This weekend I received a comment from a forum at Crosswalk.com. I couldn’t figure out how in the world that the person got to my blog site, but they had a problem with the new “ProKids Policy” we implemented at FPC recently. The person noted in the comment (which I didn’t publish) that I was a “harebrain” for allowing our church to go that direction. I went to the forum and realized that we have created quite a stir, even though we are one of hundreds of churches that now require kids to go into relevant environments to learn about God.
But, here’s my deal. Why do Christians beat up other Christians? “ProKids” is not a biblical issue – it’s a preference for our church to connect adults and kids to Christ more effectively. I know that Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me” – He didn’t say, “Let the little children come to the adult worship service.” Remember some of His most powerful words:
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:35 (NIV)
We can disagree and do it in a loving way. Just because you disagree with me doesn’t mean that you are right (and it doesn’t mean that I am right). No one in that forum (that I am aware of) has ever been to FPC – and none of them know me. Why not just assume that our motives are pure and that we love God too – isn’t that possible?
I agree with you that we consistantly attack our own kind, we attack everykind. I am for the Prokids move as I have sat in the service to see and hear a deep spiritual time cut short by a child whose parents allow them to cry or talk loudly and intrusively. It’s not the kids fault they are being kids. I wonder where polite society went to that if someone was being a distraction they excused themselves and took it outside. Instead they get angry if someone asks them to do what responcible people do automatically.
I AGREEE!!!!!!!!!! Keep up the good work Dr.!
Josh, I just read the forum and personally if they spent more time spreading the gospel than complaining in a forum about something that is going on at a church that they are not part of there would be a lot more saved out there. Personally being new to FPC and just getting to know the ins and outs I think it is a fantastic idea to implement ProKids. I love kids, the programs FPC has in place are amazing. Our first time here we were impressed with watching kids running to the front door and excited. I personally remember being dragged into church when I was young thinking I was being tortured because I had to sit with the adults and listen to some old guy talking. It is apparent that FPC has some great folks working behind the scenes coordinating everything going on and it is running like a well oiled machine. We appreciate all you do and all everyone else is doing. We are also looking forward to helping in anyway we can.
I really think it is a win for everyone. Not sure why all of the commotion.
I think the staff has done an excellent job in presenting the ProKids policy. Church is a battlefield for us adults and for the children and Satan will do whatever he can to divert our attention and the kids attention away from what is being presented.
When you read John 13:35 and then read a forum like that, or just look at the Church in general, it really makes you wonder. Darla’s comment before is exactly right. You have to just be out looking for trouble to make such an issue of something so insignificant. It’s shameful, actually, Don’t be distracted by that nonsense.
You don’t need to post this comment, just wanted to encourage you and your pastor because God’s obviously doing a great work in your church!
Thanks Cynthia! I appreciate your encouragement!