, but the unwary Christian may not. Deceptive to say the least. I wrestled with continuing because after all, 99.9% of what was taught I agreed with, and none of us are perfect. But ultimately after much prayer and deliberation, I could not be in good faith and submit myself to heretical false teachings. I became a pariah virtually overnight. The love the church professed to have is for themselves. Just like any cult, if you leave, they care not for you. Wolves in sheep's clothing look just like sheep. This is why it's so hard for us to notice them. We Christians want to believe others who say they follow Christ too. But know them by their fruits. Anyone who believes God does not love everyone cannot themselves love everyone (lest they be more benevolent than their own god). There are certainly good, God fearing Calvinists out there, but that does not make the false doctrine that's snared them less evil. If your church tells you that God doesn't love everyone, or doesn't desire everyone to be saved, or didn't send Christ to be the propitiation for the sins of all, run. Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. John Calvin himself justified killing Christians, which makes sense if you think God predetermined them to be damned to hell.
Hello brother. Thank you for willing to be open and writing this. I pray God answers your prayers and leads you to a sound and biblical church 🙏🏿. God bless you 🙌🏿.
@@shaquillekiraguThank you, brother. I have since found a new church that teaches truth and love. God is love. Therefore love is the answer. For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” - Galatians 5:14 May God bless the rest of your days.
@@EricLucero Praise God 🙌🏿. Thank you brother, may God bless you and the brethren at your new church. I'm still in the process of seeking the Lord in finding a church. The one I grew up leans very Word of Faith but I was willing to compromise a bit if there was a care or emphasis of the gospel as the foundation, which there consistently hasn't been. I humbly raised it with the leaders but each time the topic was casually dismissed and never actually addressed, like it was being avoided. But I trust that God will direct me. God bless you 🙏🏿
@@shaquillekiragu Thanks for the kind words. I will pray for you to find a good church. I recommend people look for smaller churches with congregations that are highly involved with one another. We are meant to be as one just as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are one (John 17:21-23). Fellowship and true love for one another is the fruit of a good church. Churches devoid of love are devoid of God, for God is love, and the whole law is fulfilled in one word (Galatians 5:14). Peace be with you. 🙏
Hi Suzanna, read 1 Corinthians carefully. Once you get to chapter 5 you will see that Paul instructs the church to handle a certain situation involving sin. Thus church discipline is a responsibility of the leadership to guide (guiding towards Christ and away from sin) and protect (protecting from wolves and false teachers) the members. The heart behind church discipline should always be restorative. It is not a condemning act but a rescuing act ultimately. Jesus mentioned the proper steps in confronting sin with a brother in Matthew 18. Hope this helps!
@@suzannacanna7928 "church discipline" should be clearly based on the teachings of Christ Jesus and God's commandments and also the book of Corinthians gives guidance. However, "church discipline" differ from church to church and sadly you won't know until you have breached one of the rules. This is why it is so important to know the Word of God and have a strong relationship with the Lord. There is a lot of church dogma that people think is actually sound Doctrine.
I need advice. My wife and family and I have been going to a particular church for over 15 years. I know the church is God ordained. The pastor preaches truth. Throughout the years, the church was getting smaller and smaller. For a while now, the leadership and members have been gossiping, lying, criticizing, and assuming excessively. They dont talk to us anymore on purpose. My wife always feels discouraged and alone, knowing they think the worst of her. I go for the word, but should I keep attending to that church? Or should I find a new???
1. PRAY :) 2. a couple of questions: Did you do something that would cause them to react this way ? Like fell into a love affair, beat up someone on church grounds, brought drugs or alcohol to a sermon, spoke bad/complained about your church to others? (if you did: you cant 'judge' them for 'judging' you. it may not be right, however It is human instinct, if not: you must become strong and not take it to the heart. Yes they are our church family but we are all kindergarteners in a playground, we will hurt each other, whether we know it or not. I say, Go church searching... scared? well, What's the worst that can happen? You get shamed for attending a friends church and as a consequence you get ignored and unloved... but that's what's already happening. And you know what, you may visit a church and see how great your home church is you may end up loving your home church more. (which is what happened to me.)
@@arfaelo3674 my wife was wayward for a time and talk and criticism started. Even when she came back to church and attended women's prayer meetings in the mornings, one member actually said, why are you here anyways...
