LETTERS TO THE ELDERS

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If you can't find it in the BIBLE, then it is now right with GOD. If you can condone your actions with GOD's word, you will be justified, if not you are dammed. My daddy was a Church of Christ preacher, back in the old days, when you preached the Gospel. As it was taught! You did not add or take away a word from that BOOK! And only you can know in your heart if you are right. IF YOU ARE NOT FOLLOWING THE 'GOOD BOOK' THEN YOU ARE "WRONG"!!!!!!!!!.

Janie Morrow
1647 Hwy 75
Flat Rock, AL 35966
(256) 632-6486
email: jamorrow@farmerstel.com

PS: There is no way we can get around the Lord's Word. What was right in those days are right now! No way we can justify anything else!

Janie:

Near the end of 2001, I wrote a letter to the elders of the Madison Church of Christ. Somehow, I haven’t been able to locate the link to that letter in the original WORD format, with certain segments bolded, italicized or underscored. I’m assuming that you haven’t read it at all. So, I’m re-posting it here. You will notice that I still feel the same way in many ways the way that I did back then.

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DATE: January 12, 2002

FROM: Donnie C. Cruz

TO: The Elders of the Madison Church of Christ: William E. Bennett, Dale Bishop,
John Broadway, Joe Corley, Norman “Buck” Dozier, Chris Gingles,
Howard W. Henderson, Thomas Hoppes, Russ Kersten, Charles E. Link,
Ken Rice, Norman Slate, Ray Wilson

cc: J.D. Elliott, Bobby McElhiney, Bill Ruhl, Ben Jones, Ed Blackwell;
Steve Flatt, Jimmy Sites, Harold Hazelip, Willard Collins, Jim Bill McInteer, C. Bruce White, Frank Scott, Jim Brown, Jerry Sherrill,
Nick Boone; Troy Treadway, Shana Curtis;
Keith Lancaster, Kevin Dunnebacke, Tom Haddon, Jim Hinkle

SUBJECT: Rick Warren’s “Purpose-Driven Church” Growth Program (a.k.a. “Community Church” Movement) is Evident (and a Nightmare!) at Madison.



I recall when not long ago the worship guide suddenly changed its heading from “The Madison Church of Christ Welcomes You” to “The Madison Church Welcomes You.” That must have gotten the attention of certain concerned members because such heading was discontinued not long after that. That must have been about the time when the neighboring church of Christ in Hendersonville was plagued by some kind of a “movement” (… wonder what it was …) that resulted in the emergence of the Hendersonville Community Church. At least that minority group of “seekers” did its own separation from the majority of the brethren who did not succumb to the truth-compromising efforts of those “seekers.” Let me remind the readers that at Madison, it wasn’t until the formation of the third worship service, its fusion into the second service – now “appropriately” identified as the “contemporary” second service (with its own format of numerous short songs, a short sermon, some lengthy emotion-driven explanation of the communion … all of which occupying valuable space in the worship guide) – that I’m no longer able to find the message in outline form where I could fill in the blanks and have enough space to scribble additional notes in. Is the Madison body of believers becoming the next victim of the “community church” movement? Hendersonville has stood the test! Will Madison be able to stand the test?

Pay close attention to the seemingly unnoticeable details of the transformation process going on at Madison, just to mention a few:

The Madison Marcher (11/14/01), in its announcement of C. Bruce White assuming “pulpit duties,” listed Leanne Shelby as his “Administrative Assistant” – the implication that his position is “Administrator”; there was no mention of his being the minister or evangelist. It also mentioned “ThankSinging 2001” being hosted by the church with Keith Lancaster as the “Worship Leader.” It said that for the year “our posters feature a verse from Psalm 65 … (verses 11-13, emphasis added): ‘You crown the year with your bounty, …the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing.’ “ The bottom of the Marcher states that “The Madison Church exists to reach the lost, continue to grow ….” The MISSION STATEMENT: “The Madison Church in the Spirit of Love and Unity Will: ….” The announcement from the elders on September 23, 2001: “A diversity of methods must be used. We will continue to offer two styles of worship with the more traditional service at 8 o’clock and the more contemporary service at 10:30 … in case you are not getting your way on this, please do your best to get over it BECAUSE it is time to ‘move on’ … we will continue to study the issues of worship … Larry Sullivan will preach … his lesson is ‘What Is Happening to Us?’ “ Other announcements and expressions: “Praise Team Goes to Mid-Atlantic Evangelism Seminar” or “a sense of community” or “Keith Lancaster and Praise Team Return from …” or “Seeking, Serving Sisters.” Notice such announced classes: “HomeBuilders taught by Tom Haddon” and “Seekers taught by Bob Hudson.”

I would expect that under many guises and subtle, gradual ways and means, the “future leaders” of the “seekers” having taken over by that time (if it won’t be the current group of elders of the Madison congregation), will ultimately drop the name of “Christ” and disclaim its identity as belonging to the head of that body, and will officially call itself the “Madison Church” or the “Madison Community Church.” Know what? The transition, gradual as it is by design, has been a nightmare so far. With its dwindling membership, the elders might as well opt for this congregation to be affiliated with or be an extension of the neighboring Cornerstone Church! (The only difference may be just in the frequency of the communion observance. And why not simply give up that one, too?) Should future volumes of the Directory of the Churches of Christ include the “Madison Community Church” (as it is heading towards being identified that way eventually and officially)?

As one of the many concerned members of God’s family in Madison, I feel it is my obligation and responsibility to write another letter. (I have addressed and sent to the elders only one copy of my letter of July 20, 2001 and to Keith Lancaster another copy. Has that letter ever reached the elders and Keith? I wonder! So, I am attaching a copy of that letter, as well as a copy of a subsequent email for everyone to review. (By the way, the entire letter has been posted at this website: www.ConcernedMembers.com/Madison.)

