For this weeks Blog, I want to share 2-3 points from Bishop Mattera’s article
with the hope that it will continue to stir our thinking and motivate a systemic change to our way of life and
ministry. Please read, and let’s talk about it…feel free to comment or post below to engage with this ongoing conversation!
As we read this weeks thoughts, let's ask ourselves this specific question. "Are we more or less Biblical or American?"
Looking at points 2 and 3, we are confronted with a "Biblical concert that really challenges our Western 'American'" mentality and lifestyle...
2. American Christianity focuses on
individual prosperity. The Bible focuses on stewardship.
Much
American preaching today focuses on "our rights in Christ" to be
blessed. However, in Scripture, the emphasis regarding finances has to do with
being blessed by God to be a blessing by bringing God's covenant to the earth
(Read Deut. 8:18; 2 Cor. 9:10-11). Jesus promised material blessing only in the
context of seeking first His kingdom (Matt. 6:33). How does a revival of Biblical Stewardship change our lives, our churches, and our communities? WOW!
3. American Christianity focuses on
self-fulfillment and happiness. The Bible focuses on glorifying God and serving
humanity.
I heard a statement several years ago that framed this for me... "God is not interested in our happiness but rather our Holiness." While that sounds like a negative statement, it is in reality a positive one. God's desire is a relationship with us now and in eternity. In order for that relationship to happen, there is some work God wants to do in our lives, and that is the development of a lifestyle of focus on loving Him and obedience to Him, His Word, and Will.
Bishop Mattera's, The
Great Commandments are to love God and love our neighbor (Matt. 22:37-40). It
seems to me that much of the focus from the American pulpit has to do with
individual fulfillment and satisfaction.
Want to talk about it? Share your thoughts below.
Pastor Mitch
Challenging post. It seems like this individualistic mindset is manifested in so many ways in the church and in life. I can't help but notice the common saying, "I can't wait to see what God has in store for ME." When in reality, we probably need to be saying, "What can I give to God?" The plaguing mindset is both passive (I can't *WAIT*) and selfish (...to ME). If we began to look more Biblical than American, would we begin to be more engaged and aggressive (What can *I* *GIVE*), and would we being to be less selfish (...give to GOD)? Would this be the key to solving the stewardship issue? Where is the line between becoming more collectivist and becoming too collectivist?
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