Victory In Christ

First off, let’s clarify: the “Church” is not a building—it’s the people, the body of believers in Jesus. So when I talk about “church” I’m referring specifically to the Sunday morning gathering and how much it has changed over the years.

Back Then:
In the old days, people dressed in their “Sunday best.” We sang from hymnals, accompanied by an organ or piano. It was simple and reverent. As a child, I was dragged to many kinds of churches growing up—including one that spoke only German. But even as a kid, I knew we were in a worship service.

Today:
You can wear whatever you want, ballcap included. The Sunday mega-church service feels more like a production. At the welcome center get your free coffee and donut, settle into your theater seat —snacks in hand. Then an on-screen timer counts down to the start: auditorium lights go down, stage lights up, fog machines start. The “worship team” performs with drums, bass, electric guitar, and keyboard. Some folks sing along—but many just watch or sway. The “message” that follows may touch on scripture, but often is just a feel-good talk. This format was created to attract younger people. In some churches even the sermon is delivered by video with no pastor present! Though some may be offended by this description, the problem isn’t the format itself. It’s the loss of reverence, of true worship, of biblical teaching and fellowship.

And Many Are Leaving: People are walking away from churches where the pastor says, “21 people need to give $1,000 today.” Others watch livestreams and don’t even know their pastor’s name. Everything feels off. That’s not what “church” is meant to be.

I don’t have to pay money to be saved. I don’t have to earn God’s love—or the love of Jesus Christ, my Savior. I’m free from those lies.

Some people leave when they see the pastor’s huge house or expensive car. To them, “church” has become a business—tax-free and money-driven. And remember: Scripture says that in the last days, there will be a great falling away. My Preference: home fellowship group church gatherings over Sunday’s polished performance. That’s just me. I carry God with me everywhere I go. His Spirit lives within me. We are God’s house. He dwells in us. We have a personal relationship with the Lord. As Scripture reminds us:

“We should not stop gathering together with other believers, as some of you are doing.” —Hebrews 10:25a (GW)

“Be filled with the Spirit speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord” ~~ Ephesians 5:18b-19.