| Home HCB Community Faith Personal Relationship With Jesus |
|
Personal Relationship with Jesus
"Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus?" As an evangelical, I've heard that all of my life. I never liked it much, even as a young man. When I was older I was able to articulate my dissatisfaction with how imprecise that language is. Really, if you aren't an insider in the church, what does that phrase even mean to you?
Lately the imprecise language doesn't bother me as much as the sheer arrogance of the statement. Your relationship with Jesus, unlike the surface-level relationships of most people, is "personal." I can't help but think of that classic line for cheesy sequel movies. "He's back. And this time IT'S PERSONAL!"
We need to be careful about the language we use about God. Apart from being rather arrogant, such familiar terms could put us in danger of forgetting the holiness of God. God is wholly other.
High Calling Editor Marcus Goodyear recently wrote something about the religious language of personal relationship. He helped write a drama for his church wherein he questioned the "personal relationship" language. I'm impressed with his bravery. Such a drama is likely to be questioned in a Baptist church. Marcus asks what we mean by saying that. What are the implications?
It's good stuff. Don't miss it.
“You don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus?” my wife asks.
“How can I!” I say. “I’ve never seen Jesus. I’m not talking about some kind of metaphysical conversion experience. I’m not talking about Jesus in others, least of these kind of stuff.”
“Then what are you talking about?”
It’s not a real conversation. Its staged. Part of a one hour drama I helped write for our church’s Thanksgiving outreach. We’re performing it this Saturday, and we’re in crunch time. Drama people know what I mean. God help me remember my lines....Read More.
Other 
Most
We recommend logging in before posting comments
Reader Comments
Stay Connected
Subscribe for free to receive email encouragements about your work—once a week, once a day, or both!
Most Popular Posts
Most Emailed Posts
Featured Partner
RECENT COMMENTS
Daily Reflection From Laity Lodge
Is It Right to Displa...
In last Friday's reflection, I asked the question: Is it right to display art in places of worship? Ezekiel's vision of the ideal temple in Ezekiel 41 answers that question affirmatively. Today, I... Read More +
Founded by the H. E. Butt Foundation