An entertainment-based model of church can also foster a “what’s in it for me” kind of attitude. However, a “serve me, entertain me, perform for me” kind of posture creates consumers, not disciples. And as Alan Hirsch has so often said, “you cannot build a church on consumers, only disciples.” (video link)
What are we missing?
Where do we go from here?
First and foremost, we need to intentionally, and gradually, create space for scripture reading, symbol and silence.
If we truly want to move forward and remove ourselves from the entertainment-based style of church we’ve come to expect, we need to look for ways to interrupt existing patterns. If we don’t, we will wear ourselves out trying to keep up with the latest trends and expectations. This will take us nowhere fast.
There is a better way.
I’m not saying we need to arrange our services in ways that reflect the high-liturgical styles representative of our Anglican or Catholic families, but we should at least create space for scripture reading, art, symbol and quiet reflection.
We need to look for ways to slowly incorporate a variety of liturgical practices into our church services.
If we do, I believe we will reap the benefits of a people who will:
… become more biblically informed and biblically aware,
… embrace the beauty and value of symbol,
… begin to slow down and incorporate moments of peace, quiet and reflection into their lives,
… no longer be satisfied with being entertained, but seek for ways to actively contribute to the life of the body.
There is a better way.
There is a liturgical way.
Begin today.
List ways in which we can slowly introduce liturgical cues of scripture reading, symbol and reflection into our contemporary church gatherings.