Recently, one visitor from another congregation of the Lord’s church made an unfavorable comment to me about the second service – the distraction … the overall atmosphere of irreverence. At the time, she was unaware of the first service being in a “different format,” which would have been just fine with her. And I’m afraid she is not planning on visiting again.

Another individual who attends the second service quite regularly has mentioned to me a few times (and she happens to love and enjoy singing and knows music very well) that she prefers singing songs with notes over reading the words displayed on the screen. She detests hearing unnecessary interjections of phrases in between lines of a song, and the expression “… and the church says, ‘Amen!’” at the end of a song, she says, “really gets on my nerves.”

A Catholic friend and I have discussed on several occasions various doctrinal differences and issues between Roman Catholicism and the scriptures. Of course, we know that Catholics undoubtedly have difficulty accepting the truth because human traditions, which they claim as church traditions, are no less important to them than what the Bible teaches. The most recent discussion I had with this individual may have been the last one. Here’s why. He asked me where I attended worship services. (Of course, he already knew!) He then confronted me with the ongoing problem at Madison. Needless to say, I could not deny it and the best defense I had was that the church of our Lord is “congregational” in scope with the elders being the leaders and having the responsibility to “tend the flock.” He was basically reminding me to be more concerned about the Madison problem than the fallacies of Catholicism in light of the scriptures. He had a valid point. Obviously, we know where the blame lies.

It is not the intent of this letter to condemn the “lifting of hands” as a sinful act in and of itself. For example, I can do that “literally” when I pray privately with the act NOT being a distraction to others and with the act NOT giving the appearance of being part of a “religious show.” We know there are many examples in the Old Testament in which this act was done for different reasons and in different dispensations. Those who believe in the “lifting of hands” (in the literal sense) as the real indication of sincerity and devotion in New Testament congregational worship often mistake the “lifting of hands” with the “laying on of hands” or with being Spirit-filled -- another controversial issue altogether. Proponents of this act misquote the passage in 1 Timothy 2:8 by stating that “rather we are to lift up ‘holy hands without anger or quarreling’” when in fact the key words here are “men” and “pray” and “holy” – the praying with the lifting of holy hands being restricted to the male leaders. The fact of the matter is that the following verses contrast the role of women by adorning themselves in modest apparel … to learn in silence with all subjection … neither to teach nor to usurp authority over the man. So, what does verse 8 really mean when it says “that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands….”? And what does the following verse mean when it says “in like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel…” and in verse 12 that a woman is not “to usurp authority over the man….”? It would seem that the emphasis in these verses is not in the physical “lifting of hands” (i.e., assuming the man still has hands) because “holy hands” definitely is a figurative description, not literal. How can a man possibly literally lift the symbolic “holy hands”? The emphasis is on the men praying “without wrath and doubting,” as well as on the women exercising their role of “adorning themselves in modest apparel … professing godliness….” Ladies, please do not be offended by the truth of differing roles of men and women in this particular passage.

Let me bring up another issue briefly before I pose the BIG questions to the shepherds of the Lord’s fold in Madison – that of hand clapping and associating it with singing in worship. (I covered this quite extensively in my first letter.) Is it really worth it when only a handful of people programmed to perform the act of hand clapping do so in lieu of the “forbidden” use (for now, anyway) of musical instruments … for such to be an issue in worship? Programmed is such as when this particular song is sung (as perfectly demonstrated by Tom Haddon in a class): “My life (clap) is (clap) in you (clap), Lord (clap); my strength (clap) is in (clap) you (clap), Lord.” So, what is this physical and emotional form of expression in worship that can result in dance and body movement? Isn’t the “rock” (better yet … “spiritual ‘rock’ or spirited ‘rock’”) music appealing to the senses? What about some sort of erotic (“me” focused) “praise songs” in a “body and emotion worship session”? What about the well recognized “praise team” (another term for a “Church of Christ choir”) and its programmed, musical art performance? The “praise team,” along with its “musical leader,” is now at the front and center of the performing stage to replace and control congregational singing. If the “praise team” is doing the singing for the congregation, isn’t that performing? I thought the entire congregation or body of believers should be praising together as the team.

Many of the contemporary songs have come from “spiritual ‘rock’” recording artists’ CD’s and albums. Many songs or chants are short (with a few words only repeated several times) and fast and the harmony too complicated for the untrained to organize and follow – not worship-material. Whoever stands between the “audience” and God pretending (and claiming) to lead me into God’s presence leads me to engage in the “idolatry of talent.” Can’t this be appropriately called “holy entertainment” – a Saddleback terminology? The “holy entertainers” resent this program of worship being called as such. If they resent it, should we call it then “unholy entertainment” – perhaps more consistent with their actions? These “seekers” do not realize that “mature” members are not hard hearted: they simply are highly offended when the elders present them with performance preaching and singing. These “seekers” are not sensitive to the feelings of these members who by nature are not charismatic in the sense of hand clapping as a response to “music.” Instead, these members are blamed for sowing discord when they are the ones being forced into “holy laughter” by the commercial seeker system’s approach to music. 1 John 5:6 states that the Spirit is truth. We are commanded to worship. “God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit (mind) and in truth” – in a collective sense … in knowledge of the truth. (John 4:24)

This admonition is for you, brother Keith Lancaster. Cool it, dear brother. It may not be your intention to lead others to think that the manner in which you are leading the praise team to such a great, sophisticated musical performance is awesome. But if you’re encouraging and causing the young people to be “addicted” to some “favorite person” because they feel you are awesome and have the ability to perform your task, rather than being drawn close to God and meditate upon Him in worship, then that is misguided leadership. It is a form of “musical idolatry.” In addition, it would also be less offensive and distracting to other sincere and serious worshipers (and they’d appreciate it) if you kept your constant verbal expressions and interjections to yourself – they do not need to be reminded of the “pouring out of your ‘spirited’ emotions.” Actually, I would like to listen to more scriptural messages (longer sermons!) and less time devoted to rock music and less time to lengthy testimonies and unrelated human stories that tend to make the observance of the Lord’s Supper less meaningful. “Never being able to have a microsecond of silence is not worship but defeats worship” is a powerful and true statement because this is exactly what is happening in the musical worship program.

