no fear in love
Hello Saints,
I was thinking recently about fear, specifically about fear in and of Christianity and the church. There's the fear of Christianity that keeps people from joining or coming back to the church. This is usually based on the idea that they will be unwelcome when they come through those doors. People are afraid of being rejected or judged. They might also just be afraid of not knowing what to do. Many people today have never been to a worship service.
Then there is the fear inside the church. It's interesting that it's usually the same fear as above: that if people knew who I really am or what I've really done then they wouldn't want me here. This often happens in churches where moralism and holiness are the only things talked about instead of the gospel of grace. But it can happen anywhere as it seems to be the default setting of the human spirit. Also, if someone like those I described in the previous paragraph show up to this kind of church they will feel that their fears are justified and probably walk out the door.
Oddly enough, both groups are making the same mistake. As Niki Gumble says in talk 5 of the Alpha Course, people often think of God as a "Cosmic policeman out to get them." But also as Niki says, "I don't believe in that God either." The overwhelming message of the gospel is that God is reaching out to the world to let people know that they are His creation. He loves and wants to bring us home. Think of the images of the prodigal son or the lost sheep. He is not a God to fear and stay away from, but a God who will run to you and embrace you as you come back home. As the apostle John says in his letter "God is love" and "Perfect love casts out all fear."
It is a joyful thing how often I get to say that Trinity is a church that makes people feel like they have come home. One of our Alpha Course attendees recently said "I love coming here. I love coming to church." They feel welcomed and loved. What better way to give people a small glance of just how much their heavenly father adores them.
In Christ,
Jamey +
Prayer:
Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of this world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Song: Here's a new U2 song that also made me think about this. One of my favorite lines is "Is this a church of love or fear?" Take a listen. They've actually been releasing a ton of really good music this year. The rest are worth taking a listen to as well!
Spotify Link
YouTube Link
