A Help or a Hinderance?

 

[Jesus said] “But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and every herb, and neglect justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the best seat in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces. Woe to you! For you are like unmarked graves, and people walk over them without knowing it.” One of the lawyers answered him, “Teacher, in saying these things you insult us also.” And he said, “Woe to you lawyers also! For you load people with burdens hard to bear, and you yourselves do not touch the burdens with one of your fingers. Woe to you! For you build the tombs of the prophets whom your fathers killed.” (Luke 11:42-47 ESV).

 

The question of whether the church is a help or a hindrance depends on perspective, as some view it as outdated and irrelevant due to its struggles with cultural issues like sexuality and justice, while others see its challenges as signs of growth and connection with modern seekers. Many people become disillusioned with organized religion due to hypocrisy or outdated methods, leading to declining attendance and a growing perception of the church as judgmental and outdated. However, some argue that these problems are opportunities for transformation and re-engagement with faith, suggesting the church isn't inherently a hindrance but faces significant hurdles in adapting to a changing world.

 

It was a similar situation in Jesus’ day. He spoke pointedly and critically against the leaders of God’s people in that day. Instead of helping people draw near to God and enjoy his blessings, those leaders put up barriers through their legalistic, self-serving practices.

 

Sadly, throughout history, some churches and church leaders have blocked access to spiritual life for people and have even abused people. We often hear of such cases in the news today. Corrupt leaders put barriers instead of bridges in front of people. As God’s people who make up the church today, we must repent of these sins, be sure we have measures in place to prevent them from happening again and be agents of healing to people who have been hurt.

 

Have you been hurt by the church or its leaders? If so, you may be hesitant to participate in the life of a church. That’s understandable. Let me make a few suggestions

 

§  Keep your focus on Jesus himself, especially through prayer and Bible reading. We cannot realistically expect perfection from the Church or its members. All are sinners and in need of the Savior. Focus on Jesus alone.

 

§  Ask God to provide a few caring Christians with whom you can fellowship and grow spiritually; they can be a helpful bridge. There are those within the Church that are genuinely following Christ to the best of their present strength and ability. Align yourself with those people.

 

§  If your personal experience has caused trauma that you are struggling to understand and process, seek a Christian counselor. Work with them in seeking healing and the strength to forgive.

 

§  Remain open to a time when you can fully participate in a healthy church again. Don’t eliminate a genuine relationship with a community of believers. Seek those who are like-minded and desire a true fellowship with the Holy Spirit.

 

Don’t hesitate to contact me individually if you need further information or help in this essential part of the journey you have experienced.