The problem is, for the life of me, I cannot think of one good reason. Never mind...
Thursday, December 7, 2017
Why I Like Snake Handling Churches...
As I continue a series on "Why I Like" different churches, denominations, or sects within Christianity I feel compelled to address why I like, the very controversial, Snake Handling Churches.
The problem is, for the life of me, I cannot think of one good reason. Never mind...
The problem is, for the life of me, I cannot think of one good reason. Never mind...
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Why I Like Conservative Holiness Churches...
I'm talking about the tie wearing, bun sporting, ankle length dress wearing brand just to be clear...
(1) They take the call to holy living seriously. They are trying to live differently than the world. In the world, but not of the world. Holiness is not an abstract theological philosophy, but a day by day impacting way of life. For the Conservative Holiness Movement (CHM), giving everything to Jesus means he will change it before using it. Clothing, entertainment, attitudes, etc. are all going to be different. There's a thorough and holistic approach to applying Biblical truth to practical lifestyle.
(2) Heard of the coveted Millennial generation? Well after some losses in the 1970s & 80s, the Conservative Holiness Movement is making great strides among young adults. It seems that a lot of young adults are tired of trying to get Christianity to fit into their life and are trying to get their life to fit into Christianity. Of course it may also be that those that are part of the CHM are just good at raising their children to stay in the church and maintain a heart for God.
(3) They are okay with being conservative. While a lot of holiness people are off chasing the big mainline denominations to try to be like their big brother, the Conservative Holiness folks will tell you they are busy chasing after Holiness. They don't mind wearing clothing that is not in style, not going to the movies, or not owning a TV... they are just more interested in being holy than anything else. Weird? Maybe. But they're okay with it. They don't believe you make holiness relevant; they believe it already is!!
(4) Can anyone remember "Campmeeting"? They still do it and do it good! And, even though the rest of us know that they no longer work... the CHM is still seeing people born-again and sanctified wholly at camp meetings! They do it up complete with trombone players, pulpits, long dresses on the ladies, altars, waving hankeys, and some aisle running. "I never shall forget how the fire fell." They generally stick with the hymns and don't seem to keen on switching over any time soon.
(5) They preach holiness clearly and specifically and strongly! You know how Charles Stanley always manages to slip in some "once saved, always saved" in every sermon? Well, CHM folk have that impulse, but with the message of Holiness. This second work of grace or entire sanctification or baptism of the Holy Spirit is more than a doctrinal statement that they give lip service to. They preach it, shout about it, teach it, and live it! They may look like they're out of date, but they're goal is not to fit in, but be filled within by the Holy Spirit. You don't make holiness relevant... it already is!!
(7) They have convictions. No, I'm not talking about court room convictions, I'm talking about the fact that many of them are listening to what God may be asking them to do or to give up. While they most often get a reputation surrounding their dress, it's must larger than that. Many do not own a TV, won't go to a restaurant that serves alcohol, won't listen to secular music, don't wear makeup (male or female) and more. Listening to God about direction in life seems like a pretty Biblical idea to me.
(8) They still shout. They sometimes look like Pentecostals, and sometimes sound (noise level) like Pentecostals, but they are not Pentecostals. And they do not have a problem with that. They also do not mind if it gets loud while praising the Lord. Psalm 47:1 "Clap your hands, all peoples! Shout to God with loud songs of joy!" In some corners of the CHM you'll not only hear an 'amen' during the preaching, but you might just witness a saint shouting and running the aisles in praise to God.
(9) They take criticism well. They have to, after all, all the moderate and liberal holiness people fight them more than they do the devil. Being called 'legalistic' all the time because you have convictions has to get annoying. But they do not seem to mind the name calling and constant opposition. They go right on pursuing holiness! That independent, rugged determination helps them not only survive criticism, but thrive on the mission field too.
(10) The Conservative Holiness Movement is growing in unconventional ways. Go to a Bible College, Seminary, or a Church Growth Seminar and you will hear the 'right' way to grow a church. Most in the CHM have never heard that stuff, because they're not doing most of it... but they're still growing. They maintain a zeal for missions. While typically independent, they are almost as large as the Church of the Nazarene. We Nazarenes like to believe we are the king of the hill, but the truth is, the Conservative Holiness Movement is a growing movement and might just overtake us (especially here in the United States).
For more information check out the wiki page about the Conservative Holiness movement and the Interchurch Holiness Convention website for more info.
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Roman Catholics.
Why I like Independent Fundamental Baptists.
Why I like the Church of the Nazarene.
Why I like Small churches.
Why I like Snake Handling Churches.
(1) They take the call to holy living seriously. They are trying to live differently than the world. In the world, but not of the world. Holiness is not an abstract theological philosophy, but a day by day impacting way of life. For the Conservative Holiness Movement (CHM), giving everything to Jesus means he will change it before using it. Clothing, entertainment, attitudes, etc. are all going to be different. There's a thorough and holistic approach to applying Biblical truth to practical lifestyle.
(2) Heard of the coveted Millennial generation? Well after some losses in the 1970s & 80s, the Conservative Holiness Movement is making great strides among young adults. It seems that a lot of young adults are tired of trying to get Christianity to fit into their life and are trying to get their life to fit into Christianity. Of course it may also be that those that are part of the CHM are just good at raising their children to stay in the church and maintain a heart for God.
