So recently I have felt convicted on not serving the Church as much as I could. So I have recently sought guidance in ways to love my church well. I’m part time after all…I have no excuse.
So this summer, I’ve decided to get more involved. In fact I’m quickly wondering, “is this too much”? Time will only tell. But for now, I’m just planning on enjoying it.
If you read my previous post, I am taking a summer class on Worldviews and World Religions. I’m only about 3 weeks in, and I can’t help but geek out when I discuss with others what I have learned. Also, I’m in a Bible Study focusing on breaking down scripture, and forming homemade devotionals, with intent to disciple. God’s timing is so cool.
So this week I learned about Moralistic Therapeutic Deism (MTD). Try saying that 10 times fast. Anyway…what an article I read concludes, America’s faith is eerily becoming more drawn to Deism. They believe in “a god” or higher power. However, it’s more on doing “good” and being happy in one’s life. It focuses on oneself, more than the god who formed creation. It sounds incredibly selfish, when you take a closer look at Deism.
My first thought, after reading of American teens from different faith backgrounds, was, “is this how I believe when I was younger”, and also “I should be doing more with discipleship in today’s younger generation”. I encourage you to read Christian Smith’s article on Moralistic Therapeutic Deism. (if you’re curious, I can email you the article.)
The things they emphasized, included feeling good yourself/life, being happy, being satisfied and fulfilled in life. Not one teen whom was interviewed mentioned self discipline, justification, or sanctification. Whereas, 119 were concerned with personal feelings, feeling happy, or made happy. It really made me think. What are we teaching? Do we need to return to the core of Christianity? The U.S. is a blessed country. But sometimes I feel we underestimate how blessed we really are. The focus has been removed from being thankful for what Christ has brought us through and satisfied in Him. And more focused on getting through the day on our own, and having self-satisfaction. Our nation is drawn towards Christ-less Christianity.
SONG OF THE DAY:
Shane & Shane: Embracing Accusation
