John,

I think you know I didn't mean to make light of your situation, yet I couldn't help but make the comparison to AA's standards for obvious reasons. Actually, what you are describing can be a serious problem in the church today. Not just in Japan but throughout the world. Whether you choose a denominational church, congregational church, or an independant one you will find these kinds of add ons to one degree or another. Whether it be smoking, drinking, hair length, clothing code, whatever..... it becomes legalism. The effort to add certain laws to curb excesses doesn't purify the church. No law can! Obedience to God's law and quiting bad habits is the result of being saved, not the cause of it.

Paul wrote in I Corinthians 6:12.....

"All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. Foods for the stomach and the stomach for foods, but God will destroy both it and them. .....do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s."

I'm praying for you John. I sincerely hope further communication will reveal that you have misunderstood the pastor's position rather than having to look for other options.


Wes

When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of Glory died, my richest gain I count but loss and pour contempt on all my pride. - Isaac Watts