A Fresh Perspective - April 24, 2009
The April 13th Newsweek article, "The End of Christian America," is the latest in a series of polls, reports, articles, and books heralding the decline of Christianity in America. Fewer Americans are in church, and even the large evangelical segment, that for several years grew when the mainline was in decline, is now finding it difficult to sustain itself. (Observe the declining figures in the Southern Baptist Convention reports). Most evangelical churches that are growing are doing so at the expense of other evangelical churches which are in decline. Many evangelicals tend to flock to where the crowd is gathered and to the church that generates the most excitement (which may be the one with the hippest praise band, the biggest Easter egg hunt, or the most fun and games for the kids).
Spirituality, though, is as vibrant in America as it ever was. Fewer Americans, however, are taking their spirituality to church.
There are undoubtedly multiple reasons for this. One factor is the rugged, almost arrogant spirit of individualism, that even in our post - modern age, is just as strong as ever in American society. Another factor includes the negativism, judgmentalism, exclusivism, and narrow theology characterizing a number of churches, that now, more and more people of faith find unacceptable and offensive.
Still, the church, with all its flaws, is vital to healthy Christian faith and experience. As diverse as New Testament Christianity was all Christians understood the importance of community. (Though fundamentalists who believe the Bible is inerrant argue that the biblical writers all believed the same things—one reason why thinking people are leaving inerrantist churches.)
Jesus formed his disciples into a community. They, in turn, formed communities of disciples as they spread his teachings. Paul, in taking the gospel beyond Jewish borders into imperial Rome, formed disciples into communities of faith (churches). Given the theological differences of these various communities, they all recognized the importance of practicing their faith in community.
Why? Primarily, I think, they understood that only in community could they learn how to love, which was at the core of the Jesus movement. It's true isn't it? Only by rubbing up against sisters and brothers to whom we are committed in community, with all of our/their faults, quirks, hang ups, and sins, can we be transformed into people who love each other as Christ loves all of us (John 15:12).
Looking for a church that welcomes diversity, free thinking and questions in a context of discipleship to Jesus? Visit Immanuel Baptist Church, Frankfort.