Modern concepts of “worship” combined with weekly “sermons” by a “senior pastor” at scripted “services” – along with mortgages, buildings called “sanctuaries” with spectator seating, and Old Testament tithing – were not part of the church in the New Testament.

Surprised? Search Scripture for yourself.

But they do seem to go hand-in-hand these days …

Because, after all, professionally produced staged shows that dependably attract weekly paying audiences don’t come cheap or easy.