Stand firm in your faith, or you will not stand at all
Exposing the threats to Confessional Lutheranism
Friday, September 14, 2012
Decision Theology?
I took this photo while I was on a run in Newark, New Jersey. The "TRY JESUS" motif of this Baptist church wouldn't quite work on the front of a Lutheran church.
At first, this seems like an understated, somewhat innocuous attempt at evangelism. And, as you say it would not work on the front of a Lutheran church(LCMS, that is). But then, it hits you--this is patently offensive, as it clearly portrays Jesus as just one among many. "What have you got to lose?" it seems to say. No, it isn't merely understated or even "lukewarm" (as in Laodicea). It is an offense, a stench. There is no evangelism here--no good news. Just a weak-kneed, half-hearted message. Oh well, it looks as tho it lights up at night--that's something, I suppose. Now ask me how I really feel!
At first, this seems like an understated, somewhat innocuous attempt at evangelism. And, as you say it would not work on the front of a Lutheran church(LCMS, that is).
ReplyDeleteBut then, it hits you--this is patently offensive, as it clearly portrays Jesus as just one among many. "What have you got to lose?" it seems to say. No, it isn't merely understated or even "lukewarm" (as in Laodicea). It is an offense, a stench. There is no evangelism here--no good news. Just a weak-kneed, half-hearted message. Oh well, it looks as tho it lights up at night--that's something, I suppose. Now ask me how I really feel!
Joe Strieter
When I see a "Try Jesus" sign, I usually think, "yeah, they're trying Jesus's patience." Lord, have mercy.
ReplyDelete