Christ through the front door

Philippians 2:5,9 Christ Jesus … God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name...

1 Corinthians 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified…

Ephesians 3:21 unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus…

Many 21st-century American churches have an ABC focus – anything but Christ. On the right it may be separatist, conservative, and combative. On the left it may be welcoming, affirming, and transforming. In the middle it may be moderate, irenic, and ecumenical. Anything but Christ.

In my experience, the “run-of-the-mill” “Bible-believing” church likes to focus on things in the realm of entertainment and activity. We’ll get folks attention with a Super Bowl party, a Six Flags trip, or a Celebrity guest. Maybe a food and games festival. Then we’ll sneak Christ in the back door. 

Avoid such a church like you’d avoid the plague. Flee it like you’d flee the path of a raging storm. Ask for the old paths, where is the good way. Look for a church that seeks Christ in its prayers, worships Christ in its songs, and exalts Christ in its preaching. Look for a church that glorifies and magnifies his name. Look for a church that marches the Lord Jesus Christ in through the front door and seats him center stage for all to see. Avoid a church that smuggles him in under cover.