TOWARDS THE PERFECT MAN![JAMES 1:4]
THERE'S NO PERFECT CHURCH, BECAUSE THERE ARE NO PERFECT PEOPLE!(ROM.3:10)
We're not here to exonerate pastors from the rot in the church of God today,after all,if truly called,we know what we're in for.
BUT THE TRUTH WE OFTEN OVERLOOK IS THAT MEMBERS GET AT LEAST 70-80% OF THE BLAME.
Have you ever wondered why people change churches like underwears? It's because they feel their needs weren't met in a particular church. Yes, it's saddening to see seemingly fervent members disappear into a life of complancency and apathy.
It’s one of the saddest parts of being a pastor.
The problem came as a result of misplaced expectations. In other words, they expected something from the church that the church promised,but couldn't fulfill. Here, you see them going to a particular church because of what I can call disinformation by a pastor...a man like them. Remember God has no grandchild.
Most of us go to church not really knowing why we are there. Others have promises made to them by overzealous pastors who play God. These are mostly those hunting for a child or a spouse ,others for quick prosperity,others for protection from probably imaginary enemies and a host of other reasons space and time won't permit. AND TRULY,MANY OF US UNSCRUPULOUS PREY ON THIS VULNERABLE GROUP.
WHAT WE SHOULD KNOW!
A church is a place to gather weekly for worship, but it’s up to me whether I will experience the presence of God;
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (Joh 4: 24)
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is to mistake music for worship.
Music is not worship. Organs, pianos, keyboards, drums, choirs, guitars, lights, speakers, hymnals, screens, projectors, and soundboards,etc, are not instruments of worship. They are accessories for music.
Nor is Worship singing. Worship is surrendering. If you attend a large group gathering of Christians committed to honoring Christ Jesus and walk away without having worshiped, the fault is yours, not theirs.(Genuine pastors)
A church is a family I can belong to, but it’s up to me to develop friendships;
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. (Pro 18: 24)
So many people join our churches but never invest in relationships. These are they which I said don't know the actual purpose of being there. They simply attend services. They treat the church like a fast-food restaurant – get my food and get out quickly and with as little interaction as possible. But sooner or later life happens, and when their world starts coming apart they have no relational safety net. They suddenly expect “the pastor” to “be there for them,” like he’s a spiritual Genie. Just rub the lamp and *poof*, there he is! But that’s not even the biblical calling of pastors.
According to Ephesians 4:12, pastors are called to equip the members to be the hands and feet of Jesus. God designed the church to be a community of connected Christians, not a collection of customers waiting to be served. In such scenarios, pastors come under severe criticism when it isn't their fault.
A church is a place where gifted teachers will explain the Bible and how I can apply it to my life, but it’s up to me to align my life with God’s truth;
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (Jas 1: 22)
Sadly,many wave off the "doing" aspects,yet expect God to meet our needs. And again,the blame is on pastors,when there's no spiritual alignment with Christ Jesus;
17. I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
18. Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (Pro 8: 17-18)
That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (Pro 8: 21)
If ye love me, keep my commandments. (Joh 14: 15)
Thus,if our expectations aren't met in a particular church,it isn't because the Word of God wasn't taught,but it's because WE WANT THE PASTORS TO DO THE*OBEDIENCE* SIDE FOR US.
And yes,but unfortunately,some not fully yielded pastors in a bid to keep these members have committed themselves to unholy practices, damaging their calling (if it was genuine in the first place)!
As a starter, we are taught on personal evangelism,(saved to save others). So just out of curiosity, how many people have we personally shared our faith with in the last 3 months? 6 months? Year? These things we see as trivial matter so much to God.
How many unchurched people have we invited to church recently? Can we name at least one person, who is far from God, that has come to church because of our invitation within the last year?” Every Christian believer is an evangelist (ordained or not)
A church is a place where I can use my gifts, passion, skills, personality, and life experiences to serve, but it’s up to me to become a servant;
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Mat 20: 28)
It’s been my experience that some of the most vocal critics in the church are often the least engaged. They have a lot of suggestions, but no involvement.
It’s a lot easier to criticize from the pews. People who aren’t serving in the church are often one change away from becoming disgruntled.
There are two kinds of church members. Those that are serving and those that believe they are deserving.Only one of those will make you like Christ Jesus.
