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We don't see the New Testament church hoarding the feast…

“We don't see the New Testament church hoarding the feast for themselves, gorging, getting fatter and fatter and asking for more; more bible studies, more sermons, more programs, classes, training, conferences, information, more feasting for us. At some point, the church stopped living the bible…” quote by Jen Hatmaker
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““We don't see the New Testament church hoarding the feast for themselves, gorging, getting fatter and fatter and asking for more; more bible studies, more sermons, more programs, classes, training, conferences, information, more feasting for us. At some point, the church stopped living the bible and decided just to study it, culling the feast parts and whitewashing the fast parts. We are addicted to the buffet, skillfully discarding the costly discipleship required after consuming. The feast is supposed to sustain the fast, but we go back for seconds and thirds and fourths, stuffed to the brim and fat with inactivity.””

Jen Hatmaker

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote warns that modern churches prioritize endless programs and studies over lived discipleship, treating faith like a buffet that satisfies cravings but neglects the necessary discipline of fasting.

In simple terms: Churches focus on programs, ignoring true discipleship.

Key Takeaway

Balance study with lived practice.

Themes

faith discipleship community consumerism

Mood

reflective critical inspirational

Type

expository cautionary theological

When to use this quote

  • church small groups
  • personal spiritual growth
  • leadership training
  • volunteering
  • mission trips

Key Concepts

spiritual discipline church culture balance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you integrate study with action?
  • What habits keep you from “feasting” without fasting?
A Different Perspective

Programs alone cannot replace the transformative work of disciplined practice.

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