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Pastors Comments

Confronting a Troubled Mind
June 13, 2007

Pastor Ralph Green

As we move along in time we see a diversity of changes in the Christian church in general. The claim to authority in their declarations is by various means. Many claim connection to the original church. In my perspective we have come to the point of the absurd. None of us are exempt from correction, but it appears to me that much of which is chased has to do with our desire to control or accomplish or worse yet obtain. There is a turmoil of the ends justifies the means and the means justify the end. Some go so far as to present a different Jesus, a different gospel or a different spirit, all the while declaring a leadership role that need be emulated.

A word picture painted for me this week had to do with the missionaries who confront foreign societies use means already contained in that society to present an unchanging gospel. It justifies meeting the foreign to Christianity American society so prevalent today. To an old man set in his ways, it is hard to endure music that may or may not contain significant lyrics due to the fact I cannot sort out the meaning of the words seemingly whispered below the level of the pounding intruments. Advertisements that in the past presented choir robes, now vividly show religious dance wear. (Huh) A member who attended an upbeat service in a distant state noted that not once was Jesus, sin or salvation mentioned, but the presentation was viewed and apparently appreciated by thousands who attend weekly. Our member was doing business with that church and asked about these specific issues and was met with a blank stare.

The now old Christian that I am declares that we have taken in more of the world than can be equated with meeting the needs of the foreign society in which we live. Some are beginning to decry the age of programs and there exists a call back to the simple church. If we are to return to the church of yesteryear we need to allow God to be the guide. The following passage is the result of the strong move of the Holy Spirit on and following the Pentecost that immediately followed the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord.

Acts 2 :42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. 44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all [men], as every man had need. 46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

The apostle's doctrine comes first. Simple for me is the idea that if this is missed the value of what remains may well attract the multitudes but not supply them with what is necessary for a relationship with Christ. Even where the teaching is orthodox if the emphasis is on the peripherals then what is being accomplished ? Heard after the service is expressions of the intensity, excitement, music, Pastor's humor etc.

Now for the troubled mind. It belongs to me. So very many have their orthodoxy correct and witness their understanding but lack worship attendance, fellowship, community prayer and watchcare over others of one's congregation. It troubles me most that I have so preached the grace of God that some have missed the responsibility that comes along.

My soul cries out to itself and now you, 'If they have missed these secondary things, have they also missed what it means to have a living relationship with a loving Lord?

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