"When i was a kid, my church friends were critical of other churches. The “other” churches were too weird, too charismatic, too legalistic, too boring, or too stuffy.
Sadly today, many Christians are convinced their style of church is the only and best way.
It takes all kinds of Christian churches to reach all kinds of people.
Surely God can work through Bible Churches, Charismatic Churches, Traditional Churches, and Seeker Churches. He can use Baptist Christians, Methodist Christians, Episcopal Christians, and Spirit-filled tongue talking Holy Ghost rollin’ Christians.
No matter how much you enjoy your expression of worship, your church won’t reach the world alone.
It is exciting that instead of criticizing the differences, many are embracing the similarities and truly making a difference for Christ."
This is a quote from Craig Groeshel, Pastor of one of the most innovative and fasting growing churches in America today with 14 campuses and ministering to over 20,000 people, LifeChurch.tv.
For too long in PCG we have not spoken this language. I was raised in PCG with thoughts and teachings that we had it all because we were spirit filled and that all other churches could not do it as good as we can. Even to the fact that some others were not even Christians. Who do we really think we are when we can determine that because others are not spirit filled that the people that they are reaching are not really experiencing God. How is it that some of these churches that are not spirit filled are leading THOUSANDS to Christ while some in PCG are not even experiencing hardly anyone saved each year.
I think we should begin to speak the language that God is using all styles of worship to reach all kinds of people. We should be "United for a Common Cause" building God's Kingdom which includes churches of all styles and doctrine and allow Unity to bring us together instead of building dividing walls between us.
Yes, it takes all of us! I was thinking about my personal experience with dentists. I'm not sure that the "outgoing, bubbly, and friendly" ones are always the best choice. The "quiet, focused, and meticulous" dentists are usually less painful to work with. (At least, that's been my experience).
ReplyDeleteAs a pastor with a multiple staff, I've discovered the same is true. If the team is filled with "outgoing, bubbly, and friendly" pastors, much of the grunt and detail work is often left unfinished. The "quiet, focused, and meticulous" pastors have proven to be a great blessing to the team.
Our "outgoing, bubbly, and friendly" church isn't for everybody. Some can more readily worship God in a different environment. They may connect with a small group leader, ministry, or church where they can settle in quietly and at their pace.
It pleases God when we honor pastors, leaders, and churches in our cities who are committed to the task of "winning souls" and "making disciples". No two "pentecostal/charismatic" churches in our city could be compared. We all have something different to offer. Even when we believe the same, our styles may vary.
I like the language you're talking about Eddie! Dios Le Vendiga!