Hello kitten,

Baptism is a serious matter. As you say, It is important that you do find an elder that is "loyal to what Christ taught".

Mr HWA brought a little to the table of the congregations of God. Be warned however of feeling like you need to be loyal to any man - regardless of how much they may seem to have to offer. It is only God through them to which you are responding, including much of what HWA taught. He originally learned it from D.D. Rupert and the 7th Day Church that he attended in his youth but only after Loma, his first wife, persuaded him to listen to it.

So, you see, it is not the man but the message and source that you seek. God is drawing you. I pray you respond to His will, as it seems you are. This is called 'first love' in verse, which I hope you never lose. It is a treasure of its own - priceless!

Please see an article titled "The Elder" at: http://users.adelphia.net/~dwlacey/faq/elder/theelder_0.html
This may help [a little] in your quest .

Please ignore any negative input by so many confused individuals out there. You are on a path to a great discovery. Finish it!

David

Email: dwlacey@adelphia.net

Hi

Just a comment. HWA was not an apostle. Their was only 12 not one more or one less. Read Revelation Chapter 21 verse 14. There are only 12 apostles. Accept this fact and let it go. This does not take anything away from the man.

HWA is also dead, God will remember him when the time comes. Your salvation should have NO connection to a dead man. Jesus Christ is the only one alive who lived in the old and new testaments.

Later!
Jim

Email: jpatterson34@hotmail.com

Dear "Kitten"
I am sorry to hear that you are having such problems with people who want to push you away from the truth!
I believe what Christ says Hold fast to that which you have! Mr. Armstrong was God's apostle, we keep the things he taught and build on them. We keep the holydays, and PC counting from the days of UB. We also believe in no make-up and no birthdays. Have been in the church for 38 years plus. I would be glad to help you with any questions, counseling for baptism and visiting. em or call 219..476-7677

Email: watchwc1700@juno.com

Greg

You have confused doctrine with the truth. Doctrine is the interpretation of the truth. Truth is not 'what', but 'Who'. Jesus Christ IS the TRUTH (the way and the life). Jesus Christ (The Truth) sets us free. Your beliefs about birthdays, make-up by no means sets us free. You cannot let go of this after all these years! What have they served the people of GOD? Letting go of these does not let us go of Jesus. We OBSERVE the Holy days, not Trust in them, as you appear to, and you hold them as 'Truth'. We Trust in Christ. Your dogmatic fear is if you revise and update your thinking, you are letting go. The chruch of God has Matured since HWA, you should to.

HWA was not an apostle (See my previous post). He was a man of God who didn't have everything right (and who does?).

Not to be harsh, but your post is irresponsible, and Kitten, I hope you are reading this too. Do not get trapped in the 'I am of Paul I am Appolos' syndrome.

Regards
Jim

Email: jpatterson34@hotmail.com