Too much emphasis has been placed by opposing sides on specific and separate issues: the lifting of hands; the hand clapping during singing; the overemphasis on the observance of the communion; the shortened sermons (in contrast, do you recall what happened to young Eutychus in Acts 20 when Paul preached and continued his speech until midnight…?); the role of the “praise team”; the new role of the “song leader” being that of a “worship facilitator”; the atmosphere of irreverence and lack of order; and a host of other issues. Yes, these are issues! However, the real root of the problem is the manner in which the elders of this congregation have embraced a ministry scheme that promises church growth similar to and as experienced by some “model” community churches.

There are very serious questions from concerned members for the elders of this body. (Thanks to the website www.ConcernedMembers.com/Madison for making valuable information available to many members who really need to know why this process of “innovating” and “improving” (the word “changing” is inappropriate … we are led to believe) has been in the works secretly. By the way, this letter will be posted at this website in the near future.)

According to the website www.ConcernedMembers.com/Madison, under the section, “WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK AT MADISON … The Timeline,” several activities and events that are part of the entire ongoing scheme have already taken place. The information provided by the site has been thoroughly researched and obtained from reliable sources, and I see no reason to question its validity. I would like to offer anyone who reads this letter and disputes any of the items listed below to respond by mail to me or by email to the website. Please note that the sequence of events is a strong indication of the “gradual” changes taking place in this congregation. Hopefully, this letter will warn other congregations of this crafty movement that is plaguing churches all over America, i.e., a movement of imposed conformity to the unscriptural system of church “universality,” i.e., centralization … with some allowable denominational idiosyncrasies (of the Pentecostal or Baptist or Methodist and other religious bodies). Here are some of the highlights from the site:
In February of 2001, the elders announced that a “third contemporary” service previously formed was going to be melted into the second service at 10:30, which established it as the “contemporary service” with the 8:00 service remaining unchanged. Tom Haddon is instructing his “Homebuilders” class on how to transition the church members over to the ways of the Saddleback Community Church and of “holy entertainment” as a form of diversion in the “contemporary” movement, a means towards a “hostile takeover.” He speaks of leadership, of teaching … teaching … teaching, of being a church on purpose, of 24,000 to 26,000 coming on Sunday morning, of making a strong emphasis on “glorification” that (as he claims) the churches of Christ as a whole have gotten away from and of what he believes that “it is reaching up”(imagine what he means by that).

“Praise teams, hand clapping, and raised hands during prayer have been introduced at the second service. Children’s Sunday School has been changed from Bible-based to more entertainment and singing. Young women teaching Sunday School to baptized young men.” The News Channel 5 report. Then, the meeting in which the deacons ask the elders what is going on – questions dealing with: (1) the digressive role of women in the church; (2) the role of the “worship leader”; (3) the “praise team”; (4) the lack of communication between the elders and deacons; (5) the vision of the elders; (6) the decision regarding the two differing worship service formats; (7) the direction of the worship committee; (8) the elders being divided and allowing the church to divide; (9) the members who no longer attend; (10) the grave responsibility for destroying the unity of the church, … and many, many more.

Watch this! A rough draft of a “Covenant of Membership” written by one of the elders:

COVENANT OF MEMBERSHIP

Fully recognizing that Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord, and having publicly confessed my faith through baptism, and being in agreement with Madison’s beliefs and practices, I hereby declare my intention to enter into a Covenant of Membership with the Madison church family. In taking this step, I am committing to the following:

1. I will share the responsibility of our church family

. . . by praying for the power of God and the Holy Spirit to be upon the ministry
. . . by inviting the unchurched to attend
. . . by warmly welcoming those who visit
. . . by taking a place of ministry in our church family

2. I will support the testimony of our church family

. . . by attending faithfully
. . . by living a godly life
. . . by giving regularly to support the ministry of our church family

3. I will protect the unity of our church family

. . . by acting in love toward other members
. . . by refusing to gossip
. . . by following the leaders God has set in our church family

If I find myself out of harmony with a fellow believer of this Body, I will not defame, gossip, or attempt to harm in any way, but will lovingly pursue the resolution of the matter in accordance with Matthew 18:15-17.

If at some time in the future, I find myself irreversibly out of harmony with the fundamental doctrines and essential practices of Madison, I will not be a source of strife and division, but will peacefully leave the fellowship.

The Madison Church of Christ will provide every resource possible through the Dispute Resolution Ministry to assist you in any type of conflict. Every effort will be made to assist you in finding a church home where you will be comfortable and at peace.

Our Body Life is totally accountable to “The Greatest Commandment” that Jesus gave in Mark 12:30-31.
. . . .


