Jesus and Starbucks


I read this from the "Out of Ur" blog. http://blog.christianitytoday.com/outofur/archives/2006/07/from_lord_to_la.html
It's a fabulous section. It points out how Christianity has become something we consume...and consumption forms our identity.

When we approach Christianity as consumers rather than seeing it as a comprehensive way of life, an interpretive set of beliefs and values, Christianity becomes just one more brand we consume along with Gap, Apple, and Starbucks to express identity. And the demotion of Jesus Christ from Lord to label means to live as a Christian no longer carries an expectation of obedience and good works, but rather the perpetual consumption of Christian merchandise and experiences—music, books, t-shirts, conferences, and jewelry.


So this makes me think about why I go to church. It makes me think about why the person next to me goes to church. Is it because it fosters a relationship with God? Or is it because it essentially makes me look good? I shouldn't be a consumer of church, I AM the church. What I buy shouldn't define me...who I am should define what I buy.

Comments

LiteraryGirl said…
You would have enjoyed our service today. Brett preached about this topic...he gave the example of the church as a battleship or a cruise ship. I had to pay close attention to see where he was going with it, but in the end it made sense. Are we there for what we can get? Frustrated we didn't get a parking spot or the church didn't meet all of our needs adequately that day, perhaps we didn't like the music? Or are we there to serve, to see what we can give, in worship and in service to others. It was a good sermon and good lesson.
9:50 PM
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