"You're going to need a bigger boat..." - Martin Brody (Roy Scheider), Jaws
Christianity has a problem with tribalism. It's become selfish, inbred, and too exclusive. Christianity needs to embrace a bigger table.
Think I'm wrong?
The institutionalized version of the faith has forgotten why it exists. It focuses on minor details in scripture that divide, demonize, and miss the overwhelming call from the Bible to love others. It's a hate culture so focused on sin that it can no longer see where God is moving in the world today. It's a control system wrapped in an easy to swallow pill, but that's not Christianity. It's just modern-day American Christendom, where power, piety, and comfort reign.
Guess what? None of this has anything to do with the teachings and ethics of Jesus.To say we've missed the point would be kind. Someone moved the goalposts and changed the mission statement.
Today, we'll talk about the dangers of tribalism and how Jesus preached a much different way to exist founded by service and love. We'll take on Luke 14 where Christ challenges assumptions and gives a glimpse into what matters most to the Kingdom of God.
Part of his call includes a large table where all are welcomed, accepted, and equal.
The modern church worries more about itself as business and has forgotten the scandalous, upside-down ways of God. Jesus calls those who follow Him to embrace humility, service, grace, compassion, and love. This posture is counter-culture to the world we live in today and may seem audacious - but that's clearly the heartbeat of God.
To have a faith with many hurdles and narrow lanes steals the beauty of the Gospel that calls for all to have a home. This kind of love changes lives and transforms communities. It gives dignity back to the forgotten and voice to the marginalized. God's Kingdom has plenty of room and we need to crucify tribalism and exclusivity because Jesus ordained it.
There's a different way to live that values others and sees the image of God in all of creation. Let's embrace what God has already done and learn to love without prejudice or barrier. There's a beautiful way forward and I'd love to walk that path with you. Does anyone want to join me?
Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.www.SnarkyFaith.com
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