@@johnarevalo3450 For me, this case would have been one to minister to your wife and not to ostracize her.. This is why we have to discern the spirit working behind the scene and not keep attacking the flesh.... I'm sure there had been deeper rooted things going on for your wife.. Remember John 8 what Christ said to the accused woman!. We all have a past and the last thing we ought to do is behave like we are sinless when others are still struggling. I pray all is well with you and your family now and you are in a church that welcomes you all💯💖
Is it okay if your pastor wants to know everything about you, like he wants to know what's in your messages or your love life. And used being matured as an excuse to molester me.
If someone molested you.. Go to the police... That's criminal. Not only should you leave the church, you should criminally report the pastor so that he cannot do this to someone else.
There are a lot of false theologies being taught ... Prosperity Gospel, no cross just feel good , Jesus loves you as you are, no repentance type gospel, Word of Faith movement (declare and decree the Word of God to get what you want)....etc. Need to discern and if necessary leave! 🙏
my pastor last wk said he was CLAIMING isaiah 53:5 for his sick relative who’s now in remission. also said its a sin to not tithe. new pastor. im a bit disappointed and considering leaving
It usually is so crystal clear. But, we as the remnant are a stiff necked people. This youtube was way too wordy. I like Pastor John and there is some value here. My rule of thumb: Liturgical dance - I am out If the pastor takes non prescription drugs -- I am out Submitting to a woman pastor -- I am out Submitting to a gay pastor -- I am out Sermons are pieced together on Saturday night -- I am out No mention of Jesus Christ or the Holy Spirit in sermons -- I am out Veneration of Saints or Mother Mary -- I am out Continued use of the Gnostic Gospels -- I am out Pastor pals around with Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus -- I am out If the Pastor confuses mission trips, sabbaticals with vacation -- I am concerned If Pastor complains about salary or puts his wife on salary -- I am concerned If Pastor complains about the Rectory -- My ears are perked If Pastor drives a Mercedes or wife wears Jimmy Choo Shoes -- I leave my wallet at home If Pastor's wife counsels female church goers but has serious emotional issues -- toss up If the Liturgical music is really bad -- grin and bear it I am in if the Pastor teaches the Word of God expressed in the Holy Bible. Usually, the wife has her head on her shoulders but sometimes she can be the downfall.
Leaving my church was one of the most difficult things I've ever had to do. I'm still hurting about it, but it had to be done.#LordHelpMe😢
I meant to ask you, how long has it been since you left and how are you doing so far?
@@mimiwilliams8918 I left my Church officially on July 14th of this year. I was there almost 2 years. My soul was connected to the church, the people, the different ministries I served on....omg! Don't get me started, I will cry all over again. I miss them so much😢 I'm still in recovery. It hurts to talk about it and to even think about it. I still can't believe I left. But I had to. My time was up there. But I lie to you not, it feels like I lost a loved one. My soul grieves for the people and being in that atmosphere and singing on stage with my choir members. . Lord have mercy I'm still a mess over it. I guess I'm not ready to talk about it just yet. God I miss them. I never wanted to hurt them. Lord Lord Lord. Pray for me. I'm still going thru it.
Myra J
I left church for 5 years. My relationship with God is very good. My relationship with God also improved, because I am free to follow my heart and not have to ask for permission from my leaders. They don’t need to know. Satisfaction!
God still talks to me. I get dreams. I ask God a question and within some time, something will come to me and answer the questions I have. An eureka moment. I get revelation from Scripture, and I can sense God’s Presence and love at home (even stronger than in church).
I still go to church every once in awhile. I just go to a church where God shows me and I sit at the back. No one knows I am there. Sometimes, the preacher is talking about something I needed to hear. I would go to another church next week and it is like a “part 2” of the same sermon.
The tricky part is having the discipline to sit down with your Bible and just feed on the Word. This is not easy initially, if you are the type who finds reading dry. Pray. Lots and lots of prayer. I cannot afford to get into a place of spiritual hunger and dryness.
It is not for everyone. You no longer have the luxury of a preacher to feed you the word every Sunday, so you have to find your own spiritual food. You also don’t have the luxury of a worship band, so you also have to find your own water to drink. It’s laborious. That is the only downside, but in exchange for not having to deal with politics and seeing the ugly stuff, the trade off is REALLY GREAT. It is completely worth it to me. Overall, I am very comfortable with this.
I still have good Christian friends and stay in contact with them.
I’m struggling with this and the church I’ve been in for 20 years. How did you know your time was up there?
