I was talking with a friend recently about issues of denominations, interdenominational fellowships, non-denominational congregations and the like. We were discussing the benefits and possible detriments of each. This conversation took place on the heels of a project that I’ve been working on in 1 and 2 Corinthians.
Throughout the Corinthian correspondence, the author, Paul, has been dealing with various in-your-face, nitty-gritty pastoral issues, which require a firm yet tactful approach. The Christlike heart of the apostle bleeds through his exhortations, admonitions and rhetorical prowess, thereby calling the Corinthian believers to reevaluate their relations with God, others in the faith family, as well as unbelievers. One thing that stood out to me during this study is how oftentimes we miss the big picture of following Jesus as part of a larger community. It’s easier uncritically to subscribe to popular labels by which we derive a sense of belongingness and then to allow such identity-markers (be it theological labels, denominational affiliations, patriotic platforms, etc.) to trump the dynamic call to follow Jesus in every area of one’s life. Yet, with Jesus as our Lord, where else should we derive our ultimate sense of idenity other than Him?
Granted, it would be much easier if personal piety were the only requirement in Kingdom living. And this isn’t to knock personal, pietistic commitments which we have adopted as essential in our lives. The problem arises when our understanding of “Christian spirituality” becomes weighed down with inwardly focused, performance-driven, non-Christlike lifestyles. And I’m speaking of myself more than any other.
It reminds me of a movie we recently watched called Forever Strong. The main character in the movie grew to realize how life is directly connected to the well-being of others. It’s not about being the star of the show (he was a strong rugby player who was the one who scored most of the points). It’s about winning as a team. If we embrace a similar mindset in the church (which is actually the NT witness of being the people of God), then we grow to realize that at the heart of following Jesus is the well-being of others (“saved” or “unsaved”).
As I was studying 1 and 2 Corinthians, I was greatly impressed with how Paul, who had every right to demand the privileges of an apostle (e.g. not having to work another job for money), laid down his rights for the well-being of the community. And this community included many people who were obviously influenced by those who opposed Paul and his ministry. Yet, the apostle’s “spirituality” was outwardly focused, Spirit empowered and Christ-centered. His ministry was characterized by selflessness and suffering love.
And in a society where the label “Pentecostal” is oftentimes loosely connected with such selfless and love-infused ministry like Paul’s, I wonder what would happen if we truly grabbed hold of “Pentecostal fire” and were filled with the Spirit of Christ. Would there be room for hero worship, individualism, and narcissism in our local assemblies? Would it redefine our understanding of “missions” and possibly critique our certainties regarding spirituality and grace?
Late night musings, :sleeping:
Shannon
