Concerns about church

ViaCrucis

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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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yeshuaslavejeff

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You are right when you say I "have no way of knowing which belief system among the different denominations is correct." But I don't know if that's going to change-theologians with actual degrees can't agree on which belief system is right; how am I ever going to figure that out?
How does a sheep follow ?
 
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eleos1954

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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?

Everyone needs to study Gods Word for themselves regardless where any teachings may come from. Study and compare His teachings and determine from them to help discern what is being taught. Always ask the Holy Spirit to lead you to truth through scripture.

People are in different "places" in their walk with the Lord ... and the Lord works in their hearts. What one may perceive as not being seen as a sin today .... may be revealed to them later (by the Lord - conviction of the Holy Spirit) that yes ... this is a sin. The Lord works on His time table in each person not ours.

Attending bible study in any church is important ... that is where one will really learn what doctrine(s) are being put forth. An hour, once a week is not enough.

You may or may not find teachings that are in conflict with His word ... He will lead you to either continue in a church or not .... give it some time and study on your own.

We do learn ... baptism is to be from a known choice ... individual decision to follow Christ.

I do not believe there is anything wrong with baptizing/dedicating babies per se ... but also believe the child later in life when they have a understanding and learn from the word of God will be led to be baptized according to how Jesus and the apostles taught His Word. Not much mentioned about baptizing babies ... basically one verse that some people infer from in that regard.

May the Lord lead you through the study of His Word. Amen.
 
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Albion

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I do not believe there is anything wrong with baptizing/dedicating babies per se ... but also believe the child later in life when they have a understanding and learn from the word of God will be led to be baptized according to how Jesus and the apostles taught His Word.
A "dedication" ceremony is not baptism. And there is nothing in scripture about a "dedication" ceremony for newborns. So we need to keep those two separated.

But that aside, every church that baptizes young children ALSO believes that the person must commit to the Lord at some later time in life. Some Christians speak of a conversion experience when they address the matter.

Not much mentioned about baptizing babies ... basically one verse that some people infer from in that regard.
It's not just one mention, and there are NO verses which impose an age requirement upon candidates for baptism. That should be more important in deciding the issue.
 
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yeshuaslavejeff

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And there is nothing in scripture about a "dedication" ceremony for newborns. So we need to keep those two separated.
Yes. I think Jesus was 'consecrated' the 8th day when He was circumcised , as this was required in TORAH for the Jews/ Israelites/ Ekklesia (gentiles who joined).
It's not just one mention, and there are NO verses which impose an age requirement upon candidates for baptism. That should be more important in deciding the issue.
Apparently this was perfectly understood in the first century, and then for a while, until it wasn't and got changed. ('changing the days and the TORAH')
 
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Albion

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Yes. I think Jesus was 'consecrated' the 8th day when He was circumcised , as this was required in TORAH for the Jews/ Israelites/ Ekklesia (gentiles who joined).
That was a circumcision, not really like the "dedication" of babies that someone dreamed up in recent times as a substitute for baptism.
.
 
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Swan7

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First and foremost, welcome to the family of Christ!

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.

Even God has used women for some leadership roles like Deborah in the Old Testament and there seems to be some high positions that women in the New Testament held in Paul's day. But read God's Word and get to know who He is first. Ask Him these questions you have since He is the best One to answer.

The church I went to in Canada has a woman who holds the title Pastor as well, and she rarely does sermons - but when she does they are powerful. God can and will use anyone to get His message out. I can tell you for certainty that there are differing opinions on this, but this is why I stress to you to ask God yourself and not rely on people's or your own understanding.

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.

That's fine. It's a baby dedication, like giving God your child, which you will see in the Old Testament: 1 Samuel 1.

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?

I don't know if this man was joking or not, regardless would be a bad joke - and I don't know where his heart is. However, there should have been someone who knows God enough to point him in the right direction instead of being silent - which is not love at all. This man could very well be heading the wrong way, and he just needs help. For all I know he could be a new Christian too. :yellowheart:

Please read Romans 14 & 15 about this very thing.
 
