What’s Your Preference: Traditional or Contemporary?

Rick, James, and Ben discuss how to remain faithful to the unchanging truths of the gospel while being culturally sensitive and accessible. The pendulum they describe swings between two extremes: on one side, rigid traditionalism that can alienate people by emphasizing rules or appearances over substance; on the other, a hyper-contemporary approach that risks sacrificing depth for relevance. What is this balance we’re all trying to figure out? Holding on to the sacredness of what’s been passed down to us while connecting with a world that often pushes back against the whole idea of sacredness. That’s where words, symbols, and sacraments really come alive—not as random or outdated traditions, but as meaningful ways to understand and experience the fullness and magnitude of Christ.