Expert: Rev Philip Dacre - 3/11/2007

Question
Hi!
My brother has been involved in a pentecoastal church for about ten years.
I have seen a change in him that I find disturbing.
He seems more relaxed and confidant than before ho was 'saved',but has hardened and is less forgiving now.
For example,our sister recently admitted she was a lesbian.
My brother now says she is a sinner and an abomination.She will go to hell.
My sister hasnt changed from the sweet person she always was.
In fact she helped support my brother for a while while he was drinking and using drugs.
Also,his wife and two children seem very meek and submissive toward them.
He admits to 'using the rod',and he wont let them watch certain tV shows or use the internet.My kids like computer games,chatting,and sports.His kids can only be in church activities.They have nothing in common and so dont hang out which I feel is sad.
Lastly,he keeps trying to get my Mom involved in his church.
We are Epicopalians,with a fairly liberal attidude.He dismisses this church now.
She goes to services with him but admits to feeling uncomfortable,especially when they speak in 'tounges'.
My sister and I are both professionals and well off,and my Mom has money and propert left from Dad.
He wants her to give this to him 'in the name of the church' in her will.
She is kind of upset by this.
I have talked to him about all this but he says he is living Godly in the Light and we are not.We should change not him.
As I said, before he got religion he was a black sheep.
Anyway,I would appreciate your thoughts!

Answer
Dear Brent,

"He got religion" is right. Jesus wasn't like this but churches often put another face on Christianity and bring ;legalistic qualities to bear.
Treating principles and suggestions as laws. Living by the law and not the nature of Christ is a trying experience for those all around.

It is true that there are things wrong but the legalistic way of trying to effect change is not New Testament Christianity.

Christ wasn't like this. And it is Christ we are meant to follow.

God bless