Coming home from lunch today, I gave a ride back to the office to two folks. One of them asked me which church I attended. After some brief discussion around Hill Country Bible Church, the conversation changed to “behind the scenes” at some services. It was interesting to hear and discuss how others often times view these big productions that churches put on as a business more than worship.
I am very glad that I attend a church that places an emphasis on worship as an act of personal dedication to God. While we sing praise music, the music is not the important part — worshipping God is. In comparison, I watched a Joel Osteen video sermon the other day and found myself not able to focus on him or his message because of the advertising that kept scrolling on the video — his tour dates, how to buy his book, how to give, etc. I don’t understand the glorification of God in this. I understand that the church has to be able to pay for their operations and, ideally, to reach more unchurched people but this is getting ridiculous. Benny Hinn recently requested 6,000 supporters to provide a pledge of $1,000 in order that he may share the gospel to more people. I’ve got an idea — feed millions of people with that money. Train other people in the areas where the gospel message is not heard. Spend the money on something that extends the kingdom of God, not the territory of Benny Hinn. But I digress…
What strikes me about some of the mega-churches is that they feel that a huge production is required in order to keep the attention and hearts of the people. Why? I don’t go to church on Sunday (or any other day) to see a major production — I go to serve my King and my Creator. Why can’t that be enough?
The iron seems hot for people to make more money off of Christianity now than ever before. Hollywood, the music business, churches — the list goes on. Christianity is increasing in visibility (good and bad) but everyone seems to want to profit off of it. It’s a delicate balance for the true Christian — when are you doing God’s work and when are you profiting off of the message of Christ?
