Over a decade ago, a publication touted a list of the “greatest threats to the church.”  What would you guess would be on that list?  Satan?  Sin?  Apathy?  Shockingly, in that writer’s estimation, the top three threats to the church were (in the following order):

1.  Acappella 

2.  Jeff Walling  

3.  Rubel Shelley

 

Today is Halloween and it seems everyone is trying to scare someone.  After getting into blogging, I started making more of an effort to keep up with discussions taking place within the on-line community.  I came across a posting from a young Christian girl who shared a humorous article entitled, “You know you are a church of Christ if…”  The lengthy list contained 200 items, but number eleven jumped out at me:  “Keith Lancaster doesn’t scare you anymore.” 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scared of me?  Why would someone be scared of me?

 

  1. Would it be because Acappella makes sounds like musical instruments?  If anything, the unbelievable demonstration of the human voice as a superior “instrument of music” only highlights the beauty of all-vocal music.  We are champions of a cappella music.
  2. Maybe it’s because I introduce contemporary songs into worship? I enjoyed reading Gary Kirkendall’s blog on this subject.    I love contemporary songs and am dedicated to helping ease the friction of including these songs in traditional settings.  Yes, I have written quite a few songs, many of which are taken directly from Scripture.
  3. Is it because Acappella sings for people outside our “normal fellowship?”  Would they really?  -- Guilty as charged!  If :guilt by association: is a weighty argument, Jesus’ example will have to be re-examined.   
  4. Because we are praying and working toward unity with the Christian Church? The time has come to acknowledge our brothers and commit to a loving, healthy dialogue in order to bridge our fellowship”s”.
  5. Perhaps some people question why I lead traditional songs with the same gusto as contemporary songs and that scares them?  Yes, I love old hymns, four-part harmony and even teach shape notes.  I know THAT scares some people.  

Guilt by association?  There is no one I enjoy hearing preach more than Jeff Walling.  In fact, we’ll get to be with him this week in Monroe, Louisiana.  Jeff has harnessed his talents and focused them on building up the Body of Christ.  I see no reason for anyone to be afraid of him, except if they fear being deeply convicted by the Word he preaches!

 

Rubel Shelley?  Shortly after that article ("greatest threats") was published, I talked with Rubel.  He jokingly said he was upset because he was only “number three” on the misguided writer’s list.  Years ago, I was appalled by how one of our colleges “crucified” him for how he was dedicated to unashamedly re-stating the simple restoration plea of “Christians only, not the only Christians.”  Thanks, Rubel for all you have done and are doing in Jesus' name.

 

 

 

Does my family look afraid of me?    

 

A lot of things scare me.  Thinking about who could potentially be elected (next week) to govern and ascend to influential office scares me!  But Jeff, Rubel and Acappella?  Just the opposite -- Gentle men of God who are representing Jesus and seeking to be humble disciples . . .   so, don’t be scared.

 

I'm Keith Lancaster and I approve this message.