Tina Paris how I knew my time was up at that church was God said it to me in my spirit months before it even entered my mind, but I shushed him..smh.. Then, everything began to feel mondane, kinda dry, some of the attitudes changed a little twards the activities of the church and that disturbed me. I started to feel like it's ok if I missed a Sunday whenever and it didn't bother me as much. Things I craved about being there and being apart of became kinda stale and routine, I started just not getting anything out of it. There were more good than not so good Sundays but I knew my time was up. I still miss them and being there and being apart of it all. Now I'm planted and plugged in serving God with my gifts at another Church and I'm happy and looking forward to discovering why he lead me to this place. Hope this helps you.
as a relatively new believer, I left my church during the "quarantine" times in 2020 when the church was only meeting on zoom and a mentor of mine took him and his family to a new church. I was not in a healthy place spiritually and blindly followed him.. It has been nothing but very painful and sorrowful times since. I say this as a warning to anyone listening to this video thinking about leaving your church.. For the love of Jesus, pray, pray and pray some more that your reasons are pure and that the Holy Spirit is leading you to leave, and that it is not for man, or from a place of bitterness or fear/cowardice to face or confront something that is difficult in your church..or things will not go well, you will grieve the Holy Spirit and it will be a very challenging/uphill journey forward
I kept attending the church my late husband preferred which had changed pastors some time after he passed away. One Sunday the new pastor preached a sermon using Tom Hanks movie clips for an hour, pausing them to interject some life lesson. Just one scripture that day and no Biblical message. Only the movie clips. The pastor promised a Summer of Sunday movie sermons. I sat through that message on that morning knowing that I would never return. I heard that after I left they started serving popcorn during the Sunday movie clips services.
What.
I begun to dread going to the place.almost afraid.
That's really sad but I know exactly what you mean😢 I remember feeling anxiety when walking up the street of one before I moved to another larger location... The devil is a liar!
Thanks pastor John. I e got a few friends who have been asking this question and this was a great answer for those trying to navigate this question.
Thank you so much sir John.. I'm really longing to know our LORD JESUS CHRIST more and to effectively use my desire to share the Gospel for others. I'm really sad that there's a church name their denomination "Gospel Church" but the preaching and teaching diminishes the message of the cross. Sometimes, it is far more better to our soul to seek a congregation who also obeying and exercising the same passion of advancing the Gospel. Godbless you Sir John!
This was a good answer, confirmed some things for me. Thank you.
The number 1 reason should be when God tells you too. Often times it's easy to lean on our family and friends to make those decisions for us when we should trust God and ask him first if we need to be in a that church or if he calls us elsewhere.
my last day was when the head of the church i was at starting talking about pride and how pride is a good thing to have
@Pastor Craig that’s why I left and I know
It's as if these "pastors" don't even read the Bible. P
The word pride appears 49 times in the English Bible. Never once is it used in a good sense.
*The fear of the LORD is to hate evil:
pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.*
The word proud appears 59 times. Also, always in a bad sense.
*Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD.*
@@AnHebrewChild that is why I never went back
@@shangrilaladeda Yep... and good on you! You know what the Bible says on it, which is why you left that place.
My comment with specific verses is meant to drive home the point to anyone else who might read
Blessings :]
My position at the moment is like this.......
I feel like i don't see a real future me being part of my church & in turn i don't think my church see's a future in me....
Really struggling here!.
If a church is not consistently preaching and practicing the true gospel of Jesus Christ it may be advisable to leave. If you are not receiving good spiritual food you will feel empty and frustrated. Anyway, be led by the Holy Spirit on such a serious matter. God will not throw you under the bus, He chose you to be in His kingdom.
Hey brother. God bless you for writing this, very well said. God won't throw His children under this bus in such a key area of our spiritual lives as this, nor will He leave us stranded in a place we shouldn't be in 🙌🏿. I can relate to bring frustrated trying to stay in a church you shouldn't be in. God help us all 🙏🏿.
A church I once called home (first church I was a member of and the only one I was a member of growing up & confirmed in) gave me the cold shoulder and I went to another church very late 2021 and now the "new" church I thought of calling home has decided to be more like a concert hall to where it's so unorganized to where they do full songs and the slides only have 1/2 of the song and that itself is pretty bad; requires kids to be in kids ministry and can't be involved during service along with mandatory name tag stickers with a 3 digit code...
