In an attempt to illustrate how Bellevue has changed, can you describe the atmosphere at Bellevue when you first joined (if you can remember that long ago!) versus how it is now or how it was before you left? Did you ever "sense" anything wasn't quite right but couldn't put your finger on it?Thanks to "lynn" for this topic idea.
604 comments:
1 – 200 of 604 Newer› Newest»While I was at Bellevue only a short time compared to most people on the blog, I could definitely tell a shift.
In January 2004, people would at least come by and say hi if you were new. Now...If your not in the clique, your out of luck. For me, it didn't really take long for me to realize I would never fit in. At first I thought it was me because I am so shy and reserved. As more time went on, the more I realized it was the people there instead. And when I would be talking to someone, often, the person I was talking to would turn to someone else and start talking to them as if I wasn't even there. No wonder I felt like an outsider. I always was to them. And to make things worse, when I would not show up for a long period of time...not one single person would call me until 8 months later to see if I was doing ok. I understand we all have busy schedules and such....but how do people expect to become stronger Christians if no "brothers or sisters" act like they really care about you? Has this made me bitter, I would be lying if I didn't say I was because I definitely am.
I am trying to contact Piglet. Can somebody please email me and tell me how I can do that?
Thanks,
Lisa
I joined Bellevue in 1982. It was wonderful. So many sweet, kind people - always making you feel welcome and at home. So often the music was so beautiful I could not sing along, but just stand in awe with tears streaming. Loved to go to Wednesday night and have dinner and visit and then prayer meeting. Of course, Dr. Rogers' sermons could bring on the conviction of the Spirit like few other pastors I have known.
Then, I moved away from Memphis, then Bellevue moved to Cordova. Whenever I would come back to Memphis for a weekend visit, I looked forward to going to the "new" Bellevue - and wondered how anyone ever found their way around! On my visits, I was again always moved by the beautiful choir and orchestra, and thristy to hear the Word in that special way that Dr. Rogers had.
Then, in March of 2005 I found myself moving back to Memphis. One of the few perks of returning (I thought) was to be able to attend Bellevue regularly and get involved. Then Dr. Rogers retired. I did enjoy all the programs in and around his retirement. I also enjoyed the interim ministers; however, it did bother me that with the exception of the few people I knew in the area of the sanctuary where I sat, NO ONE ever spoke to me (well other than the door greeters).
Then Dr. Steve came - I had high hopes - then questions about his theology - then the Jamie show started. I began to miss the beautiful, sacred, touching music. I began to get disgusted at the gyrating folks in the audience, the loudness of the music - so loud, if the words were not on a screen you could not understand one word. Then all the clapping and more disrespectful music. Finally in the summer of 2006, a little lady in the parking lot spoke to me - first person in over a year of attendance. Granted I did not attend a Sunday School class. I did try the singles - felt like I was at a meat market. Then I tried a woman's class, but although very sweet ladies, I had absolutely nothing in common with them. I quit trying, but continued to go on Sunday morning, mainly because my dear sweet godly mother was still not ready to walk away. After so many misuses of the Scripture, we agreed, attending Bellevue was not meeting any spritual need, just bringing about an attitude of disgust.
Sorry if this was a bit lengthy, but I think I covered my experience. The sadness of it all I do not expect to ever go away.
concernedsbcer wrote:
"Hey guys! SOTL should be boarding a beautiful cruise ship right about now...searching out a non-alcoholic red drink with a cute little umbrella....listening to island music, and breathing in the salt air! Remember to keep her in your prayers."
Did anyone else hear faint strains of sad viola music coming from a southeasterly direction today? Sounded something like this as I recall. (Crank up your sound.)
Bon voyage, SOTL!
Bystander said, " I'm not trying to be rude-please forgive me if I sound so..."
Reply: You are forgiven. I will not dignify the rest of your comments with a response. You have missed the entire content of my post to 32years.
BLT: I attended a Wednesday night small group study for single parents for a YEAR. Never once did someone attempt to get to know me or invite me to activities. After a year, I was no more a part than when I had started. I was alone in a crowd.
At times I even felt that even the leadership of the Career ministry was making fun of me.
There was an instance back in 2004 when I had a roommate put sunblock on my back because I couldn't reach. That became a running joke for a year. I'm all for laughing at mistakes....but geeze, sometimes the laughing felt more like ridicule than anything else.
Is bystander a troll???
I just read the post and it was ugly.
AND why can't we talk to each other about anything we want....they got what they wanted and think they are the winners.....
why can't we have this one little cyberspace blog without getting abused???
ima,
so sorry...
What did Bystander say? I must have missed that one.
FYI, I changed my name to something else :).
Its now Lynn the Recycled Whammy.
And yes...I watched too many game shows growing up :p
My family and I have been members of BBC for over 30 yrs. and it has truly been a blessing to our lives.
We are deeply invested in Bellevue thru ministries and life-long friendships. It has been a friend of our family and a family of friends. The teaching we received under the spiritual leadership of
Dr.Adrian Rogers is something we will be grateful for, for all eternity - and for the wonderful SS teachers we've had
who sacrificially gave of their time and lives to edify us in the Word of God. Sadly, the past two years have seen the end of a sweet, sweet spirit in the church we've loved so dearly. Here are the things I miss:
-Powerful expository teaching of the Word of God
-Glorious music sung by choir and gifted soloists
-True worship instead of performance/entertainment
-Joy of the Lord exhibited thru smiling faces and warm greetings
-Reverence towards the things of the Lord - He is HOLY!
-Integrity of those who lead us spiritually
Reality is the Bellevue we've all loved no longer exists. It is the same bldgs. but a different spirit.
BBC is now going in a different direction. It is self-defeating to cling to the past - "the glory days" as Jim Whitmire called them. There are only two choices: to stay and embrace the new Bellevue or leave and allow the Lord to bless you in a new church home. We will soon be choosing the latter.
Lynn: I loved the Whammy show!!! (I can't for the life of me remember the name, but I watched it all the time!)
concernedSBCer said...
Lynn: I loved the Whammy show!!! (I can't for the life of me remember the name, but I watched it all the time!)
7:46 PM, May 26, 2007
That would be Press Your Luck :)
SOmething Gaines is always doing lol.
lol. I think we had too much fun last night hehehe.
Please just pick a screen name and stick with it. It's getting to the point where I need a scorecard just to keep up! :-)
Lynn: That's right! Press your Luck! Oh, man...you are right.....kind of prophetic!
Yes, as I posted earlier, I missed all the fun last night seeing a looooong Pirate movie with a bad ending!
Lynn wrote:
"I think we had too much fun last night"
I think you still are. But from the sound of that sad, sad viola music this afternoon, someone wasn't!
Nass: Yes, we are ALL wishing we were seeing that beautiful sunset on the ocean while drinking a non-alcoholic red drink with a cute little umbrella, I am 'ACErtain.
SOTL can now be "Sick of the Land"!
Reply: You are forgiven. I will not dignify the rest of your comments with a response. You have missed the entire content of my post to 32years.
Imaresistor,
I could not pull up your post from the other thread. If you have time, please post on this one.
Thanks.
concernedSBCer said...
Nass: Yes, we are ALL wishing we were seeing that beautiful sunset on the ocean while drinking a non-alcoholic red drink with a cute little umbrella, I am 'ACErtain.
SOTL can now be "Sick of the Land"!
7:58 PM, May 26, 2007
Yeah. Of course, if it wasn't for the asinine idea of carpooling to the beach, I would be sitting on the balcony of a condo enjoying the view of the ocean tonight myself lol. BTW, I kinda feel like the Career ministry lied to me. They was going to send out a list of those who had room to ride...they never did. Hence why I feel lied to. (FYI, I was going to look and see if there was someone I Knew on that list).
I don't think the meanness or aloofness or click stuff has anything to do with SG and the current leadership. NOT THAT ANYONE said that.
People in every area of life have become so busy and complicated and (using DC's infamous word) "tight". People in general are not loving or compassionate....and man,BBC sure isn't.
Let's face it....you already have to be attractive,talented,successful,and not poor for anyone to be interested or attracted to you.
To be UNMARRIED is hard in the outside world but unbearable at BBC and maybe in other churches.
