ViaCrucis
Confessional Lutheran
- Oct 2, 2011
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I am a new believer. A few weeks ago, I searched for "new Christian class" in my area and found one that was starting the next day. So far, so good. I went and I loved it. I had been dealing with OCD and the sermon was on anxiety and how to find peace in God (I know it wasn't written for me, but it was such a perfect message to hear that day). Later I went to speak to the pastor to find out more about the church, the denomination, their theological stance, etc. It's a nondenominational church, not necessarily Reform or Arminian ("we don't take from any one tradition"). He also described it as an "and" church-I'm not entirely sure what that means.
I've been attending for three weeks. I want to become a member but I have some concerns. First, there is a woman pastor on staff. She doesn't preach but she does hold the title pastor. I know Christians have differing opinions on women in leadership and that is okay. I'm just not sure how I feel about it. Second, they offer both infant baptisms and infant dedications, depending on parental preference. I am apolitical on infant baptism, but for some reason it makes me feel like they are indecisive or maybe just worried about pleasing everyone. Third, in my class yesterday for new Christians we were talking about how we find time to be alone with God and what that looks like. People were saying things like: I make a cup of tea and find a quiet spot, etc. Then a man said he prefers to light a joint before reading the bible. There was silence; I don't think anyone knew what to say. I actually don't think smoking pot is a sin any more than drinking alcohol is (it's legal in my state), but, to me, it's analogous to saying I like to crack open a six-pack during devotions.
So, I'm not sure what to do. I do love this church. And I spoke with a friend who is ordained who pointed out that no church is perfect, which is certainly true. Any thoughts?
It's a little weird I guess to say that someone smokes a joint before reading Scripture--but, as far as alcohol is concerned. It hasn't exactly been rare--historically--for Christians to have a beer or glass of wine while reading Scripture. I suspect the oddness this has to us is a result of cultural teetotalism.
J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis often met together at The Eagle and Child pub where they would discuss literature, theology, etc. It was this friendship between the two men that led Lewis, an atheist, to eventually become a Christian (Tolkien being a devout Catholic).
Now, I don't have a problem with pot, it's legal where I am as well. But I don't think intoxication is exactly the best thing to do if one is going to engage in Scripture study. I'd rather a clear mind.
-CryptoLutheran
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