Members and Attendance

 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:2 KJV

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. Psalm 34:8 NIV

There is a serious malaise in the church today. Attendance. But the question hanging on the lips and hearts of many church leaders is this, “how do we get people back into the seats where they once happily sat individually, or in family units?” The church is not a business, but there is nothing wrong with learning their useful lessons which have stood the test of time, and with positive results. Here are some successes taken from the business world.

Advertising your best characteristics unashamedly, and in the most public ways. Newspapers, magazines, radio and even local TV. The local church is a good way to bring people together while preaching the gospel in a gentle way. It can help heal fractured communities and society by uniting separated neighbours.

Talk openly and freely in general conversations about the church you attend. Don’t be afraid or ashamed or reticent in ‘talking up’ the best parts of your church. Your neighbours can easily see the genuine article, and will equally see right through the apologetic person. Done properly, talking about your fellowship does so much good, but the opposite is also true if you are shallow, if you speak about your pastor or leaders in a negative way.

When the verse says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good”, it suggests that the person you are talking to must give it a try. There is no benefit in talking about church, but keeping your friends at a healthy distance in case they get offended, affected, ‘contaminated’ or convicted by the Holy Spirit of their wrong, sinful, lifestyle.

There is one sure way to get the Word of God across to the general non church goer, and that is to get them under the sound of the gospel, so I make no apology in using the verse in 2 Tim 4:2 where it says, “preach the Word”, even if you don’t feel like listening, but something has happened to society during the past few years. We all have the need for a ‘fast fix’ on just about anything from hamburgers to church attendance. I can get a burger quickly, almost without effort and the experience is over in an instant. Why can’t we have that with church? Trouble is, our eternal future takes more careful thought than some shallow consideration. 

It is important that we find our full and complete salvation. Oh, there’s one of those words we have trouble with, ‘salvation’, but why? I can hear some of you say, ‘and who says you have the right way?’ That’s very presumptuous. Surely there are many good ways to salvation and heaven? It’s a very common argument, and one I have heard often, even from good, well founded Christians who are sure of their salvation. You see, it is counter intuitive that if there is a God, and He is good, He would make it easy to gain true salvation. Therefore, since the Bible really IS the Word of God, we have to consider these important following verses:

“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)  

However, Jesus has the final say and His words still cause a problem today. He is either the Son of God, or a charlatan. The choice is yours. Your free will is also given, courtesy of this same person. Worth remembering!

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

The answer to the biggest questions in life, who am I, where did I come from, and where am I going, is Jesus Christ! We seem to have come full circle on the question of how to get more people into church, and catch their interest. Do you think the question has been answered, even in part? If you think you have an answer to this serious question, please feel free to add your comments.

The Invisible Wo/Man

Your giving should be in secret. Then your Father Who sees in secret will reward you. When you pray, go into a room by yourself. After you have shut the door, pray to your Father Who is in secret. Then your Father Who sees in secret will reward you. Matthew6:4-6NLV

Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. 1Thessalonians5:12ERV

Do you remember watching “The Invisible Man” on TV when you were young? It was compulsive viewing because although you knew the tell tale signs he would leave behind, you were never sure where he was unless he had wound the white roll of bandages around his body, or the vase would make its way through mid air to crash over the unsuspecting villain’s head.

I found myself asking the question recently, “are there any invisible men or women in the church”? In fact, in my church? Apparently there are times our secrecy is needed, but other times when the secrecy of the invisible man or woman is not acceptable to our Saviour. We are usually quite good at praying or giving in secret, and not boasting about it, but what of the other times mentioned in the verse above when we are told to acknowledge those … among you? And what does the Lord tell us to do?

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John13:34NIV

We have a command, straight from Jesus Himself to love each other, just as He loved us! That my friends is real love, and very visibly public. It is how the world knows for certain that we are Jesus’ followers. When we love one another, we cannot hide it so in that context, there should be no invisible men or women in any fellowship. Sadly though, this is not the case, and we do have invisible people in our churches. Yes, even in my church.

That new wee family that have recently started to come, and sit at the back. Who are they? What are their names? The small, frail, elderly lady who sometimes can come when she is strong enough? Where does she live, and how does she get to church? The man who is looking for a church to settle in and sits over at the end of the row, have you talked to him? Would anyone think about phoning any of them, dropping them a card, or even paying them a visit? These folks are examples of the invisible men and women, and they are in our churches. We should have no invisible people especially in church. I wonder how I would know this?

