Just when I thought I could begin to breath easily, Mac strikes again. The so-called Vessel of Honour is rattling my cage once more

"A long time ago, I read that the practice of cell groups as used in churches is actually a satanic invention used to fracture the unity of the church and destroy its prayer foundation......

Our Bible studies, discussions and prayer were dictated by the whims of our particular cell leader. Each cell then has its own particular brand of Christianity, creating the seeds of discord that ultimately fractures and destroys the unity of the church. It is intentional, because the idea of the cells were created precisely for that purpose.....

I am now convinced that those churches who effectively operate as "cell churches" have been compromised by Satan, the angel of light."

My experience of cell is it is a chance not to do endless bible study debates, but to ask the question 'What then shall we do?' of the sunday sermon. People pay more attention on Sunday knowing that midweek they will be asked 'So what does anyone remember about the message on sunday'. Discussions ensue about the impact the message should have on our lives at home and work. Worldly ideas are exposed, and we find ourselves being discipled by Gods word and the implications of the sunday preacher.

In our church we are not looking for preachers to lead groups, and the discussions can be led by quite juniour members of the church. Just how does Mac expect discipleship to happen if not in a small group?

We worship together, share together develop friendships and outreach together. I find that some poeple find the challenge that such a group presents to their lifestyle difficult. I suspect Mac may be one of them.

It is easy to be lost in a moderately sized church- even easier if you dont even go to church. It is easy to arrogantly think you don't need the help of other believers to follow God. Personally I learn masses from other Christians in my cell group and I feel that they keep my feet on the ground and keep me honest.

Elders oversee the leaders, and help as needed with pastoral situations. Sunday preachers set the tone of the groups and if any leader was trying to build their own agenda it would be obvious to anyone who had listened to the sermon.

Paul said he spoke publically and from house to house. Why do we feel that we should do anything different?

I am sure that in some churches cells go wrong. Why does that mean that they are all 'of the devil'. This is classic Mac thinking in my view. Its all Black or White. There are shades Mac, there are shades. Guess what, some Godly people might actually disagree with you and be learning from God without being somehow under the influence of the devil.

I dont want another blog war, but please try not to dismiss your brothers and sisters so readily and absolutely. You may feel cell groups are unhelpful for you, what gives you the right to say the entire movement is of the devil?