There has been a lot of criticism about the educational system in our country. Statistics are showing that many school districts are failing to produce positive results. Many young people are failing to grasp certain subjects, as evidenced by their grades. We find similar observations in many churches. The grasping of Truth is negligible in certain venues. Fear, doubt, anxiety, worry, strife, gossip, divisions is evidenced by so many Believers. These negative responses to life show a lack of understanding as to the intent of God’s Word. We hear about the Truth, but understanding and applying the Truth are two different things!

The Apostle Paul realized that the Corinthian church was lagging behind other churches. They were a “milk” church, hearing only the basics. They were not able to take the “meat” of the Word because of their carnally centered life. (I Corinthians 3:1-3) Paul also rebuked other Believers for failing to achieve spiritual growth. (Hebrews 5:12-14)

Week after week Bible based churches share the written Word with the hope that repetitive teaching will help establish Truth. The foundational “course” is repeated so many times that the “evidence” of maturity is gauged by one’s emotional response. Going over the fundamentals of the Christian Faith has a purpose, but to set up “camp” and rehash the basics will limit spiritual growth.

Much of the preaching today is aimed at getting people emotionally involved. Thge “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10) teaching is overlooked. The phrase, “I feel the presence of the Lord here today.” stokes the fire of excitement and active participation. When are we going to realize that when we gather to worship, Jesus is coming with us! We don’t go to church to experience Him for He is alwauys with us. When we allow our emotions to evidence His presence we display our ignorance of the Scriptures. A great deal of Christian music today is keyed to awaking the Believer to a God consciousness. In some cases it is our carnal nature that is being played upon. There is a place for emotions, but emotions must never override Scriptural Truth.

Pastors need to feed their flocks with Biblical protein that will help to build their faith. In so doing, the circumstances in life will not tear down their lives, but will build them up. To continually preach foundational truth, while neglecting to teach the meat of the Word, will continue to house Believers in the “cages” of religious tradition. (Hebrews 6:1, 2)

May our churches be “butcher” shops, where we offer the finest in meat!