Is Christianity too Narrow?

The question posed to us in worship this past Sunday was: "Is Christianity too narrow?" The answer for me is simply, "yes". Because the question is flawed in its inception for it assumes all  agree that faith in Christ can be defined by the inclusive term 'Christianity.' If you are in a Christian expression that defines Christianity  as adhering exclusively to a certain version of Scriptures then Christianity is too narrow. If you are in an expression of Christianity that does not allow music in worship or does allow music but it must be organ and piano music only, then Christianity is too narrow. If you are in an expression of Christianity that subjugates women then Christianity is too narrow. This list could go on adinfinitum because of the thousands of denominations all putting their spin on Christianity. All such human efforts leave us with a very narrow definition of Christianity that falls short of Jesus' words; "Let all who are weary and burdened come unto me."

In fact, Jesus  not only invited all to come unto him, from the least to the greatest, he made a practice of bridging the gap by touching the lepers, the sick and the unclean. Jesus made a practice of being found among what others considered the common and ordinary. Only those who declared themselves 'righteous' found fault with his practice of righteousness calling him a drunkard and glutton. The Pharisee's view of faith was too narrow. Jesus redefined righteousness as not being separated from those considered 'unclean' but of actually touching them in grace and kindness demonstrating right living. Jesus demonstrated righteousness by loving others. Again, "Is Christianity too narrow?" Yes, if by righteousness they mean a certain moral code that all must adhere to in order to gain access and grace. This regulates Christianity to two camps - the 'ins' and the 'outs'. That is too narrow and does not cause justice to flow down like a mighty stream of water.

Our country is polarized into opposing camps politically, regionally, and even by class. A place of  healing should be found within the "sanctuary" of the church. The church for many has not been a sanctuary - a place of healing and restoration. A narrow version of Christianity excludes many from the One who is the way, truth and the life. The Scripture declares that God is close to the brokenhearted. I believe there are many who are heavily burdened and brokenhearted in this present generation.  Christianity could have a broad appeal if we would simply follow, "For God so loved the world." That is narrow in no sense and that is not only inclusive of all people but of the world itself as expressed in creation. For God so loved the world is an expression of redemption  personally, corporately, economically, and environmentally. Let's restart the conversation by asking, "Is the way of Jesus too narrow?" With a fresh approach there is hope for all including those already within the confines of the church.