It’s true that some are preaching out of jealousy and rivalry. But others preach about Christ with pure motives. . . . But that doesn’t matter. Whether their motives are false or genuine, the message about Christ is being preached either way, so I rejoice. And I will continue to rejoice. (Philippians 1:15, 18)
Why is the church significant in the community? For at least two reasons. First of all, because churches provide the availability of variety. And second, because churches offer a singularity of message.
There will be churches of all different kinds. Churches will go from one extreme to the other. Churches that are worth attending and supporting have the same pivot point, the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ is exalted. Christ is declared. Christ is central. But some will go at it from one direction, while others will go at it from another. A different style of worship. Another approach, emphasis, and methodology. And even a difference in motive.
I have a strong word to all who are given to public criticism of other ministries. Watch yourself! Rather than being discerning, you may have become too narrow and rigid! Learn from Paul. Even ministries that may employ a few deceptive motives, even churches that you choose not to attend, Paul said, in effect, “I rejoice that at least Christ is proclaimed.”
Let’s face it, if everybody attended where you attend, the community couldn’t fit in. We must learn to give God praise that there is a variety of ministries. We gain nothing by promoting the idea that we have the corner on the truth, and that our pastor is the only one who has the answers for life. No, no, a thousand times, no! God may be using this man with his style for this ministry and that man with another approach for that ministry . . . each one exalting and presenting Christ to different types of people.
My advice? Don’t waste your time criticising other ministries. Just attend the one that you prefer and give God praise that Christ is exalted. You may be thinking, “Sounds pretty liberal to me.” Well, it sounds biblical to me. If Philippians 1:15–20 isn’t teaching that, then frankly, I’m at a loss to know what it means. In our zeal it is very easy to think we’ve got the only church with the only answers for the entire community. We don’t.
As a pastor, I’m relieved and grateful that I am not the only fish in the pond. What an awesome responsibility that would be! Furthermore, that’s Christ’s role, since He is the Head of the church.
