Some people believe that competition fosters growth and development. They argue that without competition; there might never be vocal/instrumental
development in the church choir, the sermons preached might never get deep enough, the social and financial status
of the church members might never improve, etc.
I think its fine as long as it does not lead to the growth of bitterness, envy, and all the bad things that come with competition as the world defines it. Except our competion should lead to edification of each other, growth in love and support for one another as we all strive for the ultimate crown of life.
A competition is a race where there is a prize(s) at stake for the best. Such a prize may be material (a medal, money,etc)or immaterial (pride, approval, status acquisition, etc). I can't help but wonder what prize(s) there is/are in a fellowship of believers where every everyone is a participant and a winner!Spurring on each other (as the scripture commands) such that everyone finishes the race is all it would take- a race and not a competition! Competing particularly among believers is often driven by self(ego)motivation which would be a recipe for an unhealthy church. BOTTOM LINE: COMPETITION IN CHURCH AIN'T OK!!!
If you look at competition as the WORLD looks at it then it aint right, but if you look at the fact that we need to spur each other sometimes everybody has to bring their "A" game to the table not in search for the best but to encourage each other to growth. So we can "compete" only if it is building the body of Christ. Cause ultimately we each contribute to the general growth of the body of Christ.
I think its fine as long as it does not lead to the growth of bitterness, envy, and all the bad things that come with competition as the world defines it. Except our competion should lead to edification of each other, growth in love and support for one another as we all strive for the ultimate crown of life.
ReplyDeleteA competition is a race where there is a prize(s) at stake for the best. Such a prize may be material (a medal, money,etc)or immaterial (pride, approval, status acquisition, etc). I can't help but wonder what prize(s) there is/are in a fellowship of believers where every everyone is a participant and a winner!Spurring on each other (as the scripture commands) such that everyone finishes the race is all it would take- a race and not a competition! Competing particularly among believers is often driven by self(ego)motivation which would be a recipe for an unhealthy church. BOTTOM LINE: COMPETITION IN CHURCH AIN'T OK!!!
ReplyDeleteIf you look at competition as the WORLD looks at it then it aint right, but if you look at the fact that we need to spur each other sometimes everybody has to bring their "A" game to the table not in search for the best but to encourage each other to growth. So we can "compete" only if it is building the body of Christ. Cause ultimately we each contribute to the general growth of the body of Christ.
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