Perhaps like never before, Christian churches want to be seen as “relevant.” Several independent congregations in Florida have even used that word as a part of their name. The Relevant Church in Miami describes itself in this way: “We started a little over a year ago with a desire to create a church where people could feel comfortable and loved. We wanted to build a church that was real, genuine, and dealt with relevant issues” (www.relevantchurchmiami.com). Other churches have worked to create an image in which they are seen as “in touch” with today’s culture, concerned about timely issues, and able to provide answers to the struggles people face every day. In a desire to offer relevance, those leaders stress relationships over doctrines and tips for Christian living over solid biblical teaching.

You may have read such descriptions and wondered, “What’s wrong with those goals and strategies?” Nothing. But all too often the all-consuming desire for relevance and popular appeal produces solutions that do more harm than good. Instead of relevant churches, these strategies often produce churches that are little more than reflections of a changing popular culture. Instead of encouraging Christians to be different as they serve as salt and light in a hostile world, they inadvertently encourage Christians simply to blend in to a culture and a society that is anything but Christian.

If you belong to a WELS congregation, it’s safe to assume that you believe that your congregation and your synod are relevant to your everyday life. It’s likely that you recognize that the true relevance of the church is not characterized by what everyone seems to want on a given day. Instead true relevance lies completely and entirely in the message proclaimed in the pulpits and classrooms of our churches.

What are some things that are important for your life in today’s world? You need to know that there is something called absolute truth. You need to know that you are a sinner who deserves the punishment of a righteous God. You need to know that this righteous God has revealed a way for sinners to have eternal life with him in heaven. You need to know that this way is found only in Jesus Christ and in his perfect life, his innocent death, and his glorious resurrection. You need to know the joy that comes from knowing God’s full and free forgiveness in Christ. You need to be reminded of your mission in life. You need to be encouraged to live your life as husbands, wives, children, workers, friends, and citizens in a way that reflects the love that God has shown for you in Christ. You need to know the importance of prayer, the power of God’s sacraments, and the joy of worshiping with your fellow believers.