High Wire Act

[Most of the following was taken from a comment I made on another blog.]

Jesus commissioned His followers to "make disciples". Many evangelical churches emphasize the evangelism side of discipleship, but neglect the maturity side. Others "go deep" to the delight of supposed mature Christians (even though they're typically the ones who can't/won't feed themselves) but to the detriment of babes who need to be given milk. ["Evangelical" and "evangelism" have different meanings. The former refers to a view of Scripture and a conservative orthodox doctrine. The latter refers to a passion for sharing the Christian faith and winning converts to Christ.]

It's the church's responsibility to teach newbies how to read, study and apply the Word. The essential that evades most churches is balance. And here's what makes that so hard to achieve: Selfishness. Christians can be so selfish! The "super-spirituals" lobby for "in-depth" stuff on Sundays. And since they're typically the ones funding the church (new Christians aren't usually great givers yet), their squeaky wheel gets greased.

Balance means there's enough depth to challenge the maturing (note I didn't say "mature" - it's an ongoing process)yet enough basics to challenge the young to want more. Few churches/pastors are very good at achieving balance. Some of us are better at being evangelists than we are at being teachers and vice versa. But shouldn't we see ourselves as both?

I'll be honest. It's easier for me to be one or the other. But then, church isn't about me. And when I stand before a congregation expecting to hear from God through my words, I think I should have something to say that targets everyone. I want everyone to walk out saying, "I learned/grew/changed/was challenged today."

I'm continuing to try to figure it out. It's certainly my goal.