(3) They are okay with being conservative. While a lot of holiness people are off chasing the big mainline denominations to try to be like their big brother, the Conservative Holiness folks will tell you they are busy chasing after Holiness. They don't mind wearing clothing that is not in style, not going to the movies, or not owning a TV... they are just more interested in being holy than anything else. Weird? Maybe. But they're okay with it. They don't believe you make holiness relevant; they believe it already is!!
(4) Can anyone remember "Campmeeting"? They still do it and do it good! And, even though the rest of us know that they no longer work... the CHM is still seeing people born-again and sanctified wholly at camp meetings! They do it up complete with trombone players, pulpits, long dresses on the ladies, altars, waving hankeys, and some aisle running. "I never shall forget how the fire fell." They generally stick with the hymns and don't seem to keen on switching over any time soon.
(5) They preach holiness clearly and specifically and strongly! You know how Charles Stanley always manages to slip in some "once saved, always saved" in every sermon? Well, CHM folk have that impulse, but with the message of Holiness. This second work of grace or entire sanctification or baptism of the Holy Spirit is more than a doctrinal statement that they give lip service to. They preach it, shout about it, teach it, and live it! They may look like they're out of date, but they're goal is not to fit in, but be filled within by the Holy Spirit. You don't make holiness relevant... it already is!!
(6) They believe in biblical holiness education. While they may not have Bible colleges with huge enrollments, across the CHM you will find a ton of small Bible Colleges that are training men and women for pastoral ministry, missions ministry, and educational ministry. They feel strongly about people who know what the Bible says about the truth of Holiness. After all, if you don't know what the Bible says, you won't know how to preach it, teach it, or live it!
(7) They have convictions. No, I'm not talking about court room convictions, I'm talking about the fact that many of them are listening to what God may be asking them to do or to give up. While they most often get a reputation surrounding their dress, it's must larger than that. Many do not own a TV, won't go to a restaurant that serves alcohol, won't listen to secular music, don't wear makeup (male or female) and more. Listening to God about direction in life seems like a pretty Biblical idea to me.
(8) They still shout. They sometimes look like Pentecostals, and sometimes sound (noise level) like Pentecostals, but they are not Pentecostals. And they do not have a problem with that. They also do not mind if it gets loud while praising the Lord. Psalm 47:1 "Clap your hands, all peoples! Shout to God with loud songs of joy!" In some corners of the CHM you'll not only hear an 'amen' during the preaching, but you might just witness a saint shouting and running the aisles in praise to God.
(9) They take criticism well. They have to, after all, all the moderate and liberal holiness people fight them more than they do the devil. Being called 'legalistic' all the time because you have convictions has to get annoying. But they do not seem to mind the name calling and constant opposition. They go right on pursuing holiness! That independent, rugged determination helps them not only survive criticism, but thrive on the mission field too.
(10) The Conservative Holiness Movement is growing in unconventional ways. Go to a Bible College, Seminary, or a Church Growth Seminar and you will hear the 'right' way to grow a church. Most in the CHM have never heard that stuff, because they're not doing most of it... but they're still growing. They maintain a zeal for missions. While typically independent, they are almost as large as the Church of the Nazarene. We Nazarenes like to believe we are the king of the hill, but the truth is, the Conservative Holiness Movement is a growing movement and might just overtake us (especially here in the United States).
For more information check out the wiki page about the Conservative Holiness movement and the Interchurch Holiness Convention website for more info.
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Roman Catholics.
Why I like Independent Fundamental Baptists.
Why I like the Church of the Nazarene.
Why I like Small churches.
Why I like Snake Handling Churches.
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
Why I Love the Church of the Nazarene...
It would just make sense that I write a "Why I Like..." about the group that I identify with: the Church of the Nazarene. I love my church!
(1) They were born in revival. More specifically they were born in a revival of calling the church back to Christ like living (holiness) and mission (holiness)! Looking back it would seem pretty self evident that Christians ought to act like Christ. The early Nazarenes had roots in Methodism, Presbyterian backgrounds, Baptist influences, and many others. What unified them was their desire to live out a holy life... the possibility. That was the revival (or some call 'awakening') from which the Church of the Nazarene was born.
(2) They were against "tobacco" before everyone realized that tobacco was bad. Before Hollywood started campaigning against tobacco and the government started placing "sin" taxes on cigarettes; the Church of the Nazarene was boldly proclaiming the "tobacco weed" as a vice on our society. They didn't get much support early on, but our culture has finally caught on to the negative effects of tobacco (wish society would come along on some other issues).
(3) They believe in getting the Good News out. The Church of the Nazarene is a strong missions oriented church. We really take seriously going into all the world. That includes places that are dangerous, countries that are anti-Christ, and post-Christian cultures. Nazarenes will go anywhere to tell people about Jesus. Not only will they go, but they will give. Those that are unable to travel to other places are cheerfully willing to give to make sure someone is able to go.
(4) They were tough and determined. Since the Church of the Nazarene was/is such a young denomination (compared to Presbyterians, Episcopalians, Baptists, Catholics, or Methodists) they typically don't have big financial budgets, vast properties, long established trusts, or large overheads of administration. Many of the early Churches of the Nazarene started in rented store fronts with volunteers pastors. But they were tough and determined and they made it! They sacrificed the meager earnings they had from low paying jobs to give to Jesus' work. (They also saved a lot of money by not smoking, drinking, going to movies, taking the Sunday newspaper, etc.)