Then, the elders bringing in a mediator (Larry Sullivan) to help with the split within the church; meetings set up for the elders in secret; Mr. Sullivan (who met one elder while attending a “seminar”) has direct ties to the Saddleback organization, therefore, not an unbiased mediator. “EVERYTHING WILL REMAIN AS IS!!!” is the announcement regarding the format of services. A number of sermons on “corporate worship” and joy and entertainment. Meetings by Saddleback planters. And many more events….


Why are the elders allowing this takeover of the churches of Christ, beginning with the larger congregations such as Madison, by this “community church” movement patterned after the Saddleback and Willow Creek community churches? Do they not realize that the conflict at Madison is not internal but is about change by outside influences and by “seekers” whose motive and determination is to replace the Bible with “Bible in song” and to substitute sentimental stories for the inspired word of God and to introduce the elders to new “doctrines” and “essential practices”? That this movement’s emphasis is to target “mega churches” like Madison – “bait to be taken over by those who had rather capture than build”? Will Madison be able to stand the test so as not to be counted as one of the churches that fall into the community church pattern to remove the name of Christ? As we are already aware, there is “hysteria” taking place, even though by design the group of “seekers” is there to teach and make plan in such a way that change comes slowly. Before long, there is going to be some “covenant” signed, as well as designated “inside members” and “trained missionaries” that will be involved in expanding the intrusive acts to other churches. The Madison church of Christ has been a guiding light to other congregations. If this is not stopped at this “higher level” of membership, then all the churches will be doomed to the “dominant pastor system,” instead of being under the shepherding of the flock by scriptural design. For the elders to impose upon the members to “get over it” is not the kind of decision for them to make – that is not what the scriptures designate shepherds as individuals working among the flock, and that does nothing to resolve the conflict. Leaders have been quick to point out that there’s something wrong with the believers when they do not agree with the changes being carried out by the seekers. (These believers are still in the majority considering that many have already left.) But the same leaders refuse to acknowledge the fact that the seekers are indeed the insensitive intruders who have created this conflict in the first place. Is the church headed towards another apostasy in the 21st century?

Beloved elders, please wake up. Only you can STOP this powerful force of the “community church” movement. Christians owe their loyalty and allegiance to Christ, and not to prominent individuals, such as Rick Warren (Saddleback) and Bill Hybels (Willow Creek) or our own Rubel Shelly and others, whose crafty scheme and brainwashing program of selling or marketing Christianity at any cost are designed to “get rid of Biblical Christians to gain numbers.”

Sincerely in Christ,


Donnie C. Cruz
P.O. Box 190524
Nashville, Tennessee 37219
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Dear Sirs,

I have a dear friend that attended with you, but left before all the mess happened. He longs to be home, but I fear for him. I only know what is happening from this site and other sources. I am not a member there, but I am concerned since Madison has been the "flagship" because of its size. The problems that affect you will filter down to us littler churches (and have).

I recieved a copy of the 2003 Easter worship service from your recording team. I was shocked to here what should have been an opportunity to teach the gospel turn into a show of emotionalism. There is nothing wrong with getting emotional especially when you're discussing a topic like the death of our Lord. I was not angered, but saddened by the way it turned out.

I do not presume to tell you how to Elder, because I am not one, nor do I have a "dog in the fight" at your congregation. But I will say this that the problem you are having will be the same problems that many smaller congregations face. Attendance dropping from 1000+ to half as much can be taken by a congregation your size, but one that is 80 or 100 would be completely devistated.

The split will occur. The problems that you are facing are the same problems that faced the church in the early 1900's. They failed to set thing right and that is what formed the Disciples of Christ. I would hope that those that leave do similar and change there name, but I think pride will not allow that.

There was a large congregation here in AR that split for the very reasons your have troubles. Those that were "progressive" began a Four Winds Church. A Community Church. I write with fear and sadness, because it is said that you will not read or respond to this or anything from the Concerned Members site, but I pray that if this reaches your eyes that it will also reach your hearts.

Elders are to know the word. They are not to be worried about numbers as much as souls, and I hope that you all are of like heart and mind.

I can't say God bless you all, but I will say that I pray God will be the guiding light in the descisions that you make to reconcile your differences.

The men at Concerned Members.Com are not all snipers from the balcony, or men trying to capture power, but I have read their postings and many of them show a genuine love for God and for Truth.

With Love and Great Pain of Heart,
Chris Eubanks
4 Sweetbrier Ln.
Greenbrier, AR 72058
501-679-3928 office

I hope this wasn't unkind or damning, it was not meant to be that way.

Any letter to the elders of Madison may be addressed to the following (information is also available at the church’s website:

http://www.madisoncofc.org)

--------- ELDERS ---------

John Broadway (recently resigned)
Pat Burch
Buck Dozier
Chris Gingles
Howard Henderson
Tommy Hoppes
Russ Kersten
Jim Morris
Ken Rice
Marty Rothschild
Ray Wilson

--------- Address --------

Madison Church of Christ
106 Gallatin Rd. N.
Madison, TN 37115

(615) 868-3360

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CAUTION: The letter below was NOT sent to the elders of the Madison congregation…
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… but it was written by a member of (name undisclosed) and sent to a congregation in one of the southern states. The reason for posting this letter is for the obvious reason of presenting what can be learned about the change agents in operation within the brotherhood—their subtle scheme of subverting and transforming churches into the Community Church mold. Rather than write an article concerning this matter, let the following letter speak for itself. “Transit Hills” is substituted for the real name of the congregation and “Paul Warning” for the writer of the letter.
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This letter is in response to a very nice letter received from a concerned elder of the Transit Hills Church of Christ where we have attended for some time. A copy is being mailed to each elder, deacon and preachers. Please consider its contents because it is from the heart of a Christian who cares and is concerned about the future of this congregation.
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~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
9876 Winter Haven Hwy.
Transit Hills, SW 00001
Email: pwarning@hilow.net

Dear (..........)

