Church Loses Majority of Members & Faces Foreclosure Following Pastor’s Support for Gay Marriage
- Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:17am by
Billy Hallowell
- Print »
- Email »
The Rev. Oliver White of Grace Community United Church of Christ in St. Paul, Minnesota, has lost two-thirds of his congregation. The mass exodus from his pews started back in 2005 when he voted in favor of gay marriage at the national United Church of Christ assembly meeting. Following his support for the measure, the majority of his 320-member flock was flabbergasted and left the church.
“I was really in shock. I visited one member after another, who told me they weren’t coming back because of it,” White, who has pastored at the house of worship for 22 years, said in an interview with The Star Tribune. “The membership evaporated right before my eyes. Their fundamental belief was it’s wrong for a man and a man to marry or a woman and a woman to marry. A lot of them said if I change, they’d come back. But I told them, it is what it is. I am who I am. And this is what I fight for.”
In an interview with CNN, he reiterated these comments, claiming that his church members simply couldn’t rectify their personal beliefs with the acceptance of same-sex marriage.
“Categorically they said, I can not be a part of a church that accepts same-sex marriage,” White explained.
Watch the reverend explain his views on same-sex marriage and the controversy that has taken over his church, below:
Today, Grace Community has just 110 members and is struggling financially. In 2007, just two years after White’s decision to support gay marriage, he took out a high-interest loan to help keep the church afloat. He now regrets that decision, as financial troubles continue for the pastor and his congregation.
While the struggle has been difficult, White claims that he’s received financial support from pro-gay churches and organizations. However, his fellow black churches in Minnesota have categorically ignored the church’s needs in the wake of his decision to support same-sex marriage.
“The black churches in Minnesota have not supported me,” White continued in his Tribune interview. ”I don‘t know if they’ve turned against me. But they certainly have not reached out to me in any way. And that hurts more than anything.”
According to City Pages, the Grace Community faces foreclosure if its $200,000 loan isn’t paid off by the end of June. So far, the church has collected thousands of dollars from supporters, but it is nowhere near its goal and time is running out. In the end, it seems the 69-year-old reverend has an uphill battle if he wishes to keep his doors open.
Popular Stories
Does Misstated Marathon Claim Prove Paul Ryan Is Dishonest? (POLL) 673 Comments
‘Jumah at the DNC’ Speaker: ‘Muslims Visited America Prior to Columbus’ & ‘It Was a Muslim’ Who Guided Him to the ‘New World’ 527 Comments
Paper Details Obama Admin’s Alleged Secret Note Sent to Iran: If Israel Attacks, We Won’t Get Involved 393 Comments
Obama: RNC Like Watching ‘Black-and-White TV’ Because Romney ‘Did Not Offer a Single New Idea’ 369 Comments
Roseanne Barr: Most Billionaires ‘Violent Pedophiles’ & ‘Heartless’ Cocaine Addicts 327 Comments
Faith
This Is the Creationists‘ Response to Scientist Bill Nye’s Viral Pro-Evolution Video Claiming They Harm Children 262 Comments- Pakistani Muslim Cleric Accused of Framing Disabled Christian Girl in Koran-Burning Case Read More
- ‘Made Up Religion’: TV Historian Enrages Muslims, Receives Threats After Producing UK Documentary Questioning Islam’s Beginnings 272 Comments
Meet the Controversial German Imam Accused of Brutally Beating His Wife & Pushing Sharia Law Read More
‘Self-Proclaimed Messiah’ & Unification Church Leader the Rev. Sun Myung Moon Has Died — Here’s His Life Story Read More
Business
President Obama Issues Major ‘Green Energy’ Executive Order 131 Comments- Germany’s Upcoming Court Ruling Will be Huge for the EU Read More
Ford Looks to Beat Toyota for Best-Selling Car in 2012 With This Model 147 Comments
Bernanke & QE3: Here’s What You Need to Know Read More- ‘Extortion’: Why Did the Labor Department ‘Drop the Hammer’ on Oregon Farmers? 300 Comments
Technology
- This Is the Creationists‘ Response to Scientist Bill Nye’s Viral Pro-Evolution Video Claiming They Harm Children 262 Comments
‘TaserDrone’: Hackers Weaponize Quadcopter With Actual ‘Shocking’ Technology Read More
Ever Heard of the Wild ‘Burning Man’ Festival in the Middle of the Nev. Desert? Here’s Your Primer Read More
Stanford Develops Technology ‘Better Than Steroids’ for Athlete Recovery Read More
Have You Pretended to Know What ‘the Cloud’ Is? You’re Not Alone Read More
Submitting your tip... please wait!