(5) Budgets. Yeah, I know. Some Nazarene churches do not like paying their "budgets" but I'm glad, as a denomination, that we do not have such a narrow perspective that we forget about the rest of the world. Budget allotments are what are expected from local church to give outside of their 'local' context. We believe in working together with our brothers and sisters from other local churches to send out missionaries, plant churches, support existing churches, train pastors and laity, as well as provide for the physical needs of the communities we find ourselves in.
(6) "Articles of Faith." It's what I believe. I'm glad we are clear about what we believe as a church!
(7) They cared about the disenfranchized, poor, hurting, widows, orphans, and imprisoned before anyone knew anything about social justice. We never called it social justice, we called it the Great Commission. The truth is, the early Church of the Nazarene placed the priority on sinners coming to know Jesus as the Savior and Lord of their life regardless of their social status. We were working on the 'other side of the track' before it was cool to do so. Caring for the physical needs of people was a natural outflow of a real concern for the spiritual needs of people.
(8) They didn't mind rocking the boat. They take a stand. "Holy Rollers" "Nois-arenes" and other names were frequent with the early Church of the Nazarene. Many of the early Nazarenes were "rejects" from other churches for their stand on social issues, moral issues, and passionate preaching. "Woe to them that are at ease in Zion".... the only solution to ease is to keep the boat rocking. Taking on controversial issues, preaching on strong convictions, and being unconcerned about what the polls were saying kept the early Nazarenes rocking the boat.
(9) They have expectations. Ever heard of the "Covenant of Christian Conduct?" It means that if you are a member its because you have committed to more than your name on a roll in the secretary's office. You have agreed to participate in the shared convictions of a body of believers. Sure, some people misunderstand and think it is just a bunch of rules. I'm just glad to be part of a church that has done the difficult work of trying to make the "rubber meet the road." So we are defined not only by our theology but also our lifestyle.
(10) Holiness. It is the greatest need of the church today. It is the only thing that can meet our deepest need. It is the will of God. It is the only way to Heaven. It is preached, taught, experienced, lived out, and given priority to in the Church of the Nazarene. (If we walk away from this Truth, we walk away from our reason for existence.)
(11) Last, but not least, I was born-again and baptized in a Church of the Nazarene. It was Lafayette Church of the Nazarene in Lexington, KY to be exact. While that may not mean much to you, it has changed the course of my life (as well as where I will spend eternity). I am so thankful that the King of kings and Lord of lords extended an unwarranted gift of forgiveness and redemption to me so that I might now be called a child of the Living God.
What reasons might you add?
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Roman Catholics.
Why I like Independent Fundamental Baptists.
Why I like Conservative Holiness Churches.
Why I like Small churches.
Why I like Snake Handling Churches.
(1) They were born in revival. More specifically they were born in a revival of calling the church back to Christ like living (holiness) and mission (holiness)! Looking back it would seem pretty self evident that Christians ought to act like Christ. The early Nazarenes had roots in Methodism, Presbyterian backgrounds, Baptist influences, and many others. What unified them was their desire to live out a holy life... the possibility. That was the revival (or some call 'awakening') from which the Church of the Nazarene was born.
(2) They were against "tobacco" before everyone realized that tobacco was bad. Before Hollywood started campaigning against tobacco and the government started placing "sin" taxes on cigarettes; the Church of the Nazarene was boldly proclaiming the "tobacco weed" as a vice on our society. They didn't get much support early on, but our culture has finally caught on to the negative effects of tobacco (wish society would come along on some other issues).
(3) They believe in getting the Good News out. The Church of the Nazarene is a strong missions oriented church. We really take seriously going into all the world. That includes places that are dangerous, countries that are anti-Christ, and post-Christian cultures. Nazarenes will go anywhere to tell people about Jesus. Not only will they go, but they will give. Those that are unable to travel to other places are cheerfully willing to give to make sure someone is able to go.
(4) They were tough and determined. Since the Church of the Nazarene was/is such a young denomination (compared to Presbyterians, Episcopalians, Baptists, Catholics, or Methodists) they typically don't have big financial budgets, vast properties, long established trusts, or large overheads of administration. Many of the early Churches of the Nazarene started in rented store fronts with volunteers pastors. But they were tough and determined and they made it! They sacrificed the meager earnings they had from low paying jobs to give to Jesus' work. (They also saved a lot of money by not smoking, drinking, going to movies, taking the Sunday newspaper, etc.)
(5) Budgets. Yeah, I know. Some Nazarene churches do not like paying their "budgets" but I'm glad, as a denomination, that we do not have such a narrow perspective that we forget about the rest of the world. Budget allotments are what are expected from local church to give outside of their 'local' context. We believe in working together with our brothers and sisters from other local churches to send out missionaries, plant churches, support existing churches, train pastors and laity, as well as provide for the physical needs of the communities we find ourselves in.
(6) "Articles of Faith." It's what I believe. I'm glad we are clear about what we believe as a church!
(7) They cared about the disenfranchized, poor, hurting, widows, orphans, and imprisoned before anyone knew anything about social justice. We never called it social justice, we called it the Great Commission. The truth is, the early Church of the Nazarene placed the priority on sinners coming to know Jesus as the Savior and Lord of their life regardless of their social status. We were working on the 'other side of the track' before it was cool to do so. Caring for the physical needs of people was a natural outflow of a real concern for the spiritual needs of people.
