Assemblies of god?

Hi guys,I have been thinking about going to an Assembly of God church here in VA. I dont know too much about them. All I know is that I went to two church of Gods, and I dont want that kind of fiasco. (people running screaming in tounges/giving false prophecies). Do you guys know too much about The Assemblies of God. I have been to their website, but would like some of your guys input/ experiences with this denomination.I know some of them had some problems with the new movement going around today. but I heard some were okay.Also, could someone let me know what denomination Leonard Ravenhill was in/ or if he was non-denominational.thanks guys.Matthew ;-)

It's hard to give a general judgement about them. There are some that could be crazy, and then others perfectly inline with scripture. It is more of a church by church basis.

I am a member of an Assembly of God church. We don't have "people running around screaming in tongues/giving false prophecies" in my church. Yes, we pray in tongues and there have been tongues and interpretations in our church as well as prophecy. We are a Bible Based congregation.I have also attended a Church of God that was very Bible Based with a Pastor and congregation that love the Lord very much. As with any denominations, churches vary depending on the Pastor and the Congregation.

So are you guys saying that you would recommend this denomination?I want to know because I feel my calvary chapel just isnt spirit filled. I sit there week after week, and see people that dont want to get intimate with god. They go to church every sunday, and leave with no fellowship or they dont even bother to say hello to new people.I feel the lord is calling my finace a I to try new churches out, but there has been such a problem here with trying to find a church that is really into the word. Please pray that I will be able to find a church in my area.Im still looking on input if you guys would recommend a Assembly of God.god blessboomattP.S. Sorry if I came accross kind of harsh

I personally minister in alot of Church of God's and can't recall once seeing people running around shouting in tongues and speaking anything falsely. But of course what do I know? I also minister in the AG churches (assemblies of God). As in almost every church in the world, especially the penecostal or charismatic churches, the outward manifestations of the Holy Spirit are eithr allowed or squelched by leadership, as is the manifestations of the flesh or any other manifestations for that matter (and yes, I've been present where demons manifest trying to counterfiet God). Local church leadership sets the tone or temperment of the happenings in a local service, not---I say again---NOT the National organization or name sake, or denomination. Personally if you have a problem you need to address it to that church leadership and not not publically on a very public site like this one.Test the spirit-- pull on it-- melt it down-grind on it-- and see if its of God. If it's the Holy Spirit they shouldn't get offended. And who knows? Maybe you missed it? Personally I'd rather find a group of christians who I could fellowship with in spirit and in the Truth and not worry so much as to denominational labels. Just a thought?

obviously, when pastors and the congregation dont even care. nothing will happenI have addressed the problem with all the churches and they said they dont want to condemn anyone. but if it is fake, it is fake, dont lead sheep astray. People have to have discernment when it comes to these things, and when I prayed to god through each service, the people exposed themselves. Like when I was a Church of god here in fredericksburg ( and not all church of gods are bad) the preacher, a woman told the congregation that she got healed by cancer and if you just believe, that You will also be healed, 100%, no matter what (citing Isaiah). There was another service where everyone started shouting in tounges, and the preacher slapped a member in the butt, and the person supposedly got filled with the holy ghost and ran around the building with everyone laughing in the so called spirit. I cant believe we can play all of these games, while people are dying in this world. Christianity has become such a joke to so many people.Once again brothers and sisters, I am not condemming these denominations as a whole. I want to try an Assembly of God, but nobody has recommended them to me. I am not condemming, I just get angered when people try to twist scripture to fit into their little doctrine. I also get fustrated when people tell me you arent living a full spririt filled life, if I dont speak in Tongues, I think this is crazy. I think love goes a lot more than that. I would like some input on the Assembly of God, Because I am still usure about if I want to go to one or not. I usually like a pentocostal church, but as of recently, they have turned me off. But I feel this one(practically in my backyard), is good. I see them coming to church everyday, all excited, and would like to try to go there and see what is up.the only assembly of god church I have been to was David Wilkerson dads old one in Scranton, PA and the pastor loves the lord. but I didnt really get to hear anyone preach that much, that is why I am trying to see if they would be worth it to try out. blessings, Matthew

