Should a church organize social activities?
Question:
I have been a Christian for nearly 40 years and recently became a member of a new congregation after moving.
One of the initial impressions is the focus among the brethren about various social activities. Card playing clubs, baseball outings, book clubs, etc. Some of these are promoted from the pulpit, and signs are posted in the building. The elders have also designated “teams” with specific areas of focus. One team is responsible for determining what social activities the congregation feels will help members connect better and organize those activities. Some activities are spiritual, like Bible studies, but others are not. I was shocked that in a survey the team conducted of members asking about desired “activities,” there were more secular than spiritual suggestions.
As I’ve questioned some, I’ve been told that no church funds are ever used for these activities and that it would be wrong to do so (I agree). My conscience tells me that “funding” is not the only lens through which to view whether or not it’s a work of the church. Can you help me resolve this in the Word?
Thank you.
Answer:
"What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you" (I Corinthians 11:22).
The Corinthians were scolded for mixing the purpose of the worship assembly with home activities. Instead of coming together to remember the Lord's death, they were gathering to fill their stomachs. Paul argues that there is a separation of home activities and church activities.
When people chased Jesus after he fed the five thousand, Jesus scolded them. "Jesus answered them and said, 'Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled'" (John 6:26). The exists to offer people spiritual food. It offers people the gospel of Jesus Christ. "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, 'And they shall all be taught by God.' Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me" (John 6:44-45).
Sadly, many feel this is insufficient to attract or keep members.
"For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe" (I Corinthians 1:21).
What the church is all about is saving people from sin. Food and social activities won't do that. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek" (Romans 1:16). Members of the church have fun and enjoy each other's company. Still, we don't let ourselves lose focus that, as a church, our duty is a rescue mission "to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church" (Ephesians 3:10).
It is fine if some wish to organize activities for others in the church. It should be encouraged. However, it should not be mixed into the work that the church is seeking to accomplish.