Being laughed at..if you don't meet the world's criteria,
not having anything in common with people, or feeling alone among a crowd is just more pronounced and painful in your church.
It doesn't help that I had my encounter from hell with PW because of the single parent dept.
I hate this subject...too sad
lets change our names again or something!!! See, if we were together,we could get the guitar out and sing.
Lynn: I am so sorry. It sounds like someone didn't do their job well; I'm sure it was not personal. It is a good lesson to all of us to take our responsibilities seriously though, because they do impact others.
Do you want to come soak your feet in my pool this weekend? Not the same as a beach, but you are welcome!
Powermommy: What do you propose we sing?
powerGmommy said...
I don't think the meanness or aloofness or click stuff has anything to do with SG and the current leadership. NOT THAT ANYONE said that.
People in every area of life have become so busy and complicated and (using DC's infamous word) "tight". People in general are not loving or compassionate....and man,BBC sure isn't.
Lynn's Response:
Your right. But, and this is strictly my personal opinion here, but it seems it has become more pronounced since Gaines arrived than it was before. Especially as more and more people leave Bellevue.
And believe me when I tell you, every time I meet with my psychologist....Bellevue is a MAJOR discussion lol.
concernedSBCer said...
Lynn: I am so sorry. It sounds like someone didn't do their job well; I'm sure it was not personal. It is a good lesson to all of us to take our responsibilities seriously though, because they do impact others.
Do you want to come soak your feet in my pool this weekend? Not the same as a beach, but you are welcome!
8:05 PM, May 26, 2007
Thanks for the offer. But I'm keeping myself busy crunching numbers so I can dump my gas guzzling Silverado for a Prius lol.
Powermommy: You've got mail.
Lynn: When you finish crunching your numbers, help me! Gas is killing me in my 200,000 miles vehicle!
concernedSBCer said...
Lynn: When you finish crunching your numbers, help me! Gas is killing me in my 200,000 miles vehicle!
8:11 PM, May 26, 2007
Tell me about it. I just bought my truck 2 years ago and its getting to the point where I'm spending more for gas than I am on the truck note. SOmetimes it sucks to not live in Willieworld :p
I type so slowly that yall were already cutting up by the time I responded to the posts.
32+,
bystander wrote to ima a on the other thread...I think that is how we all missed it.
I looked for other posts by By on that thread but none ahead...so was that a troll????
concernedsbcer,
ANYTHING but sweet spirit or kumbaya!!
concernedsbcer,
call if you don't want to email....i am looking thru old emails for your number.....
I saw it. Yeah, it sounds like bystander is a troll.
He just doesn't realize the situation.
Powermommy: Just email. Thanks!
:)
Lynn: Willieworld has high gas prices too....and you just might get shot getting it!
See, don't you feel better???
:)
Ohhhh...Charlie......that was bad... :(
;)
So that I have no excuse not to go to church tomorrow
(the last church I visited left me down!)
I got my toes painted...now I just have to respond to the alarm and drive like a crazy person!!!
I have to pass the big church with the 3 crosses to go anywhere!
I heard that something out of the ordinary is going to happen on Sunday. Has anyone else heard anything about this?
Disclaimer: this is a RUMOR - yet to be confirmed.
Thanks,
Lisa
powerGmommy said...
So that I have no excuse not to go to church tomorrow
(the last church I visited left me down!)
I got my toes painted...now I just have to respond to the alarm and drive like a crazy person!!!
I have to pass the big church with the 3 crosses to go anywhere!
REPLY:
I have been told that there will be Patriotic music and Dr. Mike at GBC tomorrow.
Charlie,
My favorite....both Mike and patriotic music!!!
I know I PROBABLY won't go to GBC forever but the "refreshment" will be wonderful!
I miss enjoying and looking forward to church.
thanks!
32years@bbc said, "Imaresistor,
I could not pull up your post from the other thread. If you have time, please post on this one.
Thanks."
Reply: Of course...
imaresistor said...
32 years said, "Sad we have a pastor who has to be swept up after and reined in."
Reply: It surely is 32! More pathetic than that is it is everywhere. If this were an isolated case...but it isn't. It is all over the United States and world. If I may ask you, what do you know about home churches and would you recommend them? So many of us cannot find a true church anymore...so many are walking out of the frying pan into the fire, so to speak. My husband and I had to leave our church of many years...many members came out with us. It has occurred to us to build a church, but two things stop us dead in our tracks: (1)money and (2) the thought of being able to find a pastor who is not influenced by all this church growth nonsense...it is being taught in the seminaries. How could we know we are jumping back into the pot? Is there any financial backing out there for those wanting to build a church, but not conforming to the SBC? Any grants?
9:47 AM, May 26, 2007
Bystander said...
"IMARESISTOR SAID: So many of us cannot find a true church anymore... It has occurred to us to build a church, but two things stop us dead in our tracks: (1)money and (2) the thought of being able to find a pastor who is not influenced by all this church growth nonsense...it is being taught in the seminaries.. Is there any financial backing out there for those wanting to build a church, but not conforming to the SBC? Any grants? "
I'm sorry, but what do you think a 'true church' is? And why do you think you would be discerning enough to define it? And church growth nonsense? What do you call a church that grows? Nonesense? A couple of thoughts: If you know what a 'true church' is, start one. The problem is not the pastor or the money. Do you tithe? Do you have 2 or 3 friends that tithe and would fall within the circle of your 'true church'? If you do, you have more than enough money to start a house church. It doesn't require any significant amount of money at all. Meet at your house (...house church...). Worship, read the Scriptures, and pray for a Godly leader. And then follow him. And stop whining about what you don't have.There are millions of house churches all over the world. It is one of the fastest growing movements in the Church Universal. There are a number of books that describe starting, leading, hosting, growing, a house church movement of God. Most believe they have the only 'true church' just as you do. But I wonder if it's dawned on you that there will be many people in heaven that believed differently than you? I'm not trying to be rude-please forgive me if I sound so, but often the active bloggers on this blog give the impression that you ARE the 'Remnant'...the only true church. I don't condone what the leadership of Bellevue has done in any way. They have erred in many ways. They have no defense and no excuse. But if you're so sure you know what 'a true church' looks like, go start one. Don't use a lack of money or pastor as your excuse for not doing so.
There are many good, Godly churches AND pastors in the country. You imply there are not. I think you might think more about the diversity that exists in God's family with which you may disagree (I'm not talking about Bellevue), and acknowledge that you don't hold the corner on truth. Sorry but I see a lot of inuendo, gossip, unproven reports, etc. that aren't edifying to the Body of Christ at all and very little tolerance or grace for those who may believe differently than you. Do you really think Heaven will only have Southern Baptists? You might want to think that one all the way through. IMHO
12:20 PM, May 26, 2007
10:51 AM, May 26, 2007…Preacherdude777 graced us with his comments on the last blog during this time frame, in case you want to read that as well.
Ima's Reply to 32yr@bbc: ??? And, I am still interested in what you might be kind enough to allow me in my original post to you. :)
charlie wrote:
"It would appear that NASSY did a "Plunk Your Magic Twanger, NASSY' on Bystander. Did I just age myself or what???"
Not this time, Charlie. Apparently "bystander" deleted his/her own comment because I didn't do it.
Oh, and Charles? Refer to me as "Nassy" again, and I'll plunk your twanger!
powerGmommy said...
Charlie,
My favorite....both Mike and patriotic music!!!
I know I PROBABLY won't go to GBC forever but the "refreshment" will be wonderful!
I miss enjoying and looking forward to church.
thanks!
8:50 PM, May 26, 2007
Same here. Its going to take a lot to get me back into church after this. I just don't trust people anymore! And I don't think I can deal with being hurt by another group that is supposed to be "friends" at church who are about as sincere as a used car salesman.
Lynn...said: I saw it. Yeah, it sounds like bystander is a troll.
He just doesn't realize the situation.
I'm not quite sure how to disagree or question the 'majority' on this blog without being considered a troll. Is a troll anyone who disagrees or voices a different opinion? I understand quite well the saga that has plagued BBC and many of you these months.
I've tried to be respectful with each comment I've made.