boomat.....every (AOG) church i have been to has been health & wealth prosperity associated. Everyone i have been to they are alll spiting and shouting while do body discerns or interprets what they are doing. Everyone i have heard of and been to have not taught the (cross)of Jesus or (take up your cross) i have heard many ministers swear at these church's in sermons.Almost evrytime i have been it has been about money....in fact at one in particular they only opened the bible after one hour of drawn out "worship" when collections was been passed around and guess what the "sermon" was??? "the rich man went to hell" lol so people gave more out of a hype because they played the music during it....whilst the Preacher critcised people who did not give money.One instance a (AOG) church had around 2000 people screaming/ blabering/ jumping/ crying at at man who had "a hard week" while the preacher had his hand on him he moved his hand around and the man was having what seemed to be a epileptic fit. The man who hads the preachers hand on him started to cry and then prophesy and then sing....etc. etc. while the whole building was lauging and crying it relief at seeing the man bluber with no interpretation.i have never heard the following words out of a (AOG)follower's mouth....REPENTANCEJUDGEMENTMORTIFYHELLSACRIFICEHUMILITYSTOP SINNINGHowever i hear these words commonly.....HEAVENMERCYFORGIVENESSPROSPERITYLOVELOVELOVEFREEDOMPROPHESY"BLA BA DA BLA BA DABLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA BLA BA DA"Now......thats is a generalisation on my p[art for i have not attended every (AOG) affiliated church in australia or the world.....that is just my experience. And my post is not for poking fun at or degrading anyone...i do it out of truth....I beleieve that Leonard Ravenhill was a Pentecostal....however he was acting a reformer with in the movement....i dont believe he associated himself with any denomination of Christianity. God bless u all!

