When Edgy Becomes Offensive

I have rarely shied away from being edgy.

•“Get their attention!”
•“Prove that you’re a real person!”
•“Give them something to talk about!”
•“Connect with those who aren’t churched!”

These sayings were the unspoken mantra for many pastors in my generation. While there is nothing inherently wrong with any of these statements, without wisdom and prayerful attention, a pastor can easily cross the line from edgy to offensive.

(I have unquestionably done this many times—especially in the past. In recent years, I’ve been convicted that I was being a bad example.)

The message of Christ and the cross is offensive. But our language and attitude doesn’t have to be.

Without drifting into legalistic rules, here are a few suggestions:

•When you are promoting something, don’t make your printed materials and billboards something you wouldn’t want your 9-year-old son or daughter to see.
•Don’t use language you wouldn’t want to hear your children say.
•Keep your humor appropriate. A cheap laugh isn’t worth setting a bad example.
Our message will always be offensive to someone. Let’s make sure were are offensive for the right reasons and not the wrong.

by Craig Groeschel