[Faith-talk] Response to Ericka's Questions

[Linda Mentink]

Hi Ericka,

No, you would not be shunned or disrespected if you were married 
with no children.  Yes, you should work.  We have many women in 
this situation, and one has her own business in her home.  I was 
sharing what the norm is here, and giving an example of how a 
church can thrive living according to Biblical principles here in 
America.  Many believe that there are certain things, mainly in 
the New Testament, that are cultural and historical, and not 
applicable for us today.  There's freedom in knowing what's 
expected, and knowing what God's Word says, and believing and 
living accordingly.  We have struggles, difficulties, illnesses, 
and all the rest, of course, because we're on the earth.  God 
says we will.  And I don't work full-time, so I still get Social 
Security Disability.  All the women don't sew, either, but many 
do, thereby saving money on clothing.  That's part of their 
ministry to their families.

I know that there are not many churches like ours, and not many 
individuals who would be comfortable here or fit in.  I'm not 
judging anyone who lives differently.  Most can't, nor would they 
want to.  If, as Sarah says, and I believe her, conservative 
church leaders and members oppress others, that is not God's way, 
and that's not how Christians should treat others.  Not all 
conservative congregations are like that, and it shouldn't be 
assumed that ours is because of the things we stand for or how we 
live.

Blessings,

Linda