[Napoleon17]

Originally Posted by ICTHUS

Bobbi, you're nice a lot of the time, but goodness gracious, you know how to be a troll. Just stop.

How is what he said trollish? The OP claims to want a church that is "open-minded" and accepts different viewpoints, but in reality what the OP is really looking for a church that agrees with and is tolerant of his views.

Not that it is a wrong thing to want to go to a church that agrees with you on doctrinal issues, but honestly it is kind of hypocritical to imply that churches that have beliefs about homosexuality and abortion are close-minded. If you want to label the beliefs that homosexuality and abortion are sinful as close-minded beliefs, then couldn't you just as easily label the opposite beliefs as close-minded? It's not about tolerance or open-mindedness, it's simply having different beliefs. If the OP wants to go to a church that shares his beliefs, fine. But it's offensive to imply that church doctrine which disagrees with your position is close-minded.

If some people have allowed their beliefs to cause them to mistreat or shun the OP, of course I can definitely see that the OP would have a problem with that, and want to go to a church where the chances of that happening is lessened, but there is a huge difference between calling the doctrine of orthodox Christianity "close-minded" (which I believe the OP did when he said this: "I'd like a church with more of an open mind, that acknowledges that Christians are split on these issues and accepts those who fall on either side." - orthodox christian doctrine does not allow churches to just simply throw away what Scripture says and simply say whatever is true for you is fine, and whatever is true for me is cool too) and having a problem with the individuals in churches who have shunned you or mistreated you. Heck, I know plenty of people who have been shunned or mistreated in church for many reasons. I have been one in the past myself, probably everyone who has been a teen in church has been. That doesn't mean that christian doctrine is wrong or intolerant or close-minded.

[redbaron]

I don't really see how you can call denominations of churches that take huge chunks of scripture and throw them out to suit their own sense of 'open mindedness' to be Christian churches. It's close minded to believe that Jesus Christ is the only way to gain salvation, and eternal life, but sometimes open-minded is a synonym for 'wrong'.

I can be open minded to the idea that the the earth is flat, and so can millions of people, but that doesn't change the fact that the earth is a sphere.

[mtrobey]

Ok, I'm not looking for a theological debate here over these issues. You think I'm throwing out chunks of the Bible, and I think you all are misinterpreting the Bible. Fine. Christians disagree over these things. Now, instead of arguing over these issues, does anyone know of a church like I'm looking for in the St. Paul/Minneapolis area? After doing some research, I think an Episcopalian church would be good. Anyone know of a good Episcopalian church in the Twin Cities?

[ICTHUS]

Stay away from ECUSA unless you are interested in churches where you're likely to hear the divinity of Christ denied.

That said: The Anglican Church in North America

[Hiskid2]

Hello friend,
i know this is an ancient thread, but in case your following, I'm concerned. As a pastor, I need to address your views. Please consider what Paul wrote to Timothy.
2Ti 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

Please don't be one having itching ears. We are called to holiness and separation from the world, sin and our own ungodly carnal desires. In return He gives us peace that passes all understanding, joy unspeakable and full of glory. This is not meant to be judgemental, Just strong advice out of love.