Embarrassment

Have you been embarrassed recently? I mean, seriously embarrassed? I suggest that we have all suffered this indignity at some point in our lives, and survived, but it was probably a painful time. The experience is a two way street, because we can either be the source of embarrassment to others, or on the receiving end from someone who perhaps didn’t mean to cause offence. And let’s face it, in both situations embarrassment can cause offence.

There is a third way where we can be embarrassed on behalf of someone else who may, or may not, be aware of your thoughts or feelings as you try to defend them. I would suggest that this feeling on behalf of another, is the hardest type to bear. Ok, I hear you ask for an example of this third kind.

Imagine you have been an integral part of a well run medical or sports team, and you have been in that position for some years before sickness struck and you could no longer hold your position for a short time. So far so good, and I can hear you now say, well, so what? That’s life! But it’s not over yet. Keep your imagination motor running. That group of people are an important part of your life, and you don’t like to hear anyone bad-mouth them, even if it was not meant to be offensive or hurtful!

That protective attitude remains with you, even though very few (if anyone!) from your team either visits or calls, to see how you are doing. That is bad enough, and it hurts, but it really pains when someone else on the sideline asks you directly if your doctor, nurse, or coach has visited, phoned, or been in touch? It is obviously embarrassing as you try to defend them. How do you defend the indefensible after some weeks of a time lapse?

In a similar way could this be one of the reasons that we also lose some good folks from our churches? In other words, we (and I include myself in this) don’t care enough when it really matters to that hurting member? Added to that, there is a clear interest from members of another church group who really are concerned, and let you know it. Would that be enough to make you change your present team, or even your church? Ouch!

Closer!

Yes, after some time thinking over many things that have happened recently, I find myself closer than before. The thoughts that had previously passed through my mind before now were not the only reason, and are but a small part of my journey. I don’t know if I will hurt anyone, I hope not, as this was never my intention. And anyway, this might not get past the thought process, or be a permanent or final situation.

What could be so important to me that would cause such heart and thought wrenching? Let me ask you, what kind of situation generally speaking, would cause you most grief? For me, that would be family whether direct or indirect, including my chosen church family. In each case, we are close, and in each case I would never want to hurt anyone at any level. But that may not be possible.

Having been an active part of my church for over 55 years, it does not come easy to switch allegiance. But what would make me do this, let alone consider it? If I am being open and honest, there are a few and enough to list. Some small and incidental, and sadly some which are bigger, and ones I have tried to ignore. Some at my General church level, and others at a local church level. Funnily enough it’s not usually the big issues that cause most trouble, it’s the annoying niggles that won’t go away, and that itch which needs to be scratched.

Just for the record, I am fully aware that no church is perfect. That said, there are some less imperfect than others, also those that would possibly differ in theology, doctrine, or more likely the (non) practice of their stated beliefs. Since God looks on the heart, He will look beyond the outer appearance of any church or person, but more importantly see the motivation of each heart.

The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. 1Samuel16:7NLT

However it is equally important to balance that truth with the verse which tells us that it’s also what is in the heart, that comes out in our actions. (There may be little in the heart to come out in our actions!)

For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs23:7NKJV

The Second Child - A Short Story

It is a big family of twelve siblings, but a good one, and important to everyone in it. Everyone has a place from the youngest to the oldest, and each has a gift, talent, and responsibility to ensure the smooth running of the whole family unit. Funnily enough the same gifts can be found in two or more children. For example, the ability to play a musical instrument, or be good at sports.

The parents work hard, and do their best, loving each one the same, but still some get the feeling of being undervalued, or overlooked. Understandable perhaps in a big family. After all, how can parents or siblings keep an eye on every one? One day, the unthinkable happened.

The next to oldest son went missing. I mean, he wasn’t down for breakfast in his usual fashion of being first at the table before leaving for work. The other brothers and sisters looked at each other and figured he had overslept, or was needed at his workplace early. It was certainly unusual, but that was the most likely explanation. At the end of the first working day, he still didn’t appear for dinner. Probably overtime they thought.

I mentioned the first working day because there were other days to follow where he wasn’t home either. Maybe he arranged a holiday with his pals but forgot to tell us, they all reasoned. After all, we can’t keep up with everyone in a family of our size they figured. He stayed missing from his place at the table for quite a while, but it was a big family you understand. Missing one is no big deal, especially when there is no reason to worry, right? All the others are still here, so the family unit can still function.