I was once LCMS, then the local AG and now I'm back to the Church Search to where I can feel home to where I can agree with the pastor's (or priest's) sermons and viewpoints as there are small liberal/progressive churches that have a conservative congregation...I'm a theologically conservative confessional Christian. Still praying to help me find a new home church.
Hello brother. I pray God answers your prayers in finding a solid and biblical church 🙏🏿. I can relate greatly to your point about growing up in a church then realising it's not solid or biblical and it going sour. Currently seeking a church now. May God help us 🙌🏿
Going to church is very good for a Christian but not at all cost. The wrong church will do you more harm than good. I left the last church I attended at the beginning of this year. It had become evident that it was more toxic than useful for all areas of my life, especially my faith. I don't know any good Godly church in the city I live in so I will be on my own and trust God to show me the way but I won't let any man guilt trip me into becoming the slave of any human institution that instrumentalizes the name of Jesus to do business.
Hello brother Kevin. Thank you for writing this, this is so well said. I'm in a similar situation myself. I pray God answers your prayers and leads you to a sound and biblical church 🙏🏿. God bless you 🙌🏿.
Sometimes leaving is better. If course with God's permission. There was a season in my life years ago when I wrestled leaving where I was going because I was simply restless, and outgrew the ministry. Relationships weren't exciting either because I wanted to be around people who loved Jesus authentically, but felt that where I was that some were there more so for social reasons. Some even tried to shut down conversations I'd have with them about God to talk about more carnal things.
It's true when my pastor at the church I've been attending for years now says that people are at church for different reasons. Put God above everything
At my church the women always gossip among each other, as a 13 yr old girl, there was one time when I was a bit younger when I found they were talking behind my back.
Hello sister. God bless you for being open like this. It's a shame that this was happening in church where believers are supposed to feel safest surrounded by brethren. It's been 2 years, how is it going now?
What if ur a seasoned saint, and u wanna leave to a meatier church.
Great question. I'm considering that myself rn.
Maybe that church needs your seasoning. Just a thought, but let the Holy Spirit and the saints, and the book guide your decision. ✝️❤️
Thank you Pastor.
Thanks for sharing this
Interesting. The True church teaches the Scripture properly. False churches teach false doctrines and misrepresent the ONE TRUE GOD. You don't choose Christ, Christ chooses you.
Let's say I have been having dreams of the church rejecting me, and it's been a while since I have had these dreams. I happen to know someone experiencing not-so-good dreams about the church as well. Is that enough to leave the church?
Great teaching
Thank you for the loving Doctrinally based answer!
If the Holy Spirit leaves, then you know its time to leave
This response isn't exhaustive enough! I wish Pastor John you can write a book on this.
I am seeing red flags in my church I was going through a difficult season of homelessness and not one pastor or staff member supported me even when I cried out and ask . I feel ostracised and not appreciate. Yesterday a pastor revelled when another staff member got made redundant and one of the apps groups they send messages in Spanish when the majority of people can't speak Spanish. Should I leave? And can I get some support
The church I'm in now is an 8 out of 10 on the charismatic scale. Their 'statement' of beliefs simply says- to be a replica of the Acts church and to rely solely on the Spirit for all things. That being said, the tongues are roaring, people are being 'slain' in the spirit, the teachings are at best wonky. At times I'm reminded of the so called Toronto blessing. Not that wacko, but close. Problem is my son (16) is in the worship band (loves it) and my wife is OK with the church. I go to be with my family. It is very difficult now to find a church that teaches scripturally, teaches clearly, as Paul said, preaches Christ crucified. I simply want to be fed and watered. For years now I've found the church is sliding off a cliff. What to do, what to do? Any ideas?
Hey brother, it's encouraging to know someone else is going through a similar situation. In all honesty I don't know how you could go about this. I'm a relatively young believer, 20 years old, and I'm currently looking at how I should go about leaving the unhealthy church I grew up in (I got saved outside of it). I pray God guides us 🙌🏿🙏🏿.
@@shaquillekiraguamen, brothers
Thanks 🙏
Our church didn’t outright teach cessationism… for 2 years. now leaders are teaching cessationism. My family and I are continuationists. I see this as an essential doctrine. I don’t want my children influenced by a doctrine that I adamantly oppose, and furthermore, cessationism is both spiritually AND physically dangerous. If a person goes to an elder for prayer for healing (James)- spiritually or physically - if the elder is a cessationist: HOW IS IT NOT A DOUBLE MINDED PRAYER? There is explicit doubt.
