12/26/2024
For those familiar with Paul's writings in the Bible, I believe this is how he would have addressed the believers, guiding them back to the foundational principles of faith. Too often, so-called gospel concerts stray from capturing the true essence of what a Christian concert should represent.
Title: Paul’s Letter to the Leaders and Believers Regarding Worship Practices:
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I write to you with love and concern for the direction in which some of our practices are being shaped.
Brothers and sisters, let us remember the words of the Lord: "Be holy, for I am holy" (Leviticus 20:26; 1 Peter 1:16). We are called to be a peculiar people, set apart for God’s glory, not conforming to the patterns of this world but being transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).
I have heard of gatherings that resemble the customs of the world more than the assembly of God’s saints. My heart is grieved, for the church is not called to entertain but to proclaim the eternal truths of Christ crucified and risen. Let us not fall into the temptation of altering the gospel to attract men, for it is the power of God, not our methods, that saves (Romans 1:16).
If we seek to honor God, let our worship reflect His character—reverent, holy, and distinct. The Spirit does not need the aid of worldly rhythms or theatrics to draw men to Christ. As Paul said, "My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power" (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).
Dear friends, let us examine ourselves and the worship we offer. Are we leading others closer to the throne of grace, or are we blending into a world that does not know God? Remember, God has called us to be ambassadors of Christ, proclaiming His message with boldness and humility (2 Corinthians 5:20).
In all things, let love guide us. May we not judge harshly but encourage one another toward righteousness and good works. And let us pray for discernment and a return to the simplicity of the gospel, for the Holy Spirit is able to accomplish what no man can.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.