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The Way
by Kevin Pauley
Woe to them! For they have traveled in the way of Cain, have abandoned themselves to the error of Balaam for profit, and have perished in Korah's rebellion. These are the ones who are like dangerous reefs at your love feasts. They feast with you, nurturing only themselves without fear. They are waterless clouds carried along by winds; trees in late autumn--fruitless, twice dead, pulled out by the roots; - Jude 1:11-12 HCSB
I heard a story about an elderly Indian who had been invited to a church service in a big city. The service was impressive and creatively organized. There was an orchestra, a beautiful choir, pantomime, dance and power point presentations. Then the pastor appeared and delivered an eloquent message with elegant gestures. As intended, the congregation was impressed.
Proudly, one of the church members asked the simple man what he thought of the service. The old man thought for a while, seemingly at a loss for words. Finally, he said slowly: "Lots of clouds, loud thunder, but no rain.”
No rain – the most important thing was lacking. What a tragic conclusion about a church service – impressive but empty! I have come to the unfortunate conclusion that America has turned churches into one more type of conglomerate. Borrowing from business models more suited to McDonalds or Wal-Mart, we have taken to “franchising” our churches: Willow Creek, Saddle Back, Harvest Bible Chapel…are these names of churches or name brands?
Without condemning these particular examples, we should begin questioning the point of these mega-churches. They offer multi-site worship, flashy bands, multi-media presentations and figure heads whose smiles remind one more of a slick used car salesman than of the Christ. Is the point really to change lives, or to allow their founders to drive around in Mercedes?
Cain’s sin was offering his own works as an offering, rather than humbly accepting God’s will.[1] Balaam sold his sermons for profit.[2] Korah sought religious leadership for political gain and personal power.[3] We can surely recognize these same problems in our churches today. We all know someone who is more focused on displaying their talent than they are in truly serving their fellow man. We know pastors who won’t speak the truth boldly; preferring pensions over personal integrity. We know people who use their positions in the church as means to control and dominate others.
Jesus’ disciples bear lasting fruit.[4] It is the hallmark of true followers.[5] When we humble ourselves to His Way, our lives inevitably produce eternal results. In everything we do, content must take priority over impression. Tacking Jesus’ name onto a flashy amusement park doesn’t necessarily make it into a church. Only in a life-giving relationship with Jesus does hope reside. Without His presence and teaching, we can do nothing.[6] It's not the shape of the cloud that matters, but the life-giving water that it brings.
Kevin Pauley is a pastor and writer. He lives in Illinois with his wife, Lynn, their five children and two dogs. His internet address is Berea.
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