The Next Generation

Last week, I had a conversation with a lady I've known for years. During the conversation, she stated, "The younger generation just doesn't go to church anymore." I've had a few hours to think about her statement and here's what I've come up with.

Although the statement is a bit over-generalized, I think she's on to something. Based upon the context, I assumed what she meant was the "thirty somethings and younger", when referring to the "younger generation." I've been in churches where that group is well represented and others where the group seems non-existent.

Books that have gained popularity the last few years include titles such as I Love Jesus But Hate the Church, Reimagining Church, and every title you can imagine with the word "organic" included. These are just a few of many that point out issues with the "younger generation" having a problem with the Church or any church structure. Sometimes, there are valid concerns. Other times, it seems the writer can't be a follower. For that reason, they choose to do their own thing (house churches, church plants where they're in control, etc.).

One other thought: It seems to me that there's a greater need for the younger people to feel something (sadly, myself included from time to time). In other words, after attending a church, I've heard friends say, "Wow! Was that awesome or what?" They're referring to a particular song, a dynamic speaker, or something else that sets their emotions "on edge." So if there's nothing to get the hair on the back of one's neck to stand up, they don't see a need to meet.

I think of the mega-church who has the popular music artist leading worship. "The worship team at my church just realeased cd number twenty-four. What does your church do for worship?"

The need for the latest fix seems to be greater and greater. "Whether it's a drama, the number one song on the charts, or a human video, I need something that mooooooves me! And if it doesn't happen, if four out of five people aren't crying by the end, did God really show up?"

So what do you think? Am I totally off-base or is there something to the warm fuzzies? Do people need to see, to touch, and to feel, to sense the power of God? Or does God show up, even if we don't entertain?

Any thoughts?

Theology Snack #4

Today, a quote from theologian Karl Barth. And hopefully, something to think about.

Of all the sciences which stir the head and heart, theology is the fairest. It is closest to human reality, and gives us the clearest view of the truth after which all science quests...It is a landscape, in which distant perspectives are always clear. Theology is a masterpiece, as well-planned and yet as bizarre as the cathedrals of Cologne and Milan.

Theology is not a private subject for theologians only. Nor is it a private subject for professors. Fortunately, there have repeatedly been congregation members, and often whole congregations, who have pursued theology energetically while their pastors were theological infants or barbarians. Theology is a matter for the Church.

Thoughts?

A Parable

Recently, Ben Witherington posted The Parable of the Pear Tree. A student at Asbury is the author of the parable that speaks of how one perceives things. Let me encourage you to read it, think about it, and comment either here or at Witherington's original post.

The parable makes much sense.

Hey, I know you!

Jeremiah has to be one of my favorite prophets. Sure he's a little melancholy. Most likely, he would be diagnosed today with clinical depression. But I wonder if I wouldn't be as well, as I looked at the people of God, called them to account for their unfaithfulness, and they still chose to do their own thing.

One of the things I really like is Jeremiah's call from from God.

Catch this: "Before I (God) formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations." Then I said, "Ah, Lord God! Truly I do not know how to speak, for I am only a boy." But the Lord said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a boy'; for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and you shall speak whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord." Jer 1:5-8

Throughout his prophesies, Jeremiah struggles with discontent, a feeling of inadequecy, and other spiritual challenges. And then he's reminded of his call from God. It's obvious that it had a huge impact on the prophet's life. Let's face it. If you had to give the message Jeremiah gave over and over again, you wouldn't be popular either.

There are times I get discouraged. God why am I doing this? Does it really matter? I'm tempted to throw my hands up in the air and "let the chips fall where they may." You might feel that way from time to time as well. And then it's important to remember God's call upon our lives.

You and I tell God we're inadequate. He's not surprised. You and I give excuse after excuse of why we can't but God says, "You will." You and I whine and complain and act like a child. And God is not surprised. After all, God says, "Hey, I know you!"

Anything to add?

Theology Snack #3

From time to time you might hear the phrase "priesthood of all believers". Let me do the best I can with what that phrase means.

Priesthood of All Believers = The phrase has been attributed to Martin Luther and the time of the Reformation (15th-16th Cen). According to Luther, the clergy of the Church had begun to think of themselves more highly than they ought. For that reason, Luther argued for less division between the clergy and laity. Luther believed 1) all believers (clergy and laity alike) have access to God through prayer. In other words, there is no reason to seek an "educated" clergyman to pray for you. You can pray yourself; and 2) all believers (clergy and laity alike) are to be priests to those around them. Luther pointed out that priests were to be servants. To follow his thoughts, priesthood of all beleivers meant every Church member has the obligation to look to meet the needs of others. This is service at it's most basic level.