(8) They didn't mind rocking the boat. They take a stand. "Holy Rollers" "Nois-arenes" and other names were frequent with the early Church of the Nazarene. Many of the early Nazarenes were "rejects" from other churches for their stand on social issues, moral issues, and passionate preaching. "Woe to them that are at ease in Zion".... the only solution to ease is to keep the boat rocking. Taking on controversial issues, preaching on strong convictions, and being unconcerned about what the polls were saying kept the early Nazarenes rocking the boat.
(9) They have expectations. Ever heard of the "Covenant of Christian Conduct?" It means that if you are a member its because you have committed to more than your name on a roll in the secretary's office. You have agreed to participate in the shared convictions of a body of believers. Sure, some people misunderstand and think it is just a bunch of rules. I'm just glad to be part of a church that has done the difficult work of trying to make the "rubber meet the road." So we are defined not only by our theology but also our lifestyle.
(10) Holiness. It is the greatest need of the church today. It is the only thing that can meet our deepest need. It is the will of God. It is the only way to Heaven. It is preached, taught, experienced, lived out, and given priority to in the Church of the Nazarene. (If we walk away from this Truth, we walk away from our reason for existence.)
(11) Last, but not least, I was born-again and baptized in a Church of the Nazarene. It was Lafayette Church of the Nazarene in Lexington, KY to be exact. While that may not mean much to you, it has changed the course of my life (as well as where I will spend eternity). I am so thankful that the King of kings and Lord of lords extended an unwarranted gift of forgiveness and redemption to me so that I might now be called a child of the Living God.
What reasons might you add?
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Roman Catholics.
Why I like Independent Fundamental Baptists.
Why I like Conservative Holiness Churches.
Why I like Small churches.
Why I like Snake Handling Churches.
Friday, November 3, 2017
Why I Like Independant Fundamental Baptists...
A few reasons I like Independent Baptists:
(1) There are lots of them. You can find them everywhere you go. Sure, sometimes you have to look on a back street, but if you look you will find and Independent Baptist Church
(2) They know what they stand for. They know the fundamentals of their faith. Ask them, they'll be glad to chat. They don't mind a hearty debate either.
(3) The no-nonsense mentality. They are not worried about being politically correct. Less sugar coating. Clear, plain, & blunt might define their communication style. You will never go away wondering what they were trying to say.
(4) They are 'independent' minded. They do not depend upon others for what they need. They do not pay much attention to that feeling that creeps over most of us when we feel like we are out on a limb alone. They secretly enjoy standing tall when no one else will.
(5) They are evangelistic. Make eye contact for more than three seconds and they'll probably hand you a tract with the name of their church on the back. You will then get to hear the plan of salvation! Get ready to make a personal decision too. You might even hear a little street preaching (kind of like what Peter did at Pentecost.)
(6) They have a love for God's Word. That is the KJV to be exact. But they love it. They will memorize, quote, and even live it (imagine that). They may like Calvin, but they don't quote him much, they quote Paul, Jesus, and the prophets.
(7) They believe in education. I know they have a reputation of being anti-intellectual, but the opposite is actually true. They like to start Christian schools, homeschool co-ops, small independent Bible colleges, and more. Their priority is on teaching God's Word (see #6).
(8) They are Biblical theologians, not Systematic theologians. Most people today lean toward being a systematic kind of Christian. We like for our faith to all fit together into a nice little system that makes sense. Not Independant Fundamental Baptists. "God said it, I believe it, and that settles it."
(9) They like big families. Dad working hard at a job, mom working hard teaching and rearing the kids, and multiple children is not a sexist, ignorant idea for them... it is normal. They raise them to love Jesus and his church. No wonder there are so many of them!
(10) They sometimes get loud during church. Pentecostals get all the credit these days for getting noisy in church, but the truth is Independant Fundamental Baptists like to throw up an "amen" here and there too.
What might you add?
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Roman Catholics.
Why I like Conservative Holiness Churches.
Why I like the Church of the Nazarene.
Why I like Small churches.
(1) There are lots of them. You can find them everywhere you go. Sure, sometimes you have to look on a back street, but if you look you will find and Independent Baptist Church
(2) They know what they stand for. They know the fundamentals of their faith. Ask them, they'll be glad to chat. They don't mind a hearty debate either.
(3) The no-nonsense mentality. They are not worried about being politically correct. Less sugar coating. Clear, plain, & blunt might define their communication style. You will never go away wondering what they were trying to say.
(4) They are 'independent' minded. They do not depend upon others for what they need. They do not pay much attention to that feeling that creeps over most of us when we feel like we are out on a limb alone. They secretly enjoy standing tall when no one else will.
(5) They are evangelistic. Make eye contact for more than three seconds and they'll probably hand you a tract with the name of their church on the back. You will then get to hear the plan of salvation! Get ready to make a personal decision too. You might even hear a little street preaching (kind of like what Peter did at Pentecost.)
(6) They have a love for God's Word. That is the KJV to be exact. But they love it. They will memorize, quote, and even live it (imagine that). They may like Calvin, but they don't quote him much, they quote Paul, Jesus, and the prophets.
(7) They believe in education. I know they have a reputation of being anti-intellectual, but the opposite is actually true. They like to start Christian schools, homeschool co-ops, small independent Bible colleges, and more. Their priority is on teaching God's Word (see #6).
