Knock, Knock

There is a difference between inspiration and imitation. We have witnessed too much of the latter in the church setting today. The controversy regarding hip-hop dance and step teams in the church is often viewed as a battle between the traditional church vs. the contemporary church. Jesus warned us about teaching the traditions of men in Colossians 2:8 "Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ." We must always ensure that all that we do lines up with the Word of God.

The Greek fratenity and sorority traditions have been almost exactly duplicated in the church setting. The style of dress, hand props, hand-clapping, rhythmic movement, and stomping can be seen in many churches and youth groups. There are great elements of movement in step that can definitely bring glory to God, but if the impression left is that of a Christian "knock-off" version of Greekdom, then we must seek the Lord for direction concerning our participation in it.

In all of our ministry offerings we must consider the following questions:
- Did we hear from the Lord?
- Is the message and purpose clear?
- Are we proclaiming the Gospel?
- Does it glorify God or bring undue attention to us?
- Is it more appropriate for church services or outreach efforts?

We are to be examples to non-believers, not copycats. There is nothing new under the sun; However, He made each of our ministries unique. We must not be afraid to do something new that we may have not seen before. Forget the "rules" of tradition and ask the Lord for precision in following His direction. His purposes and plans will always prevail!

Job 31:4 (NKJV)
Does He not see my ways, and count all my steps?

Psalm 17:5 (NKJV)
Uphold my steps in Your paths, that my footsteps may not slip.

Psalm 44:5 (NKJV)
Through You we will push down our enemies; Through Your name we will trample those who rise up against us.

3 John 1:11 (NKJV)
Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil has not seen God.

Feet on Fire declares in the video below why stepping brings glory to God: