When Two Churches Meet

There is a lot of talk these days about our methods of presenting the message of Jesus. I've never been one for following the latest fads, and in regards to the gospel, I don't think I will start now. Our methods are one thing, but the message is another. I'm not against dramas, special songs, or Power Point presentations, but I strongly disagree if any of these things trivialize or soften the cross of Jesus.

It is God's desire that all mankind would receive His message, but I don't think He needs our help in making His story more acceptable in our generation.

"We must never confuse our desire for people to accept the gospel with creating a gospel which is acceptable to people." - Oswald Chambers

I've spent much of the last ten years interfacing with the persecuted church around the world. Their stories of steadfast joy in the midst of suffering, rejection, imprisonment, and even death have brought me much strength. They have taught me a great deal about the cost of following Jesus. I have also spent much of my time traveling around the United States sharing this strength with my brothers and sisters in the American church. It has been a joy to watch how the stories of persecution have caused others to examine their walk with God. It is interesting to see what happens when these two churches meet. Usually, people approach me after the service and thank me for introducing them to the reality of Christian living around the world. Some have asked me why they have not heard of persecution before, while others simply turn and walk away in disbelief.
Many of them have never been told that there is a cost to following Jesus. In fact, many of them have never heard this part of Christ's message at all. It seems that in our day the focus has been on how we can get the most out of God rather than how He can get the most out of us. It saddens me when elderly people approach me with tears in their eyes and tell me that they haven't heard preaching like this for years. It seems we have found not only a better way to present the gospel in our day, but also a " better" message all together.

The persecuted church has imparted life, passion, commitment, and servanthood to me. Their lives stand as symbols of hope to all of us who feel challenged with standing up for what's right in our day. They teach us about true discipleship and pure devotion.

I believe it is at the very core of the call of God on my life to help bring the American church and the persecuted church together for sweet fellowship. Thank you for helping us to take this part of "The Message" to our family in America and around the world.

- Tom Zurowski


[Return to Reflections]