The issue of Time Magazine dated April 5, 1993, carried this caption, "The Church Will Never Be The Same," because, they say, "The baby boomers are coming back to church." The article said among other things, "These returnees are described as traveling from church to church or faith to faith, sampling creeds, shopping for a custom-made God." It said of churches, "In a effort to attract them, more and more churches are becoming customer oriented."

This reminded me of some striking parallels of the '60s and the church in the '90s. I found some common denominators among those who are causing confusion in churches, including the churches of Christ.

1. The boomers of the '60s were looking for highs. They could not live on the plains. They had to be on the mountain peaks. They needed a smoke, a pill, or a needle. What are you hearing today from those pulling away from the church? "We want excitement in our worship. We want a worship that makes us feel good or high." I might add, never mind how God may feel.

2. Another similarity in the '60s and the '90s: They both dislike order. In the '60s they wanted a spontaneous life-style doing whatever made them feel good. We are hearing the same cry today in the church: "We want a spontaneous worship. We are bored with order."

3. Another similarity in the '60s and the '90s: They both dislike authority. They want to do it their way. In the '60s they rebelled against parental, governmental, and religious authority. The new hermeneutic virtually eliminates apostolic authority and does away with pattern theology. Everyone does that which is right in his own eyes.

4. In the '60s they wanted to do what came naturally. Then they did not wear socks, ties, nor underwear. Their motto was: "Just hang loose." Personal freedom and comfort were their objectives. Does this remind you of anything today?

5. Another striking parallel is this: They tolerated everything except the established order. They would neither judge nor condemn any life-style. Today those pulling away from the church have tolerance for virtually anything with the exception of the established church.

6. Both have the same theme. Remember in the '60s the peace sign. Truth, they said, was unattainable. Thus came consensus and situation ethics, but real peace eluded them. Today we are being told among our ranks that peace is the message. I disagree. Truth is the message. Peace is the hope.

7. Both then and now they believe love is a cure-all, but what kind of love are they talking about "Love Sweet Love" or agape love that suffereth long and is kind ... rejoices in the truth (I Cor. 13). I see the "Me" generation in both of these.

I beg those who are swept up in this movement to take another look. I beg the elders and churches and our schools who are catering to this movement to take another look before we lose the church that Jesus purchased with His own blood.

copied from “The Reminder”
River Road church of Christ
New Port Richey, FL

Restored
Sister Trudi Chambers came forward this past Wednesday evening, confessing sin in her life and asking for the forgiveness and prayers of the church. Keep Trudi in your daily prayers that she might have strength and patience to run the race set before her during the coming months and years.

Emmett Davis’ mother was killed in an auto accident this past Friday morning in Alabama. Also in the car were his sister-in-law and two children who were, at this writing, in critical condition. Emmett and Kristi have gone to Alabama so keep them in your prayers.

Ladies’ Work Group
The Ladies’ Work Group is sheduled to meet tomorrow (Monday) evening at 7:00 pm in the Ladies’ Work Room. All of our ladies are invited to attend and participate in the group’s fellowship and activities.

Fall Back!!
Let us all remember to set our clocks BACK one hour before going to bed this coming Saturday evening, October 30th. Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday morning at 2 am.

New Directories
If you have not yet received one of the new picture membership directories, they are available in the foyer today. PLEASE, only one to a family until we see how many will be needed – then you may get an extra copy if you need one. Updates will be made available periodically as needed. The latest up-to-date directory is always available online in the "members-only" area of www.orangestreetcofc.com .

Honesty, sincerity, and a good conscience do not change the physical laws of nature. Nature's laws were formed by the same God who gave us the laws of religion and worship. Why then should we think conscience could change any of God's laws?