During our last class we talked about church architecture. I can't help but wonder, how much of the design is planned out specifically to attract new people, and keep the current members coming back for more? Are the intentions of the church to glorify God, or make a nice picture on a wedding day?
I think there is a fine line between glorifying and trying to be flashy, and that line is often crossed. But, you have to consider the intentions. Yes, building a church for vein reasons is not the best idea. But, who wants to attend church in a dump, right? It's hard to keep the bills paid on love. I think one of the biggest selling points in evangelizing a new christian is the beauty of the church. People are attracted to beauty, ethical or not, and to keep the numbers up, churches have to shape up.
You're definitely right! And that is why I try to steer clear of those types of churches. The church I attend is nice and in a nice area, but as plain and simple of a building and decor as it gets. We don't have kitchens or basketball courts, etc. I think it's important to use the church funds wisely. Especially when there are so many evangelistic needs out there that need to be funded, a million dollar building is just unnecessary and a being a poor Shepard of one's money. If people are there for the right reasons, they will come regardless of the building. They will sit on the floor if they have to!
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