(8) They are Biblical theologians, not Systematic theologians. Most people today lean toward being a systematic kind of Christian. We like for our faith to all fit together into a nice little system that makes sense. Not Independant Fundamental Baptists. "God said it, I believe it, and that settles it."
(9) They like big families. Dad working hard at a job, mom working hard teaching and rearing the kids, and multiple children is not a sexist, ignorant idea for them... it is normal. They raise them to love Jesus and his church. No wonder there are so many of them!
(10) They sometimes get loud during church. Pentecostals get all the credit these days for getting noisy in church, but the truth is Independant Fundamental Baptists like to throw up an "amen" here and there too.
What might you add?
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Roman Catholics.
Why I like Conservative Holiness Churches.
Why I like the Church of the Nazarene.
Why I like Small churches.
Why I like Snake Handling Churches.
Thursday, October 5, 2017
Why I Like Roman Catholics...
(1) They have the Vatican. No other denomination has anything like it! It is like an actual, albeit small, theocracy! That is cool.
(2) They are global. They really are international. It is not that they want to be or hope to be... they actually are! You can find a Roman Catholic church almost anywhere in the world!
(3) Their priests are completely dependent upon the church. And the church takes care of them all their life. I am not just talking about a retirement check... I'm talking about a priesthood that lives, breathes, and dies 'the church.'
(4) They have an almost universal monopoly on the word 'catholic.' Yes, it technically means universal, but they already have the copyright... sorry protestants who quote the Apostle's Creed.
(5) Can anyone say: 'Organized.' They've had more practice than we protestants. They have evangelism down to a science... literally. Missions, polity, disagreement, councils, etc are all organized down to the detail. Ever read the Roman Catholic catechism? Organized.
(6) Ever found an ugly Catholic church building? Maybe, but not many actually exist. They really believe the church ought to be an embassy for the Kingdom of God. Therefore, they build churches like they envision Heaven to be.
(7) Their clergy are easy to identify. The Priests have the collar, nuns have the habit. All they have to do is walk into a room and everyone knows who they are!
(8) They are passionate about the sanctity of life. Lots (but not all) of protestants are too busy looking to draw a crowd to rock the boat on some issues. Not Catholics. Go to a pro-life rally and see how many non-Catholics you can find.
(9) They do not change much. Many Protestant denominations are chasing after fads and popularity polls... not our Catholic friends! There are some of them that still want to have service in Latin. Nobody at the Vatican is too disturbed about being "relevant."
(10) Have you ever seen the Pope's hat? That is awesome! Just sayin'.
What might you add?
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Independent Fundamental Baptists.
Why I like Conservative Holiness Churches.
Why I like the Church of the Nazarene.
Why I like Small churches.
(2) They are global. They really are international. It is not that they want to be or hope to be... they actually are! You can find a Roman Catholic church almost anywhere in the world!
(3) Their priests are completely dependent upon the church. And the church takes care of them all their life. I am not just talking about a retirement check... I'm talking about a priesthood that lives, breathes, and dies 'the church.'
(4) They have an almost universal monopoly on the word 'catholic.' Yes, it technically means universal, but they already have the copyright... sorry protestants who quote the Apostle's Creed.
(5) Can anyone say: 'Organized.' They've had more practice than we protestants. They have evangelism down to a science... literally. Missions, polity, disagreement, councils, etc are all organized down to the detail. Ever read the Roman Catholic catechism? Organized.
(6) Ever found an ugly Catholic church building? Maybe, but not many actually exist. They really believe the church ought to be an embassy for the Kingdom of God. Therefore, they build churches like they envision Heaven to be.
(7) Their clergy are easy to identify. The Priests have the collar, nuns have the habit. All they have to do is walk into a room and everyone knows who they are!
(8) They are passionate about the sanctity of life. Lots (but not all) of protestants are too busy looking to draw a crowd to rock the boat on some issues. Not Catholics. Go to a pro-life rally and see how many non-Catholics you can find.
(9) They do not change much. Many Protestant denominations are chasing after fads and popularity polls... not our Catholic friends! There are some of them that still want to have service in Latin. Nobody at the Vatican is too disturbed about being "relevant."
(10) Have you ever seen the Pope's hat? That is awesome! Just sayin'.
What might you add?
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Independent Fundamental Baptists.
Why I like Conservative Holiness Churches.
Why I like the Church of the Nazarene.
Why I like Small churches.
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
Why I Like Small Churches...
I believe in small healthy churches!
(1) You feel more comfortable calling them your home church. Mega churches may have programs, but small churches have people. Not just a mass of faces, but a people you can come to know. A small church can become your church family.
(2) You can know the Pastor. The pastor isn't a celebrity (though he/she may want to be), he or she is your pastor. The pastor knows who you are, who your family is, and what you are going through.
(3) More participation! It is hard to do nothing in a small church. There tends to be a smaller percentage of pew warmers (although you can find them everywhere). It's hard to continue to be a spectator when everyone else is already doing three different jobs in the church. So don't get comfortable on the pew, they're looking for someone like you!
(4) There is accountability. If you aren't there, everyone knows. Your "spot" in your pew is obvious when it is empty. People ask you where you've been because they care. They are worried when you start "laying out of church." They miss you and genuinely love you.
(5) A small church is a small group! Large churches recognize the need to have small groups to connect people with one another and establish a more intimate setting for Bible Study. No need for that in a small church. Just come on Wednesday night!
