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STICK WITH THE TRANSITIONING CHURCH
TO PRAY AND ENCOURAGE – Ray E Horton
Recognizing that the church, the Body of Christ, has a long way to go to get back to operating as God intended, as reflected in the Book of Acts, what do we as individuals do? For me, all I know to do is to love them, pray for them, and try to be an influence for the truth.
Don’t Turn Your Back on Them
We are called to gather together and support through prayer and involvement the work of the ministry, even if sometimes flawed
Many are turning their backs on non-perfect churches, even avoiding church altogether. I disagree with that. We are called to gather together and support through prayer and involvement the work of the ministry, even if sometimes flawed, especially churches that are at least headed in the right direction, providing good teaching, worship, a family atmosphere, and the opportunity to grow and reach out in love and service.
I do see a new day coming, with many churches focusing on the spiritual growth of the brethren, encouraging not just the use of spiritual gifts, but the opportunities to use them, trusting Holy Spirit within.
Many believers have a problem with leadership and a hierarchical structure that separates a paid clergy and laity. I agree that the Biblical way is team ministry with a group is “seasoned elders” overseeing, as my friend Arthur puts it. Meanwhile, in most places, we have what we have, and traditional ways do not change easily. And I see that as the Holy Spirit’s role. Mine is primarily to pray and gently point out God’s Word and way if so led.
Let Good Churches Multiply
Traditional ways do not change easily. I see that as the Holy Spirit’s role. Mine is primarily to pray
Good, spirit-filled churches need to plant other churches and multiply and establish small in-home groups all over. The groups will even form organically if encouraged. It is good that they remain connected to the broader body so as not to become an exclusive click and have resources to draw on.
Meanwhile, a lot of the dead Ichabod churches are losing their people in a steady great falling away. Meanwhile, Jesus is about building His glorious church. I pray for acceleration of the process for the Kingdom to advance faster and the harvest be brought in.
