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I'm Done with Playing Church

Posted in community by Lorie Newman on 1/10/2008

I'm done... with the plastic smiles

I'm done... with Christians who walk into church like they are walking into a Country Club

I'm done... with Christians pretending they are perfect

I'm done... with churches saying "that's the way we've always done it"

I'm done... with Christians who say healing services in these modern days are fake

I'm done... with Christians who avoid fasting

I'm done... with people who sit in church waiting for the pastor to "bless" them

I'm done... with those who think pre-schoolers are too small to learn about Jesus

I'm done... with Christians who mock pastors that cast out demons in the name of Jesus

I'm done... with Christians who complain about their church but have never given a dime to God's kingdom

I'm done... with people who stand and cheer at football games on Friday nights but walk into church like they are at a funeral

I'm done... with Christians who can sing Madonna's latest hit but can't recite the 10 commandments

I'm done... with Christian fathers who push their sons to play football, but have never taught them to read the bible

I'm done... with Christians who go into deep debt to "keep up with the Jones'" who sit next to them in Sunday School

I'm done... with fake "Christian-ese" on men's lips

I'm done... with deacons who complain about an unsaved teenager wearing a ball cap into the sanctuary

I'm done... with Sunday morning being the most segregated hour of the week

I'm done... with Christians who think they are better because their skin is white

I'm done... with Christians who think organs are holy and drums are not

I'm done... with Christians who say "I'm fine" when really their marriage is in shambles

I'm done... with people who think their past should be a secret, lest they be judged by the church

I'm done... with churches who think worship is for Sunday morning

I'm done... with Christians who have swallowed the lie that we can and should control how many children God gives to us

I'm done... with Christians who don't believe in supernatural healing

I'm done... with Christians who don't believe in the unseen warfare all around us

I'm done... with Christians who believe miracles only happened in the bible

I'm done... with Christians who call on God like He's a cosmic genie in a bottle

I'm done... with American Christians who think somehow they have attained all they have

I'm done... with this "little religion box" that some Christians have put Jesus into

I'm done... with the limits that most churches put on God's power

I'm truly done... no more limits... no more boundaries... no more plastic people... no more playing church...

I'm done. Jesus did not die so His people could play church and be comfortable. How long will we "play church" while there are lost souls to win, hungry orphans to feed, hurting widows to love, lonely hearts to mend, and broken lives to heal? There is no limit to God's power displayed through His people if we could just stop playing church and start being the church!

Read the sequel to this article: I'm Done With Playing Church, Pt. 2: Now What?

Also, check out the "I'm Done With..." Website, a blog where Christians can share what they're done with.

If you liked this article, check out: Ransomed and Set Free: Adoptions in Africa

Lorie is a busy homeschooling mother of six children, including twins and two children who were internationally adopted -one from Haiti and one from Liberia. She has taught and ministered in Bible Studies for over ten years. She and her husband Duane are founders of Reaching Hands Orphan/Adoption Ministries. Through a partnership with Children's HopeChest, Reaching Hands Ministries enables nearly 300 impoverished African orphans to receive regular food, clothing, and education. You can visit her website at lorienewman.com.

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Reader Comments on "I'm Done with Playing Church"

1 Posted by Roger Ferguson on 3/3/2008 9:20:25 AM

Now that your done, go on and love them anyway.
I was done for 8 years and the Lord led me back to a group(young group)that need teaching,mentoring, just a lot of love. What a field of work for an old guy!

Note: You are already holy!

REF

2 Posted by Stafford on 1/20/2008 1:52:04 AM

I hope that you aren't in a position to give up on the church that you described, but rather help teach those mentioned above about what it is like to really live out their faith! Change in the churches will not come unless catalysts like yourself are able to teach those who are less spiritually mature how to leave milk of infants and advance to solid food in their faith.

3 Posted by Stafford on 1/20/2008 4:31:05 PM

maybe the article should be followed by "I'm going to..."
...be a disciple
...pray for my pastor
...mentor someone
...start a prayer group
...love unconditionally
...really study the bible
...become full-time laity
...seize every opportunity to genuinely show God's love to everyone; even to that superficial, know-it-all at church.
...reach out to the new person at church and really get to know them as a person
...refuse to let my church become luke-warm in their faith
...etc, etc.

I'm sure that there would be much more change in church if it were a proactive stance instead of a "I'm done with this" cynicism.

4 Posted by Clinton Wiebe on 1/22/2008 10:50:41 AM

Let's slow down and look at it for what it is. Many are caught in the trap of religion thinking they are doing God's will. Look at the Pharisee's in Jesus' era, did he not call them a brood of vipers, and yet they were convinced they were God's intruments in assailing Jesus as a blasphemer. Rather than getting offended, search your heart. Am I just playing church?

5 Posted by Jeff on 1/24/2008 12:13:26 PM

I'm with you... great comments here, folks. let's be the church we've always dreamed of.

6 Posted by karen swank on 2/2/2008 8:02:32 AM

As another who comes from the same places and into the same passion, THANK YOU for saying it so well.

May your passion be the ultimate contagion.

7 Posted by Gwen on 2/9/2008 6:34:03 PM

I am also DONE! Sometimes things are so broken that they can't be fixed and you have to be truly DONE! For those of us who are ministers in heart and action being DONE with church as it stands is very VERY SCARY! To be DONE is to lose one's platform of ministry. To be DONE is to step out and risk being Christlike without the trappings. Being DONE IS DANGEROUS, but is is also a very good place to be. To be DONE, it is a lovely place, it is a lonely place, it is the first step to undoing religiosity and truly entering into the fellowship of God's heart and desire for CHURCH. I am glad you are done. Me, too. Now we see what God does with the growing number of those who are Done. George Barna wrote a book about those who are Done. It is called Revolution and it is a very good read.

8 Posted by Megan on 1/16/2008 1:05:07 PM

I appreciate greatly your article. I am coming to a similar stance. I ask however, since I have not found an answer, where do you go from here?

9 Posted by anne on 1/20/2008 1:47:23 PM

Your friend Donna assures us you are geniune, but your language is very harsh and cynical. I truly hope you are not DONE with all those people. Are you only associating with the perfect? Where do you find them! Church is full of people who recognize their imperfections and are seeking forgiveness. Jesus befriended all those you are DONE with and calls us to do the same.

