Middle School Lockers and Churches

I hated my middle school……at least the first three weeks. The problem was my locker. Yep, I was one of those kids who couldn’t get it opened. I really struggled at it (my wife and kids will tell you I still do). Until I finally figured it out, I had no where to put my stuff! Now as a fifty-something I’m back in middle school, supplementing our ministry income working as a disciplinary teacher at a local middle school. One of the first things I’ve noticed is that the school lockers are still there. They look good, they’ve held up well…..until I found out why. NOBODY USES THEIR LOCKER ANYMORE! Now everyone has a backpack to keep their stuff.

It struck me recently that many churches in North America are like middle school lockers. It’s all about me, mine, my stuff, my room, my program, my property. Here’s the problem with these kinds of churches—they will end up like middle school lockers today—looking good on the outside but empty inside.

I’ve identified at least four characteristics of these churches:

First, members are more concerned about property, programs and preferences than the people in the community. I once served in a church with that mind set. It was indeed all about ME, ME, ME, ME! Mine & Thine! Too many churches have lost touch with the needs of their community. They are still operating their ministry out of an outdated 1950’s-60s model. It’s all about their stuff. Heaven help the pastor or staff member that messes with their stuff. We need to realign ministries and recalibrate strategies to face new realities.

Second, religious appearances count more than authentic faith. Far too often these churches have cookie cutter spirituality and condemn anyone who feels led to live and do something different. The reason this occurs is we have forgotten to teach, model and expect Christians to practice spiritual disciplines.

Third, in these church cultures rules and regulations are more important than grace and forgiveness. Many churches have become bureaucracies—i.e. fill out this form in triplicate if you need a room, bus or resource. I understand the importance of planning & accountability but let’s not lose focus!

Finally, these churches are permeated with an US vs. THEM mentality. Some churches are actually hostile to groups of people God is sending right into their own neighborhoods. It makes me miss the Cold War!

What should you do if you find yourself serving in one of these churches? GO SUBVERSIVE. Initiate little acts of kindness and mature spirituality to those around you. Remember we all live in ‘enemy territory.’ Don’t let others define your spirituality or your mission. Start where you are. Gather like-minded people around you. Go for it!