Do you agree?

[Reynolds]

We had a drug addicted homosexual visit our church sporadically for a few years.
He would bring a partner with him, quite a few partners over the years.
He was not a distraction but many of us knew his story.
The pastor spoke privately to him, letting him know that there would be times when sermons would deal with his situation, and as a pastor, he would not neglect speaking out.
The congregation not only tolerated him but befriended him.
He often sat among the dependency group crowd.

Over time, the Lord changed his heart; he accepted Christ’s forgiveness and forsook his sin.
One Sunday he gave a strong testimony before the church.
Today he ministers to a wide group of people most of us have no contact with. Last year he married.
He expresses his profound appreciation for the patience and lovingkindness the church body showed him.

Church discipline is for church members: an action my church does not neglect.
In two particular situations the member confessed their sin, dealt with the situation and was welcomed back into the congregation.

Rob

I have seen the opposite happen. Lost, especially youth, have detrimentally impacted saved kids in several youth groups.

 

[Salty]

You consider a person visiting up till the time they join?

What term does your church use?

 

[Reynolds]

What term does your church use?

I am not sure.

 

[Reynolds]

What term does your church use?

I can give you an example of how we act though. A man dressed as a woman came to church. It was undecided what we would do until he went in women's bathroom. He was then told use men's room. He argued. He was told not to come back.

 

[Reformed1689]

The idea that people should not gave to clean up is unbiblical. Did Jesus accept sinners? Yes. But with one important statement, "Go and sin no more."