Christ said Whoever takes up their cross and follows me-. So many churches pour their time and resources into providing yet one more packaged program, working diligently to present a Hollywood-style production on Sunday mornings with light shows, eye-catching slides, flashy videos, dance presentations and vocal solos all served up with specialty coffees and fancy pastries all in an effort to do Church or what they think the masses are looking for. ), Rather, its because Baptists think so highly of the cross that they dont utilize its image in church or in their personal life. Discover all the informative and inspiring books from the speaker and president of Amazing Facts. 15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. The first time I attended the new church I was put off by the size; it felt so impersonal. (source), Houston CultureMap reported in 2010 that the Osteens moved into a home in the River Oaks area of Houston, Texas, that was valued at $10.5 million. I love this post and TOTALLY know what you are saying! So, I agree about the cross, but it's more than that, it's the ritual of the mass and the worship space as a place to encounter God that is so necessary. As a professor, he has taught Bible and theology courses at two Christian universities. As noted by The New York Times, the evangelical religious tradition that evolved into the modern megachurch makes no mystery about its view on gender roles: Wives are expected to submit to their husbands, and gender roles are clearly marked out by the teachings of the Bible. Some churches do not have crosses because they believe it's a lot easier to wear a cross, hang one on a wall or nail one to the steeple, than it is to "bear" the cross. Completely agree. TroutFarms 6 mo. To the Christians of the first century, the cross was such a gruesome reality. Help keep The Christian Post free for everyone by making a one-time donation today. I belong to an Episcopalian church and we're working hard to bring in young people. In the New Testament the word is typically used in a symbolic metaphor, not a physical icon. I, btw, will finally be responding to you tomorrow whilst at work! The Largest Megachurches in the United States The Distribution Of Megachurches Megachurches are distributed unevenly across the country. (source), Pastor Osteen acquired Lakewood Church's new home at the former Compaq Center in 2005. About UsContact UsPrayer RequestsPrivacy Policy, Latest AnswersBible LessonsBibleAsk LIVEOnline Bible. Why Doesn't My Church Have a Singles Ministry? - Crosswalk.com Question & Answer: The Orthodox Presbyterian Church Religion has always been intertwined with politics, and religious leaders have always tried to exert influence over their congregation on various issues. But first a few PSAs. Pastor Dougs worldwide radio program will help you find answers to your biggest Bible questions. I brought a friend to our church today, and she asked me how I liked it. However, we seek neither to receive nor give honor in this matter, and are yet so strongly condemned, while Christs possession of such an abominable and shameful image remains uncondemned. [1]. Is he really doing God's work? will be automatically deleted and the invitation to participate revoked. In the New Testament the word is typically used in a symbolic metaphor, not a physical icon. to learn more about the tradition. Tens of thousands attend Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. They dont always agree on certain applications, like how a person should observe the Sabbath, but they agree that the moral foundation of the instructions applies to the age of Israel and to the age of the Church. Please do not comment in languages other than English. Click here for the video of this presentation. Would they stay? We go to it because it is the only one near us. Understand Bible prophecy and more at these local events in your area. As interest in becoming a pastor wanes in the younger generations, megachurches are struggling to identify men who can take on the rolesomething that would be solved if women were granted equal status. 18 For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Access dozens of Amazing Facts topical Scripture books from Pastor Doug and others. This inspired me to ask the this question: What if you showed up to the church on Sunday morning and the power was out. A megachurch refers to the attendance numbers of a church, and not the size of the church itself, which makes it different than the world's largest churches. For some believers, the absence of the Cross may not be of particular concern. When I look to the Cross I see the truth of the promises. Sign up for your daily dose of spiritual insight and encouragement from Amazing Facts. The only crucifix in the place is the one that is processed inand it is so tiny that from far away you can't even see the Christ on the cross! The Ten Commandments "Thou shall not make unto thee any graven image." Latter-day Saint military chaplains in uniform are required to wear the cross, as a representation of their faith category. I dont condemn them for doing that. Well, Ive met people that go around the country with literal crosses on their back but that isnt what Jesus was talking about. Britannica explains that he's famous for helping create the modern concept of the corporation and the development of management theory, but he was an instrumental consultant who helped create the modern "seeker-sensitive" model that most megachurches follow. See how your gifts made a lasting difference recently. It is being held at . Helping you get the most out of your Sabbath School quarterly every week. In the New Testament the word is typically used in a symbolic metaphor, not a physical icon. Theres nothing in the Bible that tells us that the image of the cross has any power to it. In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul indicated that the "preaching of the cross is the power of God" ( 1 Corinthians 1:18 ). will be automatically deleted and the invitation to participate revoked. Comments containing URLs outside the family of Amazing Facts websites will not be approved. Some people make crosses good luck charms. Lakewood was listed as the largest church in America in Outreach magazine's 2010 list of the largest and fastest-growing churches. They always thought of the cross as the teaching of the gospel. The answer has to be "no." Whatever value you might say that a cross adds, you cannot say that the worship of the early disciples was hindered because they did not have crosses (let alone buildings). Our flagship program features the most informative and inspiring messages from Pastor Doug and more. One day during Mass an elderly lady whispered to her friend "there's not even a crucifix in here" the she said "that is so wrong!" I'll keep you posted! Comments that include name-calling, profanity, harassment, ridicule, etc. As noted by The Orthosphere, Drucker worked with early megachurch pioneers like Rick Warren in the 1980s to translate his management theories to the megachurch model. It's fair to say that any large movement or organization will have its share of downsides, but the "mega" in megachurches means those downsides can be pretty huge. million. They always thought of the cross as the teaching of the gospel. The Presbyterian and Baptist traditions are influential Protestant denominations that have left their mark in Europe, America, and around the world. Before the death of Jesus, I was not able to come boldly before the Throne. Church membership is in a freefall, and the Christian right has only Without the Cross, all that is left is chaff a perverted Gospel, something from the pits of hell.. We would like to show you a description here but the site won't allow us. Had the Savior merely died, and not been resurrected, He would not have been our Savior. They would not have placed a cross in their buildings. It's also an extremely isolating position, as literally every aspect of your life comes to involve the church and its members. | (Photo: Lakewood Church) 5. Megachurches make worship an entertaining, spectacular experience shared with a large audience and bring people together. The only time you find that word is like cross a road. As noted by Premier Christianity, this tends to encourage "spectator worship." I have never forgotten that. For example, why don't they play Lecrae or Disciple during the day or better yet get teens input on what they want to see, what would keep them plugged in. Mr and Mrs Flewett have not been told that transplant services will be hit but, with a transplant requiring two operating theatres and two sets of medical staff, they can't help but be nervous. * The cross is a symbol of our victory over sin.Colossians 2:13-15New International Version (NIV)13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you[a] alive with Christ. . the subprime housing crisis of 2008 was in part caused by prosperity gospel-believing people, staged a Christmas celebration using characters from the Disney film "Frozen. Get yours before supplies run out. Third, in the Cross we see a glorious display of God's love. There is no cross in Times Square Church in New York City either. Worship with Pastor Dougs church each week, featuring beautiful music and life-changing Bible study. Inside there is a large cross in the corner over the fireplace, not in a prominent location, and no cross in the sanctuary. As noted by Vanity Fair, after Carl Lentz was fired as the pastor of Hillsong Church, stories of high-ranking church officials having inappropriate sexual affairs with volunteers along with stories of physical, verbal, and emotional abuse that resulted in a "culture of silence and fear" began to surface. Our aim is to share the Word and be true to it. By these words he curbs any licentious attempt we might make to represent him by a visible shape. But for many, the racism they experienced went back much further. And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. (Hebrews 10:10). What Do Politics Have to Do With the Church? Amazing Facts is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization, Download AF Radio App for iPhone or Android. My favorite statuebuddy Jesus. ARE MEGA-CHURCHES BIBLICAL? Advocates for Truth (Also see Why Do Protestants Use Grape Juice at Communion?. You can find something similar to the cross in all kinds of different applications. Its never ever used in the Bible as a physical icon. Salvation for sinners isnt possible without the cross of Christ, according to Baptist theology. They are in turn encouraged to view God as a vehicle for their ambitions. The cross is simply a symbol that identifies the Christian religion and all its varied forms. The promise that says I am forgiven and free; the promise that my sins are forgiven. In fact, some have speculated that the subprime housing crisis of 2008 was in part caused by prosperity gospel-believing people who took on mortgages they couldn't afford because they reasoned God was rewarding their faith. And Texas Monthly reports that some megachurch pastors like Robert Jeffress act more like campaign officials than spiritual leaders, explicitly supporting Republican candidates in elections. Caller:I have a question. You are very perceptive, and I agree that it's a big problem that so many young people are turning away from the word of God. But as the phenomenon has grown in popularity, problems have arisen. Some people may conclude that because they dont use crucifixes they dont value the death of Christ. Instead, megachurches encourage a selfish and self-focused view of worship. Keep up the hard work your teens love you! Real Answers. I am thrilled to see I am not the only one, * we are commanded to take up our cross.Matthew 10:38 Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me.In Context | Full Chapter | Other TranslationsMatthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.In Context | Full Chapter | Other TranslationsMark 8:34 [ The Way of the Cross ] Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.In Context | Full Chapter | Other TranslationsLuke 9:23 Then he said to them all: Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.1 Corinthians 1:17-19Amplified Bible (AMP)Luke 14:27New International Version (NIV)27 And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. Here's the dark side of megachurches. All rights reserved. The walls were covered with all sorts of crosses, big and small; wood and ceramic; some artsy and some plain. I just kind of didnt really