Why are we so messed up?

[fleethefire]

Until recently, I have belonged to denominational churches. I have held to their doctrines, without always weighing them against God's word. Over the course of the past two years I have begun questioning why I believed what I believed. This was never about Christ, or grace, or the fundamentals.

It was however, about healing, and baptism. I wanted to know why the church did not have power any more. I wanted more. Church had to stop simply being a Sunday only event.

In seeking my wife and I found a great non denominational church. I was so happy to find other believers who held to what God was showing me.

How did the "church" get so messed up in the first place? How much harm are we doing because we can't all stand in agreement with one another? When I was in a denominational church I looked down on non denoms. I just didn't understand. I am so relieved that God didn't let me sit idle. I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit stirring a hunger inside of me.

It was difficult to confront my beliefs and be honest about them. It took quite a long time to trade doctrine for God's word. It is hard to undo over 20 years of doctrine.

I want to take the church out of church. Can't we realize whose church this is? Jesus said He would build His church. It is not our church.

I can't help but want to show them the truth. Is my time better spent trying to reach non believers, or trying to help those who aren't walking in the truth?

Aren't both groups equally important to God? I want everyone to hear the good news.

 

[eyzonthepriz]

How did the "church" get so messed up in the first place?

Thats a good question and to be frank I'm all over the place on the answer. On one hand I figure its the way God intended it to be and he isn't worried if everybody gets it or not. He did say "Study to show thyself approved..." and he did use parables to sheild truths from the people. Luke 8:10 "And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand." He also said that "Many would come to me on that day saying Lord!, Lord!....And he'd reply depart from me...I never knew you". And if you study the bible for some time it does appear to be a jigsaw puzzle. This is interesting considering the topic here, http://www.letgodbetrue.com/sermons/pdf/is-god-the-author-of-confusion.pdf
On the other hand there are doctrines of devils, disagreements over the use language interpertation such as hyperboly, just plain pride and the love of religious traditons. There is the Christian maturity factor to consider as well. Some are still on milk and cant handle a steak. Ya know, after re- reading the pdf (its been a few years since I've read it) I'd have to say he nailed the answer to the question.