Thursday, June 19, 2014

The Church Consumer

I like to sing.  My whole life, from the time I was about seven, I have performed vocal music selections for my church.  I just really love singing about how I see God, experiencing His presence through music, and sharing that experience with my fellow church members.  Many times I hear songs on the radio as I drive and fall in love with it instantly--I can't wait for the opportunity to share that music with my friends at church! 

Then comes the difficult part:  assessing whether the song I love is really something I can do at church.  I'm not talking about vocal range or available instruments.  I am talking about the suitability of the song for my church.  Now, don't get me wrong--the members of my church love good music.  But, they also have standards that are important to them. 

If only they had the same standards--then the choice wouldn't be so hard!

Some prefer a very traditional style of music.  Some like to tap their toe to a lively tune.  There are those who have concerns about contemporary music styles, i.e. the use of drums and guitars, and there are those who play those instruments themselves.  There is a wide age range to consider--from children and teens to adults in their 90s.  How do you pick something that speaks to everyone?

As I read Chapter Seven in Derwin Gray's book, "Limitless Life" this week, I was struck by a thought.  The reason for dilemmas like the one I just outlined is that our church, like most others, has a lot of consumers in it and not enough contributors.  There are many who think their church is there for them, when, in fact, they should be there for their church. 

Perhaps you've heard these complaints before:
That sermon didn't do anything for me.
The music today was horrible--so slow and plodding (or too fast and too much of a beat).
Can't they figure out how to work the air conditioning?
The greeter didn't stop talking to (fill in the blank) and say hello to me this morning.
Who picked out the flowers for the platform?  I hate seeing tropical flowers up there.
And the complaints go on.  Always with the subtle insinuation that things really need to change or the complaints will be taken to the next level.  Or they will stop attending.  Or--GASP--they will just stop giving their offerings.

These are the voices of consumers.  Members so absorbed with what they are, or are not, getting out of the church experience, that they give no thought to whether it is reaching someone else there.  They treat the church like it is a product to be purchased and consumed, rather than like a place to meet with other people to worship and learn about God.  If they aren't happy, everybody knows about it.  They make sure of that.

I have sat in the pew and endured something I didn't really enjoy.  I have wondered "Why?" when it comes to unusual music and strange anecdotes and rambling testimonies.  And, I have experienced the Spirit speaking to my selfish heart and reminding me that someone there IS being blessed.  I am told that not everything is for me; sometimes it is for someone with different needs than mine. 

I'm always a little embarrassed when I experience this reminder and realize the depth of my selfishness and my idolatry.

That's right--idolatry.  Because, when the various aspects of the church experience become more important than the God and Savior we are there to worship, we are worshipping at the Idol of Church.  This is such a dangerous form of idol worship, too, because it looks so right.  I mean, what could be wrong with being concerned about how things are done in the worship of God? 

A lot can be wrong with it and it can be very dangerous to let the form of worship become more important than the God we worship. 

So, the next time I am sitting in church wondering "Why?", I will look around and remember that someone there is being led a little closer to the God of Heaven.  And I will join them and worship Him, too.





15 comments:

  1. Sandi, you are soo right! I have seen this happen in my church, where the worship services was becoming more important than the real reason we were there in the first place. Worshipping God is what it's all about!!

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    1. Thanks for sharing! I know we have all been in those situations--this chapter just really brought it home for me!

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  2. Wow! You hit the nail on the head. As the wife of a worship leader and a member of a Christian band, I can totally relate to what your saying. Then sadly, on a deeper level, I have to admit that I do my fair share on consumerism. I want to do contemporary worship music, I want to worship longer, I want...I want...I want. Thank you for sharing truth!

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    1. I've been there--just this last weekend, in fact. And then I read the chapter and wanted to groan over my attitude. God just has to hit me over the head sometimes! Thanks for the encouraging words :)

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  3. I think most of us can say we have been consumers in church at one time or another if not every week. I too sense that conviction when I fall into it. The enemy will use whatever he can to break churches down. If we could all get our eyes on Jesus only what difference that would make.

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    1. Like the song says: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus"! I know I have to work on this attitude continually--keep my focus where it really should be.

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  5. This is beautiful Sandi, and so very true! How we should pray that it is leading someone closer to God's heart! Thank you for this.

    Melissa Sherlin Proverbs 31 Ministries OBS Team

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    1. Thanks for your sweet encouragement Melissa! I'm glad it was a blessing to you :)

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  6. Awesome blog! I have seen and unfortunately participated in the consumerism part as well. While reading Limitless Life I was convicted as well. I am so thankful that God has given me insight so I can stop that behavior and become a fierce competitor for Him. Thank you so much for sharing!!!!

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    1. I think this chapter spoke to a lot of us! I'm glad this was an encouragement to you. God Bless!

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  7. Sandi you hit it right on target and when you said "There are many who think their church is there for them, when, in fact, they should be there for their church." I can relate as we have two services. Loved how you brought the lesson of consumers and contributors. Jealous I can't sing like you. I can't carry a tune. Debbie W. (Proverbs 31 Ministries OBS Team)

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    1. Hey Debbie--don't worry about the singing thing--I'm pretty sure we all get make a joyful noise AND a beautiful noise when we get to our Heavenly home!

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  8. Not sure the proper etiquette here, but I was wondering if I could share a link to your blog, this post specifically on my blog. Please let me know if you would find this acceptable. Thanks, Missy

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    1. Hi Melissa,
      I have no problem with you sharing a link to this post. Thank you for asking about it. I hope that it brings the blessing you are hoping to share!
      Have a lovely day,
      Sandi

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