I am writing in reply to your letter of concern of May 19, 2003 and appreciate your concern and willingness to discuss church matters. This letter of response was started soon after receipt of your letter but have been waiting to see if rumored teachings and practices were real or imaginary. After hearing that some in leadership positions from this congregation have participated in denominational services among other questionable things decided to wait no longer. Your letter may have been a form letter mailed randomly or a letter of real concern. I prefer believing the latter because I know you are a caring and concerned person. I had talked with you before concerning questionable practices in the church. For me this is a better medium as I have some problem recalling what I want to say and verbally communicating those thoughts. I am not hiding behind this letter and would gladly meet with any elder, deacon or preacher one at a time if any should see a need

Until recent years and under the leadership of elders who were not swayed by every wind of change, the Transit Hills Church of Christ was a typical, conservative church. Conservative to me means worship the way it has been done for hundreds of years, relying only on our understanding of the Bible, speak where the Bible speaks, etc. leaving out anything that is questionable in teaching and action and liberal to me means getting just as close to the cliff as possible hoping not to fall off, adding denominational teachings and practices one by one in an effort to be more pleasing to those outside of the church.

It involves removing the mention of sin, diminished importance of Baptism, use of the NIV bible and incidentally the NIV is published by the same folks that publish the Satanic bible. Think closely about how seldom Sin or Baptism are mentioned in a sermon.

The Transit Hills Church of Christ was an anchor in the county due to its location, size and soundness. Obviously, no congregation has reached perfection but that is what is desired. Years ago, one could worship in any congregation in the county and almost any in the country and feel safe, comfortable and secure in what was going to be taught and practiced. Sadly, that is not the case today and that is not the case with this congregation.

Our early years as a family were spent mostly at the Transit Hills congregation. We participated in nearly every activity, bus ministry, class teaching, etc. and even though we were in the lower income sector, were accepted and included in all fellowship activities.

We left to go to Lomaxine only because our children became teens and Lomaxine was attractive to them. We enjoyed our years at Lomaxine also but then moved across from Stringer. After a while we decided to attend there again, after all it was where I attended since 1946, became a Christian, swept up dead wasp before every summer service and built a fire before every winter service. I had hoped and was told that the preacher/elder rule would soon end. I didn't like then and still don't like one man church rule. It is my understanding that this has ended with no elders but still dictated by the preacher.

I truly believe the bible condemns this form of leadership as well as the form that allows a group of elders to rule without regard to the wishes of the membership. After a few years we decided that form of leadership was not going to change and decided to attend here still hoping the many negative things we had heard were not true.

I have high respect for nearly every person who is an Elder or Deacon but am afraid the Lipscomb, ACU Charismatic, liberal influence has and is making a radical change in a direction that will open doors that do not need to be opened. These changes sometimes are made unintentionally and some times intentional in a subtle, and yes possibly slow and sneaky way.

There have been numerous changes throughout the years which were not harmful because they were not doctrinal and had no harmful spiritual effect, but doctrinal changes cause discomfort, anxiety, discontent and definitely have a critical effect on one's salvation.

Solos by the preacher, (if this seemingly harmless practice is continually accepted by the leadership then possibly other entertaining items will be slipped in), quartet singing accompanying comical slide presentations, applauding after baptism, over abundance of praise, chorus type songs, exclusive use of the NIV bible (it is my understanding that this version is always used by those wanting to make changes because it was designed to be non-controversial, pleasing to the ear and acceptable by the masses), and other questionable practices those in the county talk about, things that you know of, have a tendency to make one uncomfortable just sitting there wondering what else of a denominational nature is going to be injected next.

(Elder), wonder why this congregation is known throughout the county as a Liberal Congregation"? Wonder why so many families have left for other more conservative congregations? Wonder who is responsible and do you think they really understand the magnitude and potential danger, the effect it may have on our salvation and especially the elders since they are responsible and accountable for the salvation of so many souls.

Wonder why sound worship practices need changing? Have we done like some of the churches of Asia, lost our first love for the sake of being more acceptable in the community?

Preaching should be directed toward edification, learning, salvation and not short funny, personal stories without even the mention of a plan of salvation or Baptism. Wonder why that word Baptism is such a difficult word to say? I keep looking for that word to be mentioned in a sermon but have only heard it a few times and mostly recently. Each Sunday we arrive, hoping to be led in songs other than repetitious one line praise songs, hoping the service will end with the preacher telling the lost what to do to be saved and hoping to get through the service without wondering when the women will lead the prayer, an instrument will be used or a real live quartet perform.

The elders only have to look around the state and country and see what the influence of people like Max Lucado, Rubel Shelly, Steve Flatt, Lynn Anderson, Promise Keepers, Jubilee, etc. have done to congregations like the Madison Congregation with a traditional service and one for liberals (those who like a mixture of Baptist and Pentecostal added) and a change of name for other congregations such as Family of God, Community Church, etc. rather than Church of Christ. Many other congregations have changed names, worship practices, etc. including the West End congregation, fourth street in Franklin and Woodmont Hills. It is my understanding from a member of the Graymere church that the son of the preacher of the Centerville church has started his own church in Columbia with piano, etc as a result of his "Liberal Christian College Training". I attended Freed Hardeman and believe in Christian education but nearly all of the discord, division and liberalization is the fruit of relaxed standards and infiltration of liberal professors in our Christian colleges. They dictate (to the gullible and those spiritually weak enough to follow) what is acceptable worship, what changes need to be made, how much preachers should charge, etc.. There are numerous books detailing how to gradually implement these changes so as not to alarm the membership.

