In a sermon I preached not long ago, I made mention of the fact that you never see “First Baptist,” “Methodist,” or “Community Non-Denominational” plastered above an underground church. When all one wants to do is worship God without being imprisoned or killed, denominational distinction is one of the least of their worries.
That led me to think of other things that an underground church might not worry about:
- The color of the carpet
- The font on the church bulletin
- Whether or not they sing a hymn or a praise song
- Whether or not the pulpit is made of wood or etched glass
- Cassette tapes or CD’s
- Bible Versions
- Post-graduate or seminary training
- Projection screens
- Padded pews
- Pews
- A family activity building
- Gold or silver communion accessories
- How long the worship lasts
- What people wear
- Parking
- Youth activities
- Revival Meetings
No, I don’t think underground churches ever have time to worry about all these things. They are more concerned with fellowship, encouragement, prayer, reading God’s Word in any version they can get their hands on, and staying alive.
Yet, it would seem we think we are closer to God than the underground, persecuted church because, after all, we have more things to worry about.
Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. – Jesus (John 17:20-21)
Maybe we should concentrate more on what really matters…”that the world may believe.”
The Recovering Legalist 
AMEN!!!