When I wrote “Cheap Grace” in 1998, I had no idea that the downward
spiral of those claiming to be “born again” Christians would continue
as it has. With all the talk about huge revivals, the growing
popularity of what passes as “Christianity,” and the appearance of
mega-churches, I guess I shouldn’t be surprised. Actually, I think
this downward spiral began long ago, and was evident after the death
of the early vegetarian Church fathers who lived disciplined lives.
After all, the Bible warns us about the world and its attractions,
and tells us to “…work out your salvation with fear and trembling”
(Philippians 2:12).
So much for “cheap grace”!
1 John 2:16-17 describes and warns against the self-indulgence that
pervades the world:
16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust
of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father,
but is from the world.
17 And the world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one
who does the will of God abides forever.
~ New American Standard Bible
That is why it is difficult for me to understand how so many of those
who claim to be believers and religious leaders fail to mature into true
“children of God”: “For the anxious longing of the creation waits
eagerly for the revealing of the sons [children] of God.” “…in hope that
the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption
into the freedom of the glory of the children of God.” (Romans 8:19-21)
Instead of freeing creation from its corruption, these believers and
religious leaders are actually contributing to the ungodly corruption of
this earth.
In metaphorical language, 1 Peter 1:23-25 further explains the
futility of a “world-centered” life:
23 for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but
imperishable, that is, through the living and abiding word of God.
24 For,
"All flesh is like grass,
And all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers,
And the flower falls off,
25 But the word of the Lord abides forever. "
And this is the word which was preached to you.
~ New American Standard Bible
For more thoughts on “Cheap Grace,” see:
http://all-creatures.org/heart/5dec98.html
http://www.all-creatures.org/heart/blog-20060128.html
