Devotional – fast food fast Church
Learning the Trade
I remember working in the Education Department with a man who had once been a carpenter before changing careers to teaching. In talking with him about his days as a master carpenter, he said something I have never forgotten:
“One does not learn the tricks of the trade—you learn the trade!”
We live in a time where everything must be quick and convenient—hence the explosion of fast-food chains and self-service booths in most supermarkets. Sadly, this thinking has drifted into the Church. Many now want a “sermonette”—something not too deep, not too long—so they can get into and out of church quickly.
But sermonettes produce Christianettes—people who are shallow in every part of their walk with God.
As a result, solid doctrinal teaching is often pushed aside, and easy “pop gospels” are churned out to meet the demands of the new consumer Christian.
Yet the Bible clearly tells us:
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
(2 Timothy 3:16-17)
When we are passionate about a hobby, a sport, or some new interest, we seem to have no problem giving it the time and effort it requires.
This week, ask yourself honestly: Are you a Christianette type of follower?
Do you have the heart and discipline to study and grow as a true follower of Christ?
As the old Bob Dylan song says, “Times are a-changin’,” but let’s not drift into the same selfish patterns of the world.
Instead, let’s hold fast to the encouragement of Scripture:
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
(2 Timothy 2:15)