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First Christian Church

Discussion in '2000-02 Archive' started by TurboMike, Mar 25, 2002.

  1. TurboMike

    TurboMike New Member

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    Does anyone know the doctrine of the first christian church. We have one in our town that really seems to be growing. I thought about visiting. I know they aren't real charismatic (like pentecostal)but am worried about other doctrine issues. Perhaps I should just contact thier Pastor?
     
  2. Barnabas H.

    Barnabas H. <b>Oldtimer</b>

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    That is a reasonable thing to do Mike, and thus you will receive first hand information. [​IMG]
    Or if you are the shy one, you can always visit one of their websites and see what their doctrine is. Below I listed several, one may be close to you.

    First Christian Chuches
    Clearwater, FL = http://www.fcc-clearwater.org/
    Columbia, MO = http://www.firstchristian.org/
    Florissant, MO = http://www.fccf.org/
    Pearisburg, VA = http://www.angelfire.com/va/ecumaniac/pburg.html

    [ March 25, 2002, 03:30 PM: Message edited by: Barnabas ]
     
  3. Circuitrider

    Circuitrider <img src=/circuitrider2.JPG>
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    There are some churches who have taken the that name that are simply interdenominational community churches. However, the denominational group of Christian churches is the Disciples of Christ denomination. They and the Church of Christ were once together, but like Baptists split north and south over slavery in the 1800s. A key difference between the Christian Church (disciples) and Baptists is the matter of required baptism for salvation. Their belief is that baptism is an essential part of salvation. Their founder, Alexander Campbell took the doctrine of baptism and made it necessary for salvation. While historically they claim to believe in faith for salvation their requirement of baptism has created many "converts" who are simply immersed but not saved. It tends to create a baptismal regeneration mentality. :eek:

    "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost."
     
  4. Rev. Joshua

    Rev. Joshua <img src=/cjv.jpg>

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    I wasn't aware that modern-day Disciples of Christ still held to the view of the necessity of baptism. I know they have a fairly large liberal contingent that has drawn several liberal baptists into their fold.

    They also cooperate with the very liberal United Church of Christ (and some churches that have Christian in their names are UCC churches - also descended from the Campbellites but along a different stream).

    Joshua
     
  5. TurboMike

    TurboMike New Member

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    I have talked just a bit to a member there and that is sort of what they said. I really didn't have time to get into with them, but will talk to the pastor about it soon.
     
  6. Frank

    Frank New Member

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    Dear Turbo Mike:
    The Christian Church has changed some over the past 5 years. Each is probably different in their doctrine. While I do not want to misrepresent them,I will reveal the things I know about what is proclaimed as a whole.
    The Christian Church has come to the point where Biblical authroity for doctrine( The New Testament ) is in question on many issues. For example, some do not see the need for biblical authority for what is practiced in worship. They allow women preachers in some of there churches. Some of their members believe in having IM music, some do not.
    I would suggest that you question the local preacher about the individual group to find out what they teach. ( II Cor. 13:5).
    If they do not practice New Testament Christianity, I would attend a congregation that does. I hope this helps.
    Frank
     
  7. TurboMike

    TurboMike New Member

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    Well... I went. I must say it was the most welcoming church i've been to. I had a talk with the pastor last night. Pretty much what they believe is that salvation is a process.. not instant, and they do not believe in eternal sercurity... so... I'm still searching. If you would pray that God direct me to where he wants me and my family to be.

    Thanks
     
  8. Dr. Bob

    Dr. Bob Administrator
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    I live next door to the First Christian Church here in Casper (Disciples of Christ) and am close friends with the pastor. He asked me to teach classes there, but I declined over doctrinal issues.

    He said they teach salvation by Grace, BUT that MUST be verified by:
    ~Baptism by immersion
    ~Church membership
    ~Tithing
    ~Alms-deeds (good works, charity, work with Boy Scouts or Meals on Wheels, etc)

    He pointed out to me that FAITH ALONE was not enough; if was FAITH + WORKS.

    My wife's family were heavily involved in that church (father-in-law was both deacon and trustee; mother-in-law a SS teacher and head of Women's Missions). The Baptist pastor came to visit them and wanted to show them the plan of salvation from their own Bible. They did not have one in their home.

    Praise God they later got saved and left that church.

    [Personal jab at Pastor Joshua - This pastor wears a robe, smokes a pipe, has an ordained woman assistant pastor, and very ecumenical. Every time I see YOUR pix on the BB I think of him! You could be brothers!]
     
  9. TurboMike

    TurboMike New Member

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    That is exactly what they believe. Now just where were you at when I posted this awhile back?? hehe
     
  10. Rev. Joshua

    Rev. Joshua <img src=/cjv.jpg>

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    But I don't smoke a pipe! :D

    Joshua
     
  11. rlvaughn

    rlvaughn Well-Known Member
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    I'm moving this discussion down to the "Other Religions" forum. It will be active there if others would like to discuss this topic.
     
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