This is another one of those pieces which is going to cause some problems but the subject must be dealt with. “Contemporary Christianity” is so popular that some might dismiss the subject as antagonistic.
Again I challenge you to search the Scripture not only on this piece but everything we deal with on this blog! If the Holy Spirit does not convict you on the study then disregard it. However if the Holy Spirit does convict you then it is obvious some changes must be made.
The first thing we need to do is define “Contemporary Christianity.”
Contemporary = con·tem·po·rar·y ~ Adjective:
1. Belonging to the same period of time: a fact documented by two contemporary sources.
2. Of about the same age.
3. Current; modern: contemporary trends in design. (American Heritage Dictionary)
Christianity = the word means to be “like Christ.”
So then “Contemporary Christianity” is the constant modification of New Testament doctrine to:
o Attract the unsaved.
o Please the carnal Christians.
o Please the flesh.
o To be relatively acceptable to the world.
It must be our full intention to be the worshippers God is seeking – those who worship in spirit and in truth:
o John 4:22-24
With this definition let’s examine some of the problems with “Contemporary Christianity”, using the Bible as the basis for what we deem right or wrong. Remember everything must be based on what the Holy Spirit reveals to you in your study of God’s word, not what I or any other preacher might say to you!
Problem #2 ~ Christians bragging about the love of Jesus with little regard for doctrinal integrity or holiness.
Problem #3 ~ Christians exalting feelings over faith as their criterion for both doctrine and practice in life.
Problem #4 ~ Contemporary Christianity seeks to please man rather than pleasing God!
Problem #5 ~ Christians revolting against strong Bible preaching and condemning it as arrogant and negative.
Problem #5 ~ Contemporary Christianity has caused our churches to become entertainment centers rather than place where miracles happen, lives can be saved, people can be encouraged, and God can be glorified!
Problem #6 ~ Contemporary Christianity has caused the church to focus on the wrong kind of growth: A church can grow one of two ways:
1. Growth in numbers
2. Growth spiritually
Because you have number one does not follow that you will have number two.
Problem #7 ~ Contemporary Christianity has made celebrities out of our ministers; and what a contradiction since the word “minister” comes from a word meaning to serve! Contrary to popular belief your pastor does not walk on water!
Problem #8 ~ Contemporary Christianity makes us believe we don’t have to give up anything to follow Christ. We don’t have to make any sacrifices, “God will accept you just as you are”
1 comment:
sounds like the church is full of contemporary christianity! what do we do?
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