Can you imagine an overflowing crowd as a result of a return to sound bible teaching and worship practice with the return of those who have moved to other congregations or more often just quit attending? Can you imagine what would happen if as much emphasis were put on benevolence as on preaching and singing? I once heard a preacher say that the bible taught more about benevolence than how to be saved. I don't know if this is true or not but the Madison congregation grew by leaps and bounds as a result of their benevolence and spiritual soundness and they have been torn down the middle by change agents, people with their own personal, destructive agenda. Obviously benevolence cannot be a cover-up for unscriptural or questionable practices.

If we could turn the clock back a few years to see free volunteers working with the youth, volunteers doing everything except the preaching, underprivileged youth getting to be a part of every activity, youth not having to have wealthy parents to be able to take trips, songs that everyone knew, plan of salvation being mentioned in every sermon, use of a Bible version that was not designed to please and change, wouldn't that be great? We had growth, there were still those that left but not because of questionable and uncomfortable worship practices. There will always be those like our family that decide to change congregations for personal reasons. I'm not sure there is any problem with that as there doesn't seem to be any bible authority condemning it. If there is a problem, then preachers would have to always be under the oversight of the same group of elders. They would also not be allowed to move.

The Community Church movement is in progress in so many areas. This movement allows for inclusion of some Baptist, Methodist, Church of God, etc. teachings and practices. It usually means temporary, numerical growth and permanent spiritual decline.

Be careful that this is not the long range plan. This movement never is fully announced is slow to happen and usually done in a less than open fashion until it is too late.

These changes usually allow for denominational preachers filling our pulpit and our preacher and other church leaders preaching in denominational churches. This might be done under the guise of an opportunity to teach them the truth but their participation is a compromise and adds credibility to religious error To fellowship denominational churches is to say that one church is as good as another and it really doesn't matter as long as one has faith.

This movement sometimes is preceded by large physical building programs and does not fully mature as long as there is a substantial debt to be paid. It always includes a diminished importance of Baptism and an inclination towards a "faith only"calvinistic belief.

We have extremely fond memories of our earlier years at the Transit Hills congregation with many social events in our home and the homes of others. We have good memories of our kids growing up with yours and others. We were never uncomfortable regarding the direction of worship services as we are now. We continue to attend hoping for that Miracle that Jerry Durham believes still happens. Since I don't believe in miracles I just have to hope that you and the other elders will overthrow the shadow that hangs over the congregation and return the church to it's sound, steadfast, uncompromising and rightful place in the community as well as acceptance among the other sound congregations. There is no doubt that the congregation as a whole is a very caring group. This was evidenced when I was in the hospital. Spiritual soundness along with that intense caring could make seats hard to find and budgets easy to meet.

We always enjoy worshipping at the East Main congregation in Tupelo where Janice's parents attend and helped form. The worship service, including singing is like it used to be here. There is no uncomfortable feeling since nothing of a charismatic, liberal nature would be allowed. The attendance is middle America, attendance of 200-250, contribution around $5000 and no Lipscomb, ACU, Harding, Lucado or shelly influence.

You may ask with all I have said why we continue attending. I guess we have been hoping for a change here or at Stringer where we probably would go if the preaching, leadership situation changed. We have fond memories of our earlier years here and like everyone. I know that to question or disagree with the leadership or preacher is a no, no and one is considered a troublemaker by doing so but to not question or challenge is to accept error and that is exactly what has happened in so many churches and even countries. We, along with so many other members of this congregation have hoped and prayed for a return to the sound church that we once knew. We also pray for the defeat of any who attempt its destruction.

You didn't ask for all of this when you sent the letter and I could not have adequately covered my feelings verbally. I am sending a copy to each elder, deacon and preachers but it will be the extent of my effort. I do not believe one should just walk away or sit quietly nor do I want to do anything to speed up the eminent destruction of this church. Stay alert because there are many (and yes some in this congregation) who have been tutored by Max Lucado, Rubel Shelly literature, Promise Keepers, Liberal Christian Colleges and others in ways that continue to destroy the church and sadly, too often, they appear sincere believers in what they are trying to accomplish. If you can find the root or reason why Baptism and/or the plan of salvation is rarely mentioned you will discover just how much the Baptist doctrine of "faith only" has crept in. It is obvious to many that major changes have and are taking place that questions the leaderships long range goals.

This is witnessed by the recent resignation of a very sincere, sound and dedicated Christian family. I am sure they left because they could see no light at the end of the tunnel. Others will leave as they finally give up but this could be a part of the overall strategy of eliminating any who are in disagreement

Thanks again for the letter of concern. My ability to work long hours is gone. I am collecting a little fishing equipment, have a membership at the Wilderness preserve and hope the fishing bug hits me hard. Hopefully I have not made too many mistakes either in typing or substance. My intent is not to make enemies and I hope this letter offends no one although that is probably impossible. I don't think that I am perfect, in fact I know better than that, or that I have all the answers but I believe you will agree that the Church is in jeopardy as long as there are those who wish to destroy it or change it to a meaningless denomination or social group.

We will visit other congregations and our prayer is that this church's leadership will rethink its role, responsibilities and desires for serving God rather than man. We have some lifelong friendships here and hope this letter will not end that relationship. The enclosed two sheets, a test, is only a sample of the error and omissions contained in the NIV, a version used extensively in this congregation.

