But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Gal 6:14
In this past year, during the presidential debates, I’ve been reflecting a lot on how the climate of our world and the church have changed just since I became a Christian thirty-seven years ago. Presidential elections have taken a radical turn from what’s best for our country and upholding the values that America was founded on, to what’s best for our individual rights and self identities. The shift has been slow and gradual, but none the less, the inroads have become the new voice of our nation. Sadly, these same inroads of the progressive agenda and embracing what’s right for “me”, have made her way into the church.
We live in an age of narcissism. It is the era of self-actualization, the relentless race to perfect the self. As the West has become more narcissistic, so have the people in our churches. We see it on social media. Many pulpits have become more about uplifting and empowering it’s congregation rather than exalting the Lord of glory and dying to self. We thrive on testimonies of changed lives because it focuses on how we can become better too.
“Though some personal testimonies can be inspiring, many boil down to this: “Look! God is great because me me me.” These are not road-to-Damascus stories, but spiritual selfies. Many religions, philosophies, and even health crazes will change you. If you want evidence of this, just head to your nearest CrossFit gym, yoga studio, or health food store. Those lives have been transformed by whatever image of self they idolize most.” Jordan Monson
Yes, Paul shared his testimony, but let’s remember his objective. When Christ met him on the road to Damascus, it was anything but a feel good encounter. The Lord of glory confronted Paul which caused him to fall on his face. Christ spoke truth when he told Paul that his path was offensive and he was persecuting not only the church but God Himself. The blazing glory of Jesus is what changed Paul. The reality that One so holy and righteous and good would go to a cross and pay an unspeakable price for his sin is what changed Paul. Forgiveness from the infinite God became Paul’s message and mission that would forever consume the apostle. Suffering? It was a given!
Ladies, will you join me in a personal challenge. Let’s repent and reclaim the true gospel for our lives. The gospel that boasts in the cross and bears the cross for the sake of Jesus our Lord. Perhaps we’ll discover a deeper, truer joy and a greater witness as we live out our commission, exalting the Lord of glory.
