A few (4) years ago I used to fellowship with a group of Christians where spirituality was defined by the verse, “Obey your leaders, and submit to them; for they keep watch over your souls, as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.” (Heb 13:17 NASB)
It was one of those situations that, unless you were part of the in-crowd and knew what the flavour of the day was and what direction the wind of doctrine was in, then climbing the spiritual ladder was almost an impossibility. Exceptions were made for those situations and individuals that would improve the image of and would benefit the group. Once you left the group, however, it was akin to leaving the Lord and you would be shunned and avoided and maybe even excommunicated.
In the final analysis it taught us to strive to please our leaders and to seek after the favour of men, the very thing that Gal 1:10 “For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.” (NASB) warns against. The ability to rightly discern went by the wayside.
I know some folk who believe they have broken free from the mold of their upbringing, but the pressures to “think like me or else” are very evident. Many are still defined by the “standards” of their upbringing, except in regards to church going.
Recently a friend got married. After the ceremony we celebrated at a restaurant. Someone complained about the choice of restaurant. Oh well, you can’t please everybody.
Except for those in “tight” groups, most evangelicals feel free to follow the Lord’s leading for their lives. Some, of course, simply do what is right in their own eyes. We desperately need men and women who, by their lives, inspire others to faith and trust in God. The Lord recognized the need for true shepherds and reapers for the harvest. So much of “church” life in taken up with politics, administration, debating theology, and the likes that there isn’t much time left for the real need to shepherd and minister. Or the task is left for the few. But maybe only a few can handle the thankless task of shepherding because it really is sooo difficult to please everybody.
I randomly found your blog as I was scrolling through with the -> (arrow) button. I read most of your posts and enjoyed them thoroughly. I think you might enjoy reading my thoughts on similar issues, especially after reading what you had to say in this post. Christians today are not even aware of the purpose of the church…as it should be. I think that is partly the fault of leadership, partly the fault of pastors and ministers (I am one), and partly the fault of the people who come but don’t put any effort into listening to what is being preaching or applying it to their lives. Anyway, I agree with you and hope you check out my blog sometime: http://apostlepd.wordpress.com