Food, Gimmicks, and Recreation

by Jeff May

Problems arise as we strive to serve God faithfully, but God has given us a tree - the tree of Calvary, to be used in such situations, just as Moses cast in the tree at Mariah to resolve the problem of the bad water (Exodus 5), and Elisha cast in the tree branch to resolve the problem of the lost ax head (II Kings 5). Cast in it, brethren! See the difference it makes.

How ashamed we ought to be if we think people are drawn to Christ with food, recreation, and entertainment. There's enough power in the tree (of Calvary). Jesus Himself said, "And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to Myself" (John 12:32). The man who sees his problem will come to Calvary's tree for his remedy. He needs nothing else. He desires only "Jesus Christ and Him crucified" (I Corinthians 2:1-5).

The use of such gimmicks is a direct reflection of our lack of faith and trust in the word of God (Romans 1:16). What is the difference between this and in using creeds, robes, incense, instrumental music, and other such gimmicks to make the worship "entertaining"? Are we at worship to please ourselves or God?

"I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ" (Galatians 1:6-10).