10 Posted by Lorie Newman on 1/22/2008 12:18:06 PM

How can I write such harsh words about "plastic people" in the church? Because I was a pro at it... I was the Queen of "Playing Church"... I was the one who walked into church like I had it all together... I was the one who worked so hard at putting on a plastic smile... I was the one who mocked pastors who cast out demons... I was the one haunted by my past and supressed it for fear that someone might find out... I was the one who wore the plastic mask every Sunday so no one would see that I wasn't perfect...I was the one living a lie... I was a Modern Day Pharisee...I was the selfish one living in a box of "Content Christianity" My life wasn't a fragrant sacrifice, (Rom 12:1), it was blatant rebellion to everything Christ came to seek and save the hurting, the broken, the downcast, the servant, the oppressed, the outcast. I had pitched my tent in the "land of the blessed" and thought I had somehow earned all I had.

But God showed me years ago that the mask I wore made me no better than the Pharisees who looked down their noses at the poor, the orphaned, the widowed and the oppressed. They looked down their noses at anyone who was not "perfect" and "holy" like they were.

Today, I can't wear that mask of contentment, nor that mask of perfection like a modern day Pharisee... I've nailed it to the crossAnd what a burden was lifted when I did! I'll never go back b/c I've tasted what being real feels like. But now, as my life is poured out as a fragrant sacrifice, my heart aches for the people of God to stop playing church, as I did for so long, and start being the church as Jesus did. I don't think if Jesus walked the earth today that we would find Him wearing a pressed tailored suit and tie, holding His big leather bible, and sitting on His favorite pew in church... the way I did for so long. I think we would find Him instead among the poor, the alien, the widowed, the orphaned, the oppressed, the hurting, and the outcast.

This article was not intented to offend, but if it does, so be it... perhaps I'm the only one who has struggled with being plastic and "playing" church instead of "being" the church... perhaps others have not experienced living a lie as I did for so long. If that is the case, praise God!

But as for me, I'm done with playing church... I'm done with the plastic smiles... I'm done with that content box of Christianity that kept me bound for so long... I'm ready to "be" the church and stop playing church... Anyone with me?

Lorie
lorienewmanblog.typepad.com

11 Posted by Stafford on 1/22/2008 2:43:32 PM

I wasn't offended. Just wondering what the end result would be after coming to the conclusion that you were "done". We now know what you're "not", but what about what you "are"? You said you want to be the church, but what does that look like to you? I hope it resembles my post above a little.

12 Posted by Donna on 1/20/2008 1:02:55 PM

To Stafford (and her comments): Rest assured, the writer of this article is a good friend of mine ... and there is NO WAY she will GIVE UP on a church, on Christians, on non-believers, on being a catalyst for change. She IS exactly that and believe me, we ALL need to be "done" with anything that doesn't come straight from the mouth and Word of our powerful, almighty God and His Son, our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ! That's what my friend, Lorie, is saying ... let's not "play church" any longer ... let's BE the church to everyone, every day, in every way! Lorie, I'm with you I'M DONE!!

13 Posted by Cass on 1/24/2008 9:17:28 PM

Good on you Sister! finally someone with the guts and humility to tell it how it really is. I for one was really convicted when i read your piece, and now i just have to decide what action i'm going to take to change my life and stop hiding behind the phrases from the Bible that so many of us are quick to quote when judging others. Just imagine how different things would be if all the churches of the world were to adopt the same attitude and get back to what really matters and what God expects of us- to walk the earth as Jesus did, with so much love, compassion, patience, forgiveness and we could go on and on and on. I will certainly keep you in my prayers because we as the church need to lift you up and keep on reaching out to God to gain the strengths that we need to have great revelation such as you did. Bless you!

14 Posted by Eliyahu Favro Riverah on 2/1/2008 5:42:56 PM

Yikes! W.O.W. (Walk On Water)... Ooooo... I'm gonna tell on you, Lorie... and disseminate this Treatise on Catalyzing Truth widely to my contacts immediately.

Shirley, the Church will shake with conviction after a quick skim of this succinct and timely thesis.

Shabbat Shalom...

15 Posted by Jason on 9/16/2008 10:56:43 AM

Someone sounds like they think they walk on water as our lord did.

16 Posted by Jesus on 9/16/2008 11:06:46 AM

im done with magic and the supernatural only being real in christianity. why cant unicorns (KJV says they exist)dragons, wizards, flying carpets, griffins, gnomes, elfs, Thor, Zeus, Jupiter, or any other magical being exist? If a talking snake and a magic cosmic zombie are 'real' then why isnt everything i listed?

17 Posted by Jim on 9/16/2008 12:38:52 PM

Keep the faith. We are imperfect. Give your frustrations over to the Lord and be unburdened.

18 Posted by Justin on 9/16/2008 2:46:16 PM

You sound like you'd make a great Catholic.

www.Catholic.com

It's the Church Christ Himself founded!

19 Posted by Jeff on 9/16/2008 5:03:58 PM

Thank you all for sharing your thoughts.

20 Posted by William Suttie on 9/16/2008 5:04:10 PM

You are a narrow minded fool.

21 Posted by Jeff on 9/16/2008 5:10:57 PM

Would you mind elaborating, William?

22 Posted by Steve on 9/16/2008 6:41:38 PM

Unfortunate phrasing - even though some of the attitudes you mention are downright wrong, you shouldn't be 'done' with the people. It might be difficult, but God LOVES people who you are 'done' with. He loves people despite the fact that they are wrong about some things, or lots of things. He loves you despite the fact that you are not perfect, and the same goes for me. Some of the things you mention, like healing services, are often fake. God can heal anytime he likes, but I've noticed often that people who advertise healing services are less interested in God and more interested in themselves. The last guy I heard, spoke only about himself. John the Baptist's attitude should be ours - 'He [Jesus] must increase, I must decrease'.
Although I understand your frustration with some of people's intolerance, your comments also seem intolerant. When God says something, it has to be believed, and much more importantly OBEYED. But some of your views are very grey areas, which do no-one any good to argue over.
So, I understand your frustration, but God wants us to be outward looking, not inward looking, because it does others good, but it is also best for you. There are some really helpful comments by others, I would suggest you pray over them & let God speak.
What I don't quite get, is that you say that you can write such harsh words because you were once like that & you changed. Well that doesn't make you superior. We're all the same to God, He does great things for us because HE is great , not us. So, if GOD changed you, you have to bear in mind that God can change the others as well. And if they see in you a contentment with Jesus as the only necessity in your life, they might well be drawn to that & away from all the other stuff. I know this a bit of a Christian cliche, but I genuinly am not writing this to be harsh, I do not think I'm better than anyone else & I do hope that you pray things through with God. And although I believe what I've said, that's not the important thing, it's what God say to you that counts, if that's through anything people have said here, then fine, if not & He has other ways He wants to speak, that's fine. Just be listening - not always easy as the better we get at listening, the more our OWN views are challenged.

