"Imagine there's no heaven ...
No hell below us, above us only sky ...
Imagine no possessions ...
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people living for the day.
You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one."
John Lennon's ballad captivated the heart of its generation with its visionary aspirations for a world free of conflict. Set to a melody evocative of the peace it espoused, the soothing lyrics of Imagine painted a new world order with alluring hues foundational to atheism and communism.
Thirty years later another generation is being enticed to further dismantle faith's foundations. Visionaries redefine rather than deny God, harmonizing humanistic ideals with just enough Jesus so everyone but the "intolerant" can sing together around one campfire.
Our era recognizes hunger for God yet is accustomed to clicking on only that which appears cheap, convenient and compatible. A curious pass of the mouse may take a peek, but expends no time on what risks being expensive, engrossing or exclusive .
The emergent church packages an experience for the spiritual seeker disillusioned with biblical Christianity—supplemented by reassuring ritual or trendy talisman when desired. Its Gospel is Jesus as a model of social sympathy, not the Messiah whose blood saves from sin. Its polished presentations invite adherents to imagine "what would Jesus do?" without teaching who Jesus is. It markets human happiness rather than humble worship of Holy God, and a default destination of heaven not hell—you can opt out but needn't worry about opting in.
The emergent church dangerously deconstructs all absolutes which could be divisive: the Bible offers some nice perspectives but is disregarded where it excludes other perspectives; and truth is whatever works for you—as long as it tolerates other definitions of truth.
The foundation of our faith is the Bible, with well-defined absolutes. God's reliable Word contains assurance of His promises and His ability to fulfill them. Jesus Christ declares His disciples to be those who build their lives upon the solid Rock of Himself and His words.
If one doubts the Bible's reliability as a solid foundation, one need only observe the already crumbling foundations of the world which denies the Bible's truth.
Let the buyer beware.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved. Lyrics quoted from Imagine Copyright 1971 EMI Records Ltd.
Amen.
ReplyDeleteThank you! It's time to call out the emergent church for what it is, another clever satanic gimmick.
ReplyDeleteOh, Anne, your words are well-written and timely. Thank you for contemplating God's word and the times in which we live, and sharing your compelling thoughts.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you today.