am i an unbeliever?

[bobhow1037]

while attending a Reformed Church in West Sacramento, i was stunned to find out that i would not be able to partake in Communion. Why? Because i could not quote the 5 points of Calvin. i am a Christian, i believe that Jesus is the only begotten, i confess Him as my Lord and Savior, and i attempt to live up to the responsibility that comes with the title of Christian. i was curious about the reformed faith before this day, the history, longevity etc..but after this situation i have had no desire to pursue an understanding of what it means to be a Calvinist. i understand that there are some extremely liberal people who embrace things that are reprehensible in Gods eyes, and thus we need to be carefull who are allowed to partake in the Sacraments. But for those who are fundamentally sound, as i consider my self to be, not being able to partake in the Holy Sacraments with whom i believed to be my fellow Brothers.... and on a different/same note if were able to cite (profess) the 5 points, this would not necessarily mean that i actually believed them....which leads me to think that partaking or not partaking should be a personal choice, i know the condition of my Heart.

insight please,

B Howard

 

[Beoga]

But for those who are fundamentally sound, as i consider my self to be...

I am sorry that you came away with such a negative experience. I would hope you would understand that what the Elders of the Church are attempting to do is guard the Lord's Table. At the Presbyterian Church I attend, if one is not a member in good standing with a Church, then you are not to take the Eucharist (unless you talk with an Elder). Again this is meant to guard the Lord's Table, and I would also argue that it protects those who would otherwise eat unworthily and thus bring condemnation on themselves. You may believe that you are a fundamentally sound believer, but if this is your first time visit, how are the Elders supposed to know about you? How long of a conversation that did you have with an Elder? When you were asked to recite the 5 points during the actual Communion time? If so, that would make a lot more sense. Again, I am sorry for your negative experience, and I am sure it was not the intention of the church. I would encourage you to go back again and talk with the Elders, get to know them and allow them to get to know you.