In his book, Think Orange , Reggie Joiner references Acts 15 as one of the most unique passages of Scripture. It is the story of the first church business meeting. The discussion and debate centered around the topic of circumcision (yes, I'm refraining myself from linking to an external site detailing this). At any rate, there was a huge argument over whether or not non-Jewish converts should be required to practice the tradition of circumcision that was commonplace among the Jews. A surprisingly number of Jewish leaders were insisting that it was necessary for salvation.

Fast forward to the end of the debate. James, a key leader at the church in Jerusalem, stood up and made the following statement: "And so my judgment is that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God." (Acts 15:19) Brilliant! One of the early church leaders understood the importance of making it as easy as possible for people to connect with God. He realized that when we elevate our personal preferences, and traditions, and convictions to the point that it becomes difficult for people to become Christ Followers... there is a problem!

That's why at Great Lakes Church we have one filter that we use for every decision: Are we making it easy for people to connect with God or difficult? Does our style make it easy? Do our systems make it easy? Do our volunteers make it easy? Does our teaching make it easy? Do our kids programs make it easy? If not, we change it. It's that simple.