Microwave Christianity

Yesterday I listened to last week's "audio sermon" from The Grace Project, entitled "Microwave Christianity." It's really a discussion between three individuals: Paul-Anderson Walsh, Frank Irawo and Peter Rowe.

What I like about the conversation is that a lot of questions are asked, and the three men discuss the questions coming from their own perspectives and experiences. They discuss all sorts of things, including "large" churches, "home" churches, the emerging church, discipling, growing, etc, and whether or not any of this can work together. In other words, can people grow in a big church? In a small gathering? In both? In neither? What is necessary in a "church" so that all people can grow and mature in Christ? Is it a primary focus on teaching? Is it a primary focus on discussing? I'm only touching on some of the things they mentioned. As I said, all three men draw from their personal experiences, and it's interesting to listen as they discuss how their thoughts and ideas have changed or evolved - or remained the same - during their years working with people in the "church system."

Really, my reason for posting this was to focus more on the "title" of the sermon, "Microwave Christianity." One of the main points is that no matter the size of the church or gathering, Christians don't grow into maturity overnight. You don't just pop 'em into the microwave and expect them to be fully cooked. I think the term "slow-cook" or "slow-burn" was used at least once in this conversation. The reason I'm drawn to this type of conversation is because during most of my "church life," I've been subjected to teaching that is mostly focused on the "do's and don'ts" of Christian living, or the "how to's," and it's as if I hear a teaching or a series of teachings on one subject, and then it's on to the next, as if we've got that subject completely tackled now.

I understand that there are times in the Christian life when buds pop out and flowers suddenly appear. But to get to that point - there are four full seasons that take place! Anyway, I think the point is well made in the audio sermon and I think the gist is easily gotten by those who have been in that type of church atmosphere - Christians need time to grow and mature and it can never be a speedy process. God knows our hearts and thoughts, and only He knows what a person needs to grow. And He's faithful to do it just right!