23 Posted by Lauren Rae on 9/20/2008 7:53:51 AM

You yourself are made to sound perfect when writing this. You are not above everyone else, because you have decided to be "DONE" with everyone's short-comings. Guess what? They will ALWAYS be there. None of us is, and can ever be perfect. This is not to say that we can't try to live like Jesus, to be moved by His Holy Spirit, to be REAL, etc; we have to accept that bad days will come! I've had days where I've walked into church with a gorgeous outfit on (if I do say so myself), and a perfect fake smile. Was that ok? No - I wasn't being real. But there have been days that I have slumped in, revealing what's really happening in my life. So are you done with me, then?

I attend a local college, and I see a great deal of drugs, alcohol, and sex. I do not do these things myself, but I will never be DONE with the people who do those things. I really believe that God has put me in the school that I am now to be a light. NOT to judge and give up, simply because I don't agree with their actions. Now I know that they aren't Christians, so it is different, but who's to say everyone that attends church really believes? Many of us are seeking.

Meet people where they are at - fake and all

24 Posted by Sarah on 9/16/2008 8:16:25 PM

Although I share your sentiments, I want to gently remind you to not give up on these people specifically mentioned, some of them need all the mercy they can get!

Secondly- when my husband and I got utterly fed up with the modern Anglo-Saxon Christianity that is fed to us in most churches, we found ourselves happy and growing at a Vineyard church. They are not all alike, and we've since moved far away (sadly) but the mindset there aligned with the Bible and the early Christian church more than anything we've ever experienced!

I commend you for adopting, bless you and all those precious little ones you have, but please be careful that you do not allow arrogance to seep in where frustration is now. I only say this from my own painful experience...

25 Posted by miragana on 9/16/2008 8:21:05 PM

Good day!
It is very informative and has a very good quality in it.
I like it...

www.Squidoo.com/MPI
mliragana.blogspot.com

Thank you very much for your time.

26 Posted by Martin on 9/16/2008 8:32:44 PM

Its time for the church to heat up

Revelation 3:15-22

'I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot. Since you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I am going to spit you out of my mouth. You say, �I am rich. I have become wealthy. I don't need anything.� Yet you don't realize that you are miserable, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. Therefore, I advise you to buy from me gold purified in fire so you may be rich, white clothes to wear so your shameful nakedness won�t show, and ointment to put on your eyes so you may see. I correct and discipline those whom I love, so be serious and repent! Look! I am standing at the door and knocking. If anyone listens to my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he will eat with me. To the one who conquers I will give a place to sit with me on my throne, just as I have conquered and have sat down with my Father on his throne.

�Let everyone listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.��

27 Posted by Parker on 9/16/2008 8:58:35 PM

why doesnt god heal amputees?

28 Posted by John on 9/16/2008 9:05:12 PM

I commend you for your efforts to push past relgion as a social circle of comfort and familiarity, and seeking to do good unto your neighbor, end homelessness and starvation, but your priorities are mixed. Seeking out those with more agressively asserted faith will lead you not towards a greater capacity to help others, but into a social-circle of people who "play church" intensely instead of passively.

"Christians who mock pastors that cast out demons in the name of Jesus."

See this article for why you ought not retreat into the folds of Christians who practice exorcism as a key tenet of their faith: http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/story/20278737/jesus_made_me_puke/print

..."In the name of Jesus, I cast out the demon of handwriting analysis!" shouted Fortenberry.

Handwriting analysis? I jammed the bag over my mouth and started coughing, then went into a very real convulsion of disbelief as I listened to this astounding list, half-laughing and half-retching.

"In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, I cast out the demon of the intellect!" Fortenberry continued. "In the name of Jesus, I cast out the demon of anal fissures!"

Cough, cough!

The minutes raced by. Wayne Williams was now fully prostrate, held up only by a trio of coaches, each of whom took part of his writhing body and propped it up. Another bald man in the front of the chapel was now freaking out in Linda Blair fashion, roaring and making horrific demon noises.

"Rum-balakasha-oom!" shouted Fortenberry in tongues, waving a hand in front of Linda Blair Man. "Cooom-balakasha-froom! In the name of Jesus Christ, I cast out the demon of philosophy!"

...

The hooting and howling went on seemingly forever. It was nearly an hour and a half before Fortenberry was done. He had cast out the demons of every ailment, crime, domestic problem and intellectual discipline on the face of the Earth. He cast out horoscopes, false gods, witches, intellectual pride, nearsightedness, everything, it seemed to me, except maybe E. coli and John Updike novels. At least four of the men and about six of the women writhed and screamed and fussed themselves into sheer physical exhaustion, collapsing in chairs by the time it was over. Several of the coaches actually had to bring Wayne Williams and the other young black man behind the chapel to subdue their demons.

29 Posted by chrismmm on 9/16/2008 9:21:31 PM

sounds like you need to visit our church. it rocks. you would love it. i like everything you said. except...
nope i like everything you said!!

30 Posted by Valerie on 9/16/2008 9:44:08 PM

perhaps you should be done with the lies, actions etc... instead of be done with the people

31 Posted by renae on 9/16/2008 11:46:42 PM

Fabulous!!! This is what I've been thinking for the many years I just couldn't bring myself to attend church anymore....I felt the absence of authenticity and the departure from what really matters, loving God and loving others!!

One comment though, don't you think the whole "lie that we can and should control how many children God gives to us" is a gray area? I am definitely anti-abortion but see no strict rule in the Bible regarding family planning.....besides, no matter how hard some people try to not get pregnant they do anyways. Don't you think that God is bigger than this? Overall I love what you posted but I felt this point was more your personal opinion vs. God's principles.