Comments (394)
otoa
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:45amthat’s what happens when u turn ur back on
Report Post »God.
Jude 1 – 7 just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire,[d] serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.
rangerp
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 10:12amI guess the good rev did not realize that some of the congregation actually read the Bible, and thought they were in a church, not a liberal social club (like many churches are becoming in America).
Report Post »AvengerK
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 10:54amYou reap what you sow…the pastor should have remembered that one.
Report Post »Detroit paperboy
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 10:56amMaybe he should consider another line of work……………
Report Post »kryptonite
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:17amI don’t think Hussein will support him openly, because he doesn’t want to further alienate evangelical blacks. The question is, Will Hussein send him a check? He sometimes does send “donations” to needy people (as part of his Muslim tithe), but the amounts remain secret.
CNN is giving a voice to this poor martyr, tortured into bankruptcy for his faith in the gay golden calf half of Americans now worship, beginning with the WH Occupier. Expect more vocal support from the left if the gay president gets a second term. One more reason to vote him out in Nov.
Report Post »drattastic
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:45amWhat does CNN want by doing this story ? They want an outpouring of donations so they can do a pro gay followup story .
By watching Rev. White and his mannerisms and listening to him speak ,I think that he goes a bit farther than just supporting gay marriage . He seems a bit light in the loafers himself.
Report Post »brother_ed
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:59amThiss is from the UCC website:
Leaders of the 1.1-million-member United Church of Christ have issued a statement supporting “the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS on its resolution to support comprehensive sexuality education for our nation’s youth.”
The council’s resolution, “Support comprehensive sex education for our nation’s youth,” requests that only programs with the best scientific information be funded, and that the government should “uphold the rights of young people to have access to information in order to make healthy and responsible decisions about their sexual health.”
However, in their response, Ann Hanson, the UCC’s minister for sexuality education and justice, and the Rev. Michael Schuenemeyer, executive for health and wholeness advocacy, pointed out that the 2012 budget includes “$5 million in funding for abstinence-only–until-marriage programs that, as a 2007 Congressionally-mandated study reports, often times withhold information about HIV, are medically-inaccurate, promote gender stereotypes and are not sensitive to sexually active and LGBT youth.”
They try to have their cake and eat it, too.
They support a sex education program that promotes safe sex, AND also promote abstinence.
No wonder they are confused, which one is it.
Fence sitters always lose.
Report Post »PROSECUTE_PUBLIC_SERVANTS__FOR_CONSTITUTIONAL_TREASON
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 12:41pmThose that left are to be praised for choosing to follow Jesus Christ. Any person of color who chooses Obama is choosing the abomination of satan, homosexuality, over Jesus Christ. This is a principled moral choice of Jesus Christ over the emotional choice of color or Obama.
I hope everyone will make the right choice. Obama is a vile leader in God’s eyes. We face God’s judgement as a result of Obama. This is 200% Biblcal. Any pastor who chooses Obama is to be removed from their leadership role for choosing wickedness. The pastor is not a true believer.
Report Post »golfer8805
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 12:48pm@RangerP – So I guess if he denounced the institution of slavery, the “bible reading congregation” should have left as well? If you say no you are being logically inconsistent.
Report Post »Independent4233
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 12:54pmThe black community, as a whole, is staunchly against homosexuals and their agenda.
Good for them.
This is one issue they agree whole-heartedly on with the majority of the white population.
Report Post »turkey13
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 1:31pmHe blamed the people leaving because of their peronal beliefs! It looks to me like 2/3 ‘s read or have read their Bibles. Romans Ch 1 – Ver 26-32 really tells it like it is. Rev. White is probably a paster that opens the Bible to be open and the spends an Hour telling you that God loves you and God loves you. And probably tells thwe folks all you have to do is love him back. God is a Venging God and you have to hear, repent – change your ways and be baptized in his son’s name. Rev. White should change the name to “Grace for Q_ueers and Li_zzies.”
