INSTITUTIONS: What we mean by institutions includes denominational churches, religious learning centers (Bible schools and seminaries), missionary organizations, foundations and financial organizations intended to support Christian work. Our goal is not to identify what is and is not a valid Christian institution, but to show the contrast between an institutionally organized church and what we read in the New Testment ~ especially the gospels.
What is the church supposed to look like? Is the model in the New Testament enough, or do we need more structure, administration, money and education? Many Christians argue that we do. On the other hand, a growing number think this is the way of the world. We are in their camp. We do not believe the institutionally organized church is the "Bride Jesus is building," and it goes far beyond anything we read in the New Testament in terms of structure. Is the need for Christian institutions another Christian myth? We think so. In fact, institutions may be holding back what God is trying to do ~ using individuals (e.g. Barnabas, the Son of Encouragement).
The kingdom of God is built up through relationships, and institutions routinely blow these to bits. My own life is an example. As a young Christian I asked my pastor if he would disciple me just like Jesus directed in the Great Commission. His answer: You need to go to Bible school. What happened? I spent a lot of money learning how to become a modern-day Pharisee. Institutions are blind to relationships, because they are resource driven. The problem does not end there. Institutions keep the church divided into opposing camps, create competiton among believers (for the promised resources), and blind believers to the personal responsibilities we have for one another.
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