Teflon Christianity
E.A. Johnston warns against a superficial, non-committal form of Christianity that lacks true spiritual transformation and lasting impact, likening it to Teflon pans where nothing truly sticks.
In this topical sermon, E.A. Johnston uses the metaphor of Teflon pans to illustrate the dangers of a superficial, non-committal Christianity that lacks true spiritual transformation. He challenges believers to examine whether their faith truly sticks and warns against ministries that prioritize entertainment and prosperity over genuine discipleship. Drawing from Revelation 3:1, Johnston calls for a commitment to authentic Christian living that bears lasting fruit.
Full Transcript
I used to cook with Teflon pans, the kind that are non-stick. You can cook just about anything in a non-stick pan, and it won't stick to the bottom because it is made out of the chemical Teflon. But I quit using it when I learned that chemical is unsafe for cooking.
But the Teflon pan is a good illustration of today's modern Christianity. In Revelation 3.1 it reads, They have a name, that they live, but they are dead. There are some who make a pretense of true religion, but without the power of godliness.
They look good, but their form of Christianity doesn't stick. It doesn't leave any lasting impression. They are Christians in name only, for they have a name, that they live, but they are dead.
That is, baptized, but still dead in trespasses and sins. Teflon Christians move from church to church, for they can't stick around much anywhere. Teflon Christianity can be seen on TV with the televangelists who own private jets and still want you to send them more money.
They smile pretty smiles and promise you wealth as well, if you just sow your seed of faith by sending them more of your money. Teflon Christianity can be seen in megachurches across the land that are all pomp and show and display a comfortable Christianity, where if you only accept Jesus, you can be comfortable too on your way to heaven. There are Teflon pastors who will entertain you on your way to hell.
They don't ever preach anything that sticks. It's all fluff and foam, like a Starbucks latte. It tastes good, but has no nutritional value.
Teflon Christianity is popular because it promises much without the cost of discipleship or the cross and the life of the believer. It's a nonstick religion, with no strings attached. The trouble with Teflon Christianity is that, like the pan, it can be harmful to you.
For if you stay under an unconverted ministry, chances are you will stay unconverted yourself and end up in hellfire, while all nonstick Christians are burnt up in everlasting flames, cooked up together with the devil and his hellish horde. Don't stick around a Teflon church friend if you want to stay out of hellfire.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Illustration of Teflon pans and their non-stick nature
- Introduction of Teflon Christianity as a modern analogy
- Warning about the dangers of superficial faith
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II
- Description of Teflon Christians as having a name but being spiritually dead
- Examples of Teflon Christianity in televangelism and megachurch culture
- Critique of prosperity gospel and entertainment-focused preaching
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III
- The costless promise of Teflon Christianity versus true discipleship
- The spiritual harm caused by unconverted ministries
- Call to avoid Teflon churches to escape eternal judgment
Key Quotes
“They have a name, that they live, but they are dead.” — E.A. Johnston
“Teflon Christianity can be seen in megachurches across the land that are all pomp and show and display a comfortable Christianity.” — E.A. Johnston
“Don't stick around a Teflon church friend if you want to stay out of hellfire.” — E.A. Johnston
Application Points
- Evaluate your own faith to ensure it is genuine and transformative, not merely superficial.
- Avoid ministries and churches that prioritize entertainment or prosperity over true gospel preaching.
- Commit to the cost of discipleship by embracing the cross and living a life fully devoted to Christ.