This is personal. But I believe that the metric for maturity is ministry. I am never impressed by someone’s Bible knowledge, but I am always impressed by unselfish service. Serving in a ministry that delivers hope and healing to hearts and homes immunizes us from apathy and keeps us trapped into the mission.
A church is a place where I have the chance to change the world by fulfilling the Great Commission, but it’s up to me to actually become a person of impact;
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (Rom 10: 14)
Finally, perhaps the greatest misconception of all is when we think that the church’s primary mission is to meet our needs.
Churches exist primarily for their non-members. They exist to bring hope and healing to a broken and hurting world.
This is why I said earlier that there is no perfect church because there are no perfect people.
There are only imperfect churches filled with imperfect people striving to make an impact on this broken world.
Whenever we forget the critical nature of that mission and begin to focus on pettiness and preferences, we grieve the heart of God and we fail the mission of the Master.
As a pastor, I’ve heard plenty of those who have let me know how the church has let them down, but I’ve rarely heard from those who have realized how they’ve let the church down.
The needs of a lost world are too critical for us to waste time. So, let's get busy being the Hands and Feet of Christ Jesus.
May God help us to fulfill our mandate in Christ Jesus' Name,Amen!TOWARDS THE PERFECT MAN![JAMES 1:4]
THERE'S NO PERFECT CHURCH, BECAUSE THERE ARE NO PERFECT PEOPLE!(ROM.3:10)
We're not here to exonerate pastors from the rot in the church of God today,after all,if truly called,we know what we're in for.
BUT THE TRUTH WE OFTEN OVERLOOK IS THAT MEMBERS GET AT LEAST 70-80% OF THE BLAME.
Have you ever wondered why people change churches like underwears? It's because they feel their needs weren't met in a particular church. Yes, it's saddening to see seemingly fervent members disappear into a life of complancency and apathy.
It’s one of the saddest parts of being a pastor.
The problem came as a result of misplaced expectations. In other words, they expected something from the church that the church promised,but couldn't fulfill. Here, you see them going to a particular church because of what I can call disinformation by a pastor...a man like them. Remember God has no grandchild.
Most of us go to church not really knowing why we are there. Others have promises made to them by overzealous pastors who play God. These are mostly those hunting for a child or a spouse ,others for quick prosperity,others for protection from probably imaginary enemies and a host of other reasons space and time won't permit. AND TRULY,MANY OF US UNSCRUPULOUS PREY ON THIS VULNERABLE GROUP.
WHAT WE SHOULD KNOW!
A church is a place to gather weekly for worship, but it’s up to me whether I will experience the presence of God;
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (Joh 4: 24)
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is to mistake music for worship.
Music is not worship. Organs, pianos, keyboards, drums, choirs, guitars, lights, speakers, hymnals, screens, projectors, and soundboards,etc, are not instruments of worship. They are accessories for music.
Nor is Worship singing. Worship is surrendering. If you attend a large group gathering of Christians committed to honoring Christ Jesus and walk away without having worshiped, the fault is yours, not theirs.(Genuine pastors)
A church is a family I can belong to, but it’s up to me to develop friendships;
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. (Pro 18: 24)
So many people join our churches but never invest in relationships. These are they which I said don't know the actual purpose of being there. They simply attend services. They treat the church like a fast-food restaurant – get my food and get out quickly and with as little interaction as possible. But sooner or later life happens, and when their world starts coming apart they have no relational safety net. They suddenly expect “the pastor” to “be there for them,” like he’s a spiritual Genie. Just rub the lamp and *poof*, there he is! But that’s not even the biblical calling of pastors.
According to Ephesians 4:12, pastors are called to equip the members to be the hands and feet of Jesus. God designed the church to be a community of connected Christians, not a collection of customers waiting to be served. In such scenarios, pastors come under severe criticism when it isn't their fault.
A church is a place where gifted teachers will explain the Bible and how I can apply it to my life, but it’s up to me to align my life with God’s truth;
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (Jas 1: 22)
Sadly,many wave off the "doing" aspects,yet expect God to meet our needs. And again,the blame is on pastors,when there's no spiritual alignment with Christ Jesus;
17. I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
18. Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (Pro 8: 17-18)
That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (Pro 8: 21)
If ye love me, keep my commandments. (Joh 14: 15)
Thus,if our expectations aren't met in a particular church,it isn't because the Word of God wasn't taught,but it's because WE WANT THE PASTORS TO DO THE*OBEDIENCE* SIDE FOR US.
