There’s been a lot of posts around about the myth of cultural relevance (CR) and why parts of the church are watering down the Gospel in pursuit of same. (See here for an example from Andrew Bale)

Regrettably, this backlash against CR is warranted as, all too often, one can find churches around where sin is now never mentioned on the basis that it might offend people!

The problem is though, that these churches have totally misunderstood the real need for CR in its true form. What we really need is the full and true Gospel presented to all in a way they both understand and using methods that are sufficiently attractive to draw them away from their current focus long enough to actually hear the good news.

In a later post, Andrew even agrees with the “attraction” aspect when he praises methods used in 1886 at Dartford. (My emphasis)

A brass band was quickly formed to accompany worship and to attract people to open air meetings.

Likewise we know that Paul used CR methods to spread the good news and Jesus himself told stories about sheep and crops because he was talking to people who understood about sheep and crops.

My plea is simple. Please don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater. What we are preaching must be full and accurate, how we are getting that message across is a totally separate discussion - don’t get confused between the two.

God bless