Almost by accident, one of his younger sisters was out at her friend’s house, and noticed to her surprise that her missing brother was there. Turned out that he had gone to another house where he knew some of the young men, and they kindly asked if he wanted to stay with them for a wee while. Just for a change you understand. They had almost adopted him into their family, and were delighted to have him there. In effect, they had adopted each other for mutual benefit. By the time the truth came out, it was too late. The deed had been done, and the second oldest son had moved from one family to another, almost seamlessly, without a fuss, and with no one coming after him to check if he was ok.

Who knew? Well, how could they? Who cared? Well, who had reason to suspect anything was wrong? Truth be told, the welcome at his new adopted home was greater than the silence of his absence from his other, old home. So, all in all, no harm done. Right? Both families continued to flourish and grow, and they all remained friends.

Somehow, I can’t help but wonder if that second oldest son was ever really missed by anyone in his family? His parents, or his brothers and sisters? Perhaps that’s something we will never know. At least everyone can satisfy themselves that they did all they could to make him feel welcome enough at home to stay there. Or did they? Maybe it could all have been avoided with a little more care, consideration, thought, and love.

If you love one another, everyone will know you are my disciples. John13:35NIV-Jesus (Spoken to Jesus’ disciples, who were His own earthly family then. That’s us now!)

Clurch?

definition: A Church stresses the preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ, personal conversion experiences, Scripture as the sole basis for faith, and active evangelism.

definition: A social club may be a group of people or the place where they meet, generally formed around a common interest, occupation, or activity.

I found myself asking this question recently. What is the real difference between a well run club, and an evangelical church? In a sense there is little difference. Each have a group of people who are interested in being together, united in a common subject or belief. Members, for the most part, will get along nicely with each other and will even meet up outwith the confines of the weekly gathering.

But note the BIG difference that the church has, and no other club can have and that’s the importance of preaching, teaching, telling the way of Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Some clubs are indeed good organisations, eg slimming clubs, keep fit clubs, camera clubs, lunch clubs, drama clubs, book clubs, and even glee clubs. However there is no way that a club will try to become a church. It wouldn’t fit or work, and clubs know this, because they’re savvy.

Why then, should a church want to become, or act like a club? I know some of the arguments for being inclusive in the community, and that we (the church) must try to be more relevant to get interest aroused, and increase attendance. Yes, numbers. I suppose that’s what it is mostly about. Which begs the question: What do you think is the church’s purpose? It’s a very good question, and one that brings different answers. The following verses are true at a personal, as well as a corporate church level.

Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure heap; it is thrown out. Luke14:34,35NIV

Wasn't There

"As I was going up the stair
I met a man who wasn't there!
He wasn't there again today,
Oh how I wish he'd go away!"
By William Hughes Mearns (1875–1965)

You must have heard the nonsense poem made famous by Mearns. It makes us smile when we hear it, because we know it makes no sense and we don’t have to think too much about any deeper meaning. But, I ask you, is it really nonsense?

I think we can get so used to something, or someone, being there and yet one day we turn around and it or they are not there anymore. Next day, or next month, or even next year we look again and still nothing. Did we take that special memory for granted? Probably, but that might mean we didn’t do all we could to savour and keep the importance of that memory alive, which was a once treasured possession.

Instead of taking the line “Oh how I wish he’d go away” at face value, is it possible that the writer is haunted by their unexpected loss, and now needs some peace from the haunting memory and that’s what he wants to go away? I suggest what is true of people, can also be true about things. Or to be more accurate, things which are made up of people. A club, a community, and yes, possibly even a church! At one time not so long ago, it was there but when we turn around some time later we notice it isn’t there now. Or at least not in the way we remember it, and the thought of that memory haunts us.

As with people who have died, churches close and die too, in which case the poem might read:

As I was going up to prayer,
I saw a church that wasn't there!
It wasn't there again today,
Oh how I wish it’d go away!
(My apologies to Mearns!)

Help?

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 2Cor1:3,4NIV

No one goes through this life without needing some help in the form of comfort, and let’s face it we can’t always depend on the ‘usual suspects’ to give that support. Sometimes it comes from the unlikely, or to be more accurate, the likely but from a different group or even good friends from another church.

