| Author | Message | ||
| Ericbahme Registered user Username: Ericbahme Post Number: 2 Registered: 7-2005 |
I just wanted to say hello. For nine years I've stayed away from postings, readings, etc on Adventism...but feel it's time to at least poke my head back out and say "there really is a great life after Adventism." Thanks to many of you who have prayed for us and followed our story. God has done some amazing things in our life. Just wanted to say hello and God's blessings upon all. | ||
| Colleentinker Registered user Username: Colleentinker Post Number: 2962 Registered: 12-2003  |
Eric, it's so good to see you here and to "hear" you speak to us! Tell us a bit of your journey if you feel like sharing...! We're glad you're here. Colleen | ||
| Riverfonz Registered user Username: Riverfonz Post Number: 1033 Registered: 3-2005 |
Welcome Eric to FAF! I also stayed away from reading about SDA for a similar period of time, but the existence of this forum piqued my interest again. Yes, I agree with you, there is a great life out there after Adventism! Stan | ||
| Ericbahme Registered user Username: Ericbahme Post Number: 4 Registered: 7-2005 |
Thanks Stan and Colleen, I think when one is coming out of something that has been unhealthy it is important to take time away. My families journey out of the Adventist church and Adventist ministry has been the best thing that could have ever happend to us. My daughter will know nothing of the bondage that we faced there. This isn't to say the same legalistic tones do not exist elsewhere, they do...but having come out of something that has been unhealthy take time! I have realized however, that God did have me there for a reason, and I have sensed He has called me to go back and help others in their journey as well. Great to be online. | ||
| Flyinglady Registered user Username: Flyinglady Post Number: 2048 Registered: 3-2004  |
Welcome Eric, FAF is a good place to be. Let us know more about yourself when you are ready to do so. God has a plan for you. Diana | ||
| Randyg Registered user Username: Randyg Post Number: 64 Registered: 12-2004 |
Welcome Eric, One year ago I started studying my Bible again as I was/still am(?) dealing with some mid-life challenges and struggles. As I read through the Epistles of Paul it hit me that there was a lot of good news that I could not ever remember hearing in a life time of Adventism. I found a wonderful website called PRECEPT AUSTIN that provided invaluble access to Bible Commentaries. As I studied it became clear that there were major problems with previously unchallenged doctrines. At some point I stumbled across the FAF website and began to explore the LINKS section. As my questions were answered it became apparent that to do nothing was to go backwards. Good news is only good news if its shared. To this end,I sent off a letter(posted here earlier this week) to my local church board and family.I have spoken privately to some of the board members and have not received a negative response. One said "Way to go, man" and another said "I have been wondering about those same questions for 15 years". My gut feeling is that some of the others are still in shock and wondering "What if he's right". My dear mother is struggling with the fear that one feels when you hear your child has cancer or has been in a car accident. You always worry about your children. For me, time away from Adventism will not be an option. What I have come to recognize is a deep hunger for the good news of the gospel among my Adventist friends and family. For now, this will be my ministry. When I meet these friends and family in heaven I do not want them to say to me, "you knew all about those problems, and were afraid to tell us". No longer timid, Randy. | ||
| Ericbahme Registered user Username: Ericbahme Post Number: 7 Registered: 7-2005 |
Go Randy! Because your journey is still somewhat new you have people you know who are SDA, for me that has all changed and the friends I once had are no longer in contact. I encourage you to keep your spirit humble before the Creator and NEVER allow bitterness to erode your witness. Good news shared without bitterness is very convincing ñ add to that the hunger that I think most SDAís really want and you have a wonderful opportunity ahead of you. Go forward! Eric | ||
| Randyg Registered user Username: Randyg Post Number: 65 Registered: 12-2004 |
Eric, Thank-you for your note.After reading your story I can understand the pain and frustration you must have endured. And we always thought the northwest was progressive. I am glad you did not lose God on your journey.I guess instead, finding God's Will for you is what precipitated your journey. Your new ministry sounds challenging and exciting. Thank-you again for your encouragement. Googling on, Randy | ||
| Colleentinker Registered user Username: Colleentinker Post Number: 2973 Registered: 12-2003 |
Randy, I loved your sign-off, "no longer timid". That boldness is the mark of the Holy Spirit, and I continue to stand amazed at the boldness I see in so many people who before would have worried about people's reactions more than about declaring the truth. When God brings the opportunities to speak, He also gives the words and His Spirit of insight and love. Your experience is encouraging and affirming, Randy! Colleen | ||
| Ericbahme Registered user Username: Ericbahme Post Number: 9 Registered: 7-2005 |
Oh Randy, the google will bring up all kinds of things! For anyone interested in what we are doing now you can always go to the web site for our ministry http://www.eastsidechurch.net. God has done more miracles here than I could have ever dreamed of. I have to say when you step into the River of God's Grace get ready to be washed and washed away! Eric | ||
| Jwd Registered user Username: Jwd Post Number: 152 Registered: 4-2005 |
Eric, Come on in. Kick off your shoes. Pick a comfy spot and set down. What can we bring you? But I must warn you, Eric! BEWARE, for you may be crushed to death by all the love and caring HUGS you will get on this forum. :c) God bless you abundantly in Christ Jesus our LORD. Jess | ||
| Ericbahme Registered user Username: Ericbahme Post Number: 10 Registered: 7-2005 |
Thanks Jess. It does feel good. |
