Just Say No To Left & Right Christianity‽

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David French via the National Review wrote this insightful piece regarding two popular Christian lifestyles that permeate many modern churches.

The first is the one that the theologically orthodox discuss and battle the most: the temptation to forsake Christian doctrine to seek the approval of a hostile culture. This is the old argument that the world would embrace the Church if only the Church were more like the world. […]

The second temptation is one that attracts the theologically orthodox: the temptation to run toward a form of hyper-legalism as a firewall to protect your family from the sins of the world. (National Review)

From my limited experience in life most Progressive (aka Left) churches usually focus on the former while most Conservative (aka Right) churches embrace the latter.

Both seek to change the culture around them by being either relative & relatable (left), or by creating counter culture commumities (right).

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I am (sadly) not ashamed in admitting that I have actively participated in both Left & Right churches & have witnessed both types somewhat helping their respective communities.

However looking at scripture it seems Jesus had a different view about what his disciples should be doing while dwelling upon this planet we call Earth.

If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. (Jesus Christ, John 15:19)

I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. (Jesus Christ, John 17:15)

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Jesus Christ, Matthew 5:15–16)

Mimicking the corrosive culture around me is not the answer, nor is isolating myself within a Christian bubble.

Jesus expects those claiming to be his disciples to do something a bit more dangerous: to live out his love & truth amongst those hostile towards Christ’s ideals.

After all, no amount of friendly church marketing or counter culture arguments will ultimately change a person’s opinion about God.

Instead of focusing on being cool or altering the culture, it would be wise to simply be a messenger & let God deal with the complexities of changing the human heart.

Discovered via: Jeff B.