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Ask The Pastor
October 23, 2001
Dear Friend,
Thanks for writing. Perhaps I can help.
> I am a member of the UPCI with a wife, 2 kids a
mother and a number of
> in laws in the same assembly. I have felt for years that something was
> not right about the UPCI. At first it was just a sense of inconsistency
> with the true nature of Christianity.
What you are sensing is of the Holy Spirit. Many folk simply put
the 'sensing something is wrong' to the side. I remember going
through the exact thing when I was a young minister. At the time
I did not identify it with UPC doctrine. Over time I came to
realize that false doctrine is like a net that keeps tightening its
hold.
> My question is this: if they are a false church,
and are leading us
> astray, how do I break free?
[Name withheld], the primary holding power of the UPC has been
ignorance. The good news is that people today have access to
information that was not readily available in years gone by. Folk
are beginning to study more, and to think more for themselves.
Because of this the UPC is finding itself in an odd situation.
Their doctrines cannot stand close scrutiny. So they are and
have been losing a lot of folk, including a great many ministers.
(I was a pastor and an evangelist with them.)
As for how to break free, simply keep in mind what the Lord
said; "If you continue in My Word, then you are truly disciples of
Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you
free." (John 8:31,32)
> How do I explain anything to people who I know
from trying will not be
> reasoned with, that I want nothing to do with this organization that has
> IMHO raped the souls of many of my friends and loved ones, not to
> mention countless others?
There isn't a single game plan. No one situation will be exactly
the same. Can you share a little more about where you are?
Going on an assumption, I recommend that you start with your
own family (wife). Begin with discussions. Are you and her in
agreement at this point? It is important to be of one mind. If you
aren't there, I can share some things that will help.
The most important thing is to let the Holy Spirit guide you in
this process. The Lord has a way of bringing things together so
that you can take the necessary steps to free yourself from the
UPC bondage. As for explaining things, this has to come case by case.
Also keep studying so that you can get a firm grasp on the true
gospel message. And watch over your own heart so that
bitterness doesn't gain the upper hand in your life.
Another thing you can do is find fellowship with someone(s) who
understands your situation. Pray about this. Also feel free to talk
with me. I've been able to help a lot of former UPC folk get their
lives together. If your wife walking this with you, I'll be happy to
respond to her questions as well.
Keep me informed.
The Lord bless you,
Buddy
Bro. Buddy Martin - Ask
the Pastor
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
Lawrence "Buddy" Martin
email: Bro.Buddy@ChristianChallenge.org
Web: http://www.ChristianChallenge.org
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