Most of us are unfamiliar with the Church of Christ. There is one in our town, and from all appearance it looks like any other ordinary church. When you dig into their beliefs,  however, there are serious concerns. For a thorough review of the Church of Christ, read this article from Got Questions here. My interest in this podcast is not at all to attack the church of Christ, but to hear Pastor Gary Phillips story of pastoring a Church of Christ church and what caused him to leave.

Toccoa Christian Church minister, Gary Phillips, has been involved in Biblical ministry for over 18 years. Gary, along with wife Sandi, has served the Lord in many capacities. Married for 19 years, Gary and Sandi are loved by and cherish 5 adult children and 12 grandchildren. A well-rounded individual and lover of learning, Gary Phillips is not only well-read and educated in Biblical Scripture, but in professional studies as well. Earning 3 degrees, Gary has obtained much knowledge and real-life experience to not only teach, but to lead his congregation in a real and relevant way. (Gary has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in both Mechanical Engineering and Theology. He has also earned a Master of Divinity Degree in Counseling). Once an atheist, Gary became a follower of Christ with a strong desire to learn Scripture. Gary studied apologetics at Theology School, diligently studying the existence of God and the inspiration of Scripture. In addition to preaching over 3,000 sermons, Gary has also taught (as well as written curriculum for) many marriage classes, divorce groups, groups of parents of children, and others developed with the help of his Counseling degree. Gary explains his teaching philosophy: “90% of the sermons I preach are expository; directly from the inspired text. My illustrations, applications, videos are applicable and are up to date. I believe that if they are not, the Word of God will not be understood as relevant to our youth, our families, and it certainly will not seem relevant to our community.”

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