Hi boomatt...I have attended several Assembly of God churches since my Mom met the Lord (while I was about 8 years old). The Assemblies of God are quite interesting in that there are so many different personalities amongst the various local churches. Since they operate almost entirely autonomously -- with just basic "rules" for each local body from the national office -- there is a wide spectrum of variation of beliefs and custom. There are some local churches with a "mega-Church" type of attitude. There are some that seem to openly embrace the modern "easy-Christianity" and prosperity approaches. And then there are alot of ultra-conservative Churches. In my opinion, the rural churches tend to be more conservative (and classic-pentecostal), while the urban churches tend to embrace more modern (and charismatic) practices. Interestingly, at many of the youth camps, counselors and leaders are often forbidden to preach alot of the more "charismania" type of beliefs (like "holy laughter" or "prosperity"). In fact, there are some churches that are strictly "holiness" in nature. It is also interesting to note that Leonard Ravenhill often preached in Assembly of God churches. David Wilkerson was raised in A/G Churches, graduated from an A/G Bible College, and ministered and was licensed with the Assemblies of God for most of his life. Even the non-denominational Times Square Church founded by Brother Wilkerson has its doctrine modeled after the "fundamental truths" held by the A/G. Unfortunately, it seems to me that even some of the more rural churches are beginning to permit some of the more questionable modern practices -- particularly in their desire to attract youth. I do not currently attend an A/G Church. However, the small non-denominational fellowship that I attend is quite similar in doctrine to some of the more classic A/G churches. I suppose the best thing to do is to attend it for yourself and see for yourself. In a nutshell, here is the major doctrines required for all Assembly of God churches to adhere:WE BELIEVE...The Scriptures are Inspired by God and declare His design and plan for mankind.WE BELIEVE...There is only One True God–revealed in three persons...Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (commonly known as the Trinity). WE BELIEVE...In the Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ. As God's son Jesus was both human and divine. WE BELIEVE...though originally good, Man Willingly Fell to Sin–ushering evil and death, both physical and spiritual, into the world. WE BELIEVE...Every Person Can Have Restored Fellowship with God Through 'Salvation' (accepting Christ's offer of forgiveness for sin). [1 of 4 cardinal doctrines of the A/G]WE BELIEVE...and practice two ordinances—(1) Water Baptism by Immersion after repenting of one's sins and receiving Christ's gift of salvation, and (2) Holy Communion (the Lord's Supper) as a symbolic remembrance of Christ's suffering and death for our salvation. WE BELIEVE...the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a Special Experience Following Salvation that empowers believers for witnessing and effective service, just as it did in New Testament times. [1 of 4 cardinal doctrines of the A/G]WE BELIEVE... The Initial Physical Evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is ‘Speaking in Tongues,’ as experienced on the Day of Pentecost and referenced throughout Acts and the Epistles. WE BELIEVE...Sanctification Initially Occurs at Salvation and is not only a declaration that a believer is holy, but also a progressive lifelong process of separating from evil as believers continually draw closer to God and become more Christlike. WE BELIEVE...The Church has a Mission to seek and save all who are lost in sin. We believe 'the Church' is the Body of Christ and consists of the people who, throughout time, have accepted God's offer of redemption (regardless of religious denomination) through the sacrificial death of His son Jesus Christ. WE BELIEVE...A Divinely Called and Scripturally Ordained Leadership Ministry Serves the Church. The Bible teaches that each of us under leadership must commit ourselves to reach others for Christ, to worship Him with other believers, and to build up or edify the body of believers–the Church.WE BELIEVE...Divine Healing of the Sick is a Privilege for Christians Today and is provided for in Christ's atonement (His sacrificial death on the cross for our sins). [1 of 4 cardinal doctrines of the A/G] WE BELIEVE...in The Blessed Hope—When Jesus Raptures His Church Prior to His Return to Earth (the second coming). At this future moment in time all believers who have died will rise from their graves and will meet the Lord in the air, and Christians who are alive will be caught up with them, to be with the Lord forever. [1 of 4 cardinal doctrines of the A/G]WE BELIEVE...in The Millennial Reign of Christ when Jesus returns with His saints at His second coming and begins His benevolent rule over earth for 1,000 years. At that time many in the nation of Israel will recognize and accept Him as the Messiah, the Savior who died for them and all mankind. WE BELIEVE...A Final Judgment Will Take Place for those who have rejected Christ. They will be judged for their sin and consigned to eternal punishment in a punishing lake of fire. WE BELIEVE...and look forward to the perfect New Heavens and a New Earth that Christ is preparing for all people, of all time, who have accepted Him. We will live and dwell with Him there forever following His millennial reign on Earth. 'And so shall we forever be with the Lord!' Source: 16 Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God I hope this helps! I know that when I travel, I often look up the local churches in the local phone book. I usually start my search looking at the local Assembly of God or Calvary Chapel fellowships. :-)

does the (AOG) denomination believe that Jesus came as a man or "god-man"?Does any deomination believe that the world actualy became "flesh" as the bible says? i know of church's but they are non denominational. interesting.God bless yall

Hi guys,Thanks for the info, I will try this assembly of God out this weekend, I pray everything will go good.I have a question, can anyone elaborate more on speaking in tongues as the initial evidence of being baptized in the holy ghose. I'm not sure I really understand what that means? Are they trying to say you know you have been baptized in the holy spirit, if you speak in tongues. The times I have heard people speaking in tongues and practicing open sin would not support this doctrine, but maybe someone could elaborate more on this for me?thanks guys for your inputI look forward to hearing back from you guys.matthew

WWJD said “i have never heard the following words out of a (AOG)follower's mouth....REPENTANCEJUDGEMENTMORTIFYHELLSACRIFICEHUMILITYSTOP SINNING”These are all common words that my AOG Pastor uses in each sermon or Bible teaching. These are all things that I as an "AoG follower" think are very important. So do most of the people in our congregation. I am not a person that recommends denominations, as I have attended many good churches in different denominations. However, I was raised in the AoG churches and so they suit me. I think that, Matt, you and your wife should just try that church if you think that it seems like a good one. You will not know unless you meet the Pastor and attend the church to check it out. Not all AOG churches teach the false things that WWJD has experienced. As I said above, it depends on the Pastor and congregation at each church and if they have a relationship with Christ or are Christians in Name Only.Best Wishes in your search.

