A Popular Ministry?

If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own. However, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of it, the world hates you. - John 15:19

I came of age in the early 70's. The war in Vietnam was drawing to a close and the radical counter-culture of the 60's was dissolving in a haze of weed-induced apathy. In the 60's, it was cool to be radical, but what if a culture devolves and degrades to such an extent that those who are truly "counter" also no longer happen to be "cool?"

When abnormal, wicked behavior becomes the societal norm, then a biblical view becomes truly counter-culture, radicalized, and even hated. Yet, rather than concern the Christ-follower, this should invigorate him to stand more firm on the foundation of God's Word.

On the other hand, when a church (meaning its views and positions) begins to look so much like the surrounding culture that it loses all distinction, every member should be alarmed and act to turn it around. What does it say about the church when authentic biblical faith is touted, promoted, and even sold as "radical" within her walls?

Let the world hate us for the truth we present, but not for how we present it. At the same time, let us not work too hard at being popular, lest in the process we lose our ability to proclaim. If the church is no longer counter-culture, then either the church or the culture has already been converted.

The anvil outlasts the hammer. - Leaves of Gold