Something to think about…

So I was reading “The Shack” during lunch yesterday and ran across a really interesting chapter, as if the book in itself isn’t interesting enough. Mack is out with Jesus and they’re talking about “church.” Okay, things I’m about to say are just things to ponder. The book isn’t saying that this is how things really are; it’s a fictional book. BUT, I do find it quite interesting, and so may you.

Here’s an excerpt: “As well-intentioned as it might be, you know that religious machinery can chew up people!” Jesus said with a bite of his own. “An awful lot of what is done in my name has nothing to do with me and is often, even if unintentional, very contrary to my purposes.”

“You’re not too fond of religion and institutions? Mack said, not sure if he was asking a question or making an observation.

“I don’t create institution – never have, never will.”

“What about the institution of marriage?”

“Marriage is not an institution. It’s a relationship.” Jesus paused, his voice steady and patient. “Like I said, I don’t create institutions; that’s an occupation for those who want to play God. So no, I’m not too big on religion,” Jesus said a little sarcastically, “and not very fond of politics or economics either.” Jesus’ visage darkened noticeably. “and why should I be? They are the man-created trinity of terrors that ravages the earth and deceives those I care about. What mental turmoil and anxiety does any human face that is not related to one of those three?”

Mack hesitated. He wasn’t sure what to say. This all felt a little over his head. Noticing that Mack’s eyes were glazing over, Jesus downshifted. “Put simply, these terrors are tools that many use to prop up their illusions of security and control. People are afraid of uncertainty, afraid of the future. These institutions, these structures and ideologies, are all a vain effort to create some sense of certainty and security where there isn’t any. It’s all false! Systems cannot provide you security, only I can.”

Wow! Ya know? I never really thought about these things like this. But when he talks about religion being a part of a man-created trinity of terrors that deceives those he cares about? That’s really quite accurate. If you really think about what anxiety we face in life, it all either falls back on either the economic status of this world, the government or the church. Very sad, but very true.

He goes on to talk about how he’s in love with his bride. Mack thinks he’s talking about the church as in the people inside each church. Jesus emphasizes once more that he’s not fond of the church and its institution...us getting together to play “church.” He sees his bride as nothing to do with the church, only those whose hearts are in relationship to him.

It made me think, when the Bible talks about not forsaking the assembly, if that really means what it does when you first read it on the surface, than basically we need that for accountability; however, that doesn’t mean we have to unite under an institution or an establishment; which further supports my belief of home/community groups. Don’t get me wrong, church is fun, but you got to admit, its not perfect as is anything of course, but its full of raw expectations and American/Christian Idols. Perfect example – a pastor commits adultery, the majority of the church are in shock as if he was supposed to be perfect. And a good percentage of that church will split and will abandon church and God as if the two went together in the incident.

God = personal relationship, period, nothing else.
And we make it so hard...and add extra drama.

Assembling together with other believers does not equal a “church,” its gathering with others who are in relationship with Jesus and want to share life together. Basically put.