When We Stay in the 50s

The Christian church is in a tough spot.  Right now we are facing much trouble in the US.  While churches grow in South America, Africa and such they are shrinking and dying in the USA.  Denominations are strugging to keep congregations open.  Times are tough.

Maybe churches have forgotten the past.

Usually we say they are stuck in the past (hence my title) and yet being stuck and forgetting the past are two different problems. Many churches are stuck in the past (their memories, past successes, and how they do things) but really have forgotten the past.

What do I mean?

When most churches started (no matter the time period) much work had to be done.  The people had to be creative, innovative, and have guts.  They worked hard, took chances, and did what they needed to do.

We need that again! We might change how we do it but we need the same spirit that got it done to return.

Our generation is lazy.  We are facing tough economic times but I have yet to make clothes out of a feed bag.  The reality is that we have had tough times in my life but nothing like previous generations faced.  And so we are a tad lazy.  I’ll confess.  We can learn from this spirit of commitment, dedication, and forward thinking of the previous generations.  Now we must carry that same spirit forward and ‘dream again.’

Will we do it?

As you read the Bible in places like Colossians 4:2-6 and read Paul talking about open doors and opportunities you realize this is a God thing.  Individuals and particular churches may fail but God’s church will win in the end.  God is at work and we need to have a verbal and active witness in our world.  God is not dead nor does he slumber!

So do you see open doors or closed walls?  Do you see obstacles or opportunities?

Blessings,
Derik