The term "hidden curriculum" has been used by educational professionals to describe the sub-culture or unwritten code or rules that develop unchecked over time in a school setting, some to the detriment of that educational system. Here, I will briefly examine some that develop over time in church culture. These attitudes blend into our worship and mode of operation and seep into our protocols. If left unchecked, these attitudes can become poisonous to the unity that should exist amongst the body of believers. Though, presented in a comical way, I hope you will be challenged in your thinking and encouraged in your examination of your faith. Here's some hidden curriculum thinking:
1. "Nobody is greater than Sis. Applesauce"- yes, Sister Applesauce is good at what she does, she runs a tight ship, and has 5,000 responsibilities. The problem is that you will never know what anyone else is capable of doing because Sis. Applesauce insists on handling it all...and when Sis. Applesauce can't run the show, then the show is canceled.
2. "Only Bro.Shipshape can do that. End of discussion."- This type of attitude leads new members to believe that they may not have a place in service, that there is no compromise, and no teamwork needed.
3. "Feel free to visit, but only certain people who meet Bro.Society's qualifications can join our church." This smacks of elitism which should not be apart of the body of Christ. Salvation is a free gift. Membership in the body of Christ has bought with a price beyond the world's measure.
4. "Elder Moneybags can do what he wants, treat others how he wants, because of how much he gives." Giving is an important part of ministry, but it isn't the only part of ministry. When we focus excessively upon this it gives the impression that the church and its standards can be bought.
5. "Addressing Bro.Do-Nothing will only get you rebuked as he is well liked and entertaining." When we exalt personality above character we become nothing more than a place of entertainment rather than a place of discipleship and change.
6."Sis. Vacationer can serve when she wants even though she's never prepared and always late." This attitude sends the message that God, service, and worship are not important. If we only serve God when it's our turn or when it's convenient for us, what does that say about the quality of our devotion to Him?
7. "Don't even breathe too deeply around Mo. Fussbudget or disagree: she will slander you, and you'll never be viewed the same because of her influence in the church." Influence can be a good thing or bad thing depending on who's wielding it.
Many times we see these attitudes, and we ignore them, trying to go on in service our trying to press in to worship God. I'll admit, I've been guilty of that. Sometimes it is just easier to ignore it than to address the issues head on. However, if left unchecked, this Hidden Curriculum Church can kill, steal, and destroy the very fabric of unity. Hidden Curriculum leaves room and opens the door for:
Bullies
Manipulators
Controlling Spirits
False Teachers
Legalism
Elitism
Exposing this Hidden Curriculum deactivates the enemy's plan to rule over the church and removes Satan's seat. The grace and salvation of God has been dispensed freely, but paid for with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Let's do away with Hidden Curriculum Church. After all, everything is made bare before the eyes of God, and nothing is hidden from His sight. If we are to live in unity, our past identity, and only that should be hidden in Christ.
Peace and Church Love
Wow! So much of what I attempted to say earlier. I love this. Thank you so much for sharing. It May trigger some, but I got it 💯.
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