I think that if people are trying to steal somethi...

2008-05-13T07:11:00.000-05:00

I think that if people are trying to steal something from church by becoming members then we haven't placed enough responsibility on our members. We ask our members to give faithfully of the church of their prayers, presence, gifts, and service (and now witness or something, right?). What is there to steal? You save a mere $50 cleaning fee if you get married in my church as a member of it. You'll still pay for my time and leadership in the wedding and the months leading up to it.

I have been tempted to bar people from membership because they were too conservative, but the temptation passed quickly! Maybe membership in this inclusive body will be what opens them up to greater knowledge of God's all-inclusive grace. We never know.

The talk of theives actually reminds me of the Bishop from Les Miserables, who is one of my inspirations as a clergy person. After Bishop Bienvenue (welcome) harbors the fugitive Valjean, the latter steals the silver on his way out the door. Captured and returned to the Bishop, Valjean faces re-imprisonment, but the Bishop instead gives him two candlesticks as well, telling him not to forget the rest of his gift.

So my take? Are people trying to steal things from our churches? Good. Give 'em even more. Something about offering your cloak too.

Comments on Hacking Christianity: Closed Systems of Discipleship & Accountability

I think that if people are trying to steal somethi...