When your supervisor who malign you starts stalking you and ends up at your church with her narcissistic tendencies
God is taking good care of me, in spite of everything. And honestly, I don't think I could deal with another woman at my age. I'm actually helping wife #2 get settled with living in L.A. she finished her MBA, got her CPA, and now working from home for an Indian casino, making 6 figures. She came from a village in Romania so she's struggling having money.
I'm looking for a christian spouse. But I have to leave because the church lacks of available singles... It hurts so much but it seems there is no other choice..
Hello brother/sister. God bless you for being open like this. It's been 9 months, how is it going now?
@@shaquillekiragu i moved to another church 5 month ago.. still single.. still in agony. There are a lot of groups but in our group there are no girls close to my age. I have to wait another few months until the group changes. Agony 24/7, that's my life right now
@@user-nsj5csgwk I'll pray for you brother. Do you mind elaborating on what you mean by agony and in what way? From what I understand, I also can resonate with the desire for a spouse. Wait on the Lord and take note and constantly remind yourself of His promises to His children. All things work for our good 💪🏿. God is sovereign and has a purpose in everything we go through. Trust in Him and feed your faith. I hope he answers your prayers soon. Sometimes we should see things spiritually more than we do naturally. God bless you 🙌🏿.
Can you explain the part about “ your usefulness there doesn’t outweigh the pitfalls”? So, if I’m really useful at a bad church, I should stay?
Hey from my understanding, he means that the pitfall weighs more which means to leave even if you are useful (serving) there.
@@isarownie6073 Amen 🙌🏿
You wouldn't even get to this inquiry if you are at a bad church. If it's a bad church per the guidelines outlined at the beginning, you leave. Only if it's not so clear do you get into the inquiry of what your mature brothers/sister say and your usefulness weighed against the pitfalls.
What if one of the pastors got a divorce? Should we leave?
Do you think God wants me to start teaching at a different church? My church I haven’t been able to teach Sunday school since March. I was asking God what should I do and I went to a funeral viewing at my friends church and the first thing she said was that they would give me a class teaching kids. Does that mean God wants me to come there
Hello sister. Good question, it could be God has opened a door for you in that new church, but I wouldn't leave based on that alone. Pray and seek the Lord on this. It's been 2 years, how did it go in the end? God bless 🙌🏿
What if your church is preaching the same thing over and over again? I've been attending this church for 1 year and 5 months already and what they are always preaching about is the end time? The end of the world, how the world is going to end. I have a zeal for getting to know God and I feel like my knowledge of God is not growing.
that is not funny, i hope u are already around better people
I know this is late but I recommend reading Hebrews 6 on more knowledge on this topic. A church shouldn’t grow stagnant and they should grow to understanding. Hope this helps 🙏
I recently left my church. It was extremely hard, and I'm still suffering over it.
I had been away from church for a long time and I thought I had found a good biblically sound and loving church. Then about 6 months in they started pushing membership. I learned that even though I thought I was a faithful member, I was not actually one. To become one, I had to interview and apply like a job. This implied that I could be rejected. It started raising red flags. When I started rejecting becoming a member, instead to just decide to attend as a non-member my eyes started to be opened. When I'd hear elders state that their responsibility was to the members (which I previously considered myself) the context took a new meaning. I started feeling like an outsider.
But I persisted. Love is about giving, not receiving, and it mattered more to me that my brothers and sisters received love from me than I love from them. Until one day in philosophical discussion about free will vs destiny an elder interrupted to tell us that God has already predetermined who will be saved and who will go to hell and we have no part in the matter. We cannot come to salvation unless he predetermined we could; that salvation was only for a limited few arbitrarily chosen. My jaw dropped. I had never heard anything so horrific at church (or elsewhere) in all my life.
Everyone is entitled to their beliefs, so I persisted. But I was noticing more and more members pulling away from me. I started making the connections of Calvinism which I dived into the teachings of (normally I avoid denominational things because I think they are divisive and unbiblical). I wanted to really understand this theology. The more I looked into it, the more horrified I became.
A few months later, I met with my pastor and asked him if John 3:16 tells us that God loves all men and that He died to provide salvation to any who would believe in Him and have faith. He told me no. That "God so loved the world" meant that he loved all the nations, but not everyone in those nations. That "whosoever shall believeth in Him" was referring only to the Elect that God allows to believe.