By the way, I have now found an amazing church whose people really strive to be like Jesus. This has been life-changing and I will pray that others who have commented here will experience the same love that I have found through Jesus and through Jesus working through others.

32 Posted by J.F. on 9/17/2008 12:53:28 AM

At first I thought i might agree with your post but the more I read it the less I do.

33 Posted by ranman on 9/17/2008 1:21:28 AM

I'm done with plastic god's

There is no god, grow up, let go of imaginary friends

34 Posted by Mike on 9/17/2008 4:22:24 AM

The church that says it is the church is not the Church. It is only an image of light, not the real One. It is no wonder then you say that you're done.

The real Church is yet to be manifested. She will be gathered when the time is right from the four corners of the earth. Romans 8:19.

Let it be no surprise that the current pitiful representations of the church are not real. The real Church is without spot or blemish because their hearts are purely fashioned by God in love to love as He loves; vine/branches.

The Church of God waits for the glory of their hearts to be brought forth as a woman waits with faith and hope and love for a birth of her child.

Mike

35 Posted by JuanS on 9/17/2008 9:47:36 AM

I understand you!

36 Posted by Jeff on 9/17/2008 10:37:25 AM

Ouch, Jo. That doesn't give us much hope, does it? What reason would I have to continue being part of an institution that will "never change"? Are you sure that's the biblical model of church? Moreover, my understanding of the New Testament is not that it treats believers in Christ as prideful, sinful and imperfect - aren't we usually called "saints," "children of God," and "beloved"? Maybe the reason we hurt each other is because we don't accept that central truth of our identity in Christ, our status as New Creations. What do you think?

37 Posted by Michael on 9/17/2008 12:53:03 PM

Frustration has always been a great catalyst. i'm learning that unfortunately unless the father breaks me out, i cannot fight, strive, or push hard enough to move the mountains.

So be blessed as you continue live in contradiction... (it seems to be the way into the deeper life)

38 Posted by Benjamin on 9/17/2008 5:51:40 PM

Religion is death.

its about living a life of love, Jesus never preached anyone into the kingdom, they followed Him there, they went where He went, and He just loved them.

us "christians" have made this "religion" far too complicated. its not a game of questions and answers. its a life.

and what can you do about it? LIVE in this truth! its not our job to save people. we can't. its our job to love Him. and see His love poor through our lives.

Stop making it a game of risk. where we take over the world. its already ours.

39 Posted by dennis on 9/17/2008 6:43:33 PM

Benjamin- you are so on to truth. The Word speaks about renewing our minds. Most I have talked with think this means recognize your sins, confess and be forgiven (again and again and again, I guess). This is sin conscious dying existance (not living as you point out)and speaks of the "old man." Our new identity in Christ- a new creation- enters us in a spirit-driven life, and is in with Christ's indwelling spirit and is LIFE itself- His life. Being who you are in Christ is living according to what is natural-in who He says you are- righteous, forgiven, in sainthood, priests, heirs, and most important to realize is in Completeness. Thanks for your insightful note Benjamin

40 Posted by Fred on 9/17/2008 7:02:54 PM

sure am glad Jesus anit done with all us imperfects

41 Posted by Hima on 9/17/2008 9:13:26 PM

Praise!!! and lift the hands in the air!!!! lets give all our money to the church yes...lets praise something we have been all raised to praise and know nothing about only just because we go to church...and the only reference we know about God is from the NEW testiment. You`re a bunch of literal hick town personas

42 Posted by GrtGrace on 9/17/2008 9:48:44 PM

I am convinced that Rob Bell is right "Jesus wants to save Christians". The problem is that the people who think they are healthy reject a physician.

I am done spending time with people who think they are healthy.
I am done wasting my time on "christians" when there are plenty of people being honest about their condition and willing to accept help.

43 Posted by Erin on 9/18/2008 1:00:29 AM

I think the important thing to remember is the heart in which Lorie wrote this.

While she may be done with the plastic Christianity (as many people are, myself included) we should remember that simply because she says she is "done" with them doesn't mean she is done with the people.

Of course Jesus wants us to love everyone as He loves us.

However, when people are too busy playing church and keeping a plastic smile on them seeking God's will, there is a problem.

I'm done with the plastic Christians, too. But because of Jesus, I'm not done with them. I will love them, pray for them, wish wisdom on them.
I'm done with them, and yet never done.

44 Posted by Amanda on 9/18/2008 2:54:03 AM

Sounds like you are done with a lot of sinners. Good thing Jesus isn't.

45 Posted by Sir Jack on 9/18/2008 7:58:40 AM

I'm done with walking around saying "I'm sick and everybody else is too". Jesus delivered me from many problems. I was entrenched in a life I could never straighten out on my own. I'm done with worrying about what's wrong with everybody else or if they're true or not. I go to church because I feel there is hope there. There are false people everywhere you look, not just in the church.

46 Posted by Jon Davis on 9/19/2008 1:28:00 AM

"Jesus befriended all those you are DONE with and calls us to do the same."

Couldn't disagree more. Jesus' story was something like, "I'm done ... with church leaders who value their piety over sincere humility." And then John the Baptist's attitude, "I'm done ... with sinners who won't repent of their sins." In fact, go read the book of John. The movie of the same name which narrates verbatim and enacts the book clearly shows that one of the main reasons Jesus was crucified was because of reactive attitudes like yours who couldn't handle Jesus showing up and saying "shame on the hypocrites".

47 Posted by Jon Davis on 9/19/2008 1:41:23 AM

I'm done with people who think they're "Christians" by assuming anybody and everybody is a "brother" and everyone's a "Christian", when the Bible is pretty clear that Jesus was crucified by people who thought they already had it together.

I'm done with people who forgot that grace is given to those who seek it with sincere repentance.

I'm done with people who measure a church by Sunday morning activities and social interaction, and not by the devoted pursuit of an actual relationship with God.

I'm done with people who speak about God, and even pray outspoken to God, and who try to live "good lives" but when it comes down to the power of God and the acts of God and the relationship with God and the dynamic involvement of God they ultimately prove to be going through the motions at best and living a lie at worst.