Thanks again

Paul Warning
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CAUTION: The letter below was NOT sent to the elders of the Madison congregation…
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… but it was written by a member (name undisclosed) of and sent to a congregation in one of the southern states. The reason for posting this letter is obviously to present what can be learned about the change agents in operation within the brotherhood—their subtle scheme of subverting and transforming churches into the Community Church mold. Rather than write an article concerning this matter, let the following letter speak for itself. “Transit Hills” is substituted for the real name of the congregation and “Peter Warner” for the writer of the letter. Other names are changed as well.
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Letter to Transit Hills Church of Christ Preacher, Elders and Deacons
Preacher: Bryce McMaster;
Elders _________, _________, _________, __________, _________, _________;
All Deacons;
Den Trees, Rush Adder, Jeremy Dunham
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After hearing so much about your ambitions to destroy every good work of the Transit Hills Church of Christ and especially after seeing a copy of the letter from Michael and Joan regarding their personal and disappointing attempts to again reteach you the fundamentals, history, faith, practice, and purpose of the Church that Christ established have decided to write to you with these observations. Even though only three of you plus the preacher were mentioned, all of you by your silence are in agreement and must accept responsibility.

Members of the Churches of Christ in this county are appalled and disappointed at the deceitful and covert apostasy you are bringing to the church you were selected to serve and receive financial compensation from.

This to those who have contributed financially over the past 100+ years and who had enough faith in you to allow you to represent them as their appointed elders and hired preacher paid by the congregation and not just the elders, is enough to break even the hardest heart. You have shown total disregard for those present and those who are unable to defend the faith by reason of bad health as well as those who have devoted their lives and given financially to uphold and support this church for over 100 years. You have broken the hearts of so many individuals and families who put their complete trust in your leadership. They are now disappointed and anxious for your removal. You are in the process of making divisive changes to remove the identity and purpose of the Church of Christ. You are making unscriptural progressive liberal changes to the faith and practices of the Transit Hills Church of Christ.

You should be ashamed. You are doing what a thief and robber does taking something that is not his secretly, cunningly or by group force. This church is not your property. These Christians are not yours to manipulate and Lord it over. This church is not for you to do as you please. Legal action may be in order since many of those who contributed large sums towards the building program may feel they have been a victim of fraud and ask for a refund. They were not aware of your plans to change this church to a denomination. You know what the plans are. Why do so many have to wait and wonder what your next revelations are? Why don’t you break the news to the many defenseless lambs? Are your transition sermons and classes secretly preparing the membership for a sinister transition and spiritual slaughter? I think so. You really don’t care very much for the name "Church of Christ,” do you? Your changes have driven many members from your presence but that is just another casualty you are willing to accept to get your way, isn’t it? According to those in other places who receive compensation for promoting radical changes the great loss of members is anticipated and welcomed. You fully expect to see a 2 to 1 or higher gain in attendance.

Click to see a response to Bryce McMaster’s transition sermon GETTING THEM READY by claiming that they probably don't know the Bible and just depend on HERITAGE. The other word is "that's just your tradition" when they know that they are lying. I have responded with an ad in Thursday's Herald showing just a token number of statements proving that NO ONE defended instruments. Like all "scholarly" writings, he cannot quote straight. That is the new TRADITION of once "Christian colleges."

There have been recalls and impeachments for less crimes against humanity. You do not deserve to be paid as preacher of a Church of Christ when in reality you are Baptist to the core. You do not deserve to accept the position of elder or deacon for the church you really do not believe in and just can't wait to change its name and make it a denomination like those you admire. How could you be so calloused? How could you be so deceived? The best thing that you can do for the Lord's Church is resign immediately but of course you have destructive goals to be met and your pride will keep you on track.

You are a Judas to the Lord and his Church and those whom you are affecting consider you as such. Certainly you are a disgrace to the cause of Christ and his Church and especially this church. This letter is pretty strong but truthful and factual. It is not written out of anger but factual. I will pray that our life will be spared until you become aware of your terrible deed, repent and step down from your present position. There is nothing unfair, untruthful, misleading or without merit in this letter. To apply for and accept the job of preacher, receive compensation and intentionally deceive all but a few trusted Church leaders is hypocritical at the very least. The actions of each of you would be considered fraud in any business sense and traitor to any Government. Bryce, you should not attempt to take all the blame and become a scapegoat for the elders. All are to blame equally. Repentance is in order but nothing short of a full house resignation would cure the problem because eventually this conspiracy would resurface at a more opportune time.

After reading a copy of the heart-breaking letter from Michael and Joan Kerns stating their reason for leaving the Transit Hills Church of Christ, and as an individual member of the Church of Christ with long roots in the Transit Hills Church, decided to write my concerns regarding the apostasy of this church. They are to be commended for their public stand and hopefully you will tell them of your approval. I believe the Kerns family would be happy to furnish you with a copy of the letter or discuss their meetings with those involved.

There is a cancer in the Church of Christ nationwide and one church in McMinn County. Another, more biblical name is apostasv. Some of the Churches of Christ in McMinn County may be in a self-destruct mode unless the preachers and elders of the county who are not of the progressive, liberal thinking, take a stand and help to eradicate this cancer. It is well known, even though they won't admit it publicly, that the preacher and elders of the Transit Hills Church of Christ are set on a course that may set a precedence for Churches of Christ in McMinn County. This is not a new thing state and nationwide but is a first for McMinn County, SW and must be stopped.

Because you are a preacher, elder, deacon or member of the Lord’s church we believe each of you has a responsibility toward your fellow Christians regardless of which congregation you attend. You believe in the autonomy of the churches but you also believe that the Church is Christ's and does not belong to a handful of disloyal "appointed" men. You hopefully believe that to do nothing might be worse than at least trying to stem the tide that is sure to breed problems among some of the other Churches of Christ in McMinn County.

