Looking at the Church Today

Towns, Elmer (2007) Stated “It’s probable that the church does need repentance.” (p 109). I couldn’t agree with his statement more. Sometimes it seems that the churches get so caught up in the legalities and doctrines that they often forget about love and welcoming people in to learn about the commission of Christ. While doctrine is important, it should not take the place of the example we should be towards others. There seems to be a great deal of bickering among believers, and this certainly does not provide a good example to new Christians. We are called to be a beacon of light to the world, and should conduct ourselves with humility and love towards our neighbors. Towns (2007) further states “Why doesn’t the church express more love to the world and to one another?” (p 109) This creates a great deal of confusion for those that are new in their faith. They become distorted about their views, and this often leads to stereotyping the entire Christian community as a whole. This creates unfruitful works in the body of Christ.

     When God is truly living among the people, there is an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and the church is edified through the fruits of the spirit, which brings people together in unity as the body of Christ. There is a descending problem, in the sense that Christians are being labeled by the actions of people, and this makes it harder for us to reach out to others. We should never shun or look down on others according to their dress, or how expensive their clothes are. We should welcome people, and make them feel that we genuinely care. It does not matter whether they are rich are poor. God is no respecter of persons; therefore, we have no right to ignore the least of these. Welcoming those from all walks of life; I believe is a positive step in the right direction. We need to be an example to those that are longing to find a place to learn and grow.

      I still think we have racial barriers that should not be there. It would be a prayer answered to see those of all colors worshiping together just as God intended it to be. I think our churches today should be more like spiritual hospitals, and understand more of the problems we are facing in today. In this generation it is not enough to warm the pew. The body of Christ needs to utilize the opportunities to help these that will not come to a Church, because of some of these problems discussed in this thread. Christianity needs to reflect a lifestyle, and not a once a week operation. Our fruits towards others truly reflect our character. I truly pray we work towards loving others, and displaying this through our actions to lead others to Christ.

References:

Towns, Elmer (2207) Core Christianity: Chapter nine, Christianity is an Interactive Community