I'm done with people who genuinely think that God isn't done with these people, too. For that matter, sometimes I wonder if he isn't done even with me. In which case, that'd be totally fair, I let Him judge, but it's not like he's judging us with us being blind to his judging character.

To the extent that we do not humble ourselves before Him, to that extent, we are not equals, and his rejection is real. You guys can keep playing games and convincing yourselves that "everyone's okay". Most of such people are clearly identified as not okay.

48 Posted by Everett Johnson on 9/16/2008 2:30:19 PM

I am so very glad that Jesus Christ is not done with all the people you mentioned. He wasn't done with Peter, though he had to say "Get thee behind me Satan." Paul was not done with the Corinthians whom he called beloved in the faith, yet chastised them for many of the things you mentioned (Please carefully read First Corinthians.)

If you mean you are done with being those things yourself then great! If you meant what you said, then your attitude in not that of the Lord or of Paul who told us to be gentle in our corrections and to do it with fear lest we also fall.

Your words indicate the possibility of a deadly spiritual pride.

49 Posted by Jeff on 9/16/2008 9:45:23 PM

what theology, brad?

50 Posted by Jason on 9/16/2008 9:55:26 PM

How about I am done worrying about what those around me are doing and spending my time concerning myself with petty things.

We (myself included) should be concerned with our own short-comings and focusing on improving our own walk with God as opposed to worrying whether someone else is doing things the right way or not. I am far from perfect... FAR.... but I have become more at peace over the years due to God opening my eyes to the fact that others are more open to your witness when you don't point out to them that they are failing in the first place. As the old expression goes, you can catch more flies with honey than you can with vinegar. Just walk around showing the joy you have in your life that stems from knowing God and his Son and most will want to know your "secret."

I for one am not willing to give up and call myself "done" with those that may not be on the right path. If anything, I am more interested in doing what I can to help those if God so chooses to empowere me to do so. Jesus came to bring the lost to righteousness not the holy. Casting those aside that may not be walking in the light of God would make for a terrible world. I will never be "done" with any of those people mentioned in the list. If anything, I am just getting started with them.

I only pray God gives me the wisdom, grace and patience to do his will as he would have me do it.

51 Posted by Kay on 9/18/2008 9:52:39 AM

I needed to write and say that I believe Dennis is on the right track...My church is terrific and since I have returned to my Father, my constant prayer is that He guide my feet in the direction His plan calls for. I am not wise enough to understand His purpose for my life...BUT I know there is a purpose..
And let me tell you, He has sent me to places that are GOOD for me and mine...I used to be the queen of bad choices...
When I gave up control the results were truly miraculous.
God Love you all

52 Posted by Steve on 9/19/2008 10:58:41 AM

You might try a Black Protestant church (NOT the hate-mongering variety the Obamas attended for years.)I have given up on trivial White Protestant churches, mere entertainment centers for the silly. My wife and I have found a most GENUINELY friendly church, with adult level sermons, and music from the heart. And we are the only Whites there! Loving it.

53 Posted by Jonny on 9/19/2008 2:51:45 PM

Yeah, I'm done too. Once you stop believing in all the other BS that the church hands you, you will be on your way to face the fact that there IS no god.

54 Posted by Tom on 9/19/2008 3:35:15 PM

Jonny...interesting point that you capitalized "IS." Is of course relates to being. What would be your answer to the age-old question as to why there "is" anything rather than nothing. Would you say that the universe is self-existent?

55 Posted by Betsy on 9/19/2008 3:42:06 PM

If you were not dispensationally ignorant, then some of those "dones" wouldn't bother you any more.

I am done with...legalism!

56 Posted by Carlyle Vaughn on 9/20/2008 2:09:58 PM

We all have a Relationship with Jesus Christ, who is God, when we invite Him into our Hearts. He's always been their!! He came with our Birth! He's our Conscience!! But from Childhood? We have learned to overcome our Conscience, especially, when we went thru the Terrible Two's.. Then there came the time, when we thought we knew God. That is - the God of the Old Testament! Because Religions, thought they could combine the Old with the New.

If you have seen the movie, or read the book of "Gone With The Wind." The first 2/3rd of the book, talked about the Plantations in the South, and the Farms in the North. And BOTH North and South, owned Slave's. These, for the most part who owned the slaves, were Christians.. Yes, they were Christians! Because they said they were.

The last 1/3rd of the Book, was about the freeing of the Slaves, who were Black, and many of them were the Descendent's of Moses. Moses, was of the tribe of Levi. Now? When were the Black People, free of Slavery?

Much like any book, you need to read it from the beginning to the end. And just like a Last Will and Testament? Only those Mentioned in the Last Will? Will receive the Reward!! These are the ONE'S, who through FAITH - Receive the Promise of the Last Will. They can ONLY receive the Promise THRU FAITH!

Faith was not a word used by the people of the Old Testament. Because Jesus Christ the Son of God, is the Author of Faith. And He didn't come, until the New Testament. The Authorship of the word Faith had a special meaning. It comes in different parts of the New Testament. Faith, without Love?? Is no faith at all. So Love is more important than Faith. In another place Jesus said, "If you CANT Love your brother? Who you can see.. How can you Love Me! Who you can not see?

So Faith? Has nothing to do with your car, your job or anything else, other than, Faith In Jesus Christ who is God!

There are over Ten Thousand Christian Religions here in the United States. All reading from the same Book, and none of them agreeing with each other. Your Relationship with Christ? Is a Personal one. There are no Religions in Heaven.
CarlyleD

57 Posted by Eric Wilson on 9/20/2008 4:49:46 PM

Way to go! What I have found is the traditional church of America almost encourages that type of thing with their programs, and their lack of discipleship. Change is coming! A bunch of us here in St. Louis are making disciples, truly listing to God and the Holy Spirit and we are seeing amazing things! God is healing people spiritually, mentally and even physically on a couple of occasions. The church as it is known in America is dying, and coming up from the dust is God's true church coming out and coming forth. :-)

Eric Wilson

58 Posted by Ben on 9/20/2008 6:17:08 PM

amen.

