It Might Draw a Crowd

by Barry Haynes

The city of Butte, Montana had a problem when the large strip mine in the area closed down in 1992. They were left a 500-acre, 900-foot-deep lake of stagnant water filled with an amalgamation of toxic metals and acidic mine waste known as the Berkley Pit. An overflow of the pit would be an immediate danger to the entire community. Elaborate steps had to be to be taken to scare away waterfowl with loudspeakers, firecrackers, and a boat, since some geese that had touched down there for a drink were later found dead, their insides scoured with burns and sores.

So what could they do with a pit of toxic water? Simple, sell tickets! The city found out that people would pay to come in and see the mess. One chamber official called it the “biggest tourist draw in southwest Montana.” They even had plans to increase the ticket prices because attendance was so high.

It goes to show that people can be drawn in to see anything. Sadly, many churches have fallen victim to this philosophy. These churches attempt to justify false doctrines about worship and the authority of scriptures with the idea that they will bring in people.

It doesn’t matter if it does bring in people; you still have a dangerous problem.  Just because people will flock to see something doesn’t make it safe or good. Unscriptural worship is like a toxic waste that can eat away the children of God in worldly self seeking people. Just because it may draw a crowd does not make it right.