(6) They don't care what the church fads are. They really don't care what cool things they should be doing during the worship service or whether their pastor looks like a model from American Eagle Outfitters. They couldn't care less about cliches, they are having church.
(7) Can anyone say "potluck." Enough said.
(8) They are stable. They may not have "break out" growth in attendance, but they can be faithful and consistent. Mega churches are sometimes built around the likeability of the pastor, the extravagant use of technology, or the numerous programs. If something disrupts the routine a mega church can find itself in decline quickly. (Of course this stability is a point of contention for the pastor who comes in to a small church and tries to change everything overnight.) Their stability comes from the fact that they tend to be slow to change, and not rush into everything.
(9) They don't care if the Pastor is gifted, just that he loves them. Now, to be sure, they would like to hear an excellent sermon, but the more they sense the pastor loves them, the more they enjoy his sermons (whether they really are good or not). In a mega church a pastor cannot express love to each congregant in anything more than words, so if the pastor cannot be a good preacher, administrator, etc he/she will fail! In a small church love trumps gifts/talent.
(10) Less business, more church. They don't require large budgets. Most don't care about committees or boards. They might occasionally raise money for a new window AC unit in the elementary Sunday School class or a new paint job in the parsonage, but as a whole, they just aren't too concerned about such things. No bells, no whistles... just being the church.
Any reasons you might add?
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Roman Catholics.
Why I like Independent Fundamental Baptists.
Why I like the Church of the Nazarene.
Why I like Conservative Holiness Churches.
Why I like Snake Handling Churches.
(1) You feel more comfortable calling them your home church. Mega churches may have programs, but small churches have people. Not just a mass of faces, but a people you can come to know. A small church can become your church family.
(2) You can know the Pastor. The pastor isn't a celebrity (though he/she may want to be), he or she is your pastor. The pastor knows who you are, who your family is, and what you are going through.
(3) More participation! It is hard to do nothing in a small church. There tends to be a smaller percentage of pew warmers (although you can find them everywhere). It's hard to continue to be a spectator when everyone else is already doing three different jobs in the church. So don't get comfortable on the pew, they're looking for someone like you!
(4) There is accountability. If you aren't there, everyone knows. Your "spot" in your pew is obvious when it is empty. People ask you where you've been because they care. They are worried when you start "laying out of church." They miss you and genuinely love you.
(5) A small church is a small group! Large churches recognize the need to have small groups to connect people with one another and establish a more intimate setting for Bible Study. No need for that in a small church. Just come on Wednesday night!
(6) They don't care what the church fads are. They really don't care what cool things they should be doing during the worship service or whether their pastor looks like a model from American Eagle Outfitters. They couldn't care less about cliches, they are having church.
(7) Can anyone say "potluck." Enough said.
(8) They are stable. They may not have "break out" growth in attendance, but they can be faithful and consistent. Mega churches are sometimes built around the likeability of the pastor, the extravagant use of technology, or the numerous programs. If something disrupts the routine a mega church can find itself in decline quickly. (Of course this stability is a point of contention for the pastor who comes in to a small church and tries to change everything overnight.) Their stability comes from the fact that they tend to be slow to change, and not rush into everything.
(9) They don't care if the Pastor is gifted, just that he loves them. Now, to be sure, they would like to hear an excellent sermon, but the more they sense the pastor loves them, the more they enjoy his sermons (whether they really are good or not). In a mega church a pastor cannot express love to each congregant in anything more than words, so if the pastor cannot be a good preacher, administrator, etc he/she will fail! In a small church love trumps gifts/talent.
(10) Less business, more church. They don't require large budgets. Most don't care about committees or boards. They might occasionally raise money for a new window AC unit in the elementary Sunday School class or a new paint job in the parsonage, but as a whole, they just aren't too concerned about such things. No bells, no whistles... just being the church.
Any reasons you might add?
Also check out similar blog posts...
Why I like Roman Catholics.
Why I like Independent Fundamental Baptists.
Why I like the Church of the Nazarene.
Why I like Conservative Holiness Churches.
Why I like Snake Handling Churches.
Friday, August 11, 2017
"Progressive" Christianity is the Real Problem
"Progressive" Christianity is the Real Problem. Let me give you a few reasons why...
1. For them, one of the most serious offenses is someone seeking to take the Bible seriously! (Of course they would say they are trying to take it serious...). You know you are in a conversation with a 'progressive' Christian because they will call you a 'fundamentalist' or seek to explain why their 'education' puts them in a better place in understanding how to throw out God's Word. Believing the Bible is full of errors and distinguishing the errors from the truth is something they want the authority to articulate. The Bible becomes for them a buffet. A serious approach to engaging the Word of God by anyone else may get you labeled a "bibliolator" or "fundamentalist." John Wesley is often ignored when he said: "If there be one falsehood in the Bible, there may be a thousand; neither can it proceed from the God of truth.” Always be leery of those who think you take the Bible too seriously.
2. They are often closet universalists. Everybody makes it to Heaven (if there is such a place) and certainly no one would ever go to hell (as they definitely don't believe such a negative place would actually exist). Emotionally they cannot comprehend a loving God being "mean" enough to send people to the 'bad place.' This is why they tend to turn a blind eye to sin, sinful lifestyles, etc. Almost any deviant or false group/idea can find home and a comrade among progressives. No doctrine is really sacred. No false teaching is ultimately rebuked. They even believe that Islam & Christianity are essentially serving the same God. (Can someone please tell a progressive how radically different Christianity and Islam are!!) They speak much of a 'big tent' or an 'open table' but I think you're really only welcome if you agree with them.
