When we had our yard sale last weekend, I had a buyer come up and ask me where we go to church. After hearing that we don’t have a church here yet, he offered a suggestion. His description of the church, though – which was very typical of what I’ve heard lately from others – was disappointing. He said, “They aren’t hardcore Bible thumpers,” or anything. (Possibly “thumpers” wasn’t the word he used, but I’m absolutely positive that “hardcore Bible”-something is a direct quote.)
After my initial momentary frustration that it’s so stinkin’ hard to find a good church, I was grieved. Why is it that we feel the need to apologize for the Bible? Why is it that churches are unwilling to “major on” the Bible nowadays? Why do we feel the need to try to “sell” our churches – even to Christians! – as “not too hardcore,” but offering an abundance of programs? I want to stand out in the church parking lots and yell at the top of my lungs:
I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for those who believe!
(abbreviated version of Romans 1:16)
What is wrong with us? We have grown so concerned about the mere possibility of offending any person that we offend God, instead. (And, frankly, I’m offended, too.) Wake up, Church!
I understand how you feel. I haven’t been able to find a good church since I became “born from above.”(a Christian)
The problem is most of the churches are not really following the God of the Bible. The God of the Bible is sovereign over all things, including salvation.
Those who can deny scripture which clearly shows that God is sovereign in salvation, are not in the faith. (Examples: Romans 9, Ephesians 1, Proverbs 16:4)