According to David Kinnama’s findings in his book UnChristian, outsiders and the de-churched do not have issues with Jesus, but the Church as She exists today. Is it true that unChristians think that Christians are hypocritical, zealously evangelistic, anti-homosexual, sheltered, too political, and judgmental? As Christians, we have certainly heard these charges; but are they simply an excuse to reject Christianity by unbelievers? If most outsiders have a positive perception on Jesus, but not Christians, how should this frame the church’s method of ministry? The answers are complex and require an honest look at present-day Christian movements juxtaposed with biblical theology. The difference between present day American church movements and biblical theology is simply staggering. However, Christians should be empathetic to cultural trends in order to become better equipped to lead individuals to Christ. Contextualization allows Christians to break down barriers that may impede the Great Commission that is mandated in scripture. Chuck Colson’s ministry motif concerning common grace and saving grace is a great place to start finding an answer. If the church exhibits common grace, sinners would be embracing saving grace. Saving grace entails repentance and trust in Christ. What draws people to Christ is not merely a knock on the door in order to make a spiritual transaction, but seeing the church live out her call to community and discipleship. Colson is right in saying that Christianity encompasses a lifestyle and worldview rather than political ammunition. The biblical gospel may look dramatically different than an Americanized gospel that has been political and formulaic. At the end of the day, we must live according to the Word and not a false interpretation of it.
Why is it that Christians (no, Evangelical Protestant Christians as a rule, Catholics tend to be more laid back. You have some loonies, but not as many.) seem to be able to do nothing but protest. I don't think it is merely the media's portrayal of them (us); all stereotypes have an origin in reality in my experience. I think the church (and perhaps the Church) has spent so little time repenting of her own sin that she has so much time free to bother others about theirs. The early church only policed her own members. The lost she fed and cared for.
ReplyDeleteEvangelism should not be an exercise in building numbers or in being right, but in loving the individual. That breaks stony hearts. far faster than a "ten things you're going to hell for" approach that has gained currency in recent years. I abandoned and rejected Protestantism in general and Evangelicalism in particular because I was, and am, horrified by the profound vacuity of the majority of the adherents I encountered. I think the non-christians have our number...