Vol.XVII No.I Pg.1
March 1980

The Same But Different

Robert F. Turner

Sydney Harris, in a column of the Times-Union and Journal, Jacksonville, Fla., says, "A city inevitably changes its character and composition when it allows or encourages gambling casinos... The community doubtless has a right to decide what kind of a place it wants to be — but it cannot be several different kinds of places at the same time, nor can it remain the same under changed conditions."

That last line stuck with me. Neither city, person, nor church can change their life styles, conducts, and goals — and remain the same as before. We are what we are! The sweet innocent girl who tries "pot," takes on the disco routine, and dates the self-styled Fonz who goes "all the way," does not remain "that sweet innocent girl." It is her choice. Maybe she thinks the temporary popularity is payment enough; but she should not be surprised if her new image labels her "cheap" or a modern equivalent.

And by what stretch of terminology can one speak of a church as "a blood-bought, soul-saving, spiritual institution" when the smell of coffee, the sound of juke-box and ping-pong games, and boasts of its basketball team are its predominant characteristics. How can language mean anything when the sign says, CHURCH OF CHRIST, but the bus, fun-and-frolic, dress, and conduct say FAMILY SOCIAL CENTER?

Nor is the picture changed by ignoring or getting angry at this writer. Smashing the clock does not alter the time of day; for the clock does not make time, any more than some article is the standard of truth. If you are aware that the church of which you are a member is drifting away from a solid mooring on divine truth and authorized spiritual principles, that church is NOT the "same church I joined thirty years ago." It may meet in the same building, and wear the same name; but like the city that "sells out" its principles for more tax revenue — "it cannot be several different kinds of places at the same time, nor can it remain the same under changed conditions."

That church must correct its ways, or you, remaining there, must face the fact that you have changed also.