Would Jesus Use Faith to Justify Violence? // M-Note 4.18.2026

Last weekend, I started a new series called Christian in Name Only. I introduced the problem I wanted to address – so many people in the public sphere are using Jesus’ name to justify actions that are contrary to what Jesus teaches. That message was listened to four times more than a typical weekend message (if you missed it check it out here). It struck a chord with many of us who are angry about the way the Christian faith and message of Jesus is being distorted in the public square. Instead of serving God, our faith is being used to serve economic, political, and social agendas. And it is important that we talk about it. Why?
 
Because when leaders distort the message of Jesus to justify actions contrary to what he taught, it causes so many people to say, “If that is what it means to be a Christian, I don’t want to have anything to do with it.” This has happened throughout history, and throughout history Christians have had to push back and speak up for the authentic Jesus. I think we are in a similar time today. The way leaders are using our faith in distorted ways has caused many to want to shy away from church and no longer claim the name of Christian. But, I believe the best way to resist Christians in name only is to more authentically follow Christ and create churches that welcome people to meet the real Jesus. That is why I think The Gathering is such an important witness, especially right now.
 
This week, I will continue the series by talking about one of the most destructive distortions of our faith that we see right now. Many are using the Christian faith to justify violence and war while Jesus consistently taught a path of nonviolence. The message is once again timely given all that is happening in the news. It is an important week to be in church, and an important week to invite others to join you. The best way for us to resist the misuse of Jesus’ name is to gather to more faithfully proclaim the authentic Jesus. And, that is exactly what so many of you are doing.
 
Last week, at the end of my message, I challenged us to respond by signing up to serve and welcome families and kids with disabilities. You all did it, and we had an overwhelming response. In fact, we will have enough volunteers to serve all of the families on our waitlist for the next Respite Night as well as extra volunteers for future Respite Nights. If you signed up but have not yet been contacted, please let us know. Thank you, Gathering, for showing up and making space to welcome kids and families with disabilities. It is one way to witness to what the church is supposed to be. I am really proud of you.
 
Let’s do it again this weekend. I hope you will plan to join me for church this Sunday. Enjoy your day, and I will see you in worship!  
 
Peace,
 
Matt

P.S. We're coming up on the annual One CoreGroup One Day event, which will be Tuesday, May 5, at 6:30. I heard a rumor that Pastor Charity will wear some sort of wig if enough people sign up to come, which is reason enough to be there! But, even more importantly, it's an incredible, tangible way to witness the power of CoreGroups, connect with others outside your own group, and hear about where this ministry is headed next year. Plus, there will be great food from our friends at Felix's in Dogtown. I'll see you there.