have a great answer for her and I thought maybe you could flesh out the answer for me a little. I want to explain my jealousy, my faith and my saddness at the mega church in this blog. Paul said, For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:18). When I look at the Cross I see peace the peace that I carry in my heart; the peace that surpasses all understanding. When you post, you agree to the terms and conditions of our comments policy. In the New Testament the word cross is typically used in a symbolic metaphor. But as noted by Pastor Jeremy Howard, the teachings at megachurches often contradict the traditional Christian concept of service and charity. For many, megachurches are a positive for both individuals seeking spiritual engagement and communities that benefit from the programs and services these churches provide. (source). This goes hand-in-hand with the prosperity gospel often at the core of megachurch theologythe idea that God rewards faith with material goods and success. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me (Matthew 10:38). It's actually funny because James and I sometimes go to a Catholic church near us (not going to say which one) that we really don't like going to if we can at all help it because of the aesthetics of the building. I dont have a long list of degrees and I have just one title - forgiven. Its the teaching of the cross that has the power. Pastor Jeremy Howard points out how this encourages people to stay within themselves because they can hide in the crowd, enjoy the show, and feel zero obligation to engage or take part. 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For some, the way evangelical churches supported Donald Trump in the 2016 election and beyond was untenable. Under the law, I was not worthy of eternal life. It's easy to assume that the folks who join megachurches are extremely religious and spiritual. Yes!. Thank you for your post. Christianity is day by day evolving to meet the demand of the consumers. 3. The Lost Books Of The Bible: Should We Accept Or Reject. You see, I believe that if not for the finished work of the Jesus Christ on the Cross, whats the point of any of it? Daniel's seminary degree is in Exegetical Theology. Even Billy Graham's grandson, Tullian Tchividjian, resigned in scandal due to an extramarital affair, as did Hillsong Church's pastor Carl Lentz. And you can find it in Meso-American architecture. It's easier to wear a cross than to bear a cross. Please see his About page for details. All 27 lessons of our popular Bible lesson series available at the click of your mouse. US Megachurches Are Getting Bigger and Thinking Smaller Anything that does not point, reveal and lead people to Jesus Christ is not the gospel. Ive been studying with a friend of mine who has just begun to keep the Sabbath and has started going to church with me, and she had a question about seeingshes always put together Christian churches with crosses, and she was wondering why in some Bible-based churches there are no crosses? ", resigned when his alcoholism began to affect his ability, as did Hillsong Church's pastor Carl Lentz, plan to subject them to "conversion therapy", Academics James Wellman, Katie E. Corcoran, and Kate J. Stockly argue. And they are not only to be tolerated, but for the sake of the memorial and the witness they are praiseworthy and honorable . Mormons are often asked why they don't wear crosses since they consider themselves Christian. Start your day together with God and the GOD TV team. It became customary for churches to identify the building as a Christian church. link to Presbyterian vs Baptist: What's the Difference? At the same time, the pastors of these megachurches are treated like rock stars. While more needs to be done to replace the sense of community that churches can often give people, it's undeniable that this decline is tied up with objectively good trends: increasing. Featuring courses and local seminars on how to be a better witness in your community. Jesus Christ is salvation, the main purpose of the gospel, and anything that . :) Thank you for taking the time to write this post, it was good to read as I'm finding out more about Lakewood Church and the false Prosperity Gospel (what a name! As a result, even when Blacks and other minorities are invited to join and participate in a megachurch, they are usually expected to "code switch" and change their clothing and behavior to conform. The idea that "leaders must be followed, that the community must be served" is an essentially fascist concept. Academics James Wellman, Katie E. Corcoran, and Kate J. Stockly argue that this sort of "soft patriarchalism" leads directly to the long list of sex scandals plaguing megachurches, as it puts pastors and other church leaders in positions where they can manipulate women placed under their care and authority. Real Questions. I just kind of didnt really have a great answer for her and I thought maybe you could flesh out the answer for me a little. Theres no command in the Bible that the six points of the Jewish star are to be a symbol for Judaism. I'm not saying I'm right and others are wrong. Elaborate on the relationship between church and state. Their services are often staged in arenas and large theaters that accommodate thousands of worshipers and have extremely high production values. Megachurch ministries and programs: Megachurches offer many more opportunities to serve. OH.MY.GOSHWhat a fantastic post - I mean: FLIPPIN-FANTASTIC! A pastor exhorting his congregation to vote according to Christian values is one thing, a pastor using his position to push a specific agenda is something else. Still, I watched the entire video. Therefore, Baptists dont reject the crucifix because they reject the importance of Christs death; they revere the death of Christ and dont want to reduce its significance to an image. I dont think we should put too much power in the outward symbol. Caller:Wasnt it originallyId heard from someone that it was used in the Egyptianit was like a symbol from the Egyptian world? And as noted by The Independent, other megachurches have been fined for flagrantly ignoring pandemic rules designed to protect the public.
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