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yeshuaslavejeff

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And I spoke with a friend who is ordained who pointed out that no church is perfect, which is certainly true. Any thoughts?
hahaha, just noticed while checking the op again. "which is certainly true"...
Keep seeking - the truth - God's Promise is that everyone/ anyone who seeks the truth (daily), and keeps on (continually) seeking the truth (and of course His Kingdom),
WILL FIND IT,
including
Jesus command to the permanent disciples: "you must be perfect" (NOT English definition of perfect).
So , by God's definition, by God's Word, you /we/ NOT ONLY may be 'perfect'(AS HE SAYS), but are meant to be, we are supposed to be 'perfect' (as He Says).
And, by seeking, asking and knocking, constantly 'bugging' God for His Wisdom,
we find out. God Willing. (HE Certainly IS WILLING!) :)
 
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eleos1954

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A "dedication" ceremony is not baptism. And there is nothing in scripture about a "dedication" ceremony for newborns. So we need to keep those two separated.

But that aside, every church that baptizes young children ALSO believes that the person must commit to the Lord at some later time in life. Some Christians speak of a conversion experience when they address the matter.

It's not just one mention, and there are NO verses which impose an age requirement upon candidates for baptism. That should be more important in deciding the issue.

See nothing wrong with asking children to be blessed by the Lord ... whether through a church ceremony and/or by the parents themselves.

As stated ... baptism is an individual choice when one has received the Lord and commits their life to following Him and are publicly affirming that commitment ... and when that happens (at what age) varies.

Jesus Blesses the Children
(Mark 10:13-16; Luke 18:15-17)

13Then the little children were brought to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them and pray for them. And the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 15And after He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there.

The Bible does not teach infant baptism. It's not a "age thing" per se ... it is a understanding of what it means ... faith in Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour (Mark 16:16; Romans 10:13, 14; Acts 8:12, 36-37; 18:8); thorough instruction in the truth (Matthew 28:19, 20; Acts 8:35); repentance (Acts 2:38); conversion—a good conscience toward God (1 Peter 3:21).

At what "age" a person receives this understanding varies.
 
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yeshuaslavejeff

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See nothing wrong with asking children to be blessed by the Lord ... whether through a church ceremony and/or by the parents themselves.
There is nothing wrong. That's correct. But the issue isn't whether or not a dedication ceremony is harmful, sinful, or anything like that. And I don't recall anyone here posting such a comment.

As stated ... baptism is an individual choice when one has received the Lord and commits their life to following Him and are publicly affirming that commitment ... and when that happens (at what age) varies.
That has been posted, but it's an unorthodox, unscriptural POV, that's all.
 
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Dorothy Mae

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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 hard to say without knowing what other options you have in your area. The joint guy is practicing what the Bible calls “pharmacia” and it’s associated with witchcraft. There’s a lot of difference between weed and alcohol. Drugs are not food.

On the whole, if you’ve found good friends and fellowship I’d keep going but realize you’ll have to go elsewhere to learn and grow in your faith. There are good teachers on line. Read the actual passages they preach on like the Bereans who studied the scriptures themselves to see if things they were taught were true. If the church doesn’t know that the pot smoker will definitely NOT hear from God as he’s opening up his spirit to the occult, they probably don’t know much. But if there’s love and fellowship, that is already offering you something valuable.
 
