We in the church are idolaters, as Clavin said; "the heart of man is an idol factory". This a common case within the church, we idolize over so many trivial pursuits that I could write a most boring list in regards to that fact. But I'm not going to. What I do want to address is what I perceive as the biggest problem within the American church culture. We idolize over preachers. Guilty. Yea, me too. I often spend time listening to many distinguished and polished orators of Christendom, and wish that I was even within the same universe in regards to their aptitude in the pulpit.
The positive side of T.V evangelist/preachers:
First I would like to say that this is really our problem, and not so much the speakers. Much in terms of right gospel proclamation has blessed many over the air waves of the television. I'm not sure that the gospel wouldn't have made it to them with out the television, since they cannot be that isolated if they are receiving cable t.v. Anyway, there are some really good Biblical teachers on the Tele, like maybe one percent. That one percent is very good tho........right? If you stay up until one a.m. you might catch a glimpse of Ligoner Ministries, but other than that, good luck. Ok that was my positive side of the argument, or my devil's advocation of the issue.
The dark side of T.V. evangelist/preachers:
The number one problem that t.v preachers have caused is that in many cases Christians have replaced their church family with that of the television. Sure, the church can be a hard place to be, but it is the church, it is God's establishment for the saints, the place of corporate worship, and a known common place for those seeking answers for the hard questions of life.
Secondly, it promotes covetousness within the life of the believer. A believer may desire to be a part of a "big successful" church, as opposed to the less extravagant church that God has placed in their community for them to be of service at.
Thirdly, theological laziness is the norm, much of what comes from the t.v. pulpiteers is watered down theological, feel good, prosperous trash.
Fourthly, watered down teaching produces watered down Christians.
Finally, and unfortunately this is a common introduction to Christianity to many people in our post-modern era. We live in a era in American history where we have multiple generations within families that are growing up un-churched, and un-evangilized. Some people make first contact with Christianity thru Benny Hinn's programing on cable. I rest my case.
2 comments:
This is a really cynical entry..unfortunately, I agree with you. However, what if the television was used better by ministries? What if it were effective in spreading theologically sound doctrine that made no excuses for its message? It is sad that not only is their gospel watered down, it isn't worth following! The gospel Christ taught was transforming and came at a price. Any less is offering a disservice. Thanks for the blog Joe
There are actually some television ministries that are worth viewing. They are theologically sound, relevant, and edifying. Renewing your mind with R.C Sproul, Leading the way, RZIM, Grace to you, and some times Wretched. These are the very few that I would personally deem worthy of viewing. Good luck catching them tho, since they are on at weird hours. The biggest problem with the TV; is that shows have to produce ratings to remain on air. The Bible says that the Gospel is offensive to the natural man. The only offensive stuff that gets ratings is nudity, and violence. Therefore many water down the message to make folks feel good, less offensive and thus create higher ratings. Finally, like I said many believe that they get their "churching" via TV and neglect the fellowship and building up of their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. This often leads to problems with sanctification, evangelism, and nominalism. Thanks for the reply!
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