I thought I had heard of everything imaginable, but I doubt I would have ever thought of this. It seems that some mega-churches are offering free infant and toddler care during services and couples are taking advantage of this. On Sunday mornings they drop their children off at the appropriate place, then leave the building and go to a coffee shop. After their “date” they return and pick up the kids. Now what’s wrong with this picture?
The truth is that since the church began there were those who have used the church. Those Pharisees, who would do anything to convert one Gentile, “joined” the church hoping to use it as a means of accomplishing their purpose. John says of them, “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us” (1 John 2:19). They were part of the church only for as long as it would accomplish their purpose.
Over the years I have seen so many examples of this same attitude. What about those “born again” politicians who claimed a relationship with Christ, at least until they were elected. Then there are those who have seen the church as an avenue for business contacts—insurance agents, car salesmen, Amway and Tupperware or other home parties promoters—who used the church and, when there were no more contacts, just drifted away.
Who has not been upset by those who used the church just so they could be given a wedding or baby shower? Knowing there is an upcoming marriage or the arrival of a new baby they become so regular in attendance until after the shower is given because of the kindness of ladies in the church. Then after the big event, they seemingly lose interest.
How about those who use the church for counseling in troubled times? When their marriages are struggling or they are having problems with a child, they rush to the church to get spiritual help, but once they receive it their interest dwindles. The same is true of those who use the church when in hospitals, during financial crisis, when needing food or during the aftermath of a hurricane.
So before we get too amazed about those who see the church as free babysitters during a Sunday morning date, think about all the other ways people have used the church.
Here’s something to think about. Wonder how the Lord feels about those who abuse His bride!