59 Posted by Jamie Wallace on 10/1/2008 9:35:58 PM

Comment from Eric Wilson:
Submitted Saturday, September 20, 2008 at 4:49:46 PM EST

Way to go! What I have found is the traditional church of America almost encourages that type of thing with their programs, and their lack of discipleship. Change is coming! A bunch of us here in St. Louis are making disciples, truly listing to God and the Holy Spirit and we are seeing amazing things! God is healing people spiritually, mentally and even physically on a couple of occasions. The church as it is known in America is dying, and coming up from the dust is God's true church coming out and coming forth. :-)

Eric Wilson

-

I found your comment very interesting...there certainly is change, going away from the tradition institutionalized church. We have to remember that when we read the gospels and acts there is no such thing as a congregational church. But disciples making disciple makers that gather and multiply with a covenant relationship with God and each other, that's what we see! So something very similar is happening here in NY as well. Peace in Christ my friend.

Jamie

60 Posted by david on 10/2/2008 8:40:11 PM

this was as honest of a report of too many people who believe they are born-again Christians. where is our faith that by His stripes we are healed already. what more does Jesus still have to do for our salvation, for our healing, for our peace of mind? the answer is now and will continue to be nothing that has not already been done at calvary

61 Posted by Anonymous on 9/16/2008 9:02:30 PM

First, do as the Bible says.
Know a person or persons often cannot change the direction of a church = big burnout. Keith Green sang it years ago we're asleep in the light. Our jobs is to listen to the Holy Spirit, if the leaders of churches aren't doing that, good luck trying to direct the train with the caboose!

62 Posted by Gene Thomas on 9/29/2008 1:52:18 PM

All this really only goes to show that the church is full of sinners. So whats new? Maybe you should replace "I'm done . . . with" "I'm ready to . . . deal with."

63 Posted by sabbott on 10/7/2008 8:48:25 AM

Wow! Read the bible! Jesus sat and ate with thieves, prostitutes and lepers! He didn't pal around with those who had a high opinion of themselves or those who judges others based on their own moral compass! Those of you who have not sinned cast the first stone!

The comments on this post are not from the Spirit of God but from the Spirit of this World!

64 Posted by Greg M. Johnson on 9/16/2008 10:19:48 PM

You've seen the depths of a Theology of Glory. Consider a Theology of the Cross.

65 Posted by Dennis on 9/17/2008 5:16:55 PM

Has anyone just got to the point of knowing that it is Christ who lives in the beloved who lives HIS life through each of us- that we have UNION with Him- that we should accept His GRACE in all circumstances and to REST in his mercy and love. I understand how Christian sense the responsibilities- their churches lay it on them and it is what keeps the fold returning Sunday after Sunday.

All would be truly amazed at their life with Christ when they stop trying to do God's work and allow God to act through them. They will witness the circumstances present themselves as God sees fit.

blessings

66 Posted by Sir Jack on 9/17/2008 8:13:04 PM

I stumbled upon this article, as I'm sure many of you have. I am sick of religion myself and "christianese". The church is full of people who seem to have it all together. I, too, like to look as though I have it together. Sometimes I actually do. People go to church because they're hungry and hurting. They may look like it is social hour to them, but they are there for a reason. Maybe the right words from the pastor may actually open the door for them to become truly effective people for the Kingdom of God.
Sure there may be a lot of people who think they are better than others, but that's their problem not mine. We never know what changes may take place in a person's life at any given moment. The church is not dead. I used to judge people by the clothes they wore and the cars they drove. Until I met some rich folks in the church that treated everyone with real class. They used what God gave them and they show their love to others and enjoy their lives too.

67 Posted by Amir Mostaghim on 9/18/2008 8:45:44 AM

Maybe it would be more useful if you were done with following a myth and the orders of an imaginary friend. Maybe you would realize the bliss that you seek is in recognizing truth rather than following a fairy tale.
just a suggestion......

68 Posted by Jeff on 9/20/2008 3:39:09 PM

Interesting thought, Carlyle, about there being no religion in heaven. Thanks for sharing.

69 Posted by Mark Vilen on 10/18/2008 1:26:15 AM

Excellent comment by this gentleman (below). We need to know our identity in Christ, then we will live it out, as we allow Christ to live His life through us, as saints, not sinners . . .

Comment from Jeff:
Submitted Wednesday, September 17, 2008 at 10:37:25 AM EST

Ouch, Jo. That doesn't give us much hope, does it? What reason would I have to continue being part of an institution that will "never change"? Are you sure that's the biblical model of church? Moreover, my understanding of the New Testament is not that it treats believers in Christ as prideful, sinful and imperfect - aren't we usually called "saints," "children of God," and "beloved"? Maybe the reason we hurt each other is because we don't accept that central truth of our identity in Christ, our status as New Creations. What do you think?

70 Posted by Terry on 9/16/2008 10:38:01 PM

I'm Done with people who cast the first stone.

71 Posted by Chuck on 9/16/2008 10:39:34 PM

Really? Because I'm done with Christians.

72 Posted by Memarie Lane on 9/16/2008 11:18:43 PM

I've been a church goer all my life and have yet to find a church where I feel welcomed, where anyone will even look me in the eye instead of taking inventory of me, if that.

73 Posted by Amanda on 9/18/2008 2:59:00 AM

"I'm done with the plastic Christians, too. But because of Jesus, I'm not done with them. I will love them, pray for them, wish wisdom on them. I'm done with them, and yet never done."

I see what you are trying to say Erin, but how do you feel about the fact that those people you are loving and praying for and "wishing wisdom on" are doing the same for you??? Any line of thought that brings us to a place where we think of ourselves as "better" in ANY way than other Christians is a dangerous, dangerous road to walk down... though I agree with the heart of what Lorie is saying here, I can not condone the "Christians who" part. That clearly refers to the people instead of the act.

74 Posted by Matt on 9/19/2008 4:08:09 PM

This whole things makes me want to puke. Somebody in precious America is harassed nonstop for her free speech. I think some of the people posting on this thread would be offended by everything that doesn't come from their own minds. Lorie isn't done with people. That is never implied. It's the hypocrisy and pretense that she can take no more.

If you dare to see where our traditions come from, check out the book "Pagan Christianity?" by Frank Viola and George Barna. You may be quite surprised how we have conformed to the world through time.

75 Posted by Christina on 11/4/2008 7:22:58 PM

I just found this and I think it's awesome. I was a victim of the "plastic people" and because I wouldn't hide my past like some skeleton in my closet, I was ridiculed by the church I grew up in. I tried for years to make a difference at that church but finally had to leave after nurmerous issues that have come up (and seeing demons dancing on the pulpit). Thank you for the poem and thank you for having the courage to say all this. You rock sister!

