Public Service Announcement for Church Leaders and Attendees

This is a reminder for myself, fellow pastors, and those who we will be fortunate enough to preach to this coming weekend. Every word that we will sing and proclaim has already been said. I know that a lot of time, energy, and money have gone into producing something original, but the truth is, truth is as old as God Himself. I hope leaders are excited about the opportunity to present and attendees to enjoy what God has already done. Let’s just not make the mistake that it is our new thing. There is nothing new underneath the sun. So why do we preach? Why do we attend? Why do we ask others to come with us? Because what has afflicted humanity through the ages still afflicts us today, and Jesus is still the only cure. So let’s do nothing clever that will leave anyone reflecting on something other than Jesus still being the only cure. We can never top the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. It is the crown jewel of Scripture and history. It does not need to be made relevant; instead, we must help each other become aware that our most pressing need is irrelevant when compared to or its fulfillment is ultimately connected to the gospel. I have much hope for the church today, not because of “old-fashioned” or “latest,” “emotional” or “eloquent,” “big” or “small,” but because somewhere the gospel of Jesus Christ will be proclaimed and all the powers of hell cannot stand against it, including us.