Charisma
Webster's defines charisma as "personal magic of
leadership: magnetic charm."
Churches of today seem to be getting caught up in a desire to boast of
their leaders charismatic abilities. The focus of these churches is not the
message but the minister or "noted speaker". There's no question that
these churches can be more entertaining and there is nothing wrong with having a
church that is entertaining, but it should not be the focus.
Some times church growth and funds in the bank seem to be the goal, when
spiritual growth should be the real goal.
Faithfully teaching God's word and laboring in a humble way in sincere
service may not attract the masses, but it will attract those who are searching
for the truth and not entertainment. Is it the excitement behind the pulpit our
focus, or the message?
Yet a church should be enjoyable and joyous, not dull and
boring.
Certainly there are outstanding, gifted and dynamic speakers who preach
with a focus on the gospel, and we should give thanks for these people.
1Co 2:1-5 And I (Paul), brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Our focus should be on God rather than on the entertainment or charisma these churches or people possess.
