I grew up with church pastors who weren't afraid to preach fire and brimstone. Who often made us feel uncomfortable because we knew we weren't living as we should, and they pointed that fact out to us. Who told us that we needed to beg forgiveness of our Creator. Who told us that the alternative was an eternity of misery.
Where are the truth telling ministers? As I am unable to get out to church services these days, I have found services online to watch. To my dismay, many of the messages are watered down versions of the sermons of old. It is like those preaching are afraid to hurt the feelings of their congregations. Many seem like they are more interested in having a band play on stage than they are in preaching the gospel.
Some time back we managed to eliminate God from schools, courthouses, public places. Some communities banned the manger scene at Christmas time. Others arrested those who dared to preach God's Word on street corners.
And just look at where we as a country are now. We are a divided nation. Hate and discontent are common. Bible teachings are being ignored. Truth might hurt someone's feelings, after all.
I do not expect anyone to believe as I do. But I would hope that we would remember that this day is not all about colored eggs and bunnies, but is a day to remember the One who suffered a horrible death and then rose from the tomb to save us all.
We need Jesus more than ever now.
If you go into an older Catholic church, you'll see that the altar looks a lot like a tomb.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnstatue.com%2Fmarble-catholic-high-altar.html&psig=AOvVaw36U6WCjifg7fB-D5yjUcOT&ust=1745252189770000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCJCQgdKA54wDFQAAAAAdAAAAABA7
This is because the early church was so persecuted that it often had to conduct its services in the catacombs. Even there they lived in fear of being discovered. There were people designated to grab the pascal candle and whatever other items that were brought for the service before running for their lives.
...We've indeed reached a point near that today... The Old testament is RIFE with examples of what happened when the Jews walked away from God. If history isn't repeating itself, it's at least rhyming with the past. The upside s that God NEVER forgets His own!
God bless you and yours this Easter Sunday, Vicki!!
I'm glad I'm not the only one who notices this trend. Seems to get worse daily. Actually, I am surprised this post was allowed. I am convinced that this country could use an old-fashioned revival.
DeleteThe fact that we know God doesn't forget about us is one thing that keeps me going.
Hope your Easter was blessed for you and yours, my friend.
Somehow, the Christian lifestyle has slipped away from many. The sermons are many times just panhandling, fomenting fear, and slipping away from the love that Christ even had for those that persecuted him. In one way, it's disappointing, but in another - after watching how society isn't enriched by turning away from Christianity - it deepens my faith. I can't change what others think, unless I can be an example. It may not change some, but maybe enough to change those that want to find peace.
ReplyDeleteJess...I tend to believe that the turning away from God as has happened more and more over the years is the main reason this country is in trouble. I guess all I can do is to stay the path of my belief in God and pray others see the truth.
DeleteBlessings on this Resurrection Day!
ReplyDeleteSin, fire and brimstone are NOT particularly popular. FUN IS POPULAR! It's a global addiction.
Having been a church secretary the message has to be lukewarm so that they don't lose their non profit.org. status; the government always in control. But Jesus has overcome all! We pray and wait on His perfect timing. THY WILL BE DONE!
Your comment on the politics of church business is one reason I think preachers are afraid to preach. Kind of that "don't offend anyone" thing. I still say a revival is needed. Like the ones that used to happen in churches years ago when people actually went to the front of the church to confess their sins, ask for forgiveness and receive the Spirit. Haven't heard about any of that for far too long. and yes. THY WILL BE DONE!!!
DeleteHi Vicki.
ReplyDeleteCouldn’t publish what I wrote so will just say I agree with you….Jan
Jan...Once in a while Blogger hiccups. A couple of times it wouldn't let me post.
DeleteI wish there was a way to un-do all the damage that those who wish to eliminate God from everything have done. Me...keep praying.
God bless!
Happy Resurrection Day! Robin
ReplyDeleteMay God bless you and yours, Robin.
DeleteAllen Jackson’s Ministry seems to be speaking a LOT of truth. We think he’s doing a fine job. Might want to check him out. Thank you for the good post.
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed Jackson's gospel music videos, but didn't know about the ministry. Will check it out. Thank you.
DeleteBelated Happy Resurrection Day, Vicki.
DeleteI think you would be happy with Jentezen Franklin. I like him a lot.
https://jentezenfranklin.org
Be safe and God bless.
P.S. Vicki, Allen Jackson is a Preacher.
ReplyDeleteAlan Jackson is the singer.
Understandable mix-up because I didn't know either.
God bless.
Thanks, LindaG...Guess I missed the spelling of Allen/Allan. Didn't help that I had not heard of the ministry! Hope your Easter was good.
DeleteIt was a quiet Easter, Vicki. Blessed for that. :)
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