If this blog is a few good friends who simply prefer to communicate via the web then I've misunderstood and will post no more. However, I wonder, if this is in fact the case, why you don't make the blog a private/by invitation only blog?
The whole world has access to the comments made here. I have tried to counter some of the comments/convictions with what I believe have been reasonable, respectful responses.
I may not agree with some or most of you. But does that make me a troll?
Has anyone looked at my posts objectively? I've not tried to hurt anyone's feelings or offend or insult people. I've simply made statements that are contrary to the opinions of some/or the majority of the bloggers. It feels a little like the treatment many of you have felt from BBC. As a fellow Believer, I would think many of you would understand how that feels first hand and be slow to make others feel that way.
Sorry if that's been offensive. If all or NASS prefer, I won't post.
powerGmommy said...
I miss enjoying and looking forward to church.
REPLY:
I KNEW that feeling all too well!!
momliving4him wrote:
"I heard that something out of the ordinary is going to happen on Sunday. Has anyone else heard anything about this?
"Disclaimer: this is a RUMOR - yet to be confirmed."
No. {sigh} But thanks for the disclaimer.
powerGmommy said... "ima,
so sorry..."
Reply:Gmommy...my life has been so richly blessed by having met you and all the others on this blog. We all truly share each others burdens as is instructed us in God's Word. God bless all of you is my prayer.
Ima
momliving4him said...
I heard that something out of the ordinary is going to happen on Sunday. Has anyone else heard anything about this?
Reply:
Yea something out of the ordinary may happen since Steve Gaines is out of the country earning a little extra spending money.
I guess someone will fill the pulpit and actually preach the Word but then again, who knows these days.
Since Bellevue is paying high dollars to fill the pulpit, don't believe any kind words the speaker may have towards Steve Gaines. They only want to stay on the speaking circuit with Bellevue.
imaresistor said...
powerGmommy said... "ima,
so sorry..."
Reply:Gmommy...my life has been so richly blessed by having met you and all the others on this blog. We all truly share each others burdens as is instructed us in God's Word. God bless all of you is my prayer.
Ima
9:04 PM, May 26, 2007
Ima....I am in total agreement with you on your statement. I've found the people on here to be much more friendlier than those I've encountered up at Bellevue. I've met a couple of the people from here in Person and I must say that I enjoy hanging out here :).
Lynn
bystander,
I didn't say you're a troll, nor did I delete any of your comments. As far as I'm concerned you've behaved appropriately. I don't delete people's comments or ban them from posting simply because I disagree with them. There have been several people who've posted here with whom the majority don't agree, but they've been allowed to continue to post because they have demonstrated a desire for serious dialogue. Then we've had other people, i.e. trolls, whose sole purpose was to stir up trouble. I have not gotten the impression that's your reason for posting, so by all means continue to join the discussion.
I'd just like to remind everyone that while we're all a bit gun-shy because of recent troll activity that unless someone proves himself to be worthy of that label (and they will eventually be banned) that everyone is welcome to comment in this forum within the guidelines that have been put into place. Contrary to what some believe, this is still an "open" forum to those who do not abuse the privilege.
So with that, I say welcome, "bystander"!
Imaresistor, I would like to caution you regarding home churches. There is very little accountability with them and you could find yourself in a worse situation than you are now. Dr. Rogers would be the first one to tell you to stay with the established church. There are many good churches out there. Many good and godly pastors who serve and love their flocks. The enemy is not the church. The enemy is described in Ephesians 6.
He is always working to tear down the Word of God and discourage God's people. Trust the Lord to lead you to a church where you can be fed, where you can grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, and where you can serve Him by serving others.
To Lynn:
Church is NOT primarily for fellowship tho' certainly we need that. Church is a place to assemble with fellow believers to worship HOLY God and to grow in the Word of God and to serve one another. Too many times we go wanting our needs to be met instead of looking around to see whom we can serve, and help meet their needs. Life is not just but we serve a just God and in the end He wins! People will always disappoint us, but JESUS is the one
"unchangeable" in a Believer's life. He is the same yesterday, today and forever, and He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us. Keep your focus on Him and you will not lose your joy no matter how disappointing your circumstances.
There are no plans for the blog to go private any time soon. That's a RUMOR AND HATE-FILLED LIE!!!
bystander,
If I may offer a little constructive criticism , you posts came across to me as a bit too harsh and critical. You can get your point across much more effectively without the harshness. Your post wasn't aimed at me, but it still ruffled my old FOX fur.
32 yrs: You bring up a good point. I keep reminding myself of the PURPOSE of church: to worship our Lord. And also, to be discipled.
I, too, am wary of house churches but I do love small churches. You don't seem to get as caught up in the programs and you don't get worn out getting to everything. Seems to be simpler. At least, that's been my experience.
:)
Nass: That's just pathetic...and wrong....and just....sad.
;)
New BBC Open Forum said...
There are no plans for the blog to go private any time soon. That's a RUMOR AND HATE-FILLED LIE!!!
REPLY:
WOW!!!!!!!!!! UNBELIEVABLE!!!!
32+.
I agree with most of what you say BUT even good Christians get discouraged and depressed sometimes.
I am not the theology person on here but there are several examples in the Bible of people that were trusting and following the Lord but they got discouraged.
Of course ,we depend on the Lord and He never leaves us but it is a blessing when our Christian friends support us.
powergmommy said:
bystander,
I can't comment on your previous posts but the one to ima was ugly sounding.
And we will be going private at some point soon. We know the fight is over( to see changes at BBC not for truth and accountability) and we are grieving and supporting each other.
There was a time when we welcomed people that wanted to dialog or argue but we have become weary and we have bonded so we are protective of our friends here.
You win...so why hurt us anymore.
Reply: Ugly sounding? I win? I win what? I'm not trying to win anything. I'm not trying to be ugly. And I am not trying to hurt you anymore.
I was under the impression this blog was meant to be an open forum discussion and not a private support group.
I think you make a great point. If disagreement is too painful, a private forum for encouragement and support is a very good idea-maybe even a better alternative. But that is not the case currently. All of our comments are open for the world to see.
I don't mean to be disrespectful in any way. It just bothers me that all churches and all church leaders often get lumped together with the leadership of BBC, guilty by association-which is an unfair comparison to make of the rest of the Body of Christ.
32years@bbc,
I appreciate your reply and agree with everything you say. Would you email me privately? My address is in my profile.
bystander,
I apologize and stand corrected on the current nature of the blog.
CharlieFox said:
bystander,
If I may offer a little constructive criticism , you posts came across to me as a bit too harsh and critical. You can get your point across much more effectively without the harshness. Your post wasn't aimed at me, but it still ruffled my old FOX fur.
Reply: Thanks Charlie Fox, for that constructive criticism. It's not my intention to be harsh or overly critical. It's a hard balance to find. I'll continue to work at finding the balance.
These are difficult issues for sure. I don't mean to seem disrespectful or harsh. I apologize to all for missing the balance.
bystander wrote:
"It just bothers me that all churches and all church leaders often get lumped together with the leadership of BBC, guilty by association-which is an unfair comparison to make of the rest of the Body of Christ."
Did someone really say that? They lumped all churches and church leaders together with BBC? If that's the case, I agree that would be a very unfair comparison. Thankfully, not all churches and church leaders are anything like what we're seeing at BBC today. If they were, I'd have already given up on church completely!
Well, since you all are so off topic, I will post again.
I look forward to going to church tomorrow. Where I have been visiting lately, the atmosphere is friendly, pleasant and respectful. The choir sings beautifully - without a screen or "praise team", the congregation sings straight from the hymnal, there is not big screen and the minister preaches a sermon from the Word.
BLT...
share!
Lily: Where do you go that doesn't have a screen??? If you want to email me directly, my address is in my profile!
Lily,
What church is that? I may have to visit it...it sounds nice!
bystander,
Thanx for your understanding. The people here are open to dialog and discussion, but because of the post of some who post solely to antagonize, abrasiveness is not well received. Feel free to dialog and discuss to your heart's content. It ain't what ya say, it's how ya say it.
New BBC Open Forum said:
Did someone really say that? They lumped all churches and church leaders together with BBC? If that's the case, I agree that would be a very unfair comparison. Thankfully, not all churches and church leaders are anything like what we're seeing at BBC today. If they were, I'd have already given up on church completely!