Hi boomatt...!Thanks for the info, I will try this assembly of God out this weekend, I pray everything will go good.I was wondering about your experience. How did it go? Thanks! :-)

Boombat,I think that Dozman's advice was really good advice:Personally I'd rather find a group of christians who I could fellowship with in spirit and in the Truth and not worry so much as to denominational labels. Just a thought?----I was always of the impression that Calvary Chapel, really get into the Bible a lot...I am friendly with a Pastor from Calvary Chapel, and they study the Scriptures a lot.Derek Prince, said something quite wise about attending Church. If you find the perfect church, don't tell me, because if I go there it won't be a perfect church anymore.Ravi Zacharias makes a point about worship not being confined to any geographical location. Yeah, let us know how it went at the AOG, I got my first Bible Study from a minister in the AOG, he lives in Schenectady and ministers at the Calvary Taberacle...AOG... (big smile)

Hi boomat,

I'm a certified minister with the North Texas District of the Assemblies of God. I'm at your service to answer any questions you might have concerning the fellowship. For the most part, people here have been giving you accurate info. The churches are autonomous, with a section presbyter presiding over your area. Pastors can run the churches any way they please - as long as they don't come in conflict with the 16 fundamental truths.

I think the Assemblies of God are solid doctrinally; we don't make a big deal out of tongues and prosperity like some people might think (at least we're not supposed to!), but again, I can't vouch for all churches affiliated with the Assemblies. If you look around hard enough, you're bound to come across one with questionable activities.

All the AG churches I've been to have been good. My only complaint is spiritual complacency. But this has contaminated every denomination; AG Pentecostals are no exeception. To our credit though, the Assemblies of God have had a phenomenal history in terms of the world missionary movement.

Basically, if the pastor is on fire like he should be, you'll be fed and grow in the Lord. Praise and Worship depends on the church. I've preached in old, country chapels that do the blood and holiness hymns western style; and I've been to the First Assembly of God in Boca Raton, Florida where the worship is ultra-modern with jazzy horns and Latin-American and African instruments. I guess it really depends on the demographic.

I hope you find the right fellowship wherever you end up! God bless.

Yes, Dave Wilkerson's message "Another Gospel" is a strong rebuke. I feel almost physically sick when I hear prosperity preaching, as I know it's such blatant heresy. The warning of the whole "gain is godliness" lie is right there, black and white in God's word.

Rev. David Wilkerson has an ordination from the Assemblies of God, and his Teen Challenge program is currently run by the Assemblies of God. Ravenhill was Wilkerson's mentor, as Tozer was Ravenhill's. How fortunate and blessed Keith Green was to end up in that circle!

Hi PaulWest...

Good point. By the way, my sister and her husband attend a wonderful A/G church in the Dallas area (in Cedar Hill).

A few months ago, a person claimed that David Wilkerson changed his position about a pre-trib "Rapture." I simply wrote an email and asked whether or not this was true. One of the pastors from Times Square Church responded. Pastor Neil Rhodes wrote:

Dear Chris,

Thank you for writing to Bro. Dave.
Bro. Dave has never stated otherwise concerning the Pre-Trib rapture. He has often said his calling is to preach in such a manner as to keep people ready for the rapture. Times Square Church holds to the statement of faith of the AG.

Trust this sets you at peace.

God bless,
Pastor Neil Rhodes

Sadly, there are alot of A/G churches that are beginning to shift toward the prosperity/health/wealth message. Some churches are even beginning to employ those corporate "church growth" methods that are so familar to mega-churches. But there are still a lot of great A/G congregations and pastors. When I travel, I typically look up the churches in the local phone book. I love to visit A/G and Calvary Chapel congregations.

