Matthew 28

Matthew 28:19-20  Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  ²⁰ teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

I was reading an article this week about the church and its mission.  The article began with a discussion of “Christendom,” explaining that The Church in the United States has always been in the forefront of daily culture.  Christianity has been the primary religion of our nation, people attended church because that’s what you did, and everyone had a basic understanding of Biblical Principles.  Leaders in the church focused on those within their walls, encouraging them to make a decision for Jesus as Lord and Savior, which wasn’t too challenging because they already had a base understanding of their need for Him.  These leaders then taught Bible studies, encouraging a growth in Christian knowledge and in faith.  There was little outreach, if any, to those outside the church because it was unnecessary.  People knew where to come when they were wounded…they knew the church was a place for healing.

Our culture has changed.  People no long attend church because it’s what the culture says they should do.  In fact, to some, attending church goes against the norm.  Many of our churches have failed in changing with our culture.  Church leadership still expects people to come to them when they are in need, but people are seeking other avenues of healing.  Churches are in decline.  It is time for us to realize once more what our intended mission is.

Jesus commanded us to Go and make disciples of all nations…not stay in our churches and wait for them to come to us.  We need to be more bold and daring in reaching out.  We need to get crazy.  We need to seek God and His direction for our church.  We need to brainstorm ideas how to better serve our community and be Jesus to those around us.

Let me know what you think! 

I’m praying for you !

Pastor Amy