Reply: Thank you NewBBC OpenForum, the problem with typed communication is finding a way to accentuate properly. I meant for the emphasis to be on OFTEN. Let me try again. Many churches and church leaders often seem to be lumped together with BBC leadership...guilty by association.
I was trying to make the point that there are many, many good churches, church leaders, and pastors that shouldn't be lumped together with the fate of BBC.
Again, my apology for the miscommunication and thanks for the clarification.
PowerGMommy: You've got mail!
Charlie Fox said:
...because of the post of some who post solely to antagonize, abrasiveness is not well received. Feel free to dialog and discuss to your heart's content. It ain't what ya say, it's how ya say it.
That is so true Charlie Fox. I have been reading this blog for months and I don't quite understand why frustration so often leads to antagonizing and abrasive posts. If there is ever to be any understanding, any clarity, any openess to change, it's not in the midst of being antagonized.
Lily,
How wonderful you have this in your life! You have given our fellow bloggers an adrenalin rush, you know! They may well be knocking the doors off the hinges of your church. I might if I lived within close proximity, which I don't! But never mind about me...I will be attending the church of Bro. Jeff Noblit in the morning...and I am the lucky one! What a tremendous preacher of God's Word he is!
Bystander: If you have joined us for months, then you know we have a great rapport and can discuss without getting "not nice"....except when we get attacked!
We are a bunch of sheep that have been hurt for many different reasons who seek integrity, accountability, and truth.
Welcome. :)
concernedsbcer said:
Bystander: If you have joined us for months, then you know we have a great rapport and can discuss without getting "not nice"....except when we get attacked!
We are a bunch of sheep that have been hurt for many different reasons who seek integrity, accountability, and truth.
Welcome. :)
Reply: Thank you very much, it's nice to feel welcomed.
For those who want to know where I have been visiting, please swallow whatever beverage it is you may be consuming so as not to spew on your screen.
I have been attending River Oaks Presb (can't spell it). BIG GASP - not a baptist church! Well, the sermons are sound, the Presb philosphy (sp?) is not promoted and the choir sings beautiful hymns with piano and organ accompaniment (?sp again), they are friendly on a "real" level, we sing from the hymnal and the entire service is REVERENT and WORSHIPFUL. Something I have been sorely missing.
Lily,
Although I have never been to that church, I have heard nothing but good things about it. If I'm not mistaken, the pastor is a Godly man that has been there for years, yes?
BLT: I have heard such great things about that church.... (and the fact that I could WALK there from my house- did you hear that Lynn??? No gas needed!)
Thanks for sharing.
buzzard t lily said:
I have been attending River Oaks Presb (can't spell it). BIG GASP - not a baptist church
A BBC sheep has gone astray!!!
Are you happy Steve! : )
Come on now Buzzard Lily...you don't mean you don't have an Elvis impersonator? Now tell us the truth!
Awwww....someone is upset to be in Memphis and not eating at endless buffets and smelling the sea air....
Poor BABY.
Reply to Bystander:
The pastor is a godly man. The sermons are more on the lesson side than the evangelist side, but my visits there have fed me more than anything I have received from BBC since 2005.
Bob Barker,
Get lost. Don't start.
bob barker is what you get when you
overturn cyber-stones...someone needs to squish it.
IMA teased "Come on now Buzzard Lily...you don't mean you don't have an Elvis impersonator? Now tell us the truth! "
Oh, I can tell it's been a long time since you have been in a reverent and worshipful service - you can't even imagine it anymore.
Tease back at ya.
bob barker - hows Ventura, Ca?
BOB BARKER RETIRED!!! Go to your retirement home please and thank you.
Bob doesn't live in a retirement home...they just tell him that...he lives with alot of white coats and rubber rooms.
If I were in California, I would be in Laguna Beach eating the best fish tacos I have ever had.
Boy have we veered off topic in a very big way.
Yes bob, I have been to a lot of places out there.
Buzzard Lily said, "Oh, I can tell it's been a long time since you have been in a reverent and worshipful service - you can't even imagine it anymore."
Reply: :) I really have been receiving a wonderful blessing in church recently. I am blessed with the likes of Jeff Noblit and Paul Washer. Just have to drive thirty-five miles oneway to get there. It is worth every mile. They preach the Word of God...Truth! I am happy for you! How great!
Buzzard Lily T said...
If I were in California, I would be in Laguna Beach eating the best fish tacos I have ever had.
reply: yuch!
BLT: Everyone is thinking it...I'll ask. FISH TACOS? Please describe.
Right on time. I post and it goes silent.
Siiilent night...Hooooly night...Allll is calm, allll is quiet. I must scaaare away theeee sheep.
Gone to bed. Dreaming of fish tacos. There is one place in this town where you can get some pretty good ones, unfortunately they are closed on Sunday.
Preacherdude - you must try them. They sound awful, but a real fish taco is excellent.
Goodnite all.
Preacher: I thought that only happened to me! I think there are 3 threads that ended on my posts!!!
Couldn't resist repeating from an earlier post in response to preacherdude and the silence of the sheep.
Remember "sheeps is dumb".
concernedsbcer wrote:
"Please describe."
Uh uh, please don't! All I can think of is the stuff Dr. Bill Loney describes! I don't have the stomach for it tonight. :-(
Nass: If you can stomack sg's antics, surely you can read about Fish Tacos!!! LOL
Greetings Newbbcopenforumers,
I feel it is incumbent on me as a highly trained medical expert and fellow higher primate to once again warn the public of the impending Sasquatch danger.
Our local authorities have been inundated with sightings of this hideous and hairy beast...and worst of all, his area of habitation seems to be in or around the area where I take my evening jogs(shirtless of course).
Could it be that the Texas Yetti is stalking the good doctor? Could he somehow be attracted to the smell of Brut 33 and pickled mackeral that permeates my jogging shoes? And how is it that he remains so well camouflaged, so that such a great number of people have seen him, but not me? And where can a man buy jogging shorts that come with a pre-cut hole for vestigial tails?
These are questions that must be answered! I will not sleep or eat til these riddles are solved! Well actually I probably will sleep and eat...the not sleeping or eating thing was probably a little melodramatic...you see, while I was getting my online medical degree from the Mexico City Community College Medical School, I minored in theater, so I was actually just displaying my thesbian side.
Just remember though, guns don't kill people, Bigfoots do! Well actually, there are not any recorded cases where a Sasquatch has killed anyone...it was the acting thing again, sorry...curse you 'dramatic' flare!
William T. Loney, MD
PS...Padroc, sorry about your spleen and whatnot, but it wasn't me...and leave my sister Jill alone! You do not want to anger a girl who weighs a metric ton!
concernedSBCer said...
Preacher: I thought that only happened to me!
No, I have taken that crown away from you....it is silence of the lambs....and I bring it on.
Dr. Looney: Carry a can of Spam with you at all times. It can be used as a weapon.
concernedsbcer wrote:
Carry a can of Spam with you at all times. It can be used as a weapon."
Yeah, especially when opened!
Doc Looney said:
And where can a man buy jogging shorts that come with a pre-cut hole for vestigial tails?
I will ask my father-in-law...I believe he has a pair or two laying around.
PREACHER!!!! Dad Gum....It's too late to say something like that!!! A Spew moment for sure..........
Dr Loney said,
"so I was actually just displaying my thesbian side."
Reply: Doc, are you getting 'thespian' and 'lesbian' mixed up here? Sure hope so, or you are one mixed up dude. Or dudette. Whichever.
Ha ha! For sure! Of course, pdude will be sleeping on the living room sofa tonight, but it was worth it!
Concerned,
Way ahead of you...I carry a squirt bottle of spam smoothie as I jog...it has all the essential vitamins, minerals, and meat by-products that a jogger needs. And nothing cools off my sweat matted inhuman hairy body better than pouring ice cold spam smoothie all over it! (how's that for a visual Nass?)
But, Sasquatch will get my spam smoothie only when he prys it out of my cold dead hands!
WTL, MD
vestigial tails?????
I had to look that up and that is far more disgusting that fish tacos.
Thanks for crashing my dream. Of course it is my fault for not going to sleep but just browsing a bit longer.