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rturner76

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A faithful church will preach against sin (edit: and not tolerate it in its members nor tolerate its promotion at its meetings) and smoking marijuana is a sin, since it is a sin to not be sober even if it's legal in your state. It sure sounds from what you've said that the church is doubleminded; trying to sound like it takes biblical truth and holiness seriously while also not really stepping on anyone's toes for the sake of upholding Bible truth. I would take your concerns to the lead Pastor and if he tries to justify things like the woman pastor, the joint smoker, and/or infant baptism I'd get out of there. These are not things which are hard to understand nor to stand against compared to many other issues. If the church can't be faithful to Scripture on things like this, then what can they really be faithful over??? Better to get out of there and continue your search while holding onto the things you heard there which were true and edifying. Maybe the Pastor will tell you that you are right, we shouldn't allow these things, we need to change, and I am working on the best solution on how to go about this. If that's the case, be patient and give him some time.
Why would it be wise to leave a church that is speaking to you? Yes, no church should not condone sin, that doesn't mean the church should go around condemning sinners. The church is to accept sinners, wherever they are on their walk and show them the light of Christ in your own walk.

Your OPINION about cannabis is totally personal opinion, not fact. How can you condemn someone for smoking a joint (especially when it has been found to be medicinal and is prescribed by doctors everywhere)? Oxycontin gets people way higher and it leads many to heroin and overdose. That is acceptable? Drinking a bottle of wine with dinner is acceptable when everybody knows you can't drink a bottle of wine and remain stone-cold sober?

People like to feel high and mighty and sinless bur what about pride, gluttony, and sloth etc? Infant baptism and female Pastor's are debatable issues. Over a billion people believe in infant baptism. They have no reason to believe that? There are millions under female Pastors. Are you saying what they say and do for their churches are all invalid in God's eyes?

I would beware of condemning anyone or any church until you personally witness pure evil. Reject the sin not the sinner. Who needs church more than a sinner? All that high and mighty thinking one denomination or one person has all the answers is arrogant like the Pharisees tried to be with Christ.
 
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rturner76

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It’s hard to say without knowing what other options you have in your area. The joint guy is practicing what the Bible calls “pharmacia” and it’s associated with witchcraft. There’s a lot of difference between weed and alcohol. Drugs are not food.

On the whole, if you’ve found good friends and fellowship I’d keep going but realize you’ll have to go elsewhere to learn and grow in your faith. There are good teachers on line. Read the actual passages they preach on like the Bereans who studied the scriptures themselves to see if things they were taught were true. If the church doesn’t know that the pot smoker will definitely NOT hear from God as he’s opening up his spirit to the occult, they probably don’t know much. But if there’s love and fellowship, that is already offering you something valuable.
So I expect this means we should reject penicillin, Nyquil, vaccinations, and chemotherapy? All Pharmacia and I didn't know Everclear was food, it seems pretty toxic to me. Alcohol would never produce anything like the shakes, Delerium Tremens, or cirrhosis of the liver, pancreatitis, domestic violence or drunk driving casualties because it's just-food. Cannabis has NEVER caused an overdose, unlike alcohol poisoning. Cannabis has no impact on domestic violence statistics where alcohol is a factor in most cases of domestic violence. Nobody has passed out or blacked out on cannabis, have they with alcohol? Cannabis tinctures cure epileptic seizures where alcohol withdraw causes seizures.

Which one is the real intoxicant?
 
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rturner76

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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?
Welcome to Christ's kingdom. Don't get caught up in this or that issue that has no real relevance on how you live your life. If you honestly repent of your sins and be obedient to the best of your ability, you can go to any mainstream church you choose and be a part of their program. If what this church says resonates with you and it feels right, don't overthink it and just start going to church. You will know what sits right with you and what doesn't. We could take you in a thousand different directions debating this or that theological stance. The main thing is join the flock and start to study everything you can get your hands on to learn both sides of the theological argument you are considering. God gave you a mind to discern the truth. Have faith in his guidance.

Remember WWJD What Would Jesus Do? You get a ton of answers with that in mind.
 
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Yes, we had a discussion before about being nonjudgmental (yikes, I just realized I was actually being judgmental) and what's said in the room stays in the room, etc. I certainly don't want anyone to feel like an outcast or unwelcome. I'm still trying to figure things out-like is pot even a sin? I feel it might be a grey area but I'm new to all this, so I certainly am open to the possibility that I'm wrong. LSD and mescaline were also mentioned by the person as ways he "gets close to God."

