Rejecting Consumer Culture in Churches for True Discipleship

Todd Wagner’s book *Come and See* offers a critical examination of the consumer culture that has permeated many contemporary churches. This culture prioritizes individual preferences and entertainment over the essential mission of discipleship—growing committed followers of Jesus. Churches are called to reject this consumer-driven mindset and instead focus on fostering spiritual growth and unity among believers.

The “unsaid contract” between pastors and congregations often leads churches to shape ministries around what people like rather than what will truly disciple them in Christ. When churches cater primarily to comfort, entertainment, and personal tastes, they risk losing sight of their fundamental purpose: making disciples who follow Jesus wholeheartedly. The church’s role is not to serve consumers but to center its life and ministry on the Gospel and the call to discipleship.

This approach aligns directly with the biblical teaching found in Philippians 2:3, which instructs believers to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility value others above yourselves.” True discipleship embodies humility and selflessness, urging both believers and church leaders to prioritize spiritual growth and unity over personal preferences. Genuine unity within the church arises from a shared commitment to pursuing Jesus and making disciples, rather than from superficial agreement on preferences that can cause division and distraction.

The consumer culture in churches transforms the community into a product designed to satisfy individual tastes, which undermines the church’s mission and fosters disunity. Instead, the church must cultivate a culture marked by humility, sacrificial love, and a collective pursuit of Christ. Valuing others above oneself, as Philippians 2:3 encourages, creates a community where humility and unity are foundational.

Discipleship, characterized by valuing others and pursuing spiritual maturity, is both the biblical and practical pathway to fostering unity and growth within the church. Prioritizing humility, service, and unity over personal preferences ensures that the church remains focused on its true mission: making disciples who follow Jesus wholeheartedly. [20:57] [22:41] [34:05]

This article was written by an AI tool for churches, based on a sermon from Mountainview, one of 2 churches in Highlands Ranch, CO