|
CNN.com reports that some Christian congregations are turning to Scientology for help. Two pastors, (one a Pentecostal and the other an African Methodist Episcopal), “explained…they still preach…Christianity…but in a modern world, borrowing from Scientology helps…they do not see Scientology as a threat to their faith, but rather as a tool to augment it.” No doubt, we find ourselves at, A Moment of Truth.
The main problem here is syncretism. This was Israel’s recurring sin. God is quite clear in saying, “I will not share my glory with another.”
It is a sign of increasing spiritual famine that professing Christians seek “tools to augment their faith.” What happened to earnestly contending for the faith once for all delivered to the saints? The difference between these pastors and those who embrace psychology, entertainment, mysticism, or any other augment to faith in Christ is only one of degree.
We should not be surprised. Those who are given to a rejection of theological and exegetical rigor in exchange for narcissistic and mystical experiences are open to anything. Another draw is a focus on social programs. Not unlike the social gospel movement or liberation theology, the draw is not Christ but a Christ-substitute.
Despite the obvious contradiction, these pastors feel their congregations can understand and relate better to Scientology than Scripture. The issue here is two-fold: these are Christians in name-only, and, the only church that will grow with this approach is the church of Scientology. Let us reject all forms of pragmatism as a means of church growth. If we don’t, we might grow in numbers, but, we won’t be growing the church. Powered by AkoComment 2.0! and SecurityImage 3.0.8 |
