bits from bob....

Another Look at Church Growth--1

by Robert J. Young
©, 2002, Robert J. Young
[permission is given to reprint with credit noted]

Perhaps at no time in history has it been more important that the church authentically answer the call to identity with Christ. Our modern world will not reinforce Christian values. Our call is to live with integrity as Christians in a non-Christian culture. The confrontation of two opposing cultures acutely accentuates the distinctions. Unless we faithfully reflect the Redeemer, we cannot expect the world to notice or care.

The first epistle of Peter is a clarion call to self-identification with Christ, rejecting the notion that something is wrong with us because others ridicule and revile. The task of being a minority has never been easy. Church history reminds us that when everyone is a Christian, no one is a Christian.

The call to return to the lifestyles and faith of the early church has seldom been more needed, or more valid. Surrounded by much "bad" religion, our world has decided that only those who authentically reflect Christ deserve a hearing. If your life is wrong, your influence for Christ is gone, even if your message is right. The challenge of 1 Peter is to right living in a wrong living world. Will you heed the call?


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Last updated January 2, 2002.