Report Post »Bruce P.
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 1:35pmOTOA — Why is it that Christians can ignore God’s other commands, yet it is not considering “turning your back on God?” Why is it that Christians have come to consider the only sin to be homosexuals?
AvengerK
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 1:49pmGosh BRUCIE..it‘s fun to generalize and exaggerate isn’t it? By the way..why did you get rid of your nifty Star Trek symbol? Too many other militant atheists from your religion were using it?
Report Post »saranda
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 2:25pmHypocrites the lot of them. How many have been adulterous in their lives or know of adulterers in their lives? God thought enough of adultery that he added it to the Commandments. Just like most churches this one is filled with hypocrites. Gay marriage is worse than cheating in your marriage…..God didn’t think so.
brother_ed
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 2:37pm@BRUCE P.
It is possible that Christians are so passionate about the issues of homosexuality and abortion because it goes against one of the first commandments we were given – to be fruitful and multiply.
I believe that we are here to gain a body and to learn.
Since homosexuals cannot reproduce naturally and abortion stops a child from coming into this world, the whole plan of God is thwarted.
We participate in God’s plan by bringing children into the world so the process can begin.
Barren people can help by raising children of others who have either died or are unable/unwilling to care for them.
The other commandments are important regarding the final destination, but without a beginning, there is no end.
That’s just my take, others may feel differently.
Excellent question, though.
I’ll be curious to see the other responses.
Report Post »Blackman Standing Tall71
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 2:54pmWe spend so much time focusing on this nonsense of gays getting married,and we bring bible scriptures into the debate,but we never discuss the others scriptures that focus on lying,stealing and other sins that God has stated in his word.Focus on all sin!
Report Post »Leopold
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:17pmSo, now he claims victim status. Cry baby, cry. Nobody cares about me.
But wait and see. Gays and atheists will come to his rescue.
Atheists and gays are not really against “a” god. Just “The God”. The One whose name is Jesus Christ.
And they call us hypocrites.
Report Post »Leopold
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:24pmAll one needs today is to belong to a minority and the money and support will roll in.
According to statistics most kids have sex. Gay or heterosexual sex.
That means that kids who practise abstinence are a group that qualifies for support and money, no?
Report Post »makamae
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:31pmBlackman Standing Tall71 – “we never discuss the others scriptures that focus on lying,stealing and other sins that God has stated in his word…”
The GLARING difference between the the focus on homosexuality vs other sins is that nobody is trying to legalize, legitimize, and even force endorsement of other sins down our throats, as is happening with the now endless list of deviant sexual practices.
The fact that you can’t figure that out should really give you cause for some concern about your own powers of intellect.
Report Post »old white guy
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:35pmthis guy was a minister in a Christian church. what the heck did he think would happen when he endorsed sin and perversion?
Report Post »mtcountrygrl
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:35pm@Saranda
Report Post »There is a difference between commiting a sin and condoning a sin. This pastor condoned a sin. If he came out and said “I am in favor of open marriage and adultery” and the congregation was okay with that, you would have an arguement. All sin is equal in the eyes of GOD. But what this pastor said by endorcing gay marriage, is to say either this sin is okay or this is not a sin. Either way that is not what the Bible says. And for the idiot with the slavery comment, the Bible does not say “thou shalt have slaves” there are actually several verses that speak against having slaves, but it does say if you find yourself in slavery to be obedient and a witness with your behavior. Anti-Christian folks have been twisting that verse for years.
JustMeInAZ
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:53pmGolfer8805 “So I guess if he denounced the institution of slavery, the “bible reading congregation” should have left as well? If you say no you are being logically inconsistent.” Ok, for the millionth time, God does not approve of slavery. Just like He doesn’t approve of a lot of things man does.
“He who kidnaps a man, whether he sells him or he is found in his possession, shall surely be put to death.” (Exodus 21:16)
Slavery existed, though not in the sense that you understand it. “Slavery” in the Old Testament was just a way for a man to work off his debt to another, or if they could not provide a living for themselves, this was an option.
Report Post »The Bible talks to “Slaveowners” as well as “Slaves”. To the slaveowner, they were told to treat their slaves (hired hands) justly, with dignity and kindness. Slaves (again to be read ‘hired hands”) were told to do a good job with honor.
