After almost 50 years in this denomination, giving, sacrificing, serving on church boards, I am fortunate to be out of this group. The farther I get away, the scarier this group looks. This denonimation contributed to more bondage in my life than anything at the time or since.

Like any church, the scripture can be quoted to "justify" that they are a Bible-based denomination, that their views are the most theologically correct. There's actually a number of heresies that would require some lengthy explanation. But, what makes this group most like a "cult" is their absolute vision of Chrisianity. If you have been lead by the Spirit and God reveals his Word to you in a way that might be a little different from the AG doctrine, you are accused of being "deceived" or Satan is attacking you. How is this any different from any other "cult"? There is actually a district in the AG that has sent a memo to it's pastors that they are not to visit other churches outside of the denomination. I have seen the actual memo. What are they afraid of?

Really, the biggest problem I have with this group is the conflict of teachings. Teach love, but practice judgement. You may be flawed, but thank goodness there's someone around worse than you. There is a heirarchy of sins. Some sins such as gossip or slander are overlooked, but don't dare get divorced in the AG church. Doesn't matter if you have suffered actual abuse, there's always something you should have done to make it work. You should have tried harder.

It's sad and I think it has something to do with the fact that you're always "earning" your salvation. There is so much emphasis placed on works and serving in order to be a "good" Christian. People end up working on their image and stop being real. Not everyone is like that, there are some genuine loving people in the AG church, but I have people like that at work that aren't Christians as well.

These are simply my reflections of my experiences with this denomination. It hasn't been with just one church, it has been my experience with each that I have been a member of. Each person must listen to the Spirit and decide for themselves. But, decide for yourself. Don't just take what is handed from the pulpit has the final word. Research the Word for yourself and expand your research beyond just what is recommended by the church.

I know that the truth has set me free and I have never felt more a part of God's love than I do now.