Today’s Thought “Perplexity In Assessment” G. Ward

“They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us.” 1 John 2:19

More articles are appearing on the church’s decline in membership. Contrary to all the analytical hyperbolizing from varied critics of religious practices, real Christianity personified never experienced decline. Believing (i.e. implicit trust in the Savior’s authority over one’s life) is never unilateral of exercising faith (Jas.1:18-22). The misappropriation of scripture oversimplifies a relationship with Christ, reducing it to the bumper stickers portrayal of acceptance that demands “God Is My Co-Pilot.” The actuality presents HIM as LORD (New Owner of one’s life). If there’s no spiritual metamorphosis, in other words, if you’re still the same (opinions, perspectives and practices) after conversion, was there transformation (cf. Ro.6:4, 2 Cor.5:17)? I’m furthered inclined towards the categorical assessment of Ed Stetzer (Executive Director of LifeWay Research) below.

The first category–Cultural Christians–is made up of people who believe themselves to be Christians simply because their culture tells them they are.

The second category–Congregational Christians–is similar to the first group, except these individuals at least have some connection to congregational life.

The final group–Convictional Christians–is made up of people who are actually living according to their faith.

If you’re not part of the final group…

Happy Wednesday!