:-)

THE Assemblies of GOD rock my face off! I absolutely love it, this church has done so much for me and I love them with all my heart, no doubt, I didn't even know that such warm, caring, truthful christians really existed like this til I came to Grand Rapids First Assembly of God, that's my testimony about it, y'all!

Hi Chris and JesusIsLife,

Yes, the church I attend is very solid too. Our pastor is what you would call "old-school"; it's for this reason many have left to go to more seeker-friendly, non-denominational fellowships. Our congregation is small - about 100. It's a good church in that you get a great Spirit-filled atmosphere with the emphasis on God's Word rather than manifestations of the Spirit and Gifts.

As a Pentecostal preacher, I love when God's Spirit moves in tremendous ways, but I also know that this can lead to an over-emphasis of the gifts and a neglect of the fruit. Jesus said we would be known by fruit and not by gifts. A healthy church will have these two areas well-balanced, as I think mine does.

But you are right, Chris. There seems to be a trend where some AG churches are becoming increasingly charismatic and prosperity-based, and this is horrible. If the church I attend starts going in that direction, by the grace of God I'll be the first one out, brother!

W_D_J_D wrote:
every (AOG) church i have been to has been health & wealth prosperity associated. Everyone i have been to they are alll spiting and shouting while do body discerns or interprets what they are doing. Everyone i have heard of and been to have not taught the (cross)of Jesus or (take up your cross) i have heard many ministers swear at these church's in sermons.

One thing you need to realise is that for the most part, AoG in Australia has lost the plot, but there are some exceptions. One little church up in Melton stands out in my mind, who preached a very Evangelical gospel, with Charismatic power evidenced (as opposed to 'Charismaniac showing off' as seen in Browesville and Benny Hinn meetings). My understanding of the situation in the States is that there are many variations within this denomination.

Remember that we are talking about a movement that has been the home base of David Wilkerson and Jacob Prasch, while at the same time John Kilpatrick and Benny Hinn.

At the end of the day, the remnant is scattered throughout every denomination, as ar false converts. This shouldn't surprise us. After all, what do you think the parable of the tares is all about?

I have been to quite a few AG churches, and 98% of them have issues with multiculturism.
the majority of the congregations are caucasian, with only a small percentage of minorities, and no minorities on staff. I know a Pastor ordained under the AG and he is a minority, and he says that within the AG denomination there exclusion of minority pastors. I have even been involved in ministry in an AG church and have felt that they had problems with minorities within there denomination. Ths was at a church in Texas

I'm amazed at the broad brush stroke of questioning and condemnation of AG. As a childrens director at a very Godly AG church, prosperity, health and wealth and all that are FAR from the 98% claim. People are people and 1 visit to 8 different AG churches doesnt make me nor anyone else an expert. People can take things to extremes in any church and the reality is if I attended your church, there would be "failings" or "Things taken out of context" there as well. We are all flawed. Christianity isnt a denomination but a relationship. The AG church I attend is EXTREMELY multi-cultural and has been so for 40+ years. We have an Indian Group on our campus, Indonesian, Russian and Nigerian as well. AG is missions centric by DESIGN so these statements of lack of multiculturalism and INTENTION denial of minority pastors or leaders just doesnt fit the history of the AG church.

Our AG church is NOT the exception as many would have it seem. We're all in HIS Body...made whole by the blood. Let's focus on the positive within our own churchs and be a blessing to own local body of believers so others dont claim lack of biblical teaching or truths.

It is grievous to me to see many other postings as well that love to criticize other preachers, other fellowships...all in the name of "Discussion". The BOdy of Christ gets enough attack from the world...why are we so bent on adding to it...again under the banner of "discussion"? I am admitted flawed but I'm certain such critical tones of any denomination as broad brush strokes as I read here...are not accurate nor pleasing to GOD. Let us love one another and correct in love as well. Amen.