76 Posted by Rick on 11/15/2008 6:11:50 PM

Is god unable to prevent evil? Then he is not omnipotent. Is he unwilling? Then he is malevolent. Is he neither unable nor unwilling? Then whence does evil come? If he is both, then why do we call him god?

77 Posted by Jim on 9/17/2008 1:50:10 PM

I understand where your coming from, I've often felt that same way. The question God always puts on me whenever I've thought that is "What are your going to do about it". All we can do it be witnesses to these people.

78 Posted by tyler on 9/17/2008 5:29:38 PM

i hear ya! this is a great post!

god bless!

79 Posted by sabbott on 9/18/2008 8:02:25 AM

Your treatise seems very critical! I don't see this spirit among the gifts of the Holy Spirit spoken of in the Scripture. Where is your love of people? We who walk into church each Sunday are not perfect! We each come with our faults, sin and short-comings and put them all at the cross of Jesus Christ asking that his work at Calvary is sufficient for salvation...not ours! I personally am NOT DONE with Jesus' people as I am one of them! We will not be perfect until we see the Lord and we are to bear each others burdens and support each other until then. That is what the community of believers is about! May God Bless You!

80 Posted by Joseph on 11/16/2008 2:46:43 PM

How many times has the word I been used. I remember growing up in the 60's and longing to be part of the anti everything revolution. My words were to my Dad went like this, " Why should I go to Church with a bunch of hipocrites". Only after a complete Holy Spirit change and realizing that it wasn't about me or I but about HIM. Allow yourself to be broken and Love those plastic people. But changing things within my "Plastic Church". I have been his hands and feet from where he has put me. Try bringing Inner City poor
and homeless and cooking on a regular basis in your modern kitchen at your church for people that are in need. You will certaintly cause people to change and follow a Christ like lifestyle. Quit Whinning!!!!

81 Posted by jeff on 12/11/2008 9:39:29 PM

ouch, joseph.

82 Posted by Brad on 9/16/2008 9:24:59 PM

I commend your need to go deeper than 'plastic Christianity' (great phrase, I think I'll use that one) and to break the chains of dogma and tradition; however I do take issue with some of your theology...

83 Posted by jo on 9/17/2008 9:22:10 AM

i can relate to many who've said they haven't found "authenticity" in the church. but NEWS FLASH you're NOT going to! our human nature is sinful, prideful...full of MANY imperfections...least i am!

i'm not justifying immaturity but even i as a follower of Christ i KNOW that i have lots MORE growing up to do because guess what, i have not arrived! and if there be others similar to me coming together corporately well....that's a problem waiting to happen be it gossip, phoniness, etc. (again, i'm not justifying the behavior.)

so you will NEVER find a perfect set of individuals nor the perfect church 'til Christ' return. so what do you do in the meantime? FOCUS ON CHRIST!

try to resist the utge to compare and bicker (not easy-i've been there, being challenged there still = )
be the cataylst. if you find hard-hearted people...challenge them in their loving by first loving THEM. if you find a harsh people ...challenge them with your grace towards them and others!
show "THEM" how to do it as Christ did.

the "issues" with the church will NEVER go away!! NEVER! they've been and will always be because WE are imperfect and without them we'd have NO need of God. so CHALLENGE "them" with counter-active living. BE WHAT THEY ARE NOT!!

that's the example Christ left for us!

84 Posted by Opalara on 9/16/2008 9:22:46 PM

Words to live by, thank you Lorie. I'm going to share this with my family.

May the Lord bless you and your family

85 Posted by Matt on 9/20/2008 10:18:55 PM

Shelby, that's because most Christians are appearance-oriented. there's a FALSE belief that once you become a Christian, you have to be perfect. since people can't live up to that, they just pretend to. and nothing can stay hidden for too long it seems. the problem here is that people are 1) too worried about other people's opinions of them or 2) ashamed of their short-comings, which don't surprise God, and they're trying to hide them from Him, which usually involves running from Himand all the while trying to maintain the image they desperately attempt to project.

please don't judge us all over this. there are a whole ton of grace-minded Christians who willingly admit their imperfections before others.

86 Posted by Tony York on 10/14/2008 4:12:53 PM

Amen.

87 Posted by Hypocrite on 9/17/2008 10:21:09 PM

Seems hypocritical to denounce the failings of other Christians and say you are done with them when you depend on the same grace. Do your works make you special? Show me the person who denies their hypocrisy and I'll show you the biggest hypocrite in the room. Don't worry about the hypocrites in the church, there's always room for one more! :-)

88 Posted by Jeff on 9/18/2008 10:41:40 AM

thanks for sharing, Kay! glad to hear that you're at a great church.

89 Posted by Moderator on 9/18/2008 10:43:31 AM

FYI: All comments are screened and anyone who uses profanity will most likely be deleted.

90 Posted by blue on 9/18/2008 10:52:07 AM

haha. thanks anyways.

91 Posted by Shelby on 9/20/2008 10:06:50 PM

I think Christians are all hypocrites and live come of the most crooked lives I've ever known

92 Posted by Gabe on 3/1/2009 4:39:34 AM

A lot of these comments are WACKO! haha. So quick to whip out our swords and razor blades and dissect this lady saying that she's "DONE" into 'right' or 'wrong'. Or 'if Jesus' would be 'Done'. As Christians do we forfeit the right to speak our mind and share our thoughts without having to worry about brethren exhorting and scrutinizing and correcting to fit into their 'right' and 'wrong' boxes. When Jesus listens to this ladies heart do you think he is concerned with her using the word DONE or being so blunt? I don't I think Jesus rejoices that she is so in Love with Him that she wants a genuine faith for herself and the church. Anyway, you go girl!

93 Posted by lisa Quick on 1/6/2009 3:50:22 AM

How well will we all do when we are called to truly answer his call and act in ways unfamiliar but peculiliar to the identity Christ has given us as his in Christ.It may all become quite urgent and exciting to play our part in what he is doing. lets all be in our new creature and WITH HIM. We all matter and he has a plan for us.keep walking. I have faith that if we stay faithful there wont be anything he cant say to us and he will get us together in or outside of the organiosed Church structure. (It organised Church exist when it counts anyway).It will be as we are his sheep and willing to do all that is asked.For me so far, it has meannt laying down the most precious thing in my self life, kicking and sreaming and wishin i had done it with a little more decorim.

