Should we abandon the entire institutional church? This is, in essence, what George Barn is proposing in his most recent book co-authored with Frank Viola, “Pagan Christianity.”
Is there much that needs to be renewed, rekindled and reformed in the church as it currently exists? Absolutely!
What do nearly all churches measure? Attendance, baptisms and offerings. What does Jesus require that we measure? The transformation of his people into the fulness of his image (Collisions 1:29). He commands us as his disciples to be transformed (Romans 12:2).
So, how will we, as the body of Christ in South Carolina, respond to this radical broadside? My prayer is that we humble ourselves, encourage one another and engage in genuine lasting repentance. This may bring correction to that which is lacking, and as a result would see Christ honored and obeyed (Matthew 28:18-20).
If we do not, perhaps our Christianity is “pagan,” as Barna claims.
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