I’ve been a part of churches that have embraced both of the following ideals.

• A legalistic approach where you were told both what you can and can not do.
• The non-legalistic approach (compromising as some would say) that is spoken of in the song here.

Let me just say this… It’s MUCH easier to live legalistically! Man by nature wants to be told what to do to achieve a desired end result. When you take away those rules it’s much more difficult to cultivate a relationship with God knowing that we ourselves are responsible for our own salvation (Phil 2:12). But let me add that while it’s harder, it’s also much more fulfilling! When a road-map is not laid out at your feet by man, one has to decide: “why do I do what I do?”  As you pursue this question honestly and with an open mind, you’ll find yourself cultivating a real one-on-one relationship with the creator, a relationship without a pastoral proxy.  You’ll also find yourself you growing as a Christian much more that when one simply obeys a set of guidelines to achieve an eternal destination. This isn’t to say that we are human islands, a pastor will always have a role in shepherding those who he oversees. I think many churches (and more importantly pastors) don’t know where the line should be drawn between shepherding and legislating.

I’m glad to be a part of a church that is striving to achieve that balance. What do you think?

Derek Webb ‘New Law’ Lyrics
Don’t teach me about politics and government
Just tell me who to vote for
Don’t teach me about truth and beauty
Just label my music

Don’t teach me how to live like a free man
Just give me a new law

I don’t wanna know if the answers aren’t easy
So just bring it down from the mountain to me

I want a new law
I want a new law
Gimme that new law

Don’t teach me about moderation and liberty
I prefer a shot of grape juice

Don’t teach me about loving my enemies

Don’t teach me how to listen to the Spirit
Just give me a new law

What’s the use in trading a law you can never keep
For one you can that cannot get you anything
Do not be afraid

[Visit the blog post if you can't see the two videos below]

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This church youth leader satire is hilarious! It was produced as an encouragement for the unheralded heroes on the front lines of ministry, our youth pastors…

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Or watch Ignatius on Vimeo.

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Watch this video on TED.

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I’m still laughing! This is hilarious.

“I think it’s a chance that we’re going to have to take. Playing video games all day, alone and friendless is simply the best way that we have to prepare our children for a life of solitude in a barren wasteland.“

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Are Violent Video Games Adequately Preparing Children For The Apocalypse?

Make sure to watch towards the end (3:00 or so) when they ‘buzz’ the road…. Amazing!

wingsuit base jumping from Ali on Vimeo.

HT: Brad Ruggles

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