Bless you! Amen!

Brother! Fellow laborer at AG in Columbus ohio for Kids Minsitry! Bless you for your words!

Not to be critical of AoG, however my statements are based on ACTUAL experiences being a worship leader/musician at several AoG churches.
I find many have a few minorities within the congregations, but there are none on staff, and the only minorities that may be on staff are the musicians because they bring the musical "flavor" to the service which is why they wanted me, I have been around a long time and have played for numerous denominations, but i stand by my statements and looking back at the inception of the AoG denomination it was birthed out of the Church Of God In Christ denomination (Predominantly African American) as a result caucasion pastors left and formed a predominantly caucasion denomination hence the birth of the Assembly of God. Truth is Truth.
I agree that race shouldnt matter, however the fact of the matter is that it does within many a religious institution. HE_Reigns, Thank you for your insights, very encouraging

If anyone has questions regarding the AG denomination, I'd be more than happy to give some honest answers based on my own experience. Note, I am a former AG minister, credentialed through the North Texas district, Austin section. I've decided not to renew my certification in 2008 for doctrinal reasons; however, "racism" is something I've never encountered. We have minorities on staff at our church - and not only in worship.

Where in Texas are you, Yulandop?

Brother Paul

Hi Paul, I'm in Dallas

Hi Paul, I'm in Dallas

Pleased to meet you! I'm in San Marcos, but my wife's brother attends SAGU - Southwestern Assemblies of God University - in Waxahatchie (just south of where you are). Small world! God bless you, and welcome to the forums.

Paul

Thanks I know some of the staff at SAGU,
I played for some of the professors at a few services. :-)

I can honestly say that because we're a small church in central Texas, we have a pretty healthy mix of anglo/hispanic all around. Our pastor is anglo, but the two elders are hispanic. Black visitors never stay too long, because when they do come they are usually the only blacks there. My wife, who is Mexican, teaches Sunday school to the kids between ages 6-13, and I am white, non-hispanic - and it seems I am excluded from everything (haha)...unless at the last moment they need a minister to fill in for Pastor's Wednesday night Bible study. I'm just glad to used in ministry whenever the chances come.

Anyhow, I'm certainly not complaining, and I really do love the church God has put me in. But I think that if I didn't have a personal walk and love quiet time in God's Word, things would be pessimistically different.

;-)

Paul

Hi Paul,
I've been in large churches, and small churches with AoG, and one thing is always aparrent within the majority. African Americans do not stay long, they may visit, but many do not stay. Being an African American myself the only reason that I see is that there is not an acceptance of the culture. I had attended an AG church of about 1500 members and maybe 8% african american. I was involved with the worship team. I cant remember ever being invited to an anglo's house for dinner, or fellowship, mind you I was at this church for years. Now In comparison to the hispanic culture you will find that churches will implement a "spanish" service to cater to the hispanic population. However regarding the African American Culture Many anglo churches cannot relate. They cannot play the style of music that we are accustomed to, and (from my own experience)many worship leaders/musicians are intimidated by the skill of many african american musicians. In almost every church that i have played for there was an uneasy intimidation from the ministers of music because of the lack of ability. which in my opinion is crazy. But that is the reality of it. Just a personal experience and observation, nothing negative.

Hi yulandop...

Is this 8% of African-American attendees somewhat reflective of the local population's diversity? The population of the United States consists of about 10-12% African-American. However, this number is often different in regard to the local community. There is a greater concentration of African-Americans in or near major cities or in southern communities. It might be interesting to notice the racial or ethnic makeup of your community before considering any sort of bias.

The last AG church that I attended was about 65-75% hispanic -- which was reflective of the ethnic makeup of that community. There were certainly services implemented for those who could only speak Spanish. However, these services (both English and Spanish) were devoid of "cultural influences."

But one question needs to be asked: What African-American "culture" are you speaking about? Music? Dress? Speech?

