The changing denominations: A change of mission

Modern society has increasingly become conditioned to embrace the “social gospel” concept. Although the program of work varies from one “community church” to another, they all have embraced the “social gospel” concept, while demonstrating little desire to be governed by the sacred scriptures.

The “social gospel” concept appeals to Luke 2:52 wherein it says Jesus grew mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially. Hence they reason that the church’s mission must be geared to the “whole man” concept. Of course, what is overlooked is that this approach obligates the church in realms unknown to its mission.

Many “community churches” offer “ministries” targeted for groups such as the deaf, grief recovery, anorexia/bulimia, schools, after-school activities, nutrition and weight-loss programs, financial planning sessions, singles ministries, and more. Unfortunately, our society has created people who are pampered, overindulged, and conditioned to cater to their flesh. The “social gospel” approach satisfies the objectives of soothing the uneducated conscience and catering to the flesh.

But in the first century, the church accomplished a simple but important mission. It edified its saints (Romans 14:19; Ephesians 4:15-16), it taught the lost (1 Timothy 3:14-15; 1 Thessalonians 1:6-8) and it helped its poor (Acts 2:44-45; 11:27-30). There is not a mention of the many “works”  of the “community church.”

Kyle Campbell