Isn’t it good that the source of ALL comfort is God Himself, and although we may receive that Blessing from an unexpected or unlikely source, it originated directly from God.

I suppose my concern is this. If or when someone in any church fellowship is ill, or feeling overwhelmed and down, shouldn’t their church folks be the ones to step in first? I believe that our God is omniscient and when He sees one of His children in need, that comfort will be given when it is needed most, and by the best person or group. That may be from our own church, but on the other hand, it may not, and God will use the willing and available.

When you know your friend is absent from their place in church, are we first of all able, and secondly willing to step in to provide that Godly comfort? After all, God will supply that need one way or another. Another thought. What does it say about our own fellowship if we so often are not the ones stepping up to be either willing or able, because you will always hear our call? Lord, help me to be an extension of your comfort. After all…...

Listen! The Lord’s arm is not too weak to save you, nor is his ear too deaf to hear you call. Isaiah59:1NLT

Music

Music is a universal language, and a tool which needs no translation of words sometimes. “If music be the food of love, play on”, is the first line of the play “Twelfth Night”, by William Shakespeare, and he was a man who knew a bit about drama and the human need to be calm.

We have music all around us 24 hours a day, every day. It’s playing in the supermarkets, shopping malls, radio stations dedicated to various genre, clubs, elevators, and you can’t have missed the masses of people walking around with headphones or earbuds in place listening to their favourite singers and bands. These people, whatever their taste in music, and whether you like their taste or not, are good at expressing their thoughts and inner feelings through the medium of music. Yes, it is universal.

Churches make the most of the gifts of music too, and the singing voices of the congregation, lifting their hearts and voices in praise to the Creator is a good example. We know that He is the creator of all things, and that includes music. The uniting fellowship of singing together is special and unique to the family of God. It can lift your spirits, or move you to tears, and we have to thank our musicians for using their talents in this way to foster a spirit of worship.

Good musicians don’t just happen. They didn’t decide one day to pick up an instrument and hey presto, they turned out a melody. A player of any musical instrument will tell you it is hard work, especially at the beginning, because they have to keep at it. Our faith is a bit like that. We don’t reach the fullness of our faith quickly, and in fact we have to practice it daily. There may be times when we don’t feel that God is close, or that he is listening to our prayers, but we have the assurance that He is near, and He knows our frame that we are frail. Don’t give up or lose hope. God is faithful and He will never let us down. I like the way the Good News Bible translates 1 Thessalonians 1:3 when it says…..

For we remember before our God and Father how you put your faith into practice, how your love made you work so hard, and how your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ is firm.

What If Church?

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians6:7-9ESV

What is your idea of church? If you are older, and have been going to church for a number of years, you must have seen changes. I am guessing you accepted some, but held your nose with others mostly because church attendance was important to you, and it is Scriptural after all.

There are many denominations within the Reformed tradition, so if you were unhappy with the changing direction of your own doctrine and fellowship, what would you do?

What if church was viewed as a morning or evening out with friends? Or a way to have a nice time? Or to be entertained? Or a social event? Any kind of gradually reducing Spiritual content would then be taken as part of the territory and would be accepted as normal going forward.

A friend from a different denomination made a refreshing comment which warmed my heart. It wasn’t about the programs in his church, or the outreach, or the growth figures. No, he said simply, “all I know is that Jesus is my Saviour, my sins are forgiven, and I am bound for heaven.” I mean, who talks like that anymore? (said with my tongue firmly in my cheek). Seriously, shouldn’t our conversation with Christian friends be more like that, and not our football team, or our latest baking experience, a photo of our dinner plate, or even our latest diet? Just sayin’.

Ostrich

“May contain adult themes, hard drugs, (frequent) strong language, strong violence and strong sex references, and nudity without graphic detail. Sexual activity may be portrayed but without any strong detail. Sexual violence may be shown if discreet and justified by context. Use of very strong language may be permitted based on frequency and how they are used, as well as contextual justification.” - Movie Cert 15 Rating

Recently I came across a movie to be shown in a church, under the supervision of the same church that organised it. The reason given for screening it was the theme which was one of human redemption, but not God’s plan of redemption. The church in question emphasised that it would ensure the age restriction (15+) was strictly monitored and enforced. That alone made me sit up and take notice.

