malkie wrote:Hi Stem.
You've said something like this several times, I believe. This idea has been percolating in my mind for a while, and I'd be interested in your further thoughts.
I'm curious about whether you reached this conclusion based solely on observation (i.e., there are some people who do not seem to benefit from being members), or also based on analysis (i.e., certain kinds of people do not seem to benefit from being members).
If the latter, could you tell us a bit about the characteristics of people that you think the Church isn't for?
Also, do you think that it is the case that the Church is not (suitable) for everyone, or that some have made themselves unsuitable for the Church?
Pardon me for having to insert a different option altogether: I reached that conclusion based on an almagamation of the oberservation option you offer and statements by church leaders. Some people simply will benefit most, or in some cases benefit God's purposes the most, if they are not a part of His Church on earth. Some people who choose not to be members seem to benefit most outside the church and, quite often, these same people seem to excell in being good people, much moreso than they were in the Church. The part I'd be hung up on is identifying certain common qualities among such people. I don't think I can do that. They seem to be all sorts of people.
I wish I had a better answer for you.