So, I have been thinking lately about how different causes and the way people try to get other people involved. I don't have a problem with people getting other people interested in Darfur or social justice issues because Jesus did have concern with the poor. To be fair, these are well intentioned people that want to make a difference for the kingdom. Yet I've noticed that there are at least three main tactics people use. there are probably more than these, but for the sake of argument I'm only going to focus on these three. (note: This is not true of ALL churches, these are just some trends that I've noticed.)1.) THE WORD COUNT FALLACY - Basically these people really like looking at their concordances and say, "The Bible talks about this topic x amount of times, therefore we should be really focus on this." The problem with that is the fact that the Bible covers A LOT of topics and doctrines. Thus, we should interpret the Bible in light of other passages of scripture that talks about other stuff.
2.) THE EMOTIONAL APPEAL - This is another common practice, mostly used by charasmatic people. It usually consists of one person who has had a life changing experience overseas and so they really want you to be involved with what they themselves. The only problem is that not everyone is called to be an eye, or a hand, or a foot. (see 1 Corinthians 12:14-18) God's heart is way bigger than what you and I can even comprehend. Sometimes, He reveals different parts of His heart to other people and yet the same time they are all connected to the same big main thing that is on His heart... that none would perish but come to the saving knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:4)
3.) ETHNOCENTRICISM - This one is more of a shot at Conservative Christians who have warmed the same pew since third grade. They've done things their way and that's just about the only thing they know. When you approach them with a new idea to do outreach, they'll flip out because you've just violated their social norms. They are more concerned with orthodoxy, and less concerned with orthopraxy. With them, they will think that unless you do things their way, they think that you are automatically think that YOU are the heretic. Other less strict churches will do the same with orthopraxy, or with their adgendas.
So, what is a Christian supposed to do? The best way would do what Paul told Timothy.
"But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. " (2 Timothy 3:14-15 ESV)
It isn't bad to get involved with different causes. But when people start bullying me with "you should be involved with this cause or that cause." I just keep in mind that I really only have one cause. And that cause is Jesus!
In what ways have you experienced bullying in the church?


