There have been many shifts in society in the past generation. These shifts affect how we understand God. One shift has been away from propriety to authenticity.
PICTURE: Helena Lopes/Unsplash
Propriety values correctness, order, decorum and respectability. In this kind of church, people expect things to be done right, in order, with reverence. This is good; it is God we are worshipping!
But an unhealthy emphasis on propriety can lead to a church full of masks. People put on a front to give the impression that ‘We are right; we have everything together and we never sin’!
Our current world, meanwhile, emphasises authenticity. Authenticity is about being real, honest, vulnerable. Authenticity aligns well with the Gospel. Something we want to embrace.
But too much authenticity can lead to putting reality above ideals, disrespectful familiarity and fatalism.
I value authenticity, but I can’t forget propriety.
Paul Clark’s musings can be heard on radio across Australia and at atthetop.org.au.