I had read out church's very lengthy statement of faith and agreed to all of it. I had heard my very gifted pastor give nothing but powerful, biblically sound sermons for 8 months. I asked why our supposedly Baptist (historically an enemy of Calvinism) church did not include the Calvinist pillars in it's statement and also why was Calvinism no where to be found on information about the church. He said it was; it's called "Doctrines of Faith." And sure enough, our statement said the church believed in doctrines of faith; the new code words for Calvinism that they know, but the unwary Christian may not. Deceptive to say the least.
I wrestled with continuing because after all, 99.9% of what was taught I agreed with, and none of us are perfect. But ultimately after much prayer and deliberation, I could not be in good faith and submit myself to heretical false teachings. I became a pariah virtually overnight. The love the church professed to have is for themselves. Just like any cult, if you leave, they care not for you.
Wolves in sheep's clothing look just like sheep. This is why it's so hard for us to notice them. We Christians want to believe others who say they follow Christ too. But know them by their fruits. Anyone who believes God does not love everyone cannot themselves love everyone (lest they be more benevolent than their own god). There are certainly good, God fearing Calvinists out there, but that does not make the false doctrine that's snared them less evil.
If your church tells you that God doesn't love everyone, or doesn't desire everyone to be saved, or didn't send Christ to be the propitiation for the sins of all, run. Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. John Calvin himself justified killing Christians, which makes sense if you think God predetermined them to be damned to hell.
Hello brother. Thank you for willing to be open and writing this. I pray God answers your prayers and leads you to a sound and biblical church 🙏🏿. God bless you 🙌🏿.
@@shaquillekiraguThank you, brother. I have since found a new church that teaches truth and love.
God is love.
Therefore love is the answer.
For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
- Galatians 5:14
May God bless the rest of your days.
@@EricLucero Praise God 🙌🏿. Thank you brother, may God bless you and the brethren at your new church. I'm still in the process of seeking the Lord in finding a church. The one I grew up leans very Word of Faith but I was willing to compromise a bit if there was a care or emphasis of the gospel as the foundation, which there consistently hasn't been. I humbly raised it with the leaders but each time the topic was casually dismissed and never actually addressed, like it was being avoided. But I trust that God will direct me. God bless you 🙏🏿
@@shaquillekiragu Thanks for the kind words. I will pray for you to find a good church. I recommend people look for smaller churches with congregations that are highly involved with one another. We are meant to be as one just as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are one (John 17:21-23). Fellowship and true love for one another is the fruit of a good church. Churches devoid of love are devoid of God, for God is love, and the whole law is fulfilled in one word (Galatians 5:14). Peace be with you. 🙏
@@EricLucero This is encouraging, thank you Ash. I will definitely take this on board in my search. God bless you 🙏🏿
What, exactly, is "church discipline"?
I'll ask again because I don't understand this term, "church discipline". WHAT IS IT?
@@suzannacanna7928 please take A LOOK A THESE th-cam.com/video/cDSYtXs-sJQ/w-d-xo.html
God bless you.
Hi Suzanna, read 1 Corinthians carefully. Once you get to chapter 5 you will see that Paul instructs the church to handle a certain situation involving sin. Thus church discipline is a responsibility of the leadership to guide (guiding towards Christ and away from sin) and protect (protecting from wolves and false teachers) the members. The heart behind church discipline should always be restorative. It is not a condemning act but a rescuing act ultimately. Jesus mentioned the proper steps in confronting sin with a brother in Matthew 18. Hope this helps!
For another scripture talking about church discipline, Matthew 18:15-17 is relevant.
@@suzannacanna7928 "church discipline" should be clearly based on the teachings of Christ Jesus and God's commandments and also the book of Corinthians gives guidance. However, "church discipline" differ from church to church and sadly you won't know until you have breached one of the rules. This is why it is so important to know the Word of God and have a strong relationship with the Lord. There is a lot of church dogma that people think is actually sound Doctrine.
If your pastor or elder behaves in a sexually inappropriate way towards you or someone else - it's time to go.
Some letters were circulating letters
Pastor John who? There are a lot of Pastors with the first name John.