Even Jesus had A LITTLE TROUBLE IN THE GARDEN COMING TO TERMS WITH THE COST. IT IS DIFFERENT FOR EVERYONE BUT IN THE END IT ALL ADDS UP TO THE SELF LIFE and dieing to this life. IT MIGHT BE GOOD BUT NOT AS GOOD AS THE SPIRIT LIFE, and this is a life lived with Christ. We are called to do even greater things than jesus. This statement is true because he said it and i believe him able to complete his good work in each of our surrendered lives. ( surrendered life! probably a condition, do you think?)When you sence your self life getting a tug from God dont fight it i have learnt that in the end its not worth saving, loose your life and find Christ try and do it with a little more decorim than i did. I hope the next bit to die i work with him better.it dosnt take any physical energy to get carried away down the river. I can say that God will keep your spirit life alive but cant promise the same for your self life. GOOD RIDDENS ANYWAY AY!

94 Posted by RosaryGirl on 12/23/2008 7:18:21 PM

I agree Time to stop playing & start Living

95 Posted by michelle mercer on 8/5/2009 10:06:25 PM

this is so cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!our church is looking for a worship leader. we are looking for someone who will not rely on mechanics or is lead forth with pride, but is wholly depedant on the HOLY SPIRIT"S guidence. we are a people who are the first to admit we are imperfect, but we adore the LORD and know that we serve a perfect GOD.......oh and we love the drums too. we are looking for someone who understands the marriage of music and has the ability to pull the old and young generations to one place in CHRIST. (hope that makes since). If the Lord leads you to apply please send your resumae' to:bonobaptist1@juno.org or

Bono Baptist Church
6349 Bono Rd.
Godley,Tx. 76044

96 Posted by Bob on 10/1/2009 11:40:25 PM

Now that you're done, forgive them, love them and pray for them. Everyone you meet today is fighting some type of battle. No one is perfect. Everyone has a race to run.

97 Posted by Jon Thompson on 11/11/2009 10:23:26 PM

The points you have brought up in this article are pure gold.

But don't you see the real issue? Look at all of the replies of agreement you have gotten. And I know 100% that this article would get pages and pages of more thoughts and agreements if people were to read it.

See, this need for true worship, a true church, is within us all. That's the Holy Spirit crying out, people. It is Satan and Satan alone that brings this "fake" worship into hearts of so many devout.

I think the best way to battle this is revealing to people that there is indeed a spiritual battle. God and Satan are moving in all of our lives, demons and angels are constantly struggling for souls. A lot of this is subtle, or buried within our human temperaments. Never underestimate the power of Satan, and call upon the power of God.

98 Posted by Bryan on 11/14/2009 3:04:50 AM

This article is just truth. People know they play church yet they choose to dwell in it. Its not the church Jesus cald us to be. Many churches do not stand against oppresion and principalities of this world why because many of the churches conform to this world. Preachers conform wanting riches such as getting a mega church or taylor suites or luxury cars planes and huge buildings. Then they don't go out into the world and stand against principalities which promote lust greed idolotry and sin which then destroys our youth and coming generation. This happens because many don't know how the enemy is decieving people with sunday services instead of people opperating in the spirit of the living god which. These churches have so much phyical power but very little spiritual power. Honoring the pastors needs is more important then doing everything in our power to help the lost flock. Jesus would not even dwell in these building instead he would get his hands dirty feeding the poor. He would not chase after riches because all he would do was give it away. The church is suppose to sacrifice itself to preach the gospel. The greatest amongst you is the least and the least is the greatest meaning the poor man should be treated like Joel Olsteen and Joel Olsteen treated like the poor. Jesus says this because he knew who needed the coat the most yet many do the opposite. Jesus always blessed those who were the least and the most oppressed and never took credit but instead said I am not good for no one is good but the father. Then you say well how do I know if I'm doing his will and who is his church simple narrow is the way the truth and the light seek and ye shell find ask and it shell be given unto you. The holy spirit will guide you into his will and you find the church which christ is the head.

99 Posted by Laurie on 11/15/2009 10:29:39 AM

And... this is why I don't want to go to church anymore. All this legalism and rules weighing people down. People using OLD TESTAMENT LAWS to condemn believers- there is therefore NOW no condemnation to those in Christ Jesus. Just quit a church that taught me I needed to go BACK and hang everything on the cross- that I was cursed if I didn't do things properly- HA- cursed is everyman who hangs on a tree- I'm done trying to find another Jesus to crucify. Matthew 23:1-10 the Message:

Religious Fashion Shows
1-3 Now Jesus turned to address his disciples, along with the crowd that had gathered with them. "The religion scholars and Pharisees are competent teachers in God's Law. You won't go wrong in following their teachings on Moses. But be careful about following them. They talk a good line, but they don't live it. They don't take it into their hearts and live it out in their behavior. It's all spit-and-polish veneer.
4-7"Instead of giving you God's Law as food and drink by which you can banquet on God, they package it in bundles of rules, loading you down like pack animals. They seem to take pleasure in watching you stagger under these loads, and wouldn't think of lifting a finger to help. Their lives are perpetual fashion shows, embroidered prayer shawls one day and flowery prayers the next. They love to sit at the head table at church dinners, basking in the most prominent positions, preening in the radiance of public flattery, receiving honorary degrees, and getting called 'Doctor' and 'Reverend.'

8-10"Don't let people do that to you, put you on a pedestal like that. You all have a single Teacher, and you are all classmates. Don't set people up as experts over your life, letting them tell you what to do. Save that authority for God; let him tell you what to do. No one else should carry the title of 'Father'; you have only one Father, and he's in heaven. And don't let people maneuver you into taking charge of them. There is only one Life-Leader for you and them�Christ.

100 Posted by Jeff on 11/15/2009 3:43:27 PM

Thanks for the all the comments, everyone. This has been a great discussion. We've started a community for those of you who are frustrated (feeling "done with" church), where you can still find, community and affirmation. Check it out: www.iamdonewith.com.

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