What Can We Learn from the Contemporvant Service Parody?

by Justin Taylor

Bob Kauflin:

If you read my blog, you’ve probably already seen this video put out by North Point Media. It’s racked up thousands of views in the past couple weeks for obvious reasons and sparked some lively debate over at Vimeo.com.

Like most viral videos seeking to make a point, this one has its supporters and detractors. Some call it a brilliant parody while others are deeply offended by its supposed slap in the face at churches targeting unbelievers. I tend to side with the first group, and I think there are a few things we can learn from it.

Here are Bob’s seven points:

1. It’s a good practice, and even humble, to poke fun at ourselves.
2. Every church has a liturgy.
3. We Christians can be quick to express strong opinions about things we don’t fully understand.
4. Idolatry is alive and well in our church services.
5. We have to work hard to speak with integrity.
6. In our desire to be relevant, we mustn’t forget how “unflashy” Christianity can be.
7. Excellent production, seamless transitions, and well-planned meetings are no substitute for the power of the gospel.

Read the whole thing for his brief reflections on each point.