3. They often sterilize and thus change the Gospel. Atonement? Jesus dying for our sins? What a 'theory'! For them, this is a traumatizing and alienating message. The cross would be a lot more attractive without Jesus (dying because of the sin of humanity) on it. Repentance? It sounds so harsh. God hating sin? That hasn't been feasible since the 90's. Anything that would be culturally abrasive they tend to eliminate or at least de-emphasize. The most significant way they do this is to minimize the serious reality of sin in the world and specifically in the individual. Sinful appetites and desires are accepted as normal (sometimes even with pride). So there are many churches and ministries that are unfaithful to ever share the Gospel as what is often left over is a partial shell of the whole truth. Salvation is de-emphasized in favor of a works faith of social justice vs social media activism.
4. They only ever emphasize those issues which might be culturally or politically advantageous. In their claim to be prophets they only ever emphasize what the broader culture already values and accepts. It's great to encourage people where they get it right, but we are also called to the difficult task of pointing out where they get it wrong Biblically. Be careful when you are praised by secular media and worldly masses... remember that Jesus was hated and killed by the secular world (Roman Empire) and religious hierarchy (Sanhedrin).
5. In emphasizing part of the work Christians are to be involved in (compassionate ministries, justice, etc) they negate the transforming work of God. For example, Jesus Himself said we will always have the poor among us. It doesn't mean we don't work to alleviate suffering around us or work to improve systematic problems that lead to poverty; but it does mean that our ultimate goal is not to end poverty, rather it is about bringing people to new life in Jesus Christ. Jesus himself said that his purpose in coming into the world was to seek and to save the lost. 'Progressive' Christianity often becomes more about works [legalism] than true righteousness.
.png)
7. They have sought to redefine love and grace. For a 'progressive' Christian you cannot love someone if you do not affirm and/or approve of what they do, what they look like, what their opinions are, or how they live their life. For them, love, never confronts sin, because if someone becomes angry, upset, or hurt then it cannot be love. "I'd rather error on the side of grace," they might say. What they unconsciously mean by that is that they have neither the resolve, backbone, nor real love to do the hard work of loving their neighbor authentically. To be fair, they only believe sin should be confronted in a broad, general way within systems, organizations, or societies. Never deal with the sin in an individual. In their oral rhetoric and twisted semantics they sound eloquent but when they are opposed or contradicted you will be asking where the love went.
8. They believe that human reasoning and reliance on emotional appeal is better than Biblical truth. They love to quote statistics and then interpret the data for you. For example, they might say: "75% of divorcees have struggled with depression." (I made up this stat for the sake of a point I'm trying to make.) Then they will interpret that data by saying: "This means that the church has not accepted divorcees, so they struggle with rejection." That's absurd. Maybe they are dealing with depression because of what they have gone through, not how the church is treating them. Loving people for them is a based on what you feel and not what is true. But only the truth can set people free.
9. They like to be in control of educational institutions and denominational structures. Because there is an inherent flaw in 'progressive' Christianity it is generally unfruitful for the Kingdom. Because of the lack of tangible/measurable progress, they like to climb the ladder of leadership and get farther and farther from the front lines of actual ministry. It is in these places that they can promote their philosophies on how to interpret the Bible and do kingdom work. They like to write books and teach classes on how to duplicate their unfruitful ministry. To initiate this process, they argue they just want a seat at the table. However, what they really want is to sit at the head and command the conversation. This is also why progressive tend to promote the academy (an equipping ministry of the church) to be above the church.
10. Progressives argue against any kind of experience. In general they do not believe that you can personally know Jesus. That's why they love liturgy. Not that all liturgy is bad (it isn't), but that it becomes a way to help them feel spiritual without ever really encountering The Spirit. Prayer becomes something you cite from memory or read off a paper rather than a conversation with the Divine. They love theology when it is bound up in the philosophical and theoretical realm. They also have a strong arrogance toward the idea that a formal degree is necessary to do 'real theology.' (Caution: Do not go to the other extreme of mocking those who 'study to show themselves approved.')
And all the while, being fruitful and faithful in the wrong areas, they march on to take over and change the church. But, when you don't believe in Heaven or Hell, it kind of numbs the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
Maybe 'progressive' Christianity isn't really 'progressive' or Christian. Maybe progressives are the problem. "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves." Matthew 7:15
Also check out the following articles:
I Sin Every Day
How to Lead Your Church into Apostacy.
1. For them, one of the most serious offenses is someone seeking to take the Bible seriously! (Of course they would say they are trying to take it serious...). You know you are in a conversation with a 'progressive' Christian because they will call you a 'fundamentalist' or seek to explain why their 'education' puts them in a better place in understanding how to throw out God's Word. Believing the Bible is full of errors and distinguishing the errors from the truth is something they want the authority to articulate. The Bible becomes for them a buffet. A serious approach to engaging the Word of God by anyone else may get you labeled a "bibliolator" or "fundamentalist." John Wesley is often ignored when he said: "If there be one falsehood in the Bible, there may be a thousand; neither can it proceed from the God of truth.” Always be leery of those who think you take the Bible too seriously.
