Church Inc. VIII

Living Proof with Bishop Joseph Castillo

Returning to Our Roots: Rediscovering Ancient Values in the Modern Western Church
Church Inc.!
Today, we embark on a journey that calls us to challenge the commercialized aspects of the Western church and to rekindle the ancient Eastern values that were embraced by the early Christian community. As we gather here today, I want to invite you to open your Bibles to Mark 4, where we'll explore the timeless parable of the Sower and the Seed.
I. The Parable of the Sower and the Seed
In Mark 4, Jesus shares a parable that speaks to the very heart of our Christian faith. It's a story about a sower who scatters seeds, and those seeds fall on different types of soil. Some fall on the path, some on rocky ground, others among thorns, and still, some on good soil.
II. The Commercialization of the Western Church
Let's take a moment to reflect on how the Western church, in its pursuit of growth and prosperity, has often allowed the seeds of faith to fall among the thorns of commercialism and materialism. Many churches have become more focused on numbers, finances, and programs, rather than cultivating the fertile soil of spiritual growth.
III. Embracing Eastern Values
Now, as we look to ancient Eastern values, we are reminded of the early church's commitment to simplicity, community, and devotion to Christ. These values created fertile soil for the seeds of faith to take root and flourish. The ancient Eastern church saw the importance of spiritual depth over material wealth, unity over division, and love over selfish ambition.
IV. The Call to Rediscover Our Roots
Church Inc., I challenge you to rediscover these Eastern values in our Western context. Let us cultivate hearts that are like the good soil, receptive to God's Word, free from the thorns of commercialism and the rocks of worldly distraction. Let us strive to create a community that genuinely cares for one another, that values humility and selflessness, and that embraces a simple faith that seeks first the kingdom of God.
Conclusion:
As we continue our journey of faith, let us be inspired by the parable of the Sower and the Seed to return to our roots, to rediscover the ancient Eastern values of the early church, and to challenge the commercialized aspects of the Western church. In doing so, we can create a church that is a beacon of love, unity, and devotion to Christ, where God's Word takes deep root and bears abundant fruit. May our hearts be like good soil, ready to receive the seeds of faith, and may we be agents of transformation in our world. Amen.

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