Christian Ourtreach
I recently read in the paper about a “successful Christian outreach” where many “accepted Jesus as their savior”. The problem, as with most of our modern culture’s take on “salvation”, is that there is little clarity about what these folks are acquiring “salvation from”. The article described the “celebration” as giving some people “a new process in life”, others as “feeling refreshed”, and still others who were “struggling” as receiving “hope”. The article’s last line stated that the event left attendees with “a good vibe”. Such secular reporting would hardly be worth noting, were it not that most “Christians” provide similar descriptions of these types of “successful” events. It appears Christianity is being redefined. Biblical warnings of God’s coming judgment are being replaced with concerns about emotional hurts. The Spirit’s stinging conviction regarding guilt and sin are being exchanged for heartwarming stories about rejuvenation and optimism. The Bible’s call to repentance and self-denial are being surreptitiously switched for appeals that leave people with a good vibe. We cannot allow such shifts to be imperceptible among God’s people. Such redefinitions must set off alarms in our hearts and minds. Temporal “salvation” from bad feelings does not square with Scripture and must never pass for “success”.
--Pastor Mike
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This Month for a Donation of Any Amount:
Someone is looking up to you for leadership. You may not think of yourself as a leader, but stop and reflect for a moment on those who rely on you. When was the last time you took deliberate action toward cultivating and nurturing your skills as a spiritual leader? Our leadership role, of course, originates with kingdom authority and ultimately we have to answer to God for how we lead. This month we are recommending a book by Oswald Sanders called Spiritual Leadership. This timeless classic delivers principles of excellence for every believer to fulfill your role as a spiritual leader.