Specifically Read: Christ-likeness: Integrity
Sometimes in a quest for church growth, churches will go to great extents to become like the people they want to reach in an attempt to attract people. But, to some . . .
The intent of this post is not to debate whether these ideas should be allowed in the church. Nor is it about discussing the pros and cons for all of these ideas. In reality, we will not find specific biblical support to defend or deny such practices. But, we do have to grapple with principles from the Word that must be reflected in all we do.
The intent of this post is to challenge us to think through how far we are to take becoming all things to all people.
- Are we using these practices more as gimmicks to attract people or do they truly fulfill a need?
- Are we relying on sensationalism, entertainment, and consumerism or is our reliance truly on God?
- Are we compromising the true essence of life in Christ or is it something that enhances our life in Him?
- Are we operating more like a commercial or secular organization or are we maintaining integrity as the Church with Jesus as the Head?
- Are we focusing on the appeasement of people or are we most concerned with honoring God?
Each church must answer these questions for themselves. We are all accountable before God for what we do, not for what the next person or church does. Let’s just make sure we are asking these types of questions and not merely moving ahead without God’s stamp of approval. And if you go in such directions: Guard your integrity as a church. Keep your reliance on God to work in people’s lives, not your methodology. Constantly assess your heart to make sure that what you started doing for good reasons, continues to be done in the name of the Lord Jesus.
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Col. 3:17)
Also Read: What is Your Church Relying on?