Cons? How can there possibly be cons?!!! Cons, in my world of definitions, are:
1. Salvation is not explained, not a focus, and the invitation is never issued
2. The Word is not preached
3. Liberal perspectives are embraced and form the foundation for teachings and actions
4. Discipleship is not available
Obviously, there are other components but if you are raised in church and where you attend is not a Bible believing and teaching church, you’ll find you have a great deal to un-learn (and yes I know, I believe you don’t un-learn and that you are responsible for what you know… but you can replace ‘wrong’ thinking by renewing your mind). And even more to learn.
Don’t misunderstand, fellowship, in my world, is a high priority. Especially in our worlds, in these times, I believe that we, as Christians, are in nearly as much need as the first century church was for fellowship. Church is critical. Church is the time to refresh, renew, and discover new ways of improving our selves and our witness. It’s a time to uplift one another, correct from scripture when error exists – and most importantly, to worship the One who has given us life.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good
works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some,
but encouraging one another… (Hebrews 10:24, ESV)
However, when church is only a social occurrence then the accent is on the wrong sy-llab-le. If, when we come together, we come to ‘enlighten’ those who may not be aware of who we are and what’s important according to the norm that is espoused. exactly what are we doing and saying? Remember the words in Revelation to describe the church at Laodicea? (Revelation 3:14-22, NKJV)
“These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the
Beginning of the creation of God: “I know your works, that you are
neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then,
because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit
you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become
wealthy, and have need of nothing’— and do not know that you are
wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked — I counsel you to buy
from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white
garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness
may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you
may see.
As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous
and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My
voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and
he with Me. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My
throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
These words that John wrote should be a wake up call to the church as to what is and isn’t acceptable to God. All is not lost… it never is. And that is a huge Pro. But will the Lord contend with us forever? Listen to what His instructions are, verses 19-20: He rebukes and chastens us and leads us to repent… but look at the wonderful results – verse 21!
