Sermons Online

Church: Why Bother?

Countless women and men grew up in churches that, in trying to frighten them away from immorality, made sex something to be loathed, and left them feeling like they were an unsalvageable wretch for perfectly normal and unavoidable feelings. The religious background of many others portrayed God only as someone to be feared; as the angry judge just waiting for us to slip up. Others had church experiences that simply reinforced the requirement for perfection that they received at home in order to feel some sense of affirmation or worthiness.

Is it any wonder that we have empty seats while Starbucks is filled to overflowing every Sunday morning? Is it any wonder that many of those who live within walking distance of our building are asking, “Church: why bother?” This series responds to that question and those negative experiences with a picture of the church more in keeping with Jesus’ vision.