I have a bigger question. Why is it being shown in church at all? It’s one thing for an individual deciding to watch any movie in a theatre, but when a church sponsors it, is that not different given the wide spread of scenes it may show under that ‘15+’ rating? When a movie is given a rating by the British Board of Film Censors, it is cleared for any and all of the subject matter under that approved rating (see above). I ask again. Why screen it in a place of worship? Did someone have to sit through the movie to make sure none of the ‘really bad stuff’ was included? If so, it begs other questions like, what is the ‘really bad stuff’, who is best placed to decide, and if that is done for a ‘15+’ rating, would it be considered for any other rating? So, where does it end, and who makes the final decision?

I don’t hear anyone saying that movies are getting more moral and ethical as the years pass. In fact adult themes of graphic violence, strong language and nudity will almost certainly play some part in most, if not all ‘15+’ rated films. After all, that’s what sells. For the record, I believe if a church is going to show a movie, it must be suitable and appropriate for all ages, from the youngest child to the oldest senior citizen in the room. Simply put, if it can’t be shown to a child, don’t screen it! You may think I am hiding my head in the sand like the proverbial Ostrich, but I suggest there is a loss of reverence and respect for a place of worship when we support and condone any movie of this rating. What do we want to be known as? A movie theatre, or a church?

“You are overreacting” I hear you say. “This wouldn’t happen in my church” you stress. Really? Are you sure about that?

Habit or Custom?

He [Jesus] went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day, he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. Luke 4:16 NIV

As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue. Acts 17:2 NIV

Have you ever heard someone comment on your regular Church attendance by saying, “It’s only a habit you know, that’s all”? I have, but let’s be clear, it’s a good habit to start even if that’s all it is!. Both Jesus and Paul had the custom [habit] of going to the Temple regularly, and we wouldn’t say that was a bad habit! The early church knew the importance of regular attendance at the Temple or Synagogue. By their actions, we should take note and follow suit. Going to Church regularly is not an easy habit to cultivate, but be certain of this, it’s a good custom.

As I thought about this custom exercised by our Lord and Saviour and the apostle Paul, I asked myself a couple of questions. Like, before going in, did they ever double check who the speaker was? Or who was leading the singing?? Also, did they ask themselves if there was a better Temple in the next street or town? Or if they had a teacher with more charisma, or presence with a better preaching style? If we are truly using Scripture wisely, we are told only that it was their custom to go to church, and nothing is said about being sidetracked to a different, or better, or bigger, church or pastor.

Then my imagination turns to what happens after the early apostles left the Temple. Did they grumble about the speaker, talking between themselves, that he could have done better? He isn’t as good as the last Temple leader. They don’t sing the Psalms I am familiar with, and like. It begs the consideration, “What did they go to their Church for”? When the answer becomes that they are only there to worship God in His Holiness, then all other thoughts, doubts and human fears will fade and disappear.

I am not asking you, because each person must answer for themselves, but I am turning the question back on myself. What is the REAL reason for the custom or habit I have of going to church? If it’s not to worship in Holiness and truth, then I must return to my first love and set aside the other reasonings and stop hiding behind all my excuses for being unhappy with that particular Church, or Pastor, or Worship leader! To put it another way, if I am bearing the name of Christ as a Christian, then I must behave like one! Ouch, that hurts!

Brexit Chexit

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 NIV

It’s fair to say that if you live in the UK, you will probably be fed up with all things Brexit. There’s the ardent get out of Europe now, and then there’s the group who are not so sure and want another chance to see if the rules can be changed to allow the ‘exit’ to be shelved.

The more I read, and become familiar with various strands of the Christian religion and faith, the more aware I am that there is a vast movement of people who want to exit their church right now. And then there’s the group who want the rules to be changed so that they can stay in the church, but on their own, unique terms.

So, where do you stand on the Chexit (Church Exit) question? Have you had enough of the whole Christian thing? Tired of Church and the influence Jesus wants to have in your life? Or would you prefer to stay in your local church, but would like to see the rules changed in a way that relaxes the need for those overly restrictive commandments and the words of Jesus on our way of life? In fact, on MY way of life?

Of course, there is the third way that doesn’t need or want Chexit. There is a fulness of life found in no other person or place than Jesus and His Church. The so-called commandments are not a stranglehold, but the words of a loving God who wants to protect us from harm. That’s the God we praise and openly worship. He is not a burden or a liability, but a welcome friend who always has our best interests at heart. We don’t think twice about saying ‘no’ to our children if we know it’s for their own protection and good.