Please try to read up on slavery in the Bible and you will not sound so foolish.
Wolf
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 4:34pmAs God says, He will bless those who bless him. Obviously this boy didn’t read or understand that part of the Scriptures. He deserves to lose his frock as well as his flock.
Report Post »INTHEBROTHERHOOD
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 5:09pmotoa…..immorality was the last reason for sodam and gomorrah”s demise. Pride was the main reason. What makes you think this pastor of 22 yrs. turned his back on God? We must love our neighbor as thyself. Period. NOT love thy neighbor only if their married to the opposite sex.
Report Post »Glynrd Skynrd
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 5:28pmThis is one of those people who thought the election of Obama would make the waters recede, the earth heal itself, rainbows and unicorns frolic on everyone’s lawn put gas in your tank, makes your house (and church) mortgage payments… He didn’t count on having to account for his actions. Hopefully the folks that left the church will be able to pick it up w/o the good reverend in tow.
Report Post »Hollywood
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 6:14pmIt is a CHURCH. Just a church of satan! He will be facing Christ one day to explain how God is wrong about perversion, as He says in Romans.I wouldn’t want to be in his shoes. Poor,Sad Fool.
Report Post »oneshiner
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 7:39pmNever, never stay in a church that preach their own version of God’s Word. If they disregard the Word of God, stop and find a church that preaches the Word from the Bible. Will never do that again.
Report Post »iampraying4u
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 9:52amI was shocked that he didnt loose the whole church
Report Post »Cynicalone
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 10:17amI couldn’t agree with you more. What the world and America doesn’t get is there absolutely HAS to be repentance AND turning away from sin to experience gods true blessings. My god is like a refining transforming fire for the repentant. I’ve seen the spirit of god cause legs to grow, brain injuries healed, teeth filled with gold, through spirit of the living God. I know what kind of comments I’ll see here, it doesn’t faze me in the least.
In my world you DESERVE what you tolerate. That pastor needs to seek council from men and woman greater than he. But, he needs to start by getting on his knees and asking for forgiveness.
Report Post »may40
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 10:19amI can’t get over these “so called” pastors/clergy who are pro abortion and gay marriage. Of course their flock will flee if indeed they are Bible believing members. God will judge those who distort the Word that’s that. If He says it‘s wrong then it’s wrong…that God’s words not our opinion.
Report Post »kadster01
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 2:49pmIt’s also what happens when you turn your back on common sense and decency. Those who still possess it will walk away from you. It’s really quite simple. Only in our modern (stupid, PC) times would anyone dare to say it must mean something else.
Report Post »snooop1e
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 8:08pmI am very curious what this churches position is regarding abortion. How many people have belonged to churches for decades that are silent on abortion and abortifaciant birth control and now are “standing up” regarding gay marriage? Why is it that abortion is not a game changer for Evangelicals/Protestants but gay marriage is? What is it about gay marriage that seems more sinful that murdering unborn babies? I just don’t get it….
Report Post »charles116
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 9:15pmIf I go to hell can I bring marshmallows.
Report Post »barryswhitehalf
Posted on June 8, 2012 at 9:25amThe late Francis Schaeffer said in A Christian Manifesto that liberal theology is nothing more than anti-God secular humanism in religious terms. No matter what the issue, the liberal theologian will ALWAYS come down on the side of the secular humanist. Whether it be abortion, same-sex “marriage,” social welfare, the environment, Occupy Wall Street, sexual promiscuity, the liberal theologian will follow divisive secular humanism rather than the Bible. Therefore, liberal theology is a dangerous cult.
Thank GOD those people left that so called church and its perverse ideology.
Report Post »OneTermPresident
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:42amSleep with the Devil…. people will leave you faster than Cinderella’s sisters went to the Ball.
Report Post »HYPNOTOAD
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 10:20amDo you mean the devil obama or Satan? Isn’t it funny how this guy bought all things obama thinking he was safe and got the ax? I hope thats indicative of the rest of the black population when it comes to obama this November……what am I thinking.
Report Post »dj109
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 12:00pmIsaiah 5:20 Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
Report Post »21 Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!
Bruce P.
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 1:36pmSleep with the Devil = supporting homosexual marriage.
Any other sin = okay.
