Christian Psychologist Makes A Shocking Confession
Larry Crabb, a well-known, and best selling Christian psychologist has written a shocking book. I have respected and been impacted by Larry’s work for nearly two decades. He would be on my list of favorite authors. His new book is called “Real Church” and it contains the white hot confession of the 64 year-old, Christ-centered psychologist. I’ll let him speak:
“I have no compelling desire to go to church. I wish I did, but I don’t…The more my interest in Christ has grown, the more my interest in church has lessened. I think that’s a terrible state of affairs. I wish it weren’t so. But it is. And I ask myself, why? …After talking with thousands of churchgoing people and looking under the surface of their lives to see what is really going on beneath, I don’t believe (with few exceptions) that the church in America is doing what God most wants done in the depths of people’s lives. We’re not reaching deep enough. We’re not penetrating the denial that keeps our worst sins and most terrifying fears out of sight…”
“Church as I know it usually leaves deep parts of me dormant, unawakened, maybe it’s familiarity, the predictability of pattern and content that I find boring…My hunger for truth…is rarely satisfied.”
Larry’s book raises many questions, which I’m sure many pastors will find threatening and irritating. For me, it stirred a desire for a healthier fellowship. A church that does not leave people stranded in the shallow end of Christianity, but one where the gentle rain from Heaven refreshes our spirits and sometimes — lightening strikes dry, thirsty hearts illuminating our need for forgiveness and healing and direction. One that Larry might even enjoy! What do you think?
Gary
Fort Myers Vineyard Christian Fellowship
(A Fort Myers Church)
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Comments
My heart goes out to this man but I’m sorry that I cannot agree with him. On a personal level over the last 16 years, my interest in going to church has increased. I look forward to Sunday mornings with my church family. But also, I know that we are not about the programs, or how good the band is, or even if there is going to be great coffee. I am there to feel the presence of my Lord; to honor, glorify, and love Him. This is my home, not just a place I go once a week. Maybe this man should search for a new home; one in which he feels God is alive. I always feel that the best way towards change that YOU want is from within. Why leave when you can contribute to bettering a situation. When YOU have the chance to inspire those around you. No one ever said that this journey was going to be easy. We need to be Tour Guides instead of Travel Agents and the journey will be so much better. Yes, it is every day that I also see Christians not living the way God intended. I’m guilty! But that does not take my hope away that I have in God and mankind. I still see His presence everywhere and everyday. I say, PERSEVERE!
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