A great problem with the church today is the ever increasing need to be all things to all people. Yes the church should be a sanctuary where the lost can seek shelter from the attacks of the world. But does that mean the church must support all needs through ministries and continually making exceptions for individuals?
The goal of the church is to love God, love people, and change the world. So how do ministries such as the Electric Football Ministry, Motorcycle Ministry, Animal Ministry, Knitters Ministry fulfill the church's goal? It almost sounds ridiculous, but these ministries exist today in churches across the country.
Ultimately, if you add a ministry for everybody's whim, you begin to stretch your congregation thin. Often times burning them out.
Many times church policies are thrown aside when one church member comes along and asks for an exception. "I'm good friends with the pastor, so I'm sure it is OK." "I don't have to make reservations to use the church." "Can I do this for my wedding?" "I don't have time to take care of the equipment."
Our God is a god of structure and rules. He designed the church to be the same. Ultimately, if you make an exception...you affect someone on the other side. Often times leading to staff and volunteer burn out.
Church leaders need to open their eyes to these serious challenges. If the church continues to make exceptions the church will become the church equivalent of politically correct-CC:Church Correct-All things to all People?
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