Church Builders – 2

Keeping it Real

Another attribute of true church growth is genuine actions and godly sincerity. It seems as if much of modern day religion is more about a performance than pleasing God. Some institutions are actually utilizing the services of marketing experts to determine how they can appeal to the broadest variety of people in their community. My friends, this might be desirable if you are offering some type of worldly product or service. But that which is flesh pleasing and performance driven has no place in the New Testament church. Let us explore what scripture emphasizes:

2 Corinthians 1:12 - For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.

The Apostle Paul makes no mention of appealing to man’s flesh or staging elaborate productions in preaching the gospel to the church of Corinth. Notice that he rejoiced that his ministry was tempered with simplicity and godly sincerity. His approach was free of any pretense or hypocrisy. He also preached the sincere truth. In other words, Paul was keeping it real.

Our little congregations have labored throughout history to preserve the simple pattern of the New Testament church and adhere to the doctrine of grace. However, we must vigilantly strive to not make our worship and interactions with others merely a performance. If we are not careful the old flesh will try to usurp the glory that belongs to God. This involves both our ministry and members. Do you view worship as an experience or as a show Consider the following:

• Undue pressure and 'looks' are directed towards those that disrupt our notion of church worship. Perhaps it is a mother struggling with young children. My wife and I have dealt with well-meaning, but inconsiderate folks in church that have rebuked us because our children were making noise during worship. Such rebukes are also thrown at some who may look different or don't fit into our perception of a proper congregant. This ought not be!

• Extra emphasis placed on 'special meetings' and traveling to hear 'big preachers'. I enjoy annual/fellowship/associational meetings as well as the next person. But aren't the regularly scheduled meetings equally as important? Perhaps more so. This is the time that the pastor usually digs deep into the word to specifically minister to his flock. Yet, there are some who act like it is torture to go to regular worship. Let a special meeting roll around and they are the most zealous person there. Some think nothing of even forsaking the local assembly to travel to the 'big meetings'. This appeals to our flesh, but it is our spirits that need fed! Our first priority is the local church.

• The gospel minister must also remember these truths and take care to guard against the flesh. Our job is not that of a church police officer, politician, comedian or public relations guru, but a preacher of the gospel. One who labors in the word and doctrine is indeed worthy of double honor (1 Timothy 5:17). But the laborer should not be actively seeking the accolades and attention of men. This takes away from the glory that rightfully belongs to God. We should strive to study the word, preach the gospel clearly to the best of our ability, and do everything within our power to get self out of the way. I also adjure those in the ministry who have committed themselves to serve as a pastor. Do not allow the local flock to languish and suffer at the expense of your ambitions to travel. Perhaps you are well-intentioned in accepting preaching appointments and many around the country appreciate your gift. But do not drag down the folks back home with your constant absence. If you truly have the burden to travel, give up pastoral responsibilities. It is healthy for us ministers to constantly assess why we do what we do in the church. This too is part of keeping it real. I believe that this is what Paul had in mind when he wrote about simplicity and godly sincerity. I pray that our ministry will heed the instruction of Peter as the gospel is proclaimed.

1 Peter 5:2-4 - Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

Those seeking the truth that visit amongst us can usually perceive whether or not we are sincere in our worship. By default we Primitive Baptists do not attract people that are looking for worldly entertainment. I believe that many are seeking to fellowship with those who sincerely worship the Lord in spirit and truth. May we search our hearts and constantly strive to 'keep it real' in the sense that we do not forget our purpose in gathering together as the Lord's people.

It ain't about the show! It is about humble obedience to the One who saved us!

Church Killers - 3

Today I want to address another destroyer of our churches: a lack of complete biblical teaching. Sure, most of us can quote Romans 8:29-30 and Ephesians 1:4. But there is much more to the word of God than these few verses. ALL scripture is given by the inspiration of God and is profitable...

Sometimes the problem stems from the church leadership. If the pastor/preacher is not applying himself to studying the Bible, then the sheep under his charge will suffer. Sheep need sheep food. This can only come from the word of God. If a man is called to preach the gospel, then there is no excuse for neglecting the word of God. I am reminded of the following proverb:

Proverbs 29:18 -Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

During the Old Testament times, God spoke to this people through the mouths of prophets. When they were silent, the Israelites would lack direction as a people. They depended on this particular blessing from God for comfort and direction. In the New Testament times, God speaks to us through his word, and the preacher is his mouthpiece. Do you see the importance of a ministry that is committed to studying scripture? It is the spiritual food that sustains us in the wicked world!

Not only is the gospel minister to have an understanding of biblical doctrine and principles. He is to faithfully teach the whole counsel of God. If a preacher solely focuses on doctrinal points without practical teaching, then his listeners will struggle when confronted with daily trials. On the other hand, if duty is exclusively preached without a balance of grace, then the congregation will be very discouraged because of their shortcomings. The key to effective teaching is a mixture of 'DO' doctrine and 'DONE' doctrine. The Lord has done many amazing things for us. We were chosen in Christ before the world was created. Christ died for His people on the cross. Mercy and grace are extended to us daily. This is all DONE doctrine. In light of these truths we are to save ourselves from this untoward generation, make our calling and election sure, and walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called. This is what we are commanded to DO! Both are equally important and must be presented in a balanced manner.

Studying/preaching the gospel is very similar to eating properly. If our diet consisted exclusively of desserts, then we would quickly become lethargic and unhealthy. Conversely, if we only consumed carbs or proteins, we would suffer as well. The key is balance. If you have been called to preach the word, faithfully study and teach ALL aspects of God's word. Don't sacrifice the balanced meal of truth for the 'smooth things' of the world. Study the word! Preach the word! Apply the word!

Sadly, there are many sick and anemic sheep wondering aimlessly about our churches. If they are not soon fed and strengthened, they will leave in search for greener pastures. Or worse, they will be devoured by wolves. A body of believers will not survive long without sound, biblical balanced teaching. Lord, strengthen us for the task!

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine