The Stagnant Church

Traditionally this passage covers stewardship. Or even using the gifts that God gives us.

To me another this came out in a broader sense.
This passage really speaks volumes about Christians. We get so caught up in ourselves that we miss the whole picture. We as a church are called to ministry. Today, the church is meant for church people. We go to church on Sundays, maybe invite a friend or two, and worship. While there we talk about God in reverence and we "get spiritual." We come out of the church service invigorated and energized. WE feel good about things. And then we go about our week, only to return a week later. This is a typical church service. But that is not what God calls us to do. In Matthew 28:19 Jesus told the disciples, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..." Church is not for the church people to make them feel good, church should be to prepare us to go and make disciples. Why has the Christian faith become something that is looked down on? It is our own fault. We have grown stagnant and lazy. We have taken what God has given us and locked it away so that no one can "steal it." Like the third servant, we were afraid to invest the money because we focus on what we COULD lose instead of what we COULD gain.

Christians have become too conservative. Its time that we step up and take risks. Look at the riches someone could gain by coming to know Christ. I heard Billy Graham yesterday and he said "the Bible says that when one person comes to Christ that heaven rejoices." Luke 15:10 - "In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." THAT is our purpose. We must be bold and fearless, but we must also do it in love. Jesus did not shove it down people throats or even openly chastise. Everything He did was from a heart full of love for those he met, even those that hated Him. Go into the world and speak God's Word. Let go of our fears and let everyone that we come in contact with see Christ in us. We must shine with a heavenly light. As a mirror reflects light all around, so we should reflect Christ's light in this dark world and then rejoice when ONE person comes to Christ.

Dear Lord, I lift our hearts up to You today. Let us see Your face in our world. Let us not be afraid to lift Your name on high and tell people about You. Lord help us as we struggle with our own doubts and fears. Let them be less of a hindrance while we try to reflect the love that You have given us. Renew our strength and help us to want to serve You more and more each day. It is in Your name I pray... Amen

Created over 2 years ago