The sofa and I are good friends. We see a lot of each other. : )
nothing is a nasty sounding as fish tacos. I get an upset stomach just typing that.
OC
Thespian, Thesbian?
who cares, when Sasquatch is currently plotting my untimely and probably unseemly demise?
Focus people, Focus! Bigfoot must be stopped! And jogging shorts with pre-cut vestigial hole tails must be found!
WTL, MD
Okay, after some research, I have been told on great authority that Fish Tacos are Yuk. BLT, I am sorry.....but that is as yuk as a Spam smoothie............
Just sayin'
correction: vestigial tail holes
The texas yetti is getting in my head man!
Best place for fish tacos - Southern California.
Best place for fish tacos around here - new little place on G'town Parkway, south of Walnut Grove, across street from Chik Filet at end of little strip mall. Turn as if going to the Awful House.
Very good food - NOT Taco Bell or other pretend Mexican venues.
Dr. Loney: I have an idea....
Throw him off your trail by a disguise. Get a body wax...he won't recognize you! I'll bet it will work! No more reported sightings.... I promise!!!!
(Sorry; I had to rewrite because I misspelled Dr. Loney's name. Sorry, Doc!)
buzzard
are you a vestigial tail-a-phobe?
And I thought we as a nation had for the most part gotten past our bias' and prejudices.
I have a dream, that one day, doctors with questionable credentials and large collections of "Joanie Loves Chachi" dinner plates, will be judged by the content of their character, and not by their vestigial tails(and taste for canned meat products and fresh tripe).
WTL, MD
Isn't "fish taco" an oxymoron?
Kind of like "chicken fajita." (Chickens don't have fajitas.)
concerned,
wax? No way!
I just had my back hair french braided.
WTL, MD
Buzzard Lily T said...
Best place for fish tacos - Southern California.
Best place for fish tacos around here - new little place on G'town Parkway, south of Walnut Grove, across street from Chik Filet at end of little strip mall. Turn as if going to the Awful House.
Very good food - NOT Taco Bell or other pretend Mexican venues.
Reply: I would guess he Awful House is where one would purchase awful fish tacos.
Taco Bell is real, genuine Mexican food. : )
I have a hard time picturing a Mexican worker heading down to his favorite mexican resturant to eat a few fish tacos! That is wrong on so many levels.
New BBC Open Forum said...
Isn't "fish taco" an oxymoron?
Kind of like "chicken fajita." (Chickens don't have fajitas.)
Remember, you must think outside the box. ;}
New BBC Open Forum said...
Kind of like "chicken fajita." (Chickens don't have fajitas.)
They do in Kentucky.
Dr. Loney: I understand. It would be bad to wax off freshly braided back hair (I cringe as I type this) Keep your Spam handy is all I've got to say.
Keep in touch!
;)
Dr Looney PLEASE!!!!
that visual is too gross even for powerGmommy!!!
A shirtless hairy man is plenty...the braided hair makes me have to drink gingerale!yuk yuk
french braided back hair...hum...I see a possible new business opportunity....maybe add blonde streaks too....this could work!
Preacherdude - if Taco Bell is your version of Mexican food, than I know you have never had a real fish taco.
In fact, I can't believe the yuk response from others. Warning - don't try a fish taco from just anywhere.
Thank you all, I have removed those horrible tail things from my mind and am now focused on fish tacos.
This time I mean it. Good nite.
BLT: Well, at least your Fish Taco place is right by the church you are visiting!
I think I'll stick with the beef kind though.
However, I should point out that this is a good example of those of us on the blog able to disagree in an agreeable way, even about really important things! It does not impact our view of each other.
:)
BLT...I never even had a bad fish taco...never will have a good or bad fish taco.
Just never been that hungry or desperate.
I refuse to be a prisoner in my own abandoned Dairy Queen walk in freezer!
The shirt's coming off, I'm putting on my jogging speedos and green chuck taylor hi-tops, and I'm going for a late nite jog. (And ladies, please refrain from carnal thoughts)
BIGFOOT...IT'S GO-TIME BABY!!!
WTL, MD
PS...if you should read of my violent demise at the hands of the Texas Yetti, please donate my '81 El Camino to charity
Please! someone jab a ink pen in my head! I want to get the image of Doc in speedo's out of my mind!
OK Dr Looney...you actually made me LOL with the carnal thought remark!!!LOL
Preacher: This could be the breakthrough the evolutionists have been searching for.....the missing link!
someone is missing a link...scary to think doc could be involved. : )
haven't left yet...
my vestigial tail keeps popping over the waistband of my speedos!
only one alternative....
WTL, MD
Too Much Information, Dr. Loney.....
I'll cut a tail hole...
What? Were you thinking something else? Again, refrain from the carnal thoughts!
WTL, MD
On that note, I withdraw gracefully!
Good night everyone!
Doc, running at night is the nicest thing you could do for us.
I believe I speak for all here...........Thanks!
ALERT!!!
I didn't get half a block away, and I heard the blood curdling screams of passing motorists...he must have been right on my tail(no pun intended), because they were throwing beer bottles and stones in my direction! But I didn't see him...again!
O' Bigfoot, why dost thou torment me so?
WTL, MD
Dr looney...you ARE Looney!!!lol
ditto powerade momma
WTL
You did it again!! LOL I don't laugh that easily....I think it is your Thespian training!!!
Good night all.
The church is the Bride of Christ and He will perfect His bride in His time. Do lose heart or faith in Him.
pdude777,
Do NOT lose.......
nite...
Ok,this night woman has to try and sleep or I will not hear the alarm ring at 6AM for church....
The Doctor is in! WhooHaaa!
Joe... Joe, get he dogs... get some Brute 33 and some mackerel, we're going hunting. Huuuuury! What do you mean where are we going? There is a traveling rare history book van that will be set up near where we last heard from our delightfully melodramatic professor of medieval histrionics and we must be ready. He didn’t fall for the spleen story, (and I thought my years as a thespian….. Oh phooey, one thespian fooling another thespian…. NOT), but we are now sure that he has a sister and that her name is Jill… WhooHaaa! Joe!... come on, who else would have a metric ton sister but a “loney tune” like the doctor. Which………… Ohhhhhh my…. I’ve got it….. Yeeeees! I’ve got it! Forget the Brute. Forget the mackerel. Forget the dogs…. More “dog” ideas. We’ll find the book van and set up an athletic clothing store right next door. And guess what we’ll have that no one else has? Come on Joe…. Think man… We will run a special on jogging shorts with a hole for his vestigial tail. Woooo! What do you think…Huh? Good…. Right! Were on to him this time.
Jill… what can I say? I am so very, very sorry for even thinking of bothering you. Your brother is really terrific. No particular problem… really. Everything is OK now. So sorry.
Dr. Bill was that really you we heard sliding through “The Beauty of the Earth”?
The way the sounds reverberated through the canyons was just spectacular. I was so moved and filled with praise unto God that for a moment I lost all sense of my immediate and crucial objective. Just a thought, do you….. Well…. How many dimensions are there in your world? You do seem to be equipped for another dimension. Any way, I’ll give you credit … you’re really “schlick” with the thinking stuff.
So what’s my immediate crucial objective today? Staying one step ahead if my brother Luke who wants my money and getting one step closer the one and only Dr. Bill Loney to retrieve whatever it was he carved out of my gut, all the while walking with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords according to his Holy Word.
For the glory of the Lord and a whole lotta fun along the way,
Padroc
All,
I just got a call from chuck and he has asked if... big IF I caught up to Dr. Bill, would I see if there was any way for me to retrieve his high tops. He confided in me that he lost them fair and square over a question of a man walking in another man’s shoes with the very astute and cleaver Dr. Bill Loney. Chuck said that Dr. Bill took him up on his offer to try to walk in his shoes and then … put them on and walked away… not to be seen or heard from until Dr. Bill showed up here on this blog. There is a lesson here folks. Dr. Bill you gota help us with this one.
Padroc
padroc,
don't grand dads go to bed earlier????
I thought only middle aged gmommys have trouble sleeping...once their power aid runs out!!!
padroc,
Considering where those high tops have been since then... I'd just let them go. Know what I'm sayin'?