Its okay (about the judgmental part). We don't get everything right straight away. We make mistakes in life and that's how we learn. Only God is perfect. Just repent when you know you have sinned. Yes, doing drugs is a sin. I think the pastor should lovingly advice him against it in private. Maybe you all should gather together and pray for his deliverance from all such addictions. Pray for him to be set free from it. If you feel comfortable and at home in this church, if you feel peace and happiness in this church then keep attending. You might not feel the same in other churches.
 
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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?

Reminds me of this clip from the Christian movie called "Time Changer."

Video Description:

The video shows a scene of a man promoting worldly entertainment as a selling point for their church to potential new members in their own home, and another man who is a Christian outside of his own time is in shock as to what is going on. He is even more disturbed by what is being watched on TV, as well.

Side Note:

You will find that many in Christendom really do not care if folks infant baptize, have women pastors, and or smoke weed or pot, etc (even if it may be a sin). Why? Because they all think you can sin and still be saved on some level. They think they can turn God's grace into a license for immorality (Jude 1:4). They think it is no big deal in regards to their standing with the Lord. But Jesus and His followers warned against how sin can destroy our souls in many places (See Matthew 5:28-30, Matthew 6:15, Matthew 12:37, Matthew 25:31-46, Luke 9:62, 1 John 3:15, Galatians 5:19-21, Revelation 21:8, etc.).

Jesus told those believers who thought they did good works in His name to depart from Him because they also worked iniquity or lawlessness (i.e. sin) (See: Matthew 7:23). The Lord did not know them because they did not keep His commandments (See: 1 John 2:3-4).
 
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398456.jpg

You can rent it at Amazon Prime Video:
Amazon.com: Watch Time Changer | Prime Video

You can check out my other top recommended Christian films here (if you or anyone else is interested):

What Christian Movies Do You Find To Be The Most Rewatchable?
 
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Yes, we had a discussion before about being nonjudgmental (yikes, I just realized I was actually being judgmental) and what's said in the room stays in the room, etc. I certainly don't want anyone to feel like an outcast or unwelcome. I'm still trying to figure things out-like is pot even a sin? I feel it might be a grey area but I'm new to all this, so I certainly am open to the possibility that I'm wrong. LSD and mescaline were also mentioned by the person as ways he "gets close to God."
There aren't any gray areas when it comes to sin. Lol But I know what you meant. And I don't think smoking pot is a sin,however smoking it or taking other drugs to get closer to God may very well be a sin. At the very least it is listening to utter deception. You can't trust the truth or reality of what is seen or thought when on drugs.I remember from when I used to do them back a hundred years ago. OK,only in the 60's and 70's. But this person in the class was probably young or at least a new Christian and the timing of our growth is in God's hands and we are not to judge. Maybe living council privately by an elder would be good.
And though pot or other drugs may not be a sin, the users nevertheless WILL bear the consequences. Recreational drug use is not compatible with wisdom.
 
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Dorothy Mae

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So I expect this means we should reject penicillin, Nyquil, vaccinations, and chemotherapy?
No one takes those to get a buzz.
All Pharmacia and I didn't know Everclear was food, it seems pretty toxic to me. Alcohol would never produce anything like the shakes, Delerium Tremens, or cirrhosis of the liver, pancreatitis, domestic violence or drunk driving casualties because it's just-food.
Drunkness is a sin.
Cannabis has NEVER caused an overdose, unlike alcohol poisoning. Cannabis has no impact on domestic violence statistics where alcohol is a factor in most cases of domestic violence.
You obviously don’t know much about cannabis.
Nobody has passed out or blacked out on cannabis, have they with alcohol?
Drunkness is a sin.
Cannabis tinctures cure epileptic seizures where alcohol withdraw causes seizures.

Which one is the real intoxicant?
Guess you like weed. Touched a nerve.
 
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