modern day church vs. traditional

So I had to write a short reflection essay on a guest speaker who came to our class. He spoke about new emerging churches and how they were different from more traditional churches and so forth. The essay didnt really have any guidelines, we just had to..reflect. lol I thought the topic was pretty interesting so Im just gonna post up what I wrote. Its probably a little lengthy for a blog post, but if you do read it, I'd like to hear your opinions on the subject.

i know it ends kind of abruptly, but its 1am and im tired!!! =)

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Church is changing. The concept, the purpose, the model, the customs, and even the people are all changing. Part of the purpose of the “Body of Christ” is to minister to the specific needs of the community surrounding it. As our culture transforms into something new and fresh, the church must adjust to meet the needs of the people.

Blayne Waldrop gave some interesting observations about our world today. He pointed out that our culture is in a state of “radical individualism and hedonism”. Everyone wants to have their opinions and ideas heard. However, the choice of words can be a bit misleading. Individualism and hedonism would normally seem slightly immature and possibly even egotistical, but when in relation to a community-supported organization such as a church, it can in fact be quite revolutionary. Waldrop said that modern-day churches are becoming more “organic rather than institutional.” Meaning, rather than the traditional model, church is slowly becoming decentralized. For example, instead of a pastor being the central person in leadership (traditional), its becoming more of a democracy, if you will, among it’s members (modern).

I actually experienced this type of church this morning. It was probably the most decentralized church I’ve ever been to. There was not any one person designated as the “Pastor”. They had a group of leaders who basically ran the church together. Also, as expected with an emerging church, service was not typical. It was much more laid back and people-oriented. They had couches and patio chairs set up in small warehouse. Church was not just the building, but more importantly the people in it.

Of course, this structure, like any other, has its pros and cons. I think essentially the emerging church is grasping the idea of spirituality better than long-established churches, who are seen as being more religious and conventional. The concept is definitely modern and much like what people of today’s culture are looking for. However, I’m not sure as to how well a completely decentralized church would operate. It seems to me that it would be necessary to have a final voice. The pastor serves as much more than the person that preaches. He/She is appointed by God to lead. With several leaders, the church is making itself more vulnerable to division. Also, while a church must meet the needs of its community it must also serve the purpose of Christ. It would be easier for a church with less structure to become more consumed with pleasing the wants of its members than serving God.

The most logical solution would be to develop a happy medium. It’s important to have a church that can shift with culture, but at the same time keep from becoming like the secular world. I know God will lead His people and I feel confident that as a whole, the Christian community will develop well and be very healthy no matter the time or culture.