The Pew Warmers
".....The contents of this book are the results of decades of observing how churchgoing people live their lives; about their beliefs; and how multitudes are being led into believing that they are Christians. These writings are about what is being preached and practiced today in the name of Christianity.
".......What is being practiced and preached in most churches is labeled as Christianity, but is more akin to a social gospel attuned to the cultural lifestyles of the membership. Churchgoing or church membership is not the door that leads to eternal life and heaven. Neither is living a moral life or merely believing in God a doorway to a heavenly home. Biblical teachings indicate "only a remnant" will be saved and Jesus' teaching that "only a few" will find salvation, support these conclusions."..........
"........Denominations go against denominations and churches go against churches competing for members. And when inviting someone to church, the invitation is "come and hear our preacher" or "we have a program to meet every need." Have you ever heard or have you ever been invited to visit a church by having someone say to you, "Come and feel the presence of Jesus or come and worship God and give Him praise?"
A church is the easiest and least costly place in the United States where a person can become a member. Churches don't have initiation fees or monthly dues. Very few will be told that the church will be expecting a lot from them, and in some cases will be handed a few pamphlets explaining church membership. When a person says that he or she is a Christian or has someone put words into his or her mouth, membership in most churches becomes obtainable.
Many churches are so eager to add names to their rolls that the prerequisite of salvation for membership is forgotten. There are no dues, "just offerings and tithes or whatever the Lord lays on your heart to give." The minister appears to be doing his or her job when people are walking the aisle and joining the church. Enlargement of the church rolls will enhance a minister's resume and increase the chances of his or her moving on to a more attractive and rewarding parsonage."
The dilution of Christianity has come a long way since the day of Pentecost. The early Christians met, shared, sacrificed, rejoiced, were of one accord, and proclaimed the name of a Savior that had been crucified, buried, raised, yet still lives, and was coming again. Ask someone today who is the "Head of the Church," and that person might name the Pope, the preacher, or some influential deacon down at the local congregation. Were the early churches perfect churches? No, there were unbelievers even then, but they were in the minority. Saved believers who will forever remain imperfect should now be striving for perfection."
Excerpts from Good Times, Bad Times, Ugly Times...That's Life!