We have entered an era of bailouts. I have been thinking a great deal about this “new era” and a number of questions have come to my mind – questions I believe Christians in American should be pondering if we are going to adapt and reach future generations with the message of the Gospel.
Consider:
- Will the concept of the bailout play a significant role in the shaping of future generations of Americans?
- How will the American concept of accountability and justice change in an age of bailouts?
- What affect will the bailout have on Americans’ willingness to accept their need for a savior in the presence of a most holy and just God?
- Will it be more difficult to convince Americans of their sinfulness and depravity? Further, will it be more difficult for Americans to understand that their sin comes with wages earned: death?
Challenges and Opportunities
Ultimately, this discussion boils down to one question: Will this age of bailouts have an impact on the spreading of the Gospel in America? As I think about the above questions, I am convinced that there are challenges ahead. Opportunities await as well, however. Consider this passage from Colossians 2:
And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. (Colossians 2:13-14, ESV)
What a great concept with which we might engage those around us! Use current events and news headlines to lead into discussions about the Gospel and the cancelling of our debt by Jesus upon the cross. Compare and contrast the worldly concept of a bailout with Jesus’ perfect act of atonement upon the cross.
Challenges or opportunities? All things considered, it is important to remember that God’s perfect and sovereign will is at work.
What do you think? Does an age of bailouts present challenges to the Gospel in America? Opportunities?
Hodges briefly discusses the literal definition of the word: “one who belongs to Christ.” It is likely that, both insiders and outsiders, subscribed to this definition in the days of the early church. Today, the word means many different things to many different people. Some would argue that it means the same as it did that day in Antioch. Others would argue that it is a term with strong political implications. Catholics and Protestants would certainly define the term differently. Is one born a Christian or does one become a Christian? Again, many would disagree, based on upon their definition.