Don't you think that our "culture" should be lost in regard to our relationship with the Lord? When I came to the Lord, my preferences were for a certain style of music and dress (although I was quite eclectic in my tastes). However, my relationship with Christ caused me to let go of those things in exchange for simply knowing Him. In other words, I "let go" of those things in favor of something "greater."

I have seen quite a bit of discrimination within the mouths of individuals who claim to be a part of the body of Christ. This is quite disappointing. However, I don't suspect that meetings that are devoid of particular "cultural" styles of music, dress or speech are reflective of racial or ethnic bias. My wife, Mireya, is hispanic (born in Mexico). We attend a bilingual congregation. However, the traditional Mexican "culture" does not dictate our meetings. People don't come to meetings wearing sombreros. There aren't any Tejano, Mariachi or Salsa songs played during worship. In fact, the songs that are sang in Spanish sound quite a bit like the English counterparts -- except for the language in which they are voiced ([i]Amazing Grace[/i] sounds lovely in Spanish, btw).

I am a musician. I play both the guitar and the piano/keyboard. However, I'm not asphyxiated with a cultural "style" when I play for the Lord. I simply use my instruments as an object of worship and praise.

In regard to the Assemblies of God, I haven't noticed much of a racial or ethnic problem within the congregations. Most of the congregations that I have attended (both large and small) are reflective of the communities in which they are found. The exception is with Spanish congregations that are built upon the [u]language[/u] of the meeting (rather than a "culture"). In the congregation that I currently fellowship, I am one of only a small handful of "anglos." However, I do not expect the congregation to cater to my own English-speaking needs.

My sister attends a lovely AG congregation in the Dallas area (in Cedar Hill). While African-Americans in Cedar Hill represent approximately 30-35% of the population, there are significantly fewer that attend this particular congregation. However, many African-Americans are new to the town (a huge increase over the past 10 years, most relocating from Oak Cliff). The African-American brethren in the area tend to frequent the new, predominantly African-American congregations (which might explain some of the racial/ethnic disparity). I would prefer that there were fewer congregations altogether -- which could allow greater interaction amongst brethren from all backgrounds.

I hope this helps.

:-)

By the way, I have been privileged to attend Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship on a couple of occasions (both in the old gym building and the new sanctuary). It seems to be a wonderful, primarily African-American congregation led by Dr. Tony Evans.

"My sister attends a lovely AG congregation in the

Dallas area (in Cedar Hill). While African-Americans in Cedar Hill"
If you're referring to trinity you really don't want to know my experience with that church. I attended that church for four years. not a pleasant experience.

I'm not asphyxiated with a cultural "style" when I play for the Lord. I simply use my instruments as an object of worship and praise.

I believe one of the most important things a musician or worship leader must take heed of is knowing their audience. you can play for the lord but im not going to sing in spanish for an all anglo congregation u have to use wisdom. in any case I take it you're anglo so things that I have experienced you will never experience in regards to racial division. so I wouldn't expect u to really grasp what I am saying.

Hi yulandop...

If you're referring to trinity you really don't want to know my experience with that church. I attended that church for four years. not a pleasant experience.

I believe one of the most important things a musician or worship leader must take heed of is knowing their audience.

in any case I take it you're anglo so things that I have experienced you will never experience in regards to racial division. so I wouldn't expect u to really grasp what I am saying.

But aren't we glad that God makes no distinction to race or ethnicity? What an awesome God!

:-)

Good Morning! :)

Ah yes i remember crossroads assembly, i have been there before.

"I think that the most important thing, by far, is simply to know the Lord. When I play music for Him, my biggest question is to find out what He desires".

I see and slightly agree, however there's a difference between personal worship, and leading worship in a congregation. In personal worship you are having your own intimate worship to God, however when leading a congregation it's not "Playing for Him" it's ministering to His hurting people and what the Lord wants to accomplish through you via worship for His people through the anointing within you.