This is the modern Christian view.
makamae
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 2:55pmBruce P – typical of the whacko left, you try to paint an entire group of people with the same brush. Sure, there are “Christians” who justify their own actions while throwing stones at others. They might call themselves Christians, but may very well not be. Being in a church doesn’t make one a Christian any more than being in a garage makes one a car.
For the rest of us, who truly believe, we recognize our limitations and sins, call them that, and work through our own sets of issues. However, Jesus never told people “it’s okay, do whatever you want live your life like you want, and I’ll just give you my endorsement.” Instead, Jesus said “Go and sin no more.”
Report Post »orkydorky
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:03pmGet a clue Rev., your flock is telling you they don’t need you to get to God!
Report Post »brother_ed
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 6:32pm@MAKAMAE
re: BRUCE P
I‘m not sure if you were calling BRUCE a member of the ’wacko left’ or that his tactic is typical of the left, but I assure you that he is one of the good guys; ie, small government, lower taxes, personal responsibility, etc.
His jabs are at people who claim the moral high road because they follow Jesus, yet seem to ignore many of His teachings.
Report Post »From Virginia
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 7:30pm@Bruce – Prove that. Where do people condone and celebrate adultery? Stealing? Murder?
Report Post »COLKURTZ
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:42amI thought the black culture was lost.Maybe if we vote this race baiter out there is still hope.
Report Post »Blackman Standing Tall71
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:11pmI still think that the white culture is lost.Check out the latest census report.
Report Post »Chuck Stein
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 2:41am“However, his fellow black churches in Minnesota have categorically ignored the church’s needs in the wake of his decision to support same-sex marriage.”
Report Post »Really? Seems what the church needs is a new pastor. Have the “fellow black churches in Minnesota” been ignoring that need?
Smokey_Bojangles
Posted on June 8, 2012 at 2:00amDepends if black people hate homosexuals or white people more. It wont change the black vote for Obama.
Report Post »SubHuman
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:41amThe pastor followed his conscience and his congregation followed theirs. Now as a Catholic I‘m not really sure how this all works but don’t some congregations choose their own pastor? Is that not how this one works or how any of them work? Either way they’re choosing with their feet. Religious organizations lose the majority of their members when they endorse gay marriage. My take? The Bible clearly forbids homosexuality and it seems these pro-gay groups are professing ideology at the pulpit not faith.
Report Post »GrayPanther
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 10:12amWell said. As a pastor he was hired by the church and can be fired by the church. That’s how freedom works. Clearly, the pastor is the problem; not the congregation.
Report Post »Americanius
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:06amWhat does this say about the elders of the church who would let the pastor continue? Maybe the reason the congregation is leaving is because the elders will not act on behalf of the congregation to remove the pastor and therefor they have no choice but to leave rather than follow an enabler of sin.
Report Post »gsplgtr
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:19amBiblically, pastors or leaders, are appointed by other pastors from that church. No pastor or elder was ever voted on by the congregation in the Bible.
Report Post »wmcritter
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:28amAs a pastor, isn’t he supposed to follow the Word of God (Bible), not his conscience? Just sayin….
Report Post »FIREPROOF
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:36amThis pastor can be let go, if he goes against the church mission statement or changes his opinion on Doctrine. Also the Bible clearly states, not to add or take away from it as He has preserved His Word. And to not hold man‘s traditions above God’s word which ALL religions clearly do, according to scripture.
Report Post »KAWLME
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:38amThe pastor decided to go against the Bible and God but the people are reading and studying their scriptures and left. Keep reading the scriptures God does not lie. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. Hopefully the pastor will humble himself and submit his will to God’s will.
Report Post »I have nothing against the gay community as people. I just believe in the scriptures.
SovereignSoul
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:40amAre there any churches that follow ALL of God’s words (bible)?
Report Post »Taquoshi
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:46amThe church is (was) part of the United Church of Christ denomination, which is a very liberal denomination. The fact that his congregation spoke with their wallets and their feet should have sent the pastor a message that he and the congregation were out of sync. The departing congregants probably went to a more orthodox branch of the Congregational denomination like the Four Cs, or into other more traditional churches and I applaud them.
As for the high interest loan, well, the pastor took a huge gamble and he lost. He lost his congregation and now he’s losing the church facility. Actions have consequences, Pastor, or as the Biblically fluent would say, you reap what you sow.
