DeYoung points out that while the term church can refer to believers in general, two Christians meeting at Starbucks does not constitute a true church, i.e. a defined local community of believers. Why not? DeYoung says that the church as an institution has a structured litugry (teaching, singing, praying, ordinances) and offices (pastor/elder/bishop and deacon/deaconess). This is another important meaning of the word ekklesia. Coming together in a regular, organized manner is essential, he says, to have a lasting impact. (It's also commanded of us in Heb. 10:25.) Furthermore, he claims that many of those who care decrying the necessity of an organized church are, quite simply, immature in the faith. I tend to agree with this assessment. Organization, structure and even routine are extremely necessary for Christians. Let me explain.
Imagine that a group of Christians decided they were no longer going to celebrate Christmas by purchasing gifts, decorating, caroling, seeing family, etc. After all, December 25 isn't really Jesus' birthday, and we all just do the same things over and over again, year after year. Besides, what do any of those things have to do with one's relationship to Christ? They're just external trappings, so it is asserted. This, of course, is missing the point. All of those activities are part of the tradition of Christmas. Giving gifts reminds us of Christ's ultimate gift. Family get togethers provide a structured, planned time of fellowship with kin, something we need to stay connected to one another for a lifetime. And perhaps this is the only time each year when Luke 1-2 is read.
Tradition, organization and structure allow for remembering, learning and growth opportunities over the long term. There is certainly a place for spontaneous meetings over coffee, but this alone will not contribute to lasting growth. Fellowship, teaching, congregational singing and prayer are all part of the essential dynamic called the local church, the involvement in which is expected by all beleivers. One should question its necessity ony with great care.
3 comments:
Here is a related post I read a few minutes before I read this one that you might be interested in.
Many I fear have abondoned the church, in favor of some of the venues you mentioned. Sadly I understand the feeling behind it, but I don't agree with the reasoning.
Giving gifts reminds us of Christ's ultimate gift? I don't agree. Christmas has become a commercial bastardization of the holy holiday.
You rightly say that churches are "institutions", and therefore, you should learn about the proclivities of institutions before you affirm their necessity. All institutions that are set up are like organisms, meant to survive at all costs. The "offices" are first honorable tasks, but later develop into gravy trains. The purposes of all institutions become corrupt, because it's a full-time job to watch over the management of institutions. Hence, in a way, all institutions are evil, because even though they set out to be pure, if given enough money and time, they become corrupt, powerful, and even dangerous entities whose main purpose is their own survival, period. If you don't agree with me, then what do you say about the Catholic Church? Your protestant churches now are exactly what the Catholic Church was many years ago--a small institution.
In general, yes--Christmas has become bastardized in our society. But that doesn't mean it is at my house.
You say that the church has become evil. I don't know what experiences you have had with the church, but I have never attended a church that operates like you suggest. I'm sure they are out there, but perhaps you are painting with too large a brush? I would encourage you to visit some additional churches before you write them all off.
Thanks for the comment!
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