We'll take up a collection or something.
This is all so sad. We visited Bellevue many times while our daughter and son-in-law were members there. Dr. Rodgers presided over the baby dedication of our firt grandchild. I'm sure the Lord is grieved over what is happening in His family.
Whow!!!!!!!!!!!I went to bed early last night and what a crazy blog I missed... What kindof those new POWER Drinks did you all get into?
Watched the T.V. Bellevue Broadcast of the sermon of Peter and fishing.... From the other thread someone said about Jesus being the spotter on shore for the fish. It was in the sermon on T.V. this morning...
Where did all the names of the new people come from? Bystander are you sure you want to join this bunch:) Gotta find something to laugh about or just crying time all the time.
We have been at Bellevue for years and the memories of the OLD BBC are almost too painful to think about...We had a great S.S. Class. The members were loving and caring folks and we could not wait to get there on Sunday morning and hear the word of God taught. Tom Clayton was our teacher and what a great Preacher and Teacher he was. How we missed him when he and his lovely wife retired and left. Some of our best friend are from the OLD days at downtown. The first singing Christmas Trees.....Susan in the tip top of the tree...The beautiful Bells that were played.What music we had. Sooo much to remember that was good would fill up a complete page. The womens meetings and Wednesday night fellowship suppers and prayer meetings.
NASS-
I’ve been out of pocket since yesterday morning, and I am quickly catching up before our family moves on to the next item on our itinerary for the day. I appreciate your 11:07am post from yesterday morning (different thread). Thank you for your work. Thank you for providing qualifiers when you post a thread.
-----
I am going to post something that was on my mind yesterday. I was going to delay it, but…since there appears that there has been a severe case of silliness going on with some of the postings on this new thread…I am going to go ahead and post what’s on my mind. It is becoming increasingly difficult for some of us to weed through some of the ventings and silliness on here…but…I guess I kind of understand that this is also an outlet for some to alleviate their stress and vent on the blog during this difficult time.
There are many of us who hear or read something, and we (hopefully lovingly and respectfully) challenge the information or report until we get to the source(s) involved to verify the accuracy. Unfortunately, I also believe that there are those who see or read something and immediately believe it to be true. Some accept anything they see or hear as truth. Then, they “re-tell” the story to others and present it as truth. Yikes…that is scary, and it is wrong.
Someone told me on the ball field the other night: “Anybody can say anything about anybody at any time, but that does not make it true.” That statement is probably the understatement of the day! Yet, other “stories” wind up being absolutely true – even though they initially seem to be outlandish and just plain wrong.
I will expound on one specific story that occurred recently. This is regarding the recent March 25 business meeting. I have read correspondence from Bryan Miller to a Bellevue member where he (Bryan) assured that he was not aware of any plan to adjourn the March 25 business meeting after a pre-determined amount of time. Yet, David Coombs admitted to a Deacon Officer in a meeting held 3 days after the business meeting that THERE WAS A PLAN TO ADJOURN THE BUSINESS MEETING AFTER APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES. I go back to a post I made a few days earlier: Either Bryan Miller lied, or he has been deceived. Let’s get real. Bryan is the Chairman of the Deacons, and he was the Facilitator for the business meeting. Yet, he didn’t know about the plan to adjourn the meeting??? Ok….hmmm…gee, I wonder which it is??
I also agree with what Churchmouse said in her/his 9:47am post yesterday morning. Churchmouse said (and I quote thusly): “However; 90% of the information I have "heard or read" about BBC's problems have ultimately been true.” Ouch. I share that opinion. I used to avoid the blog for various reasons. I truly wish that most of the things that have been on the blog had turned out to be false. But, most have been true!! Some of the “stories” or “events” that seemed outlandish and couldn’t have been true…but were…include fence climbing, I had a dream…oops…no I didn’t, Weatherwax letters, Union City comments, FUMC donations, Paul Williams, etc.
Many of the things that my family and I have heard over the last 21 months have been…well…absurd…and other stories have been outlandish. Admittedly, I wish that most or all of these stories had turned out to be just that – stories. Unfortunately for our beloved church, most of these stories have turned out to be true!
I wonder if Steve Gaines, David Coombs, Bryan Miller, Harry Smith, Steve Tucker, Chuck Taylor, John Caldwell, and many others that comprise the BBC Leadership are proud of themselves. I wonder if they give each other a high-five in their meetings.
Does Steve Tucker mumble under his breath and mimic any of them in their private meetings like he does the BBC membership? Does Harry Smith respond with “I don’t know” when any of his fellow leaders ask him a question? Chuck told everybody back in September that “the 180 deacons had all been equipped with the answers” and to “ask any of them if you still have questions.” Yeah right! I wonder if the Finance Committee has come up with just how many babies can be murdered with the $25K gift they gave to FUMC? I wonder if anybody had to climb any fences to find some tiaras and beauty pageant scrapbooks and swimsuit photos and beauty pageant trophies to be placed on display in the DG shrine? And this display has what to do with spreading the Gospel??
Bellevue has become something else. Our leaders are self-centered and self-serving. At this point, nothing would surprise me regarding something that our BBC leadership has said or done.
facts only: We can discuss serious topics as well. Sometimes we relax and have a fun time together; we've become family and, as Proverbs 17:22 says, "A merry heart doeth good like medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones."
However, you are right. "Stories" we have heard have most been proven to be true. It is a tragedy for BBC and for the believers that have been mislead, used, and thrown away.
There just are not words.
Thank you for the opportunity to express some of the trial that I have been going through since sg arrived at Bellevue.
I began attending Bellevue about 7 years ago and I was amazed the very first time I walked into the sanctuary. The music was so beautiful it brought me to tears. The music transported me into the very throne room of God. I saw HIS MAJESTY, and HIS train filled the temple! It transported me into HIS awesomeness and Majesty. O how refreshed in my inner most being I became and all the problems I was going through once again paled in comparison to the Almighty who Loves me with an everlasing love and is able! In the music I saw Jesus! My soul sang out the tremendous things He had done for me! We sang of the works of the Lord and we sang of HIS GLORY. I totally lost self and we collectively focused on Him.
For those years, now that I look back at them closely, when I listened to the messages, (and they were from a large variety of pastors), my inner dialogue while listening was: God, You are so Awesome! Wow! O Lord, thank YOU! Father, I love you. Father, please cause me to.. Father forgive me....... Thank Lord that YOU alone are able! I love you Abba.
That is how my inner dialogue went.
When we prayed my soul was humbled before His Throne, and we together came before Him and the Amen was my Amen.
The Holy Spirit was there. He had some kneeling, some raishing hands and some postraited before Him in their inner chambers. But HE lead the way and we each followed Him as He led.
CONTRAST; I can no longer tollerate the noise and crashing brass and show in the sanctuary. The noise is too loud. The focus is on the singers and performance and one sunday while struggling with why I was so miserable and irritated, I began to write down some of the words they were singing. I AM a friend of God, I AM I AM I AM . Well, the only I Am I had known that was truth up until now was the Great I AM. That Name belongs to God alone and here we are singing it ad nauseam. Plus, it was a lie. Jesus says that HE will call us HIS friend It is conditional, IF we OBEY HIM. Wow! How many shouting out that one are in obedience to Him? How many more are being deceived by those words that are a half truth?
Then we continued onto a song about I WILL. I WILL was repeated over and over again. I will do this or that for God. etc. Well, the only I WILL that I know of are the I WILLS of SATAN. The songs too often are all about me! I can't sing them becaise they are not true about me. Sentimental drivel. I hated the so called worship and would stand outside the doors until the noisy, loud, brassy show was over.
Then I heard someone say that Jamie said he didn't learn to worship until he went to gardendale!
After the noise, sg would say how the Holy Spirit was present. I had to sit there and for ten to fifteen minutes block out what ever else was said and my inner dialogue was: if the Holy Spirit was here, and I felt brassy noise and thought of of the Babaylonnnian Brass, then do I not any longer recognize the Holy Spirit? How can sg feel the Holy Spirit and I don't? What has happened? Haave I any unconfessed sin?
