In the August NZ Baptist, Grant Dixon wrote a letter, “Mega Threat,” in which he states: “In mega churches preaching is an art form … whereas Baptist preaching tends to be of an easier topical style with scant reference to scripture.”

And about worship: “Most modern music can be complicated and difficult to sing but mega church worship leaders are tuneful and inspiring and are backed up by professional audio-visual support and theatrical lighting.”

Years ago I attended a mega church on the North Shore where they had all the latest technology and I did come into the presence of the Lord during worship. But as you say, Grant, “mega churches may present a friendship challenge.” This one surely did and after 10 months of getting nowhere with friendships I chose to meet with God on my own at the beach.

Now I attend a middle sized church were we have Bible based teaching, sometimes topical. But where in God’s Word does it say preaching should be an art form? Jesus kept it simple. He used parables.

Our worship is varied – modern music, older worship songs and – dare I say it – hymns, shows us seniors we respect and value them.

Every summer, while holidaying in the Bay of Islands, I enjoy fellowshipping at one of the smallest Baptist churches in New Zealand. They meet at the local primary school and don’t need theatrical lighting and professional audio/visual support to worshjip. Their services begins with a mihi (Maori greeting) which I am always moved by as they welcome me by name. At their worship time they use a mixture of modern and older worship songs.

My God is omnipresent so I can meet with him anywhere, including tiny churches middle sized churches and mega churches. My God is omnipresent, even when technology fails.

– Louise Ward
Manurewa