One last observation. Next time you have to attend a funeral, take a look around and note those who belong to the Chexit crowd. They are the ones who have no assurance of sins forgiven or a place in heaven when it’s their turn to fill the coffin at the front of the church. By contrast, the others will be the ones who can thank their Lord and Saviour for the clear assurance of their place in Glory. So, Chexit? Who needs it when the truth is so clear?

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:29,30 NIV

The 'Club'

But people who are not aware that they are doing wrong will be punished only lightly. Much is required from those to whom much is given, and much more is required from those to whom much more is given. Luke 12:48 NLT

As a member of a Club, eg a football club, I would automatically fall into line with the decisions and actions of the Board, the Management, and the players, whether in the boardroom, on the pitch or the bench as a reserve. I will be committed to the ethos of that Club and all that it stands for. Otherwise, I couldn’t count myself as being a true fan, or a follower.

Sometimes one of the staff or players will act against the ‘ethos’ and find themselves in a law court. Perhaps it’s a financial irregularity, or a moral failing which went public. Whether a failing at the top, or in the locker room, it’s still a misdemeanor and the offender fails not only himself, but the Club’s good name. Well at least for a while, because it can be soon forgotten and the Club moves forward, although forever changed in the eyes of many. Members must obey the law of the land, but the thing that really counts in any club is what happens when the original terms and conditions are encroached. These can also be thought of as the Club Standards, or Regulations.

It’s bad enough when a first team player errs, but we expect more from the Board members and leaders. After all, they set the tone for those who report to them. It’s just like in business when you see the sign on the CEO’s desk which says, “The Buck Stops Here”. And it does.

As Christians we also belong to a parallel body of like minded people called the Church. We all strive to be the best, and to be like Jesus, but sometimes we fail, and maybe even openly. For the most part we are forgiving and accepting when someone in the pew steps out of line. After all, we recognise that we are not perfect ourselves. It may be unfair, but it is a Biblical and natural truth that we should expect more from our pastors, teachers and leaders because they shoulder most responsibility. It cannot be easy to stay on top of the occasional unintentional slip, or even the open and intentional sin, but that cannot and does not absolve any of us from our responsibility. After all, the longer we have been a Jesus follower, the more responsibility we shoulder too! So, whether we occupy the pulpit or the pew, let us all be careful how we reflect the image of the Christ we serve.

Scandals

In my many years on this planet, I have never experienced the media storms coming one after the other, of sex scandals. You can’t have missed them because they are everywhere. The Roman Catholic priests seem to top the list of serial offenders, followed by the nuns. Yes, even the nuns. You might think that a woman who is softer in emotion would be more protective, but it seems that many were in cahoots with some priests. I hasten to add that not all priests and nuns are a threat to children, but we are talking about life in the 1960s through to the 1990s when matters like these were not seen as severe or as serious as they are today. National leaders and Presidents have not avoided this scandal either.

I find the dilemma of life some 50 years ago, compared to now quite remarkable in this important sense. Society recoils in revulsion when we are faced with the abuses of adults and children many years ago, but we are hypocrites. Why do you think that, I hear you ask.

I suggest we have become immune to these wrongs, which is why we react against them when we see the news reports and read the latest newspapers. Hold that thought and feeling, and let your mind swing round to the sex content which is considered as ‘normal’ on TV, together with the quantity of movies which draw box office crowds because of the gratuitous violence and sex scenes portrayed in them. Added to that we have the rising threat of same sex relationships.

So, I see a dichotomy unfolding. On the one hand we are horrified by the reports of sex abuses some 50 years ago, and on the other hand society flocks to see the very movies which show these same scenes as drama. Our consciences are being seared to accept the movie industry, while our courts are rounding up the sex offenders, and rightly so. What a confusing and hypocritical message we are leaving our children and grandchildren? It is no mistake that we are left with this important warning which should be known and understood by church leaders. Especially church leaders!

It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honourable. 1 Thessalonians 4:3,4 NIV

Lost It?

I suppose it had to happen one day. It felt like I had just turned my back and it was gone without a trace. It wasn’t an ordinary relationship, but let me try to explain some more but try to keep up with my wandering thoughts!

