Pastor Bob

Here’s the thing…

Modern Christians face unprecedented challenges in staying fervent and committed to their faith in a world of distractions and competing ideologies. More so than in any (at least in my life) time before, we are inundated with a plethora of information at such breakneck speed, rendering processing time futile but distractability high.  Considering the average evangelical Christian spends more time scrolling on their phones than consuming God’s Word, it’s easy for dispiritedness to sneak in.  As the evangelical community navigates the complexities of the 21st century, one peril looming large is apathy. Let’s delve into the Scriptural foundations that caution against spiritual indifference and explore the tangible risks of being an apathetic Christian.

The Scriptural Warning:

As the cornerstone of Christian belief (lest we be reminded), the Bible provides clear guidance on the consequences of apathy in one’s faith. Proverbs 24:30-34 (CSB) vividly illustrates the spiritual landscape of a believer who succumbs to apathy:

“I went by the field of a slacker and by the vineyard of a man lacking sense. Thistles had come up everywhere, weeds covered the ground, and the stone wall was ruined. I saw, and took it to heart; I looked, and received instruction: a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the arms to rest, and your poverty will come like a robber, your need, like a bandit.”

This passage is a poignant metaphor for Christians who allow spiritual lethargy to take root. And take notice: apathy creeps into your daily life undetected, but soon it overtakes you completely. Alcoholism begins with one drink, and adultery begins with one act of flirtation. The weeds of indifference choke out the vibrant fruits of faith, leading to a poverty of spiritual vitality.

The Dangers of Apathy:

1. Diminished Witness: Apathy hampers our ability to effectively share the Gospel with a world in desperate need of hope. Many today search for hope, peace, and something greater than themselves.  They are searching for answers, often before knowing what questions to ask.

Matthew 5:13-16 (CSB) emphasizes the importance of being the salt and light of the world:

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt should lose its taste, how can it be made salty? It’s no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled on by men. You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”

2. Stunted Personal Growth: Apathy leads to spiritual stagnation. Hebrews 5:12-14 (CSB) warns against remaining spiritual infants:

“Although by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the basic principles of God’s revelation again. You need milk, not solid food. Now everyone who lives on milk is inexperienced with the message about righteousness, because he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature—for those whose senses have been trained to distinguish between good and evil.”

Conclusion:

The dangers of apathy in the Christian walk are real and significant. As modern believers, we must heed the Scriptural warnings and actively guard against spiritual complacency. Doing so enriches our faith journey and contributes to the Church’s vibrant witness in a world frantically seeking hope and purpose. Let us intentionally cultivate a fervent, engaged, and spiritually rich life that reflects the transformative power of our relationship with Christ. To Him be the glory and honor and power, evermore.