Rad Together

Radical Together, the followup book to David Platt's Radical, challenges churches to look at their use of money, time, and energy, and whether they are using those things in the best way to serve God and to further the gospel.  Could the funds delegated to building a new sanctuary or classrooms be used better in helping house churches in third world countries?  Do we need elaborate VBS programs, or would the children of God be better served in homes of Christian believers, serving children, neighborhoods, and the communities around them?  Are we trying to draw nonbelievers to our churches with contemporary musical performances, and searching for the best professional speakers? Should we rather be using our church services to build and disciple believers, and using the church, the people of God to share Jesus?

House churches in countries where it is illegal to preach the gospel don't have the elaborate music, the large auditoriums, or the fancy day camp programs.  The Bible does not say anywhere we need those things, only to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the of the Son, and of the the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20.  God does not need wealthy people or professionals to do His work, only people who are willing to sacrifice time, money, and energy for Him, and to share the gospel because of grace given to us.