During the message, I got the message that sg didn't like Bellevue. Later on that proved to be right on target. My inner dialogue was: I cannot believe he said that! Don't these sheep know they have just been insulted? Why are they clapping and laughing? What do you mean when you say, Even the people at Bellevue can raise their hands? Do you think we are so stupid we don't know that? Do you know know that raising of hands is what we are led to do by the HOLY SPIRIT and not you? WLhy have you taken away our right to say amen when we are led to say amen by God? You now TELL US TO SAY AMEN! That used to be the Holy Spirit who gave us the freedom to whorship Him as HE led not as you dictate.
That is how my inner dialogue changed.
What was internal and before the Lord now was an exercise in the EXTERNAL. Take the knee, was the commant that replaced, in Spirit and in Truth. Say Amen if you agree with ME< became the command that replace, Thank you Lord.
dEvery church I go to grows became part of the numbers game that ruled success or failure. It was the NUMBERS we were told that measured if God was blessing.
Then we were told we were going to be TAUGHT how to pray. We did not know how to pray? That was a shocker to me! I had always prayed and knew that Bellevue prayed and prayed for me for my cancer recovery. How did Bellevue become Bellevue without prayer? What do you mean, we will NOW learn to pray? Isn't that an insult?
Wow! We even had a SKIT in Sunday School to TEACH US HOW TO TREAT NEW COMMERS THAT WERE NOT LIKE US! Can you IMAGINE how stupid we were that as big as Bellevue is, we did not know how to treat new commers? How insulting and childish and what a waste of time! What a mockery of the people of Bellevue!
I thought the church was a Body. The Body of Christ. It has many mekmbers and they are all important and all essential. Now I feel like I'm on Amimal Farm and there are those MORE EQUAL than the sheep! They preach and sing and take over the whole show and even tell you when to say AMEN and tell OTHER, TO KEEP QUIET BECAUSE THEY SAY AMEN WHEN SG DOESN'T GIVE THEM PERMISSION TO SAY AMEN!
That's the tip of how things have changed for me at Bellevue. For me it has Ichabod on the lentil.
Everyone is afraid to speak their mind at chruch. There is a fear that we will be blackballed and excommunicated if anyone finds out how we feel or think. There is fear that our phones are being tapped at church. for those who are employed at Bellevue I have been told by several, that they fear their job loss if anyone knows what they think. People mistrust each other. They spy and gossip about each other. The sheep that are left are divided. All the mature sheep and those who know the Lord and His Word for the most part are gone or have gone "underground". The Pastor, not the Lord has become the issue. Everything seems upside down, and the spirit the moment you walk into the doors is totally different than it was before sg. just one man's opinion.
Your right Rod.
In Bellevue today, your not considered equal unless you join the Steve Gaines Kiss My Butt Club. A Club I refuse to join!
I may not be a strong Christian, but at the same time, I'm mature enough to call malarkey when I see it. And thats all that there is up at Bellevue now. A bunch of malarkey.
Rod,
Your post is full of emotional depth and passion for what is holy.
All I could do after reading it was stop and pray.
Thank you.
Rod,
I don't know what to tell you, except I'm sorry for your pain, brother. Very sorry.
Friendships have been broken. People and families have been split over man. There is a spirit of division and of fear, and of betrayal Some of us are ashamed of the behavior of those in leadership who threaten the sheep and call them names and climb over fences to intimidate and use mafia tactics to silence any discention. We are ashamed of the bullies. We are ashamed of how the pedophile was protected and the victim was once again a victim and not treated fairly. We thought that only the enemies of God protected the perpetrator and trashed the victim. Are we wrong? Are we confused? There is much confusion now.
1 Corinthians 14:33: "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints."
If leadership is causing confusion, I have to wonder who is leading.
Rod,
But you know what? It is about fear,isn't it? Men afraid to stand and fight, worried about positions, what it looks like, what others may say, what they may lose. It's enough to make you puke, isn't it?
Well, welcome to weenie world. Where all your most cherished values mean nothing. Where having character means that you are an enemy of the state. Where being true to yourself and God is a detriment, and will certainly be met with scorn. (Don't be 'amening' without the expressed permission of the National Stevie League.)
We may have thought ourselves to be safe, not being a 15 yr. old girl and all, but think again. Now they have gotten brave. Now we can be assaulted no matter what our age, anywhere. Equal opportunity assaulters. And of course that's not all, but I need to stop, because I'm getting... angry.
Yeah Rod, you should be sad. We all should.
Rod.
PS. All of Heaven weeps.
Now the Lord said to Samuel, "How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have selected a king for Myself among his sons."
....................................................................Then it came about when they entered, that he looked at Dliab and thought, "Surely the Lord's anointed is before Him."
But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as a man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."
Question: have we looked at the outward appearance of a man and possibly missed the man that God alone has chosen for Bellevue? He alone sees the heart. Sg said he could not come to Bellevue because he had signed a 5 year covenant with Gardendale. Did he break the covenant? what does the Lord think about broken contracts and covenants? Were we too stuborn to accept his first no? Was that from God? Were we looking to the outward man and not really trusting the Lord? FBreaking a contract is very serious in the eyes of the Lord. Do you really think He would bless after that? Just wondering out loud. I don't know.
Concernedsbcer said,
1 Corinthians 14:33: "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints."
If leadership is causing confusion, I have to wonder who is leading.
Reply: No you don't. Scripture is clear, and you believe Scripture. Case closed.
WatchingHISstory said...
The secrets of the pedophile's heart was made manifest to SG.
REPLY:
With all due respect, you aren't saying anything that is unknown.
Hey Charlie, my friend. Glad you are here.
"New BBC Open Forum said...
Kind of like "chicken fajita." (Chickens don't have fajitas.)
They do in Kentucky."
And that is ONLY because KFC and Taco Bell got married. They are now called the 'YUM'.
Watching said,
charlie
exactly!
the pedophile's secrets started 17 years ago.
Reply: And your boy? What did he do?
"Sg said he could not come to Bellevue because he had signed a 5 year covenant with Gardendale. Did he break the covenant? what does the Lord think about broken contracts and covenants? "
As we have been studing 1 & 2 Peter, I became aware that God tells us there WILL be false teachers. Not if. Not maybe. It is a fact. They come in secretly. We have been warned. They are all about themselves. And we are also told that they practice deceit in broad daylight even after coming in secretly! (The secret part, could very well be that NO ONE talks about what they did at former churches!)
We are also told that even the 'elect' will be deceived.
Scary.
In reference to WS who will not let it go...
Did you all ever wonder why the other apostles did not pick up on Judas all that time until the end?
lin: It says in John 13:27 that Satan entered into Judas. I always wondered if Judas was somewhat "on board" until then. Or if God had blinded them, so His plan would be carried out, making it hard for the others to see Judas' true character. Regardless, God is in control and whether folks were blinded to SG early on or whether he is not as committed as he was earlier, I guess the question is "What now?" What would God have the believers of BBC to do?
And Rod, you make an excellent point. God does not like broken covenants. We see that all the way through the Old Testament. Just sayin'
(And by the way, Watching, can you harp on a different tune? That same note has gotten old.)
To the general eye, Judas only hurt Jesus, which was God's plan. God's plan is never to hurt a child. Mark 9:42 "And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea."
Find a new note to pound.
Just checked the weather for SOTL's cruise...86 degrees! Ahhh...cool ocean breezes.....
Watching said,
Could judas and the pedophile serve the same purpose?
Reply: is that your purpose on this blog?
Dear Blog family: My son just reminded me of this passage and I apologize for answering a ridiculous charge.
Proverbs 26:4 "Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him."
Hey blog friends,
I went to church today and it was good to be in the house of the Lord!!
The familiar faces were the sweetest.
Since Rod yanked at my heart,
I thought I would write some of my thoughts about the years at BBC...even tho I have done that all along.
My disclaimer is that I am well aware that BBC was never a perfect church nor was Bro R a perfect man. But I loved "my preacher" as my son always called him.
And there was Never a doubt that Bro R loved the Lord and loved us.
The first time I visited BBC was downtown. I even remember I wore a red sun dress. My baby (now almost 28)was 1 or 2 then.
I thought Bro R's voice was beautiful....and shamelessly I say(I was in my 20's!!) his "presence" was beautiful.
I felt safe from the first day I was there. I cried during every sermon for at least 3 months.