Report Post »FIREPROOF
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:57amSoverignsoul?? Yes, their are ALOT of churches that follow strictly GOD’S WORD, Their are Bible believing churches all over the World. They are not religions though, they just gather as local assemblies to hear His WORD, Worship and to praise God. Many people believe you need to be in a “Religion” to be near God. But Christianity is not a religion, it’s a personal relationship whith Jesus Christ.
Report Post »Jezreel
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 2:21pmEverybody seems to be ignorant of the truth. Jesus does not HIRE pastors. The position of pastor is only mentioned in the new testment once and they are NOT leaders of the church. Also, if a man is ordained by God and anointed by Him, nobody can fire you neither will he retire and get benefits. The true men of God who are ordained and anointed by Him do the will of Jesus Christ until the day they die.
Report Post »The system of organized religion is a business. Jesus Christ has nothing to do with it. That is why there is so much disappointment and confusion and contraditions. People look to a system to fulfill their needs instead of depending upon the TRUTH that will SET YOU FREE from crap like organized religion.
This man sounds like he thought he was doing something “cool” and it backfired on him. Good! He is nothing more than a hireling anyhow. A hireling is a man that is a pastor that takes a paycheck and don’t give me that crap about “muzzling not the ox” twisting it around for you other hirelings who read this that want to justify why you take a paycheck instead of having a real job like a man of God should have. You so called “pastors” who lead churches will answer for your taking God’s name in vain for your livlihood on judgment day. There is a special place in hell for church leaders.
scarebear83
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:26pmJezreel, I beg to differ. The very term “pastor” is meant as a term for “Elder” NOT preacher or minister. Now all pastors (elders) are ministers but not all ministers are pastors. The Bible speaks plainly about what a “pastor” is and what their qualifications are.
They are to shepherd the congregation 1 Pet. 5:1
Report Post »They must meet certain qualifications 1 Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9
It must be a plurality for no one man can serve as elder Titus 1:5; Acts 14:23; 1 Pet. 5:1-2
Jezreel
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 3:51pmScarebear, An elder is NOT a man appointed position in the body of Christ. An Elder is an older person who is mature in the Lord. Organized religion appoints elders. Jesus Christ molds and perfects his elders.
Report Post »scarebear83
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 6:25pmJezreel, so when this was stated in Titus 1:5 For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you— 6 if a man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination. 7 For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, 8 but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, 9 holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.
…. it means older people? Or here in 1 Timothy 3:3 This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; Look up the greek word in these cases. The greek word for Elder does NOT mean older person it means bishop, overseer etc.
Report Post »chnswstr
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:40amPeople don’t generally leave churches because THEY have changed. They leave because the CHURCH has changed out from beneath them. Why do churches follow trends? Because they think they can gain more paying members.
We attended a solidly scripture-centered church where church leaders decided to become a “seeker” model…..feel-good teachings for the unchurched and pentacostal expectations. I’m outta there with no regrets.
Report Post »HorseCrazy
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 10:09amyou’re correct it is generally the church that changes and when they water it down become secular and or super political, they lose members. No one wants a faith leader that cannot follow the faith himself.
Report Post »Git-R-Done
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 2:55amI won’t ever attend a church that teaches against the Biblical truths.
Report Post »otoa
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:39ammatthew 7-22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’
Report Post »libertyordebt
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:50amwell said, i agree
Report Post »AmazingGrace8
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 2:48pmAgree!!!
Report Post »adeleeeee
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:39amI would leave the church if he is my pastor. This pastor is a wolf with sheep skin on. He only care about how to feed himself up and neglect his flock. What a disgrace pastor!
Report Post »bigspike
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 6:34ami wouldn’t leave, nor would the rest of our members-HE would be leaving!
we hire them, we fire them
Report Post »mtfunk
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:38amThe fact that he took a large loan to make ends meets shows that he does not follow biblical principals. I would say there is a lot more going on with this pastor than just supporting gay marriage.
Report Post »commonsense63
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 10:06amExactly, slave to the lender my friend.
Report Post »EastofEdenFarms
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:38amLiberal congregations all over the country are finding out the same thing. They are out of step with the Believers in their pews. I doubt it will drive a single one of them to reconsider their positions. At least this fellow has the courage of his convictions. He is standing his ground. It’s just that building on foundations of sand is not sound thinking. Everybody sing, “The rains came down and the floods came up, and the house on the sand fell flat”.