Here are a few things that the elders and preacher of the Transit Hills Church of Christ are in agreement on: Some have been implemented. Others will be as soon as the congregation is prepared by a series of classes and sermons. These are not totally secret changes to some members but have not been made known officially to the entire congregation. Expect an announcement very soon but without full disclosure.

Here are the beliefs, practices and plans of the Transit Hills Church of Christ elders, deacons and preachers.

• Baptism is not essential for salvation regardless of what the bible says.
• Instrumental music as part of the worship service would not be wrong.
• Women's role should be expanded to more public participation and is ongoing now.
• Fellowshipping denominational churches is in order and more is better.
• A name change to "Community Church" or Family of God would be better than Church of Christ.
• Raising holy hands and applauding during different parts of the worship is acceptable and practiced.
• Use of non-members for participation in the Church services is acceptable and practiced.
• Responsive readings and prayers is already practiced by at least one elder.
• Approval of and presently sending young deacons to preach in denominational churches.
• Joint religious venture for youth between one deacon and a denominational church leader.

If you as a member of the Transit Hills church choose to remain in this atmosphere and financially support this apostasy you should at least be told the truth about the plans. You should hear an affirmative or denial on all of the above so that you may make a decision whether you wish to be a part of this ongoing apostasy, financially support it or leave. You should expect and demand a full disclosure. You should know that with enough twisting of the scriptures and a point to prove, a sharp bible student can prove that the earth has four corners therefore is a square or rectangle. According to the Kerns letter at least one elder must be something special since he does not have to show chapter and verse for any church belief and practice. If that is the consensus then why bother with using any Bible? Showing chapter and verse has always been a trademark of the Church of Christ.

While the agents lie about it, commands, examples and inferences is clearly taught in the Bible and was and is upheld by all scholars who are not amoral. Showing chapter and verse is the almost total opinion of church history. Click for proof.

This Cancer will spread and eventually you or your congregation will have to deal with the results. It is best to take a stand now. The decision is yours preachers, elders, deacons, and members. You might consider this meddling but I am (temporarily) an insider and trying to save the church that I hold dear because of long standing family association. I am concerned and hope you will be also. Elders, preachers and members in the county should be crying "down with this apostasy'' rather than putting our heads in our hands. If you are a member for the Church of Christ you should refuse to be led by those who choose to steal the church. This is probably the worst apostasy of the church since the Christian Church was formed taking about 75% of the Church of Christ with them. Cunning preachers and spiritually (don't get involved) disinterested members were the cause for that apostasy. If you have been in the dark don't be any longer. Get interested and get involved in saving the Church.

The loss of members could be as high as it was then, unless a concentrated effort is begun immediately. There have been problems in the past "the orphan home issue" "one cup or individual cups" etc. These have presented some division and conflict but were not destructive on a national scale. This movement is a determined program and will succeed without large-scale interference by Christians who still like the name "Church of Christ" and what it has stood for throughout history.

The SURVEY or affirmation contract may be the next step toward affirming the leaders’ decisions. The "survey" is designed to prop up the leaders’ decisions to make changes towards denominationalism by making it appear that the majority wants to see progressive changes. The results of the survey if conducted will never be made known. Refuse to take the survey. The survey is just before the elders hire a highly paid "professional church problem solver.” He will be from the same group causing all the turmoil and will not be neutral. There is a pattern and detailed plan for all that has happened is happening and will happen over the next few years.

The confidentiality of the writer of this letter is required out of a need for self-preservation. Church as with most everything else is many times politically controlled and politics can get pretty nasty even by those who sing, "Oh how I love Jesus". Those who attempt to stop destructive changes in the church are always considered the "trouble makers" when in reality the troublemakers are those who bring in the trouble that the membership is expected to submit to willingly.

If you are a preacher or elder outside the Transit Hills Church of Christ you should encourage leaders to completely change the name if they insist on changing to a denomination so as not to be an embarrassment to the Churches of Christ in McMinn County and to keep travelers from mistakenly stopping for a service of the Church of Christ. If you are in doubt about the present planned changes or the accuracy of what you hear then you should ask the preacher or elders for direct answers to direct questions. Demand scripture for their answers.

Many local denominational folks are already aware of the changes taking place and are applauding the preacher and elders for the bold stand they are taking against the Church of Christ. They are pleased that they are submitting to the popular people pleasing denominational beliefs and practices. You youth are impressionable and may be drawn into this entertainment centered worship. Please as an elder deacon or preacher, help those of us who are still part of the Transit Hills Church of Christ stop this apostasy. You have a scriptural right and duty to publicly oppose this apostasy just as you should oppose any destructive or harmful religious, political or social practice. Please make copies and distribute as you please.

In all fairness to Bryce the preacher, this digression began before he came on the scene although he was part of the scheme. He is accepting pay from the congregation for preaching a message foreign to the ears of most of those helping write his paycheck. He is only the pulpit promoter but apostasy cannot be accomplished without the preacher's support. This movement (for the Transit Hills Church) got its stimulus (not beginning) from the __________ Church of Christ in __________, ___, under the direction of its elders and preacher James Adder and youth minister Rush Adder. The program was begun there in 1997. It is the Purpose Driven model originating with a Baptist preacher and promoted commercially by him and his Baptist church The Saddleback Community Church. You can read about the Purpose driven church model and other destructive forces within and without the church on the internet. Just go to the address bar and type any of the words underlined or to piney.com or “concernedmembers.com.” Concerned members is about the split of the Madison congregation by the same change teachers that our leaders learned from. Some of those elders and deacons most responsible for this digression are being somewhat silent. They all must share the blame.

Peter Warner