My preacher told me that Jesus would meet me where I was....not that I was tarnished and would never be good enough for Jesus to love me or use me.
I heard music every Sunday that blessed me to the core. Tommy Lane was more formal but it was great. At my first Living Pictures....I understood things about Jesus I had not thought about before.
My children had the same 2nd grade SS teacher. They were baptized by the same minister.
The friends I made in the SS class I was in when the kids were young are still some of the deepest relationships I have today.
The day we explored the new church in Cordova, I was pushing my son in a stroller...
it seemed like no time before we were walking out of a service together and he was asking me if he was old enough to get a "margin". I asked what he meant by that.....he said, Bro. Rogers always says to "write this in your margin"
and I really think I need to get one. We bought a small black spiral notebook that day. He still has it and it is precious to read.
I learned and grew along with my children really.
As my son did Bible drill,Boy's choir,and handbells,...my daughter blossomed in drama,the Singing Christmas Tree, missions trips and anything else she could do.
So much of our history, memories, and loved ones revolve around our church, like so many others.
When I lost my husband ,home and the life I knew...we moved near BBC because my son said he would feel "safe" near our church.
It was really hard but God used so many loving people from the body to help us along the way.
I saw a precious lady today at GBC that loved us thru that 1st year. The man I have so much respect for whose name has never been mentioned on this blog except when I gave his initials once(PM) came over with a bucket of tools to help us. I had just cried out to God that I needed help!! I needed a real person with tools not just prayers!!His sweet wife saw me on the soccer field and said...I bet you need help...
I have already mentioned that I didn't know Linda MCQuiston very well but she came over and helped me paint.
This is already too long so I can't possibly say all the teachers,friends,music,strong scriptural preaching, life changing programs and classes I was blessed by.
But the contrast is here.
BBC is no longer a "safe" place where sin is called sin and our pastor's love for the Lord and for the lost bring him to tears.
Not only is scripture manipulated and watered down to justify SG's slanted theology and personal goals ,lies are told from the pulpit with no shame or fear.
Bro.R chose to go against the cultural tide at all cost to himself. He could do nothing less.
He poured over scripture in prayer to teach us God's word.
We are now given elementary fill in the blank outlines....we no longer NEED our "margins".
A deacon who betrayed his wife was once brought before the church and he was man enough to accept the consequences of his sin. He stayed at BBC but was no longer allowed to be a deacon.
PW confessed to SG that he molested his own child but SG declared it under the blood and saw no reason PW could not only continue as a minister but didn't bother to check to see what his duties were....
and PW left that confession room saying...I have never felt so affirmed in my life.
BB's 5 year affair was KNOWN by certain elders we didn't know we had and deacons but only when a true elder pushed, was he asked to step down...but never brought before the church by this leadership.
The current leadership and Sr pastor have shoved so many sins under that rug that NOTHING matters anymore. We are told that the scripture qualifications for a minister are JUST GUIDELINES...and a slippery slope.
A woman who stood up and spoke out during one of Bro R's sermons was gently and politely led out of the service by a minister who walked down from the pulpit chairs.
We watched as SG and the almighty board of directors sitting in those chairs at the bogus business meeting ignored,
shut off the mics, and said NOTHING to acknowledge the victim of the staff sexual predator as he waited to speak
!!! This person grew up in BBC but not one of those men put their arms around him that day.
We throw our pearls before swine and our tithe money down the toilet.
I longed for restoration
but now I pray for God to do what ever He must to expose the lies, sin and corruption of the current BBC leadership.
" we are also tod that the "elect" will be deceived>"
Matthew 24:24
For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders, insomuch that , IF IT WERE POSSIBLE, THE SHALL DECEIVE THE VERY ELECT.
Watching,
You got real quiet, real fast.
Concernedsbcer: that's what we call in Texas, "cuttin' their water off."
Concerned: That is the very reason we have to stay in the Word and on our knees before a Holy and Righteous God.
OK....JUNK!!!
did I shut things down now????
David Smith taught a great lesson today. He mentioned the difference between unity and uniformity. Unity that honors God is based on TRUTH and comes as result of what Jesus did. Uniformity says "Shut up and go along. If I want your opinion, I'll ask for it"
His topic has been prayer the last few weeks and continued in John 17:20-26 today. It was a real blessing.
With everyone changing their names on the blog, I have thought about chaging mine to "confused."
We are suppose to have men that boldly stand before"God Almighty" and tell the mountains to move and they are suppose to move. However, I feel we will have to go back to the time of "Saul" and God will have to produce a "David." Just a boy to stand up to the abuse of our churches of today. We should hang our heads in shame to let what is happening at BBC and other churches to go unchalleged.
I hope all the power brokers of today's churches are happy with their rewards, because their Heavenly Rewards are going to be few, if any. The last on earth will be first and the first on earth will be last.
As someone stated last night MEN [not mice]WHERE ARE YOU????????
David put on the whole armour of God and defeated all his enemies. I suppose the men of today do not beleive that. Oh, how very sad. God still owns all the armour that David used.
powergmommy,
I just wanted to say I loved your tale of how Bellevue was and compared to today's Bellevue. I WISH Bellevue was still like it was back then.
This is merely my opinion, but, sometimes I wonder if the rest of the church tends to take after the personality of its leaders. I mean, look at your tale. Under Dr. Rogers, you was welcomed with open arms and loved by the membership. Now, with the mentality of Gaines, it is not as friendly to those who are new or those who disagree with leadership. Thus making us more like outcasts than anything.
lynn said
This is merely my opinion, but, sometimes I wonder if the rest of the church tends to take after the personality of its leaders. I mean, look at your tale. Under Dr. Rogers, you was welcomed with open arms and loved by the membership. Now, with the mentality of Gaines, it is not as friendly to those who are new or those who disagree with leadership. Thus making us more like outcasts than anything.
Piglet says:
I wonder how much of this has to do with the fact that we were once "one in the bond of love" and truth but now that deception has entered into our midst, everyone is watching their backs.
The last few weeks we were there, people were in a huddle whispering, folks wonder who you support, what you know, or in our case - avoid us because we were taking a public stand.
Suspicion has taken the place of brotherly love at BBC. Oh, the tangled web....
(You guys are confusing me with these new names...maybe I should change my name to Eeyore since things look so bleak..."I'm just a nooobody, don't have any mooooney,I'll neeeever make a difference, might as well find anooother church......) :0(
Your right Piglet.
Last few times I was up there...a total of 2 people actually stopped and said hi to me. Everyone else acted as if I was invisible.
ANd Piglet....I'm the Eeyore of the group :p
Piglet and Eeyore are both irreplaceble and important residents of the hundred acre woods.
Just sayin'
piglet,
You have mail!!!
We went to First Baptist, Muscle Shoals this morning and heard this, a great sermon from Jeff Noblit. As I sat there listening, I keep thinking, "I wish the people at Bellevue could hear this." So...here you are, listen. :)
Bro.R chose to go against the cultural tide at all cost to himself. He could do nothing less.
He poured over scripture in prayer to teach us God's word.
We are now given elementary fill in the blank outlines....we no longer NEED our "margins".
--------------------------
powergmommy,
A hearty AMEN to this! Thank you for sharing your memories. Rekindled many of my own.:-)
Another remembrance of mine that I cherish: The lights dimming on Sunday evenings at the end of the service, and Dr. Rogers standing behind the pulpit saying (I can't remember the exact words) - "As the man of God closes the book of God, it's been a glorious day in the house of God." He would mention something about the day and then he would say "Go home and lay your head on your pillow and sleep. He who watches over Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps - and He is watching over you." Before and after those words, the choir would softly sing "Now the Day is Ending." Peace would fill many an anxious heart as we went away to our homes with that reminder.
One more remembrance: When I first came to Bellevue, I remember an analogy he gave that I needed, and think upon to this day:
"Life is like living in a house with only two windows. Outside one window is a beautiful flower garden; outside the other window is a muddy pig sty. You have a choice to either gaze out the window with the flower garden and all its beauty or gaze out at the muck and mud of the filty pig sty."
:-)
Hey piglet...
So in reality what these church growthers really want is uniformity, instead of unity. Is that what you are saying?
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