By Mike Glenn Whenever we think about preaching or evangelism in our post-everything world, we seem to romanticize different eras of Christian history. Surely, we think, it would have been easier to preach in the 1950s in North America when America was booming in our post-war enthusiasm. It surely would have been easier, we think, if we'd been a follower of Christ in the first century when the news of the resurrection was the first thing on everyone's mind.
One of your points intrigues me brings up a question that I'm not sure has been addressed here or in other writings (forgive me if I'm wrong, I've read numerous books you have authored). The early Christians studied Jesus . . . because they didn't have much of the NT or teaching that were considered "canon," per se (I know that the early fathers believed Paul was essential, though). Were the early Christians deficient in their thinking as they had limited writings, particularly in comparison with later believers that had more extensive writings? I hope that's not too simplistic of a question. Just curious to hear your opinion. Thanks!
Yes, yes, and another yes to Mike Glen's analysis. People with problems go where they see people with workable solutions. And the "problems" are often a need for a friend, for a trustworthy person to listen first, then embrace the needy person with Christ's love and listening ear. Folks go where they see the possibility of help for a problem or the gift of a listening ear. But these things take time and can upset our neat schedules and goals. It's too easy to substitute programs in our churches in the place of people who love others in Jesus' name.
Yes, I fully believe there are many churches who would not welcome Jesus today if He walked through their doors just like they crucified Him because He threatened their way of life.
Another reason I believe people in Acts wanted to know more about Jesus is the early church’s community and generosity. Acts 2:44: “All the believers were united and shared everything.” It’s an element missing from many churches today.
I think we have been deceived to think that current cultural hostility to Christ and his kingdom is unique. In fact, followers of Christ in the U.S. today enjoy the blessing of cultural clarity: we are witnessing the exposure of much professed U.S. American Christianity as apparently (only the Lord knows) little more than a Constantinian counterfeit. This clarity frees us to shirk shallow favor and get on with the blessed work of being salt and light -- being known for our loving, generous hospitality. Thank you for today's refreshing newsletter.
One of your points intrigues me brings up a question that I'm not sure has been addressed here or in other writings (forgive me if I'm wrong, I've read numerous books you have authored). The early Christians studied Jesus . . . because they didn't have much of the NT or teaching that were considered "canon," per se (I know that the early fathers believed Paul was essential, though). Were the early Christians deficient in their thinking as they had limited writings, particularly in comparison with later believers that had more extensive writings? I hope that's not too simplistic of a question. Just curious to hear your opinion. Thanks!
Yes, yes, and another yes to Mike Glen's analysis. People with problems go where they see people with workable solutions. And the "problems" are often a need for a friend, for a trustworthy person to listen first, then embrace the needy person with Christ's love and listening ear. Folks go where they see the possibility of help for a problem or the gift of a listening ear. But these things take time and can upset our neat schedules and goals. It's too easy to substitute programs in our churches in the place of people who love others in Jesus' name.
Yes, I fully believe there are many churches who would not welcome Jesus today if He walked through their doors just like they crucified Him because He threatened their way of life.
Another reason I believe people in Acts wanted to know more about Jesus is the early church’s community and generosity. Acts 2:44: “All the believers were united and shared everything.” It’s an element missing from many churches today.
I think we have been deceived to think that current cultural hostility to Christ and his kingdom is unique. In fact, followers of Christ in the U.S. today enjoy the blessing of cultural clarity: we are witnessing the exposure of much professed U.S. American Christianity as apparently (only the Lord knows) little more than a Constantinian counterfeit. This clarity frees us to shirk shallow favor and get on with the blessed work of being salt and light -- being known for our loving, generous hospitality. Thank you for today's refreshing newsletter.
Thank you brother for your wisdom
Excellent witness to the power of a witness! Thank you!
Scot, thanks for this!