6/13 After 50 years of Sermons – still on ‘Milk’ in the Christian Foundations?
So far, we have been looking at the different comments people have about the modern day ‘church’. We have define some of the terms when we talk about this subject as well as discussed how it is the heart attitude that influences our views about ‘the church’. We have also see that Jesus talked about ‘the Church’ as His body of people rather than a building or a denomination. We now add another comment on the depth of ‘feeding’ given to the people who are following Jesus.
A. The lack of depth in sermons
One of the common problems we hear about the modern church is the lack of nourishing and deep growth in congregations. Many people are tired of recycled messages, lectures without compassion or of those who have the piece of pager for their Theology College – but lack soul-searching, meaningful interaction. …that it becomes a place where you are ‘talked at’ rather than discussions between believers.
Others point to the church as a place of entertainment. The music becomes the sideshow with the latest and greatest hits and singers, lights and drums. The whole service becomes a rated event with special effects.
B. The ‘Elementary teachings about Christ’
1. So what are the basics that Jesus brought to us?
There are several places where the Bible sets out the basics teachings in being a Christian.
“’Brothers, what shall we do?’ Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38 NIV
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread (communion) and to prayer.” Acts 2:42
“Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a) the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and b) of faith in God, c) instruction about baptisms, d) the laying on of hands, e) the resurrection of the dead and f) eternal judgement.” Hebrews 6:1
2. So if these are the elementary teachings, what would include the ‘meat’ rather than the milk of the gospel?
So if every believer gets these teachings when they come to Christ, what comes next? Where do you get your meat?
Susanne Fengler, Blog Author
www.christianfoundations.jesus-treeoflive.info
Tags: Meat for Christians?
Filed under: Challenges to the Christian Faith
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