What Makes A Strong Church?

The church is precious! Our Lord Jesus Christ built it. He is its foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11; Ephesians 2:20); its purchaser (Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:25); its head (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18). His desire for the church is that it be strong. To the church at Ephesus Paul admonished, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might…” (Ephesians 6:10). Have you ever wondered what is necessary to make a strong church? Since the church is a body of baptized believers or those saved through obedience to the gospel (Acts 2:38-47), to make a strong church the individuals that comprise it must be strong. To make a strong church it must possess certain qualities.

First, it is to be a knowledgeable church (2 Peter 1:5; 3:18). To be knowledgeable in any subject requires study, thus the church is to be dedicated to a study of the Bible. Each member is not only to be dedicated to Sunday morning and Wednesday evening Bible Study periods, as well as take advantage of gospel meetings, lectureships, etc. One may find many excuses for not assembling to study the word of God but are they legitimate or just personal likes or dislikes or perhaps it is just a lack of dedication.

Second, it is to be a praying church. The first church was “steadfast in the Apostles doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers” (Acts 2:42). The Lord does not turn a deaf ear to his faithful people, but rather is attentive to them (1 Peter 3:12; Philippians 4:6). Let us spend time praying for peace, unity, an opportunity to teach the lost, proper attitudes, etc.

Third, it is to be a working church. We are to “…always abound in the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). We, as Christians, were created in Christ Jesus unto good works (Ephesians 2:10). In all things we are to shew ourselves a pattern of good works (Titus 2:7). As we have opportunity let us do good to all men especially to those who are of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10). It has been suggested that in an average congregation ten percent of the people are doing ninety percent of the work while the other ninety percent sit back and watch them do it. My brethren, these things ought not to be.

Fourth, it is to be a worshipping Church. It seems that while our efforts should be toward reaching the lost, that much of it is spent in trying to keep those who are children of God faithful and committed to worship. Brethren, worship should be viewed as a privilege and blessing not a burden to be carried. It is to be offered in spirit and truth (John 4:24. Do we really realize what we are demonstrating to the world by our lack of commitment? Our influence is one of the most powerful things we possess. Let us therefore be examples of the believers (1 Timothy 4:12).

Bill Cantrell

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