The church, as described in the New Testament, is a dynamic and organic gathering of believers united by faith in Christ. It was characterized by simplicity, community, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit. However, much of what we recognize as “church” today—its structures, rituals, and practices—bears little resemblance to its early form. In Pagan Christianity? (Tyndale Momentum 2012), authors Frank Viola and George Barna challenge readers to consider how many of these traditions have roots in pagan customs rather than biblical commands. This essay explores their conclusions, evaluates the state of the modern church, and offers a pathway for believers to return to a more authentic and biblical expression of faith.
Words: 1413 / Time to read: 7 minutes
The Church Transformed by Tradition
The early church met in homes, sharing meals, praying, and studying the apostles’ teaching (Acts 2:42-47). It was a participatory, Spirit-led community where every believer was a priest (1 Peter 2:9). However, as Christianity spread and became institutionalized under Constantine in the 4th century, many pagan practices and Greco-Roman cultural elements infiltrated the church. What began as a vibrant body of believers became a hierarchical institution, adopting customs that distorted its original purpose.
For instance, the introduction of dedicated church buildings marked a significant shift. Early Christians met in homes, reflecting their focus on fellowship and equality. Yet after Constantine legalized Christianity, elaborate basilicas were constructed, mimicking the grandeur of pagan temples. These buildings introduced a sacred-versus-secular divide that contradicted the New Testament teaching that all of life is sacred (Colossians 3:17).
Another example is the centralization of worship around a single pastor or priest. The New Testament describes church leadership as plural and participatory, with elders shepherding the flock collectively (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5). Over time, however, the role of the pastor evolved to resemble that of a pagan priest, elevated above the congregation and tasked with delivering weekly sermons. This hierarchical model stifled the priesthood of all believers and created a passive laity.
Legalism and Ritual Replace Freedom in Christ
One of the most damaging consequences of adopting non-biblical practices is the rise of legalism. The institutional church often emphasizes rigid structures, rituals, and traditions that can overshadow the freedom believers have in Christ. The Apostle Paul warned against returning to such bondage: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)
Tithing, for example, is frequently presented as a mandatory obligation, yet in the New Testament, giving is described as voluntary and joyful (2 Corinthians 9:7). Similarly, the introduction of formal liturgies and fixed orders of worship reflects the influence of Greco-Roman culture rather than the dynamic, Spirit-led gatherings of the early church (1 Corinthians 14:26).
Even the concept of a sacred building perpetuates a false dichotomy between the sacred and secular. The Bible teaches that believers themselves are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16). Yet, by designating specific locations as “God’s house,” the church has unwittingly returned to the Old Testament paradigm of centralized worship, undermining the reality of Christ’s indwelling presence.
The Problem of Passive Christianity
Modern church practices often foster passivity among believers. Congregants sit silently in pews, listening to a monologue-style sermon delivered by a professional clergy member. This format, influenced by Greco-Roman oratory, contrasts sharply with the participatory nature of early Christian gatherings, where every member was encouraged to contribute (1 Corinthians 14:26).
This passivity creates a consumer mentality, where churchgoers view worship as something done for them rather than something they actively engage in. The result is a spiritually malnourished congregation, reliant on a single leader rather than on Christ and one another.
Restoring Biblical Worship
The Lord’s Supper provides a striking example of how modern practices have deviated from Scripture. In the early church, this was a communal meal shared in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice (Acts 2:42). Today, it has been reduced to a ritual involving small portions of bread and wine, often administered in a solemn ceremony. This shift reflects the influence of pagan sacrificial meals rather than the joyful fellowship described in the New Testament.
Worship itself has also become heavily ritualized. Choirs, instruments, and structured worship services often mimic the pomp of pagan ceremonies, yet the early church’s worship was simple and heartfelt, focused on glorifying God and encouraging one another (Ephesians 5:19).
Unity Undermined by Division
Another troubling consequence of adopting non-biblical traditions is the fragmentation of the church into denominations and sects. While theological differences are inevitable, the institutionalization of the church has exacerbated division. Paul’s appeal for unity among believers—“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called” (Ephesians 4:4)—is undermined by the competitive and often divisive nature of denominationalism.
This division is further perpetuated by the emphasis on titles and hierarchies within the church. Titles such as “Reverend” or “Father” elevate certain individuals above others, contradicting Jesus’ teaching: “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers.” (Matthew 23:8)
Returning to New Testament Simplicity
The solution to these issues lies in returning to the simplicity and purity of New Testament practices. This does not mean abandoning church altogether but rethinking how believers gather and worship. A few principles can guide this return:
- Focus on the Priesthood of All Believers
Every Christian has a role to play in the body of Christ. Gatherings should encourage participation, with members using their spiritual gifts to edify one another (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:7). Leadership should be plural and servant-hearted, as exemplified by the New Testament model of elders. - Meet in Simple, Relational Settings
The early church met in homes, fostering intimacy and genuine fellowship (Romans 16:5). While buildings are not inherently wrong, they should not become the focus of worship or create a divide between clergy and laity. - Allow the Spirit to Lead
Worship should be dynamic and Spirit-led, allowing room for spontaneity and the contributions of all members (1 Corinthians 14:26). Rigid orders of service can hinder the freedom of the Spirit to move. - Celebrate the Lord’s Supper as a Meal
Restoring the Lord’s Supper to its original form—a shared meal—emphasizes community and the joy of fellowship in Christ. This practice underscores the relational aspect of worship and strengthens bonds among believers. - Emphasize Unity Over Denominational Loyalty
Believers should prioritize their identity in Christ over denominational labels. Paul’s call for unity should guide interactions between churches, fostering cooperation rather than competition (1 Corinthians 1:10).
Conclusion: A Call to Reform
The church today faces a critical need for reform. By uncritically adopting traditions rooted in paganism and Greco-Roman culture, it has drifted from its biblical foundations. These practices have fostered passivity, division, and legalism, obscuring the simplicity and power of New Testament Christianity.
Yet hope remains. By returning to Scripture and embracing the principles of participatory worship, relational gatherings, and Spirit-led leadership, believers can rediscover the vibrant faith of the early church. Such a return not only honors God’s design but also equips His people to be salt and light in a dark world. Let us heed the words of Paul: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) In doing so, the church can once again reflect the glory of Christ and fulfill its mission to make disciples of all nations.
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Colossians 3:12-17
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
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