Concentrating
on the peripherals seems to be the constant pastime of many Christians
today. They are greatly exercised about
how the church looks, what the minister wears, which version of the Bible he
uses, whether or not women cover their heads – with something physical like a
hat or berry or scarf – how long the service and especially the sermon lasts,
whether or not Psalms are sung exclusively, what form baptism takes, the form
of church government, etc. While I do
not wish to minimise the importance of these things, there is more than a hint
that so long as these outward things are observed, all is well in Zion.
Not
so. Behind all these good things is to
be found what is in reality the heart of the matter. Outward appearance can express and often covers inward
reality. But it is the inward reality
that tells the true story. Where the
heart is unwell, surgery might be required.
When the heart is exposed, truth is seen.
When a serious heart condition is discerned, which could prove fatal,
immediate action is necessary. But that’s painful, and dangerous. And there are few who will attempt it.
To
avoid all challenge and difficulty, its best to stay clear of anything approaching
spiritual heart surgery. That’s too much trouble
both for the spiritual physician and for the patient. Unlike a hospital heart patient who is
usually thankful for such surgery, the church patient is more likely to rise up
against you and become violent. No
gratitude for help is offered or administered.
And
that’s why there are very few true soul physicians in the church today.
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