Report Post »Optimist4now
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:44amAnother non-Bible based “reverand”; not the spiritual leader of a liberal congregation, a liberal trying to lead a morally conservative congregation.
Report Post »Dear rev. White, they’re sending you a message — stop whining.
USPATRIOT101
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:37amBlindly fallowing barack comes with a price. Remember, it’s still “We The People”.
Report Post »Roberto G. Vasquez
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:47amThe Bible is clear, homosexuality is a SIN! On the other hand American Liberals, Progressives, Socialists, Marxists and Communists (all are athiests) think homosexuality is great. Take your pick, God or athiesm, you can’t have both.
By the way, go see the movie “FOR GREATER GLORY”, for an historical example of a war between athiest government and the church. It is a GREAT MOVIE!
Report Post »USPATRIOT101
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:58amIn proving to his fellow balck Americans, he’s no uncle tom, he overlooked the fact that behind closed doors, people will hold true to their convictions.
Report Post »Locked
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 10:35am@Uspatriot101
“Blindly fallowing barack comes with a price.”
Ignoring the fact that fallowing isn’t following (which is what you likely meant), the pastor voted to support same sex marriage in 2005 and took out his high risk loan in 2007. In 2005 Obama was a freshman senator and openly opposed to gay marriage, same as two years later.
It’s a nice attempt to join the two, but it falls flat in the face of reality. Use truth, not lies. This pastor failed because he preached contrary to the Bible and gambled by taking out a high-risk loan. It’s unfortunate, but he brought it upon himself: Obama had nothing to do with it.
Report Post »rowdygirl
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:37amIf he thinks gay marriage is ok, what does he preach AGAINST? How can he ever lead anyone to a sanctified life when he’s saying that this sin is ok? They did the right thing by leaving. If your pastor can’t lead by example and follow scripture, he’s leading his sheep over the cliff.
Report Post »Bruce P.
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:27amWhy do Christians these days think it is the purpose of their faith to preach AGAINST things and not FOR things?
Report Post »FIREPROOF
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:50ambruce? have you read the Bible? Does God not clearly convey both using His Phrophets and Apostles through His Word? why should Christians “today” not continue to preach both? It seems that we need to get out the Word more of what He hates…SIN and how to be reconciled rather than just the Joel Olsteen approach. Because this World is clearly accepting SIN as the way of life. Like this Rev. and many other false teachers out there that will have to answer to His judgement.
Report Post »DR4SOUL
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 1:11pmThe pastor should resign and allow the Bible-believing members to return to the church and assume the payments on the debt. He is one selfish, narcissistic pastor if does not. He is one of those false shepherds the Bible describes in ISA. 56:10-12 and Ezek. 34:1,2.
Report Post »girlnurse
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 1:30pmBRUCE P: Because “A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump”. Get it?
Report Post »The day we start endorsing sin in this country as a “good thing” is the day Christians better WAKE UP and start doing damage control! PC does not work! The emperor has no clothes!
Bruce P.
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 4:57pmGIRLNURSE — so, preaching against the sin of homosexuality makes it okay to ignore other sins and god’s other commandments?
Got it.
Tell us again how you are not riddled with hate?
Report Post »brother_ed
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 6:43pm@BRUCE P
“Why do Christians these days think it is the purpose of their faith to preach AGAINST things and not FOR things?”
—————————————————————————————————————————————————
It seems that way sometimes – kind of ‘fire and brimstone’ from the Jonathan Edwards day.
I like the pastor who says: “Preach the Gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words”
Show me you get joy from following the scriptures, and I’ll try my best to conform.
People that preach hell and damnation, though at times necessary (you want to warn of dangers), usually loose my attention fast.
You get more flies with sugar than honey.
I find it best to preach the ideal and help others live it, than to constantly point out what they are doing wrong.
Example: Being sexually pure life (chaste and unadulterous) makes God happy and gives blessings vs homosexuals are going to burn for eternity.
Another good observation, my friend. Thanks for making me think.
Report Post »Git-R-Done
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 3:14amBruce – Who are you to determine what hate is and isn’t? You hypocritically hate others who don’t follow your leftist dogma yet you condemn us of being hateful people.