2. They are often closet universalists. Everybody makes it to Heaven (if there is such a place) and certainly no one would ever go to hell (as they definitely don't believe such a negative place would actually exist). Emotionally they cannot comprehend a loving God being "mean" enough to send people to the 'bad place.' This is why they tend to turn a blind eye to sin, sinful lifestyles, etc. Almost any deviant or false group/idea can find home and a comrade among progressives. No doctrine is really sacred. No false teaching is ultimately rebuked. They even believe that Islam & Christianity are essentially serving the same God. (Can someone please tell a progressive how radically different Christianity and Islam are!!) They speak much of a 'big tent' or an 'open table' but I think you're really only welcome if you agree with them.
3. They often sterilize and thus change the Gospel. Atonement? Jesus dying for our sins? What a 'theory'! For them, this is a traumatizing and alienating message. The cross would be a lot more attractive without Jesus (dying because of the sin of humanity) on it. Repentance? It sounds so harsh. God hating sin? That hasn't been feasible since the 90's. Anything that would be culturally abrasive they tend to eliminate or at least de-emphasize. The most significant way they do this is to minimize the serious reality of sin in the world and specifically in the individual. Sinful appetites and desires are accepted as normal (sometimes even with pride). So there are many churches and ministries that are unfaithful to ever share the Gospel as what is often left over is a partial shell of the whole truth. Salvation is de-emphasized in favor of a works faith of social justice vs social media activism.
4. They only ever emphasize those issues which might be culturally or politically advantageous. In their claim to be prophets they only ever emphasize what the broader culture already values and accepts. It's great to encourage people where they get it right, but we are also called to the difficult task of pointing out where they get it wrong Biblically. Be careful when you are praised by secular media and worldly masses... remember that Jesus was hated and killed by the secular world (Roman Empire) and religious hierarchy (Sanhedrin).
5. In emphasizing part of the work Christians are to be involved in (compassionate ministries, justice, etc) they negate the transforming work of God. For example, Jesus Himself said we will always have the poor among us. It doesn't mean we don't work to alleviate suffering around us or work to improve systematic problems that lead to poverty; but it does mean that our ultimate goal is not to end poverty, rather it is about bringing people to new life in Jesus Christ. Jesus himself said that his purpose in coming into the world was to seek and to save the lost. 'Progressive' Christianity often becomes more about works [legalism] than true righteousness.
.png)
6. They believe the church, generally speaking, is oppressive. They believe that God's chosen vessel to redeem the world is responsible for oppression of the poor, the LGBTQ community, democrats, minorities, divorcees, immigrants, refugees and more. They have a very low view of the Bride of Christ (the church). They might say things like: "I love the church, even though it gets things wrong, hurts people, has been on the wrong side of history, etc." The Bible says it differently in Ephesians 5:25b-27 "Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish."
7. They have sought to redefine love and grace. For a 'progressive' Christian you cannot love someone if you do not affirm and/or approve of what they do, what they look like, what their opinions are, or how they live their life. For them, love, never confronts sin, because if someone becomes angry, upset, or hurt then it cannot be love. "I'd rather error on the side of grace," they might say. What they unconsciously mean by that is that they have neither the resolve, backbone, nor real love to do the hard work of loving their neighbor authentically. To be fair, they only believe sin should be confronted in a broad, general way within systems, organizations, or societies. Never deal with the sin in an individual. In their oral rhetoric and twisted semantics they sound eloquent but when they are opposed or contradicted you will be asking where the love went.
8. They believe that human reasoning and reliance on emotional appeal is better than Biblical truth. They love to quote statistics and then interpret the data for you. For example, they might say: "75% of divorcees have struggled with depression." (I made up this stat for the sake of a point I'm trying to make.) Then they will interpret that data by saying: "This means that the church has not accepted divorcees, so they struggle with rejection." That's absurd. Maybe they are dealing with depression because of what they have gone through, not how the church is treating them. Loving people for them is a based on what you feel and not what is true. But only the truth can set people free.
9. They like to be in control of educational institutions and denominational structures. Because there is an inherent flaw in 'progressive' Christianity it is generally unfruitful for the Kingdom. Because of the lack of tangible/measurable progress, they like to climb the ladder of leadership and get farther and farther from the front lines of actual ministry. It is in these places that they can promote their philosophies on how to interpret the Bible and do kingdom work. They like to write books and teach classes on how to duplicate their unfruitful ministry. To initiate this process, they argue they just want a seat at the table. However, what they really want is to sit at the head and command the conversation. This is also why progressive tend to promote the academy (an equipping ministry of the church) to be above the church.
10. Progressives argue against any kind of experience. In general they do not believe that you can personally know Jesus. That's why they love liturgy. Not that all liturgy is bad (it isn't), but that it becomes a way to help them feel spiritual without ever really encountering The Spirit. Prayer becomes something you cite from memory or read off a paper rather than a conversation with the Divine. They love theology when it is bound up in the philosophical and theoretical realm. They also have a strong arrogance toward the idea that a formal degree is necessary to do 'real theology.' (Caution: Do not go to the other extreme of mocking those who 'study to show themselves approved.')
And all the while, being fruitful and faithful in the wrong areas, they march on to take over and change the church. But, when you don't believe in Heaven or Hell, it kind of numbs the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
Maybe 'progressive' Christianity isn't really 'progressive' or Christian. Maybe progressives are the problem. "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves." Matthew 7:15
Also check out the following articles:
I Sin Every Day
How to Lead Your Church into Apostacy.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)