Okay, one more day until I can begin posting pictures of our trip to Geneva and Edinburgh...but, I promise that I'll get there. I just couldn't pass up the chance to post something that may be a little controversial...
Yesterday, Jacob, our ministerial intern, went to the local Youth for Christ meeting here in Gulfport. They brought in a DJ/rapper who is supposed to be a "Christian" DJ/rapper. The flyer advertising this event shows a picture of this guy with silver teeth, silver rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklace (which, in and of themselves, would not in any way preclude his being a Christian), and with his face contorted in a disdainful sort of way.
The picture evinces pure rebellion and anger (which has more to do with the look on this guy's face and his body language than, perhaps, with his jewelry). This is what I (and our ministerial intern) have a problem with. How can an image or genre of music or artist that conveys rebellion and anger call itself/himself/herself a Christian image/music/artist? Rebellion and anger, even if only an act, doesn't comport with Christianity. It is the opposite of the fruit that is supposed to define a Christian. Christianity doesn't send a message of rebellion and hatred. Can something that does call itself "Christian"?
The meeting at school went on to feature lewd and vulgar dancing by the folks who attended (note, this was the appraisal of a 25 year old, not a 60 year old!), although there was a gospel presentation and, from what I hear, two people professed faith in Jesus Christ.
In the end, what did Youth for Christ teach these young people yesterday? Many things perhaps, but they at least taught these young people that Christianity has nothing to do with the way you live or act. They taught them that you can receive Jesus as Savior without ever receiving Him as Lord of your life. They taught them that you can receive Jesus as Savior and ignore His commands. They taught them that you can receive Jesus as Savior and then remain the "Lord" of your own life, by living the way you please. What's more they also taught them a complete disregard for what the Bible says. After all, it was Jesus who said "if you love me, keep my commandments."
Thoughts?
1 comment:
I couldn't agree more. It's amazing to me why "Christians" want to look and act so much like the world, when Christ has so much better to offer and imitate.
It was a priviledge to come down and work at Camp Hope for a week. I'd love to come again and stay longer. Thanks for the opportunity.
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