John Piper
Pastor John Piper
I need advice. My wife and family and I have been going to a particular church for over 15 years. I know the church is God ordained. The pastor preaches truth. Throughout the years, the church was getting smaller and smaller. For a while now, the leadership and members have been gossiping, lying, criticizing, and assuming excessively. They dont talk to us anymore on purpose. My wife always feels discouraged and alone, knowing they think the worst of her. I go for the word, but should I keep attending to that church? Or should I find a new???
@Fenando Orozco wow. Thanks man. 1st ministry is my home, that's so true. God bless u and for being receptive to the Spirit to help me
That's a sign that there's a better place for you and your family
1. PRAY :)
2. a couple of questions: Did you do something that would cause them to react this way ? Like fell into a love affair, beat up someone on church grounds, brought drugs or alcohol to a sermon, spoke bad/complained about your church to others? (if you did: you cant 'judge' them for 'judging' you. it may not be right, however It is human instinct, if not: you must become strong and not take it to the heart. Yes they are our church family but we are all kindergarteners in a playground, we will hurt each other, whether we know it or not. I say, Go church searching... scared? well, What's the worst that can happen? You get shamed for attending a friends church and as a consequence you get ignored and unloved... but that's what's already happening. And you know what, you may visit a church and see how great your home church is you may end up loving your home church more. (which is what happened to me.)
@@arfaelo3674 my wife was wayward for a time and talk and criticism started. Even when she came back to church and attended women's prayer meetings in the mornings, one member actually said, why are you here anyways...
@@johnarevalo3450 For me, this case would have been one to minister to your wife and not to ostracize her.. This is why we have to discern the spirit working behind the scene and not keep attacking the flesh.... I'm sure there had been deeper rooted things going on for your wife.. Remember John 8 what Christ said to the accused woman!. We all have a past and the last thing we ought to do is behave like we are sinless when others are still struggling. I pray all is well with you and your family now and you are in a church that welcomes you all💯💖
Is it okay if your pastor wants to know everything about you, like he wants to know what's in your messages or your love life. And used being matured as an excuse to molester me.
No. Leave, immediately. I’m so sorry this has happened to you
@@laneymerideth4548 thank you for the advice. We're finding a new church....
If someone molested you.. Go to the police... That's criminal. Not only should you leave the church, you should criminally report the pastor so that he cannot do this to someone else.
There are a lot of false theologies being taught ... Prosperity Gospel, no cross just feel good , Jesus loves you as you are, no repentance type gospel, Word of Faith movement (declare and decree the Word of God to get what you want)....etc. Need to discern and if necessary leave! 🙏
my pastor last wk said he was CLAIMING isaiah 53:5 for his sick relative who’s now in remission. also said its a sin to not tithe. new pastor. im a bit disappointed and considering leaving
@@ivanabear8824 RUN ! 😨
@@TrustInJesusChrist-John3.16TYSM for your advice and prompt reply!!
@@ivanabear8824 No worries. 😃👍
@@ivanabear8824 You are welcome 😊
I leave my church when I need to go toilet.
Haha, made me laugh. God bless you.
LMAOOOOO
It usually is so crystal clear. But, we as the remnant are a stiff necked people. This youtube was way too wordy. I like Pastor John and there is some value here. My rule of thumb:
Liturgical dance - I am out
If the pastor takes non prescription drugs -- I am out
Submitting to a woman pastor -- I am out
Submitting to a gay pastor -- I am out
Sermons are pieced together on Saturday night -- I am out
No mention of Jesus Christ or the Holy Spirit in sermons -- I am out
Veneration of Saints or Mother Mary -- I am out
Continued use of the Gnostic Gospels -- I am out
Pastor pals around with Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus -- I am out
If the Pastor confuses mission trips, sabbaticals with vacation -- I am concerned
If Pastor complains about salary or puts his wife on salary -- I am concerned
If Pastor complains about the Rectory -- My ears are perked
If Pastor drives a Mercedes or wife wears Jimmy Choo Shoes -- I leave my wallet at home
If Pastor's wife counsels female church goers but has serious emotional issues -- toss up
If the Liturgical music is really bad -- grin and bear it
I am in if the Pastor teaches the Word of God expressed in the Holy Bible. Usually, the wife has her head on her shoulders but sometimes she can be the downfall.
Is it okay to leave a church over dumb blonde jokes being told from the pulpit?
Cult members
I left the Calvinist church I was in. .. .because they were Calvinists.
You want a cookie?
@@alexandra-q7u1mif u give a mouse a cookie
You should leave if they are calvinist