Some more NT Wright

I finished reading NT Wright's book "Simply Christian" today. I really enjoyed it reading it. My enjoyment came from the fact that not only was it written well but I think it has some very good things to say about/to Christianity.

Part of what I really found to be good was his reminder that Christianity is not simply about getting into heaven, in fact that is a false understanding. He speaks of the idea that Christianity is about the 'interlocking' of heaven and earth. Looking at the promises of God to bring about a new earth.

I was lead to think about this attitude that Christianity, faith in Christ, and church are all simply to avoid hell. To get into heaven. It seems like such a self-centered view of religion; making the death of Christ to be something to serve you. There seems to be such a removal from being involved in the body Christ.

One of the big problems in the church, in Christianity, these currently is a lack of commitment to the church. It seems to be something where too many people come and go as they please, as it is convenient for them. Maybe this has always been a problem. This isn't to say that you have to attend church every week and attend all church events. What I am saying is that we are called to be a part of this body even when it is inconvenient for us, even when we are not 'benefiting.' It is costly to follow God. Sometimes we appear foolish in the eyes of people. Sometimes are forced to sacrifice time and money. Sometimes it means letting someone sleep on your couch and raid your fridge.

Church is not about the individual, about the individual avoiding hell. It is about people being in relationship with and those people working together to do kingdom work.