I was talking with a pastor recently about the type of church we are planting in Freiburg. I explained how one of our core values is for our church to be a safe place to investigate a relationship with God.
He said, “Well, the Gospel itself is an offensive message.” I told him that I understood what He meant. Jesus was quite clear that He is the only way. But so many churches use this an excuse to explain why the unchurched aren’t visiting their services (or coming back if they do visit), when it’s really the style of ministry they offer. I don’t want to imply that we’re better than other churches, it’s just that we’re laser-focused on who God has called us to reach –- the unchurched!
We all want to be like Jesus... well there was a reason that prostitutes, tax collectors (mafia) and other “sinners” felt comfortable around Him. He was gracious, accepting and authentic enough to connect with them. We must never forget this!
We will not compromise the message of the Gospel! But I am absolutely NOT okay with having a ministry style that scares off a lost person. We will not make excuses for the type of church God has called us to be. When each church (group of believers) is being what God has called it to be, we can change Freiburg!
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