Being a priest carries with it great privileges and awesome responsibilities. May we not take these things lightly. Any thing you want to add here?

Integrity - Such a great idea!

The last few days, you may have heard the latest baseball superstar admit to using steroids. New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez had his name "leaked" from a list of just over one hundred other professional baseball players accused of using banned substances. It seems when Rodriguez was a member of the Texas Rangers, he used a substance that was not banned at the time. However, that is no longer the case. Rodriguez has stated he felt an immense amount of pressure due to signing a contract worth $220 million. If you listened to the press conference, it's almost as if he rationalizes what he did because of the "pressure of the game." He has been adamant about not using anything to give him an unfair edge since 2003.

Problem is, he's no longer the Alex Rodriguez baseball fans thought he was (as little as two weeks ago). His statistics will have an asterisk beside them (be it a literal asterisk or one that lives within a sports writer's mind). For that reason, Rodriguez will probably not be elected into the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Just ask Mark McGuire.

So here's my question: When we attempt to teach those around us to "Be real!", what does the world learn from people like Rodriguez? In all likelihood, he knew what he took in 2003 was on the banned list of substances. And it's not until his name was leaked from a source that he admitted to using it. It doesn't sound like he was remorseful - just experiencing guilt for being caught. Other names come to mind. Ted Haggard, The Exxon bigwigs, the pastor who took off with the money, etc.

The best definition of integrity I've heard is "Be who you are even when no one else is looking." Have we forgotten what integrity means in our society? What about character in general? Who exactly can we trust in regards to what we see?

Theology Snack #2

Last week, we began a new study to define some of the terms we see or hear from time to time. Some are harder to grasp than others. I hope this series of posts will prompt you to think, possibly discuss, and most importantly grow in your knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Grace - the unmerited favor of God provided to His creation for the purpose of restoration.

Although Christians agree on the above definition, there are many disputes as to how restoration takes place, what caused the "divide", and what mankind can do about it (if anything). In the near future, we'll take a look at the times of grace and how God uses those times for His glory.

Anything you want to add here? Any stories of grace in your life you want to share?

The Meaning of Sovereign

I've been in dialogue with some friends in regards to the sovereignty of God. It's been good for me to hear opposing views and to learn how better communicate my beliefs. Most would say they believe in God's power being all encompassing. But the discussion goes much deeper. In other words, what does God cause and what does He allow? Is there a difference? etc.

Yesterday, Scot McKnight had a great post on the sovereignty of God. Let me encourage you to find it here and join the discussion.

Anything you'd like to add here?

A Living Faith

Those of you who know me know I enjoy sports. I enjoy playing them, watching them, or talking about them. I also like discussing religion, theology, and faith. And when the two mix, I'm "on top of the world."

People like former head coach of the Indiannappolis Colts Tony Dungy inspire me. Dungy is not afraid to speak about his faith. In fact, he's clear with everyone he comes into contact with that God has priority in his life. I look forward to his upcoming book Uncommon: Finding Your Faith to Significance.

There are other coaches or sports figures that have this kind of class. One of those was Coach Kay Yow. Yow coached the women's basketball team at North Carolina State for 34 years. Coach Yow passed away last week after battling breast cancer. According to those around her, Coach Yow had a way with people. She made huge impacts on her assistant coaches, her players, and others in life.

At the funeral, a video was played that was pre-recorded by Yow. Let me encourage you to watch it here. The most important thing for Coach Yow was her faith. Even at her funeral, she took the opportunity to encourage those around her with truth. Even though this wasn't the first occurence of cancer for Yow, her faith was so strong that despite a reoccurence, Yow's faith remained strong.

Sometimes, we think we'll know how we would act if tragedy struck close by. Truth is, we don't know how we would act in particular situations. I pray that when I pass away, people will look at my life and be able to say, "He really lived the way he taught. He really had faith. etc."

That's what will happen with people like Dungy and Yow. What about you? Is your faith strictly for Sundays? Is it something that your ashamed of? Do you know the message of the Gospel and yet you've never allowed it to change your life?

Perhaps today will be the day to allow God to restore you.