Doing 'Church Light' - A Cause for Concern

"There is a way which seems right unto a man, but it's end is the way of death."
~ Proverbs 14:12

Over the past twenty years or so, there has been a subtle, yet radical shift in the approach of many within the body of Christ to "doing church". We've seen the 'seeker-sensitive' church model followed closely by, and closely related to, the 'emerging church' model. These congregations are springing up at an alarming rate. They meet in movie theaters, school auditoriums, and even local coffee shops and restaurants. Just last week as I drove near my home in Charlotte, I noticed sandwich board signs posted along the road for six different "new and exciting" places of worship within just a few miles. For many of these, the old ways have been cast aside in the interest of "meeting people where they are", thus the term 'seeker-sensitive'. In practical terms, this has come to mean the following:

• Traditional, expository preaching emphasizing theology and doctrine have been replaced with topical preaching that is meant to address the 'felt needs' of the listener.
• Worship is centered around the audiences' experience and pleasure rather than the glory and majesty of God.
• Biblical discipleship is replaced with holistic programming aimed at keeping people engaged and involved in much activity.

While many of these congregations have seen incredible growth, I've long wondered what manner of disciple of Jesus Christ these churches were producing. Some, in an effort to be attractive to the world's seekers, have come to resemble the world in many ways. I recently heard of one such church locally that hires-in musicians from out-of-town each week to lead worship. Of course, professional musicians may impress an audience, but the fact remains that these "hired guns" are not saved, do not profess Christ as Lord, and have never had a born-again experience for themselves. How do you worship - and lead others in the worship - of One you don't know?

Our call, as the Apostle Paul defined it in Romans 8:29, is to be "conformed to the image of His Son" - that is, to be made like Jesus Christ. It seems to me that this shift in emphasis has left many in the church trying to conform Christ to our image. They seem to want to make Him like us, rather than to be made like Him. That's sad. It's also deceptive. And ultimately, it leaves it's followers with a false sense of security, thinking that attendance means salvation and involvement in much activity equals sanctification.

Another admonition from the Apostle Paul, this one to a young preacher, would seem appropriate for the church and it's leadership in our day: "Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things; for as you do this you will insure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you." ~ 1 Timothy 4:16

"Oh Lord, give depth to our ministry and calling as we go about to make disciples of all nations. Amen"