It’s risky talking about the typical anything in church–people are as varied as their fingerprints, voice patterns, and DNA–but once in a while, it’s safe to draw a few general conclusions. Here’s one:
The average Christian who goes forth to witness for the Lord leaves out fully one-half of the equation between God and man.
Here’s what that means.
Let’s suppose I decide to join my favorites, the New Orleans Saints football team. For many years I lived about two miles from their facilities, and pastored some of the players. But, let’s say one morning, I drive down, park my car and walk inside. A guard meets me.
“I’m here,” I tell him. “It took some doing, but I finally relented. I’m ready to give myself to this team.”
Being of a suspicious bent, the guard looks me up and down and says, “What are you talking about, mister? Why are you here?”
“I’m joining the Saints,” I say. “I’ve heard by the commercials that you need the support of the community. So, I have studied up on everything–talked to people, read the books, watched some games on tape–and I am now ready to join the team.”
“Oh, you are, are you?” he says.
“Yes sir,” I announce confidently. “In fact, I want Gayle Benson (she’s the owner) to know that I trust her. I believe she has the good of the community at heart. And the coaches and players? Well, they are the best. This is a big day for me.”
“There is only one problem, mister,” says the security guard.
“How could there be a problem?” I ask. “I think I’ve got everything figured out.”
Continue reading →