Report Post »copatriots
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:33amGood on you, Congregants! Your “pastor” is wrong and you had the fortitude to stand for God’s truth!
Report Post »wabaggett
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:33amIf you don’t support the teachings of the Bible and God why in the world do you think you are a church? His congregation left because he isn’t teaching the scripture anymore but personal beliefs. Those brave souls at that church who left should be congradulated to stand behind God’s word and not be sucked into the worldly view of there pastor.
Report Post »SECUREOURBORDERSNOW
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:56amDoesn’t the Bible say God created Adam and Eve not Adam and Steve. Duh!!!
Report Post »Bruce P.
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:26amThe Bible says a lot of things are sins, but these are ignored by Christians.
Report Post »girlnurse
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 1:24pmBRUCE P: Yes preachers need to preach against ALL sin—but the difference is….they’re not standing up saying; “Okay, now we are going to endorse adultery, fornication, and lying…it is now accepted and embraced in the church”…..LOL get it!?
Report Post »Obviously the preacher is queer and trying to justify his sin..
RoBoTech
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 1:38pmBruce P
Report Post »Yeah pretty much how Christians are ignoring your buffoonish BS.
Go back to the child’s table, little boy.
Bruce P.
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 5:08pmGIRLNURSE — because they have already accepted it. They are not going to preach against what they enjoy. There are sins that are far, far more common that homosexuality such as out of wedlock marriage, adultery (which, defined by the Bible, is remarrying after a divorce) and so forth. Yet, Christians are not focusing on those far more common sins, and instead focusing on a minority of the population.
Report Post »spidah59
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:31amGee when you go against the teaching of Jesus the people leave. Hmmm and he doesnt understand.
Report Post »Gonzo
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:36amExactly the way it should work.
Report Post »christelle
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:41amAmen
Report Post »Bruce P.
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 11:30amBut only when they agree with Jesus in the things that he is against.
If they don’t agree, they can just ignored those things Jesus said. You can dismiss it, that isn’t sin.
Report Post »SLOWBIDEN
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 2:45pm@Bruce p – All men are sinners.(men= mankind). Just because people sin doesn’t make them non christian. What makes them Christian is to recognize those sins and repent for them. You on the other habd sit on this site and stand in judgement of everybody on this site as if you hold the book of life. Instead of judging others, look to your own sins and repent for them. God wants you to come to him as a child and ask for forgiveness.
Report Post »saranda
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 2:50pmWasn’t Reagan an adulterer in the eyes of the church? Where is the indignance over that? Or McCain or Newt or oh why bother as the list is way too long.
Report Post »acoustaxe
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:30amHe is decieved and preaching a false gospel, obviously the majority of his church had a solid foundation of the Word and were unwilling to sit under heresy. It’s unfortunate that world view in immoral times reaches all the way into the pulpit.
Report Post »rickc34
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:30amWhat did he expect? He and the third left must not believe what the Bible says. You cannot stand against the word of God being a Pastor and not expect those who stand on the word to stick around. Reminds me that two thirds of the angels stood with God and one third fell with Lucifer aka Satan its is in Isa.
Report Post »SquidVetOhio
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:30amI’m just impressed the United Church of Christ might actually have some christians left in it.
Report Post »DIVINEPROVIDENCE1776
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:29amDivine justice.
Report Post »scrudge
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:29amAh Yes….. give it up Rev. when you vote QUEER you loose donations cry on al sharps shoulders
Report Post »RamonPreston
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:28amPro-gay stance. Looks like he screwed himself. Pun intended. You will never make me believe “Gay is okay.”
Report Post »SquidVetOhio
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:28am“Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.”
Revelations 2:5 (Jesus speaking)
Report Post »Link8on
Posted on June 8, 2012 at 4:57pmhttp://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+10&version=NIV1984
John 10: 7-15
“”"
7 Therefore Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.[a] He will come in and go out, and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. 13 The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.
14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father —and I lay down my life for the sheep.
Report Post »“”"
joshuawoodz
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:27amAt least the members know what the Bible says. They should have just voted the pastor out.
Report Post »HKS
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:27amThey will get it eventually.
Report Post »sawbuck
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:26amThat’s one dumb false prophet…!
Report Post »hempstead1944
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 9:23amApparently, someone awoke the faithful?
Report Post »