That's Not Entertainment

Acts 8:1-13
John 5:30-47
In John’s gospel Jesus says that the works that the Father has given him to do testify on his behalf (John 5:36). In our reading from Acts this morning it is the works of Philip that testify to the Samaritans. Philip, who along with Stephen was one of the newly ordained deacons of the church, has been driven out of Jerusalem by a “severe persecution.” In Samaria his work is so profound that even a magician named Simon comes to believe in Jesus. Simon had previously been known as someone special because he could perform tricks that amazed people. But Philip does more than tricks, Philip changes lives to such an extent that the glory of God in Jesus Christ is made known.

As a minister I know the pressure that congregations are under to make themselves known, sometimes by “doing tricks,” offering programs that entertain or meet superficial needs to consumers. That is not the call the church receives from God. The church should be about changing lives, about touching people so deeply that they can never really be the same again, about paying attention to the least and the lost and not the powerful and influential. Until the church accepts the challenge of making disciples instead of making budgets or making itself feel important then it will wander in the desert of isolation from God. But when the church accepts its role as changing lives, even if it means death for the church, then it will truly do the work of the one who sends it.

Philip did the work he was sent to do, and the world could offer nothing better, for the world had nothing better to give. Simon was convinced and turned from his old ways. When will we, the people of God, finally be convinced to do the work of God even if, like our Savior, it kills us?

Prayer: Lord, you have called us from darkness into light that we may share your love with others. Forgive us when we wander into meaningless pursuits. Help us to return to your will and to live our faith with vitality and trust so that others may come to know you better. In Jesus’ name. Amen.