the serious layman reports (Pt. 1)

[gurghi]

The Serious Layman is of mixed opinion about mega-churches, and, when he is pressed, he admits to being a skeptic about the spiritual viability of such congregations. What seems most clear to him is that Americans love success, and big churches definitely communicate success. He observes that they also make for great one-stop shopping, offering

Comments

[1_peach_2_peach]

Does The Serious Layman think there is a place for asking how a church meets one's needs? Particularly when it comes to selecting a church to regularly attend, I find myself evaluating churches based on whether or not their worship methods and theology match my own, and what sorts of activities (Bible studies, food drives, etc.) we can plug into. Though I have reasons for believing that I prefer most of the things I prefer because they are superior in some way, I admit that a lot (not all) of the underworkings have to do with my personality and interests--in other words, subjective, individual preference--and I cannot demand that everyone do things the way I do them. Anyway, should we deny ourselves to the point of attending services in which we loathe the songs, sermon, and/or liturgy, and where we don't have any close friends, just because they are doing good community service that is "more like Jesus"? I've had a friend tell me that you'll never find a church where you agree with everything, so you just need to pick one and start

[anonymous]

I like the serious layman's ideas. I hope I get to meet him one day.

Peter+