The Curse of Casual Christianity

Columbia, South America is one of the most violent countries in the world, and the violence is continually increasing. Colombia has a Marxist government that does nothing to curb the terrorism inflicted by the many guerilla groups which plague that country. Although the communist terrorists of different factions terrorize Protestants and Catholics, much of the persecution is aimed at evangelical Christians. In 1933, there were approximately 15,000 evangelical Christians in Colombia. In 2000, almost 2 million evangelicals claimed the name of Christ. Why is it that in the land of the free and the home of the brave there seems to be a growing apathy toward the things of the Lord; but in a place where professing Christ means persecution, torture, or even death, there is tremendous growth. I submit that modern western Christians have grown cold. We do not understand what Paul the Apostle was talking about when he said that he knows how to abound and suffer loss. I don’t think we fully grasp what Jesus said when he told his disciples not to marvel when the world hates them because they hated Christ. History has proven time and again that the persecuted church is a thriving church. I do not pray for persecution in America. I do not desire my brothers and sisters live a life of turmoil and hardship. However, I do desire that we turn from the casual Christianity that plagues American churches. Casual Christianity is a cancer that eats away at the very bones of the body of Christ. So many go to church on Sunday, say their prayers, and sing their songs; but never see beyond the comfort of Spiritual suburbia. The very first church gained over 3,000 members in one day; it was a persecuted church. The truth of the matter is that no one would be willing to die for Christ who is not willing to live for Him. Lord, my prayer is that you would crush the casual Christianity and the Spiritual apathy to which I am so prone. Lord, root out the cancer of comfort that threatens to destroy your church that you will build. Colossians 3:1 says that since we are raised with Christ, we must seek the things above. Give me an eternal view that I might loosely hold onto this world and all of its comforts. Search me O God, and know my heart. See if there is a wicked way in me. Lead me in the way everlasting.