Over the years, many churches have softened their formal edges in order to create a more intimate, worshipful atmosphere. I believe such trends are needed and helpful. But I wonder if the informality of our worship time together has sent the wrong kind of message to some. I wonder if our image of God has changed as we stress His love, compassion and forgiveness while ignoring His holiness, jealousy and justice. Have some churches transformed the Lord God Almighty into the image of a best bud? I'm not sure that I have all the answers, but I do have concerns. Hopefully, the November Edition of the Heavenly Top Ten will help us sort through this question by giving you the:
“Top Ten Indications that Your
Worship Service May Be
A Bit Too Relaxed!”
- The choir wears bath robes and bunny slippers!
- Every prayer ends with "Yeah, God, You be the Man!"
- The church just replaced their old pew bibles with the ABV (Authorized Barney Version)!
- The last time the word "sin" was heard in the sanctuary, it was in reference to the hardness of the pews!
- The most conservative member of the congregation is the Youth Minister!
- The Preacher refuses to preach without his pipe and slippers!
- The last time an Altar Call was made, the congregation was encouraged to use their cell phones!
- The baptistery was replaced with a Jacuzzi!
- 60% of the mission budget was funneled into purchasing reclining pews!
- And the number one indication that your worship service may be a bit too relaxed is:
- No one in the congregation has ever heard these words of Jesus, "Pick up your cross and follow me!"
The Heavenly Top Ten is intended to be a fun look at
issues of faith and fellowship. It should not be considered a serious treatment
of
any of the topics presented.