I had a lot of good contacts there and used them a lot. We would talk and be in touch often, of course some folks were better friends than others, but I always knew where they were, and how to get in touch. The truth is there were even folks in my ‘list’ I hardly knew but I felt it was a good idea to keep a note for the future. If you’re with the same crowd for a long time, they have ‘specials’ where you can relax a bit more. I suppose I was familiar with the way everything worked and there were very few surprises. It had become a part of my life, but I didn’t mind.

After a short time at the start when I wasn’t sure how things would work out, I decided to go for the casual membership contract and I found that was good value, at least for me. It didn’t seem to work for everyone mind you, but support was just a call away, and they would try to sort out whatever was troubling me. That didn’t happen very often but it was good to know the support was there.

Then the program changed, and just about everything changed with it. I seemed to lose some of my contacts. They were there one day and gone the next. Or that’s the way it seemed. The others in the list didn’t behave the same way after that. I don’t think any of us knew how to react to the ‘improvements’ as the company rolled out one by one until the way it ended up was unrecognisable. The specials weren’t so appealing now and more suited to a different crowd, some of whom were not even on my original contact list.

Mobile phones change every year and it’s hard to keep up with the changes they bring out. On top of that, as I get older, the more I get used to the one I have, and any change of handset or contract takes me longer to get used to. It didn’t happen overnight, but there came a time when I thought, why bother trying to keep up with the constant changes which the owners called progress. Sometimes change happens and it takes you too far from the solid, familiar ground you had, and for what benefit? So, you do what anyone else does in that situation. You change provider and go back to the tried and tested ways which brought you there in the first place?

Whether it’s my mobile phone, or my church, it’s a very similar process. Who would have thought?

Externals

Every few weeks I get to meet up with some friends for a coffee and a blether. We cover just about any subject and in the space of a couple of hours can set the world to rights, no matter the troubles. These are very light hearted times and not usually too serious, but get to know each other better every time even though we all go back many years. This past week was such a time.

Politics and the state of the world are fair game and are in our sights most times. I wonder how much attention we pay to the overall state of our nation? You can substitute your own country and I’m sure it will be pretty much the same, with all the same problems which need solutions. Our politicians do try, but don’t always get it right with our major issues like:

Drug use and addiction is increasing at an alarming rate, and although it is debated a lot, we don’t seem to be closer to a solution. We all know it’s not a good thing to be hooked on drugs, but since we can’t stop it happening, the answer seems to be to allow it, decriminalise hard drugs and not prosecute offenders. After all, they are victims too. If you can’t fix it, then make it legal!

Crime is at an all time high and linked to unemployment, poverty, and a bad childhood. We need to find someone or something to blame and we do a pretty good job at that. We find reasons to sympathise with the criminal while the victims are left behind.

Terrorism is rife, and without naming names or sections of society, we all agree it is a major problem but we don’t want to tackle it head on. So we go round in circles making suggestions that it’s not really their fault if someone has radicalised them to believe they are doing good in the long run, and if anything happens to them, their family will be provided for. We don’t want to upset any group unnecessarily, so we stay silent to the obvious truth.

After talking about this for a while, one of the men said something like this which brought a silence to our table. “The further we get from the commandments of the Bible, the worse society becomes, and that’s because we (the 'good' part of society) have also moved away from the importance of the Bible.” On this occasion, we could not disagree. The real problem wasn’t and isn’t what’s wrong with society. It’s what has happened to change us as a whole? Our community and therefore our nation has moved away from the laws of God, and we no longer live our lives in a Bible believing manner. We have changed on the inside, and that has affected our attitudes to wrong behaviour. Get the inside right, and the other problems will follow.

We used to have a name for that internal intention to do wrong. Oh yes, we called it ‘sin’, but we’re better than that now, aren’t we? Talk of sin is old fashioned. Our communities and societies have moved on for the good of us all, and we are better for it, aren’t we? Let’s leave the Bible to have the last word, and see what it says…. Case closed I fear!

The human heart is most deceitful and desperately wicked. Jeremiah 17:9 NLT

Old Dog - New Tricks

You know how the old saying goes: “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” and it may be true for some, but I would suggest that ‘Old dogs’ (like me) would sometimes do well to go back and relearn some of those ‘old tricks’ we had once known and mastered many years before. Tradesmen use the term: “Measure twice, cut once” and the sense is obvious. You can’t undo the cut.

