The Big Lie – Spiritual But Not Religious

Letting Go of Distrust and Embracing the Simplicity of Faith – Again

In our rich Pentecostal/Charismatic heritage, we tend to hold a deep-seated distrust of organized religion, and rightfully so. Throughout history, we’ve faced persecution and misunderstanding from traditional church groups, leading us to embrace a fierce independence. This distrust, born out of our early history in the 50s and 60s and amplified by the Jesus Movement, has fueled the rise of the “Spiritual but Not Religious” movement. However, is this isolation from prevailing religious structures truly the best path? Is it aligning with the desires of our Savior?

The Rise of the “Spiritual but Not Religious”

The “Spiritual but Not Religious” movement is rapidly growing, surpassing traditional religious affiliation. While it offers freedom from rigid structures, statistics reveal a darker side – higher rates of mental health issues, suicide, and divorce among its adherents. This raises a crucial question: are we sacrificing community and connection for the sake of independence?

Jesus’ Call to Gather

Jesus Himself said, “He that gathereth not with me, scattereth.” This profound statement emphasizes the importance of gathering together in faith. The Greek word translated as “gathereth” is “synagogue,” the prevailing religious structure of Jesus’ time. Despite its flaws, Jesus urged His followers to remain connected to it, prioritizing their faith within the existing system.

The Power of Community

The early church thrived on community. Acts 2:42 describes the believers’ devotion to fellowship, teaching, breaking bread, and prayer. They understood the strength found in unity, support, and shared purpose. When we isolate ourselves, we miss out on these vital elements of the Christian life.

Finding Balance: Faith and Community

Embracing traditional church structures doesn’t mean abandoning our unique spiritual experiences. It’s about finding a balance between individual expression and communal belonging. We can maintain our Pentecostal/Charismatic identity while benefiting from the support, accountability, and spiritual growth found in a faith community.

A Five-Part Call to Action

1. Pray for Discernment: Seek God’s guidance in finding a church that aligns with your values and beliefs.
2. Visit Different Churches: Explore various denominations and congregations to experience their unique expressions of worship.
3. Be Open to New Perspectives: Embrace diversity and learn from fellow believers with different backgrounds and experiences.
4. Serve Others: Get involved in ministries and outreach programs to build relationships and make a positive impact.
5. Practice Humility: Let go of pride and be willing to learn and grow alongside others in the body of Christ.

Conclusion: Rediscovering the Joy of Gathering

By humbly reconsidering our relationship with traditional church structures, we can rediscover the joy of gathering together as believers. We can honor our Pentecostal/Charismatic heritage while embracing the richness of community and the fulfillment of shared purpose. Let us return to the simplicity of faith, united in our love for Christ and our commitment to building His kingdom.

In the words of Hebrews 10:25, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” May we heed this exhortation and find our place within the body of Christ, where we can truly thrive and fulfill our calling as His disciples.