11-27-25

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 27, 2025
I am thankful this day for all those throughout Christian history, including some people I know very well, who are trying to maintain a very clear picture of a Christianity that reflects Jesus. A little over a week ago, I had an online conversation with someone (gave me permission to mention the conversation in my blog) who is absolutely captivated by the Jesus of the Gospels, but cannot square that Jesus with what he sees in Christianity. At the conclusion of our conversation, which included a fairly lengthy discussion about Cypress Creek Christian Church, he asked the hard question, “Where do other churches get so far off? It almost feels as if the religion Jesus came to critique and transform became the very religion that now calls itself Christianity.” I sort of agree with his assessment. At the time of Jesus, many religious bodies (not all of them) had become very narrow and controlling. The Roman Empire had a way of making people feel as if their lives were out of control, and then used religion to create comfort inside a very controlled and narrow system. Part of Judaism had fallen into that trap. Jesus’ entire ministry turned that system on its head, proclaiming and living a love that introduced a liberating God. The early church, with breathtaking beauty, embodied this liberating love through acts of humble and grace-filled service. But once Christianity moved from a movement to an institution, and then became the official religion of the Roman Empire, it quickly shifted back to that very controlled and narrow system. 

Cypress Creek Christian Church is far from perfect. And as the Lead Pastor, I fully demonstrate that imperfection, including a couple of boneheaded things I did just yesterday. But I appreciate the fresh spirit that moves through this place, where individuals feel great freedom to ask questions, explore ideas, disagree in love, and not perceive differences as a threat to faith that must be squelched. Instead, there is curiosity that only expands one’s capacity for love. In the time I have been at the church, I have seen a handful of people struggle as they felt as if the church (or the pastor) needed to put some restrictions on other people’s thinking, provide a more narrow picture of God. I can passionately express my belief in who I think God is and what God is calling us to do. However, I make it clear that this is simply my opinion. I believe it has evolved through extensive study and contemplation, but I offer it for people to consider, not as the sole perspective on God. In fact, I have even changed my opinion numerous times over the years.

Thank you, Mysterious and Magnificent God, for you seem interested in using only love to bring us into a relationship of love with you. Forgive us, and forgive the various ways we have attempted to manipulate and force others into a narrow vision of you. In your immense mercy, set us free from the fear and insecurity that drive us away from you and from healthy relationships with our neighbors. Continue to strengthen us with the power of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to fully trust in the power of love. Amen.