Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 7/22/2008

Question
Iam trying to find information on Free Holiness religion
my brother is in it, has had a stroke an will not get medical help. I am so concerned about him !
This religion has made him not contact his family ( I am the only one he has)an had changed his whole being, he is like a robot.


any information would be appreciated
Thank you so much for you time.
Connie

Answer
Ms Connie,

Thank you for the opportunity to help. I do want you to know that I will be in prayer with you for your brother. Spiritually, as well as physically.

Our home church (Harvest Church) was at one time associated with and apart of the Free Holiness movement. Though we are not now, this background does give me a perspective that may help. Let me share with you what I know about the Free Holiness churches.

Free Holiness churches are either Pentecostal or non-Pentecostal (Wesleyan) in their beliefs. Most (if not all) are independent (non-denominational) congregations, usually in more rural areas. They do stay connected with each other through camp meetings and support of itinerate evangelists.

Free holiness churches are very conservative in their beliefs concerning outward appearances, and social activities. Most will preach/teach that women should not cut their hair and wear pants or short sleeve shirts. Most will preach/teach that men should not wear short pants or sleeves, should not grow long hair (over the ears and above the collar) or facial hair. They will also preach/teach their people not to participate in such "worldly" activities as watching television, movies, going to sporting events, etc...

Because of these teachings, most Free Holiness people will avoid those who may differ from them. This includes family (as you have mentioned), friends, ect.. They tend to only participate in activities promoted by Holiness churches (campmeetings, revivals, singings, ect). However, not all Holiness people are this way.

As with many other church denominations and fellowships, there are some within the Holiness "movement" that even more strict in their teachings. Some will not drink coffee, use deodorant, listen to the radio, use a computer, ect... These churches do not represent the mainstream Holiness church, but they do exist.

Connie, it has been my experience that many Free Holiness people will avoid seeking medical treatment. But this is most certainly not the case for most. I know of many of them who have no problem with seeking medical help, and taking medications when necessary. The one's who do not, either attend a more "conservative" Holiness church, or they have a personal conviction to not do so.  

Here is a few web sites of Holiness churches and organizations that may help you learn more about them as well...

http://freeholiness.net/

http://www.bebo.com/Profile.jsp?MemberId=4464396338

http://www.fgbi.org/holinesslinks.htm

http://www.holinessmessenger.com/

This next one is an interesting dialog on a message board about peoples experience with Holiness churches...

http://www.factnet.org/discus/messages/3/18887.html?1177358838

Ms Connie, I would like to be clear with you that I do not judge or condemn anyone who honestly believes in, and lives a "Holiness" lifestyle. I have the utmost respect for any Believer (Holiness or not) who will submit their own will to God's will and follow what they seance He is leading them to do. Such may (or may not) be the case with your brother. After reading through the links I listed above, and after seeking the Lord for His wisdom, I suggest that you approach your brother. Let him know of your respect and understanding for his beliefs, but that you have concerned for his health and well being. Let him know that you love him, and only want the best for him. The Bible teaches us that Godly love will help break down the walls the enemy places between us.

Please let me know if this helps, or if you have any further questions.

Elder Greg Madden
http://www.forministry.com/USOKPENTEMMM1