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I went to a church that started in an old bowling alley that we converted. Within 10 years it was a mega church.

It went from a wonderful bunch to a nest of vipers that ran credit reports on members. I got a letter with a copy of my TRW enclosed from them admonishing me for more “love” donations for the new building.

Never set foot in there again. I still get fund raiser letters a couple of times a year and I’ve moved several times and to another state. Not a dime will ever be sent.
I have no desire to attend anywhere anymore.

I’ve seen a lot of guilt laid upon church members in order to obtain their cash. I am one of those who do NOT believe that the modern church is owed an attendance payment. I believe tithes were for the temple set up, and not for the modern day church.

Yet I’ve seen pastors who say that the 10 commandments are not for Christians today, who mock what they call ‘the law of Moses’ who then turn right around and draw upon Malachi 3 to run the guilt trip to get the cash!

Mal 3:8 Will a man rob Elohim? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
Mal 3:9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.
Mal 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith Yahweh of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing of sufficiency.

Taken out of context and used against people!

That’s not all I’ve seen, but it fits with the topic.

I have no desire to attend anywhere anymore.

I know the feeling. I was the head usher at a church that grew from 300 to 3000 in 2 years. Being intimately involved in the collection of the offering, I became uncomfortably aware of how closely each individuals giving was being tracked. I saw how the wealthier members of the congregation were being cultivated and patronized.
What was once a spirit filled church became a business that seemed to seek little more than profits. I

That is so unfortunate. It seems to be ever thus.

This reminds me of 2 stories, neither one about Church but both about money.

A little historical society got together and wrote a book about their town. Everyone had a great time and the book turned out fine.

In fact, it turned out so well that it actually started to sell.

Then the fights began.

Also, there was a merger of a couple of firms. One person thought “if we make money, everyone will be happy”.

Then they did make money.

Then the fights began.

I’ve tried to keep the details vague here, but I assure these are both actual situations.

That’s too bad, I hope you’ll not blame the Master for the deeds of His sinful subjects. Jesus died, so ‘you’ might have eternal life. Do not miss this opportunity over the reprehensible behavior of a fallen few. After experiencing ‘a near death experience’ I saw the Truth for the very first time. It’s shocking, because you learn quickly that everything you thought important is a huge lie. I hope you choose wisely. Can I please pray for you and yours Whirlwind?

"I got a letter with a copy of my TRW enclosed from them admonishing me for more “love” donations for the new building."

Terrible!!

I am sorry you had to go throughout it. TRW report from a Church. Amazing.

Did you get to see his TRW report or police record. Also did you ask to see everyones TRW report to be Fair . One for all-all for one by true christians.

Did The church own a Mansion and Yacht. If not did they rent the house for the pastor who owns the house. Which means more money.

There are so many tricks like a La -Biden.

My Brother was the Maitre de at the Diner where Jessica Hahn's Pastor would go after service. He would go with all the young girls only. Hmmmm. Gene Profeta . He did romantic/abuse with Jessica Hahn at fourteen.

A date I had was the weaver for Hair Club for Men. He tried to give her a diamond ring. He is "nuts". Wolves in Sheep clothing.

He still does the Christian Magical Mystery Tour on Long Island.

When I was in the Indy Churches you would hear some of these stories. But remember there are some who are Real Christians who I am still friends and Brothers with in Christ.

Pray and seek. Jesus loves You!!

Philippians 4:6-7

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by Prayer..................................

Action!