The church always expresses itself in different ways depending upon the culture that it’s in.  It’s very fluid so it can “reform” itself all the time depending upon the culture or environment that it’s in.  The purpose for this of course is so it can be a relevant witness in that particular culture.  The problem is, we are in a “post-modern” or “post-Christian” generation.  In other words, people in the Western World ARE searching for God but just not in the church anymore.  So what can we do to increase our influence in this culture?
(NOTE: by “the church” I mean Christ-followers. Not any particular denomination.)
We only legitimize ourselves are Christians by going back to Jesus.  Are we reflecting Jesus? If we are not then we are ultimately “unChristian-Christians.”  I know this is an oxy-moron. The greatest insult you can hurl at a Christian is “you don’t look like Jesus.”  Ghandi said, (paraphrase) “I’d be a Christian if I hadn’t met so many of them.”  What an indictment that still holds true in many instances today.  Does it in your? In mine?

We are not to reflect the culture we are in but yet relate to it so we can express this other-worldly culture of the Kingdom that we are from.  The standard has always been, is and always will be – JESUS.  To be “culturally relevant” we have to accurately express JESUS to our neighbors, co-workers, friends, etc.

WE ARE MISSIONARIES!

Acts 1:8  The power of the Holy Spirit’s baptism will enable us to be a a meaningful witness.

pkc