The Policies and Doctrines of the Church are Sacrosanct

marcel · is under review Joined: 18 Oct 2002 Posts: 2

Hi Eugene,

It is interesting that you refer to popish behaviour by the church leadership.

I posted on the Voluntary Online Adventist forum questioning the validity of the SDA tithing doctrine. I also questioned the anti alchohol and clean/unclean foods doctrines.

Ironically, the most vociferous attacks on me were from other posters about my stance on the tithing doctrine. Some folks were very upset because I referred to "Their Papal Excellencies at the GC".

Not one of those who attempted to defend the tithing doctrine could provide any other "proof" other that the same tired old OT & NT verses which were in fact the verses that sowed the seeds of serious doubt in my mind.

Anyway, I don't want to divert from your subject matter here. I have noticed a very definite tendency by the rank and file membership to never question or discuss policies of the church leadership or doctrines.

Ironically, this attitude is contrary to Ellen White's statements on matters of discussion and new knowledge. As soon as one alludes to any contnetious matter, one is met with stern finger wagging admonishment or stony silence!

Yesterday (Sabbath) we had a lecture session on stewardship rather than a sermon. It was in three parts and the two about our time and the healthe message were ok. The part about the tithe was more of an instruction session on how to complete one's tithe envelope and also about the division of funds. Luckily we didn't have quests from other denominations present! That sort of thing is not in my view for discussion during the Sabbath service. I was very dissapointed as I had hope that it would be a theological discussion on tighing that would perhaps clear some of my questions up for me.

I sometimes feel that I may just as well stay at home and listen to gospel music as the special items sung at church are usually that I find inspirational. Our church often strikes me as cold and legalistic.
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