Dr. Jerry Sittser

Why the Christian Movement Is—and Must Be—Messy

Have you ever wondered why Christianity, with its profound promises of hope and redemption, often feels chaotic, unpredictable, and downright messy? What if embracing that mess is the key to a deeper, more authentic faith?

Join us for an enlightening evening with Dr. Jerry Sittser, renowned author, theologian, and professor emeritus at Whitworth University. With decades of wisdom from books like A Grace Disguised and When God Doesn't Answer Your Prayer, Dr. Sittser has guided countless seekers through life's toughest questions.

In his compelling lecture, "Why Christianity Has to Be Messy", Dr. Sittser will unpack why the Christian movement, birthed in Jerusalem among Jews, could not remain predominantly Jewish for long in light of the Great Commission. Paul and his companions led the charge to reach Gentiles. The success of that mission raised a question. Should the church require Gentile converts to become Jews first? Church leaders decided at the Jerusalem Council that one conversion—to Jesus Christ alone—was enough. That decision cut the movement loose to grow rapidly. It also changed the movement itself: it became radically Christ-centered, focused on discipleship, global in outlook, and messy, messy because adapting to new cultures without compromising the gospel usually creates mess. How can the church learn to embrace that mess as an essential part of its very identity and mission?

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, October 16

• Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

• Location: Third Christian Reformed Church (Third CRC), 514 Liberty St, Lynden, WA

Admission is free and open to all—whether you're a lifelong believer, a curious skeptic, or somewhere in between. Bring a friend, grab a seat early, and prepare to be challenged and encouraged!

Don't miss this opportunity to dive deeper. RSVP today.

Let's embrace the mess together. See you there!