In general, older, more mature folks find it more difficult to adapt to change or learn new things. That could be why they are the hardest group to convince of new ideas in a church setting. But let’s be kind. Older folks have also been around the block a few times, and they have already seen some well meant changes that didn’t succeed. In fact the more appropriate phrase “crash and burn” comes to mind, and in the effort to avoid it happening again, along with the loss of some good friends and members, they are loathe to go down that road again until they are sure of success. A big part of this reluctance lies behind the definition of ‘success’. It is going to take a good argument, and a gentle push for that to happen a second time.

One of the best lessons I learned in life, was to wait a second or two before giving my first answer in response to a question. Especially one that pushes my buttons and gets my dander up. It happens. Right? And nowhere more so than on social media because each side is safely tucked behind their laptop or phone screen. Blind to the prospect of the return salvo which causes more harm than good. Sure, you got it out of your system, but the one who responds sees it as more than that. They may see it as a personal slight. Of the hundreds of people who would see the offending post, that one person will see it as deliberately aimed at them. Sadly, we were not one step ahead in our thinking when we pressed the ‘send’ button, and a few seconds of serious thought could have avoided the ‘atmosphere’ now descending on your relationship.

The lesson? Whether personally, or in a group, measure twice, and cut once!

Church?

On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple courts and began driving out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money-changers and the benches of those selling doves, and would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts. And as he taught them, he said, ‘Is it not written: “My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations”? But you have made it “a den of robbers”. Mark 11:15-17 NIV

What is church to you? What makes it church? You will have to answer those for yourself, but I have found myself asking these very same questions, and I’m not sure I like what I think. Theologians may differ in the fine thoughts of these verses, but everyone will agree that Jesus took the workings of His Temple seriously, both in the courtyard and the sanctuary.

Since Jesus, our example and Saviour, took His church so seriously, how should that make us think and act about our church? Or do we care? Do I care? Does it really matter as long as we make our building a welcoming space for visitors? Or sell tickets to promote special secular attractions in the belief that we are doing it for the Lord? Or hold special nights to bring in the unchurched to make them feel comfortable so that they might come back to the ‘real church’? And there lies the crux of the matter.

Jesus described His temple as ‘a house of prayer for all nations”. Shouldn’t we do the same, or is that considered outdated? I wonder what reasons and excuses the merchants made to salve their consciences to allow them not to feel guilty? After all, they were providing a much needed service. They made the courtyard look busy and some traders might do a special offer to entice customers back? Onlookers might even think the synagogue itself would be every bit as inviting and busy. Is it possible we do the same things today, after all human nature hasn’t changed since the days of Adam. We know that Jesus wasn’t impressed, and He hasn’t changed either, because “He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

Church attendance in general is falling across every denomination. Some do better than others, so what’s the secret? Is it possible that the ones truest to the Gospel message are trusted to be the ones more Spiritually sound? The heart of any church is Jesus, and if the heart is lost, replaced or overtaken, the church loses out. Sure there are mega churches who play fast and loose with the Gospel, but we can’t seriously compare our growth with those who will preach a prosperity message which is not the true Gospel. My worry is that the church could become a sideshow instead of the main message. Paul warns Timothy very clearly that the Church can be changed from within, by trusted Godly preachers and teachers. I can’t ignore these verses and I admit they catch my attention:

In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather round them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 2 Timothy 4:1-3 NIV

Defend and Protect

Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.           Jude 3

Jude, the half brother of Jesus changed his mind concerning the subject he wanted to convey. He wanted to write and encourage his readers in their salvation, and that is a noble and wise subject, but now he wants them to defend it because it is under attack. Even in the days of the early church there were those who attacked it.

But who is the small book of Jude written to? Strangely, it is the church of his day and that means only one thing. The people who needed to start defending the faith are the very people who were already in the churches, some of whom were the problem. Ouch. So let me get this right, the biggest problem back then, and even now in our day, are those ‘loosely’ worshipping in the same church as the defenders of that same faith. All we need to do is figure out which is which and where we stand. Not as easy as it looks, and doing anything about it would certainly ruffle a few feathers.

Tell you what. Let’s pretend we didn’t come across this verse, and just ignore it. After all, who would know? Somebody might think we are part of the problem and we can’t be having that! I don’t like it when the Bible talks to me like that. Well, do you?