Or they substitute for the preaching alterations in liturgy and entertaining programs in the hopes that the empty pews will be filled. Sometimes they seek assurance in unusual happenings. This is particularly characteristic of neopentecostalism. But it is still the age old clamoring for a sign. And this clamoring for a sign is rooted in discontent with the Word.
Men seek the dramatic and unusual.
A faith less and wicked generation seeks after a sign. Send Lazarus from the dead. Then we will repent. But there shall no sign be given them . . . If they will not believe Moses and the prophets, they will not be persuaded though one should rise from the dead.