I read an article that was talking about future trends in the church. Some of them I can see happening (I can see doing a bible study online). Other trends might be offering communion over the Internet. This one rubbed me the wrong way, but when I thought about it the cup and the bread are symbols of the broken body of Christ. He didn’t say “do this in a church” in remembrance of me (but it is assumed).

“Going to church” for me meant packing up the family getting in the car and driving. Future trends may include “Internet Church” (see http://www.internetchurchcampus.com/). I just obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Education taking classes online. So why not deliver information of the gospel this way. This seems weird for me but we may need to meet people where they are.

Another trend is people will memorize the bible less as we will be able to “Google the answer” from our phones. God says to hold the word close to our heart - not our iphones.

Another trend is Christians will be persecuted more. I’ve always found it odd that we are labeled judgemental by people (which is a judgement). When we say “Christ is the only way” we are told “there are no absolutes” (which in itself is an absolute). After being told we want people to “Stay in the closet” we are told to keep our opinions and beliefs to ourselves (or put another way ‘Get in the closet).  Christians may find themselves going to jail for their comments. Buckle down folks, it going to get scary.

So we will be complaint to stay home, know the bible less (as we can google it), and then face trials. Doesn’t sound like a good game plan.

Maybe a better answer is instead of meeting online, if we can’t get people to come to us, maybe we should go to them. According to an article in Forbes magazine on September9 by Beth Kowitt, at least 63 churches have moved into malls in the second quarter of 2009 alone, according to CoStar Group.

What does the bible say about physically getting together?

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (Acts 2:42 NIV). We assume this means being together.

However in Hebrews 10:24 is states, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”"

I’d love your comments

The Church Of Tomorrow Stupid and Lazy? is a post from: Grow Your Church Show