Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 8
Christina was disturbed when church leaders discussed attracting the world, quoting, “Do not love the world…”—what does this expose about evangelism methods that depend on being appealing, and how would early Christian evangelism (marked by costly discipleship and a distinct kingdom) have clashed with that strategy?
Another way to ask: Christina was upset that church leaders focused on attracting the world, while Scripture says not to love the world. What does that say about evangelism that tries to be popular, and how would early Christian evangelism have clashed with that?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Her reaction exposes a tension: evangelism built on “attraction” can drift into worldliness and dilute discipleship. The transcript suggests she believes the church should be distinct—offering a different kingdom and a different way of life—even if that is less “appealing” to worldly tastes.
- She recounts planning church events and being shocked: leaders discussed “how they can attract the world into their church, and it just blew me away.”
- She grounds her concern in Scripture: “Jesus says… ‘Do not love the world or the things in the world…’”
- She labels the church culture: “This church was very worldly.”
- She also critiques their teaching emphasis: mostly “Jesus loves you, and life is wonderful,” without instruction on holiness.
- Her “kingdom” framing came later but fits the same concern: Jesus “came to bring heaven to earth now,” implying a distinct community life.
- Even her suggested outreach method isn’t “marketing” but hospitality and prayer: “having people in our home… show them love… build a relationship… pray and then act.”