If your church had to devise a simple logo that every member wore as a tattoo, what would it be?
It is amazing the distinctive qualities which set one church family apart from another. Some are known by their doctrinal quirks.
- Non-instrumental music
- Baptism details (sprinkle, pour, immerse, for remission of sins, for church membership, symbolic act of salvation already received)
- Leadership questions (women’s role, divorced/single leaders)
- Bible versions (how about we just require everyone to know Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek?)
- Spiritual gifts
Some are known by their musical styles:
- Hymns. Nothing else. If it was good enough for Jesus. . .
- Blended
- Contemporary
- Rock and roll, baby!
- Open mic / experimental (a Gong Show/American Idol hybrid)
Some are known by their plethora of programs (I love saying that more than typing it).
Some have an unspoken, but very obvious, dress code.
Some are known by their “feel”:
- Mega-church meeting in a huge building resembling a mall
- Majestic cathedral possessing that Renaissance vibe
- Down-home, old-time religion with hardwood pews and a sweaty, angry preacher
- Family churches where everyone meets together from week-old babes to octogenarians
- Home churches just like in the 1st Century (sans sandals and robes)
You know what might be more impressive? If people knew our church by the distinctive lifestyle of its members. Imagine the community in which you lived immediately equating the mention of your church name with: love, mercy, service, humility, generosity, peace-loving, courageous, faithfulness, purity, joy, contentment, contagious attitudes.
The early church had that going for it. They were known by their love for one another, just like Jesus encouraged (John 13:34-35). Explosive growth was the result. No marketing plan. No target groups. No church slogan or logo. They simply lived like people who had met a risen Savior and were being changed in heart, mind and behavior by Him.
Pretty radical, huh?
Take your tattoo money and give it away. It could make an indelible mark which outlasts your flesh.