When you are a "Leader", of which there is a difference spirtually and in the natural in relationship to level of skill for musicians and Worship leaders spiritual maturity. Your focus intimately, and spiritually is for you. However as a result of personal intimacy, God's anointing should be an overflow in the service, and the congregation of which you are leading. I'm speaking from a leadership point of view, not from the perspective of a musician.

"But I think that I understand where you're coming from. I've attended several congregations that were "trapped" in the traditions of their Church. One congregation, in particular, was confined to allowing an organ to lead every song. I've never enjoyed an organ very much".

Arent you contradicting yourself??
In one statement you're saying that the most important thing is "that you know the Lord"
Then in the next statement you're saying that a church was "Trapped in tradition" because the only instrument that they had was an organ.
"I've never enjoyed an organ" well for you that may be fine, however for the church you visited with, possibly that may be the only instrument that they had at the time, and if "Knowing God" is the most important thing to you then why would a church that only had an organ be "trapped in tradition" from your personal perspective?

"Actually, I am very much a "minority" within my own town"

Well in your "town" I guess that you can relate to know what being a minority is like, however there's a whole world out there besides your little town that may not understand, or accept people different from themselves. In any case If you're content with the Assembly of God thats great for you, continue to support your denomination. However whats perceived from the inside is not always what is perceived from the outside. One thing that I am in total agreement with you on is that "God makes no distinction to Race or Ethnicity" I guess that would mean that in many churches God may not be the focus if they do make distinctions to race or ethnicity.

In any case let's not go back and forth about this I'm glad you're blessed where you are, and I hope God uses you Mightily :)

Take Care. Please, there is no need to respond. :)

ccchhhrrriiisss wrote:
Hi yulandop...

If you're referring to trinity you really don't want to know my experience with that church. I attended that church for four years. not a pleasant experience.

But aren't we glad that God makes no distinction to race or ethnicity? What an awesome God!

:-)

I think that the most important thing, by far, is simply to know the Lord. When I play music for Him, my biggest question is to find out what He desires

Hi yulandop...

Not trying to drag this out by any means, but I just wanted to comment on your questions.

ccchhhrrriiisss wrote:
"But I think that I understand where you're coming from. I've attended several congregations that were "trapped" in the traditions of their Church. One congregation, in particular, was confined to allowing an organ to lead every song. I've never enjoyed an organ very much."

Arent you contradicting yourself??
In one statement you're saying that the most important thing is "that you know the Lord"
Then in the next statement you're saying that a church was "Trapped in tradition" because the only instrument that they had was an organ.
"I've never enjoyed an organ" well for you that may be fine, however for the church you visited with, possibly that may be the only instrument that they had at the time, and if "Knowing God" is the most important thing to you then why would a church that only had an organ be "trapped in tradition" from your personal perspective?

Well in your "town" I guess that you can relate to know what being a minority is like, however there's a whole world out there besides your little town that may not understand, or accept people different from themselves. In any case If you're content with the Assembly of God thats great for you, continue to support your denomination. However whats perceived from the inside is not always what is perceived from the outside. One thing that I am in total agreement with you on is that "God makes no distinction to Race or Ethnicity" I guess that would mean that in many churches God may not be the focus if they do make distinctions to race or ethnicity.

Please don't misunderstand that I am trying to compare my personal experience as a minority in south Texas with the experience of minorities elsewhere in the United States. I have traveled through Mexico and Central America via several missions opportunities. I do know how it feels to "stand out" based solely upon my appearance. But you're right -- it isn't the same. Even amongst Hispanics, there is an ugly attitude of racial prejudice based upon skin color. Some Mexicans actually despise their Native American heritage (and any question about it can be taken as an insult).

It is far more disheartening when believers reflect such racial, ethnic or economic bias. It is quite sad that you have felt such attitudes at some A/G congregations. While it has never been my experience, I suppose that you would know better than anyone.

May the Lord bless you and encourage you in your ministry!

:-)