And yes,but unfortunately,some not fully yielded pastors in a bid to keep these members have committed themselves to unholy practices, damaging their calling (if it was genuine in the first place)!
As a starter, we are taught on personal evangelism,(saved to save others). So just out of curiosity, how many people have we personally shared our faith with in the last 3 months? 6 months? Year? These things we see as trivial matter so much to God.
How many unchurched people have we invited to church recently? Can we name at least one person, who is far from God, that has come to church because of our invitation within the last year?” Every Christian believer is an evangelist (ordained or not)
A church is a place where I can use my gifts, passion, skills, personality, and life experiences to serve, but it’s up to me to become a servant;
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Mat 20: 28)
It’s been my experience that some of the most vocal critics in the church are often the least engaged. They have a lot of suggestions, but no involvement.
It’s a lot easier to criticize from the pews. People who aren’t serving in the church are often one change away from becoming disgruntled.
There are two kinds of church members. Those that are serving and those that believe they are deserving.Only one of those will make you like Christ Jesus.
This is personal. But I believe that the metric for maturity is ministry. I am never impressed by someone’s Bible knowledge, but I am always impressed by unselfish service. Serving in a ministry that delivers hope and healing to hearts and homes immunizes us from apathy and keeps us trapped into the mission.
A church is a place where I have the chance to change the world by fulfilling the Great Commission, but it’s up to me to actually become a person of impact;
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (Rom 10: 14)
Finally, perhaps the greatest misconception of all is when we think that the church’s primary mission is to meet our needs.
Churches exist primarily for their non-members. They exist to bring hope and healing to a broken and hurting world.
This is why I said earlier that there is no perfect church because there are no perfect people.
There are only imperfect churches filled with imperfect people striving to make an impact on this broken world.
Whenever we forget the critical nature of that mission and begin to focus on pettiness and preferences, we grieve the heart of God and we fail the mission of the Master.
As a pastor, I’ve heard plenty of those who have let me know how the church has let them down, but I’ve rarely heard from those who have realized how they’ve let the church down.
The needs of a lost world are too critical for us to waste time. So, let's get busy being the Hands and Feet of Christ Jesus.
May God help us to fulfill our mandate in Christ Jesus' Name,Amen!
THERE'S NO PERFECT CHURCH, BECAUSE THERE ARE NO PERFECT PEOPLE!(ROM.3:10)
We're not here to exonerate pastors from the rot in the church of God today,after all,if truly called,we know what we're in for.
BUT THE TRUTH WE OFTEN OVERLOOK IS THAT MEMBERS GET AT LEAST 70-80% OF THE BLAME.
Have you ever wondered why people change churches like underwears? It's because they feel their needs weren't met in a particular church. Yes, it's saddening to see seemingly fervent members disappear into a life of complancency and apathy.
It’s one of the saddest parts of being a pastor.
The problem came as a result of misplaced expectations. In other words, they expected something from the church that the church promised,but couldn't fulfill. Here, you see them going to a particular church because of what I can call disinformation by a pastor...a man like them. Remember God has no grandchild.
Most of us go to church not really knowing why we are there. Others have promises made to them by overzealous pastors who play God. These are mostly those hunting for a child or a spouse ,others for quick prosperity,others for protection from probably imaginary enemies and a host of other reasons space and time won't permit. AND TRULY,MANY OF US UNSCRUPULOUS PREY ON THIS VULNERABLE GROUP.
WHAT WE SHOULD KNOW!
A church is a place to gather weekly for worship, but it’s up to me whether I will experience the presence of God;
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (Joh 4: 24)
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is to mistake music for worship.
Music is not worship. Organs, pianos, keyboards, drums, choirs, guitars, lights, speakers, hymnals, screens, projectors, and soundboards,etc, are not instruments of worship. They are accessories for music.
Nor is Worship singing. Worship is surrendering. If you attend a large group gathering of Christians committed to honoring Christ Jesus and walk away without having worshiped, the fault is yours, not theirs.(Genuine pastors)
A church is a family I can belong to, but it’s up to me to develop friendships;
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. (Pro 18: 24)
So many people join our churches but never invest in relationships. These are they which I said don't know the actual purpose of being there. They simply attend services. They treat the church like a fast-food restaurant – get my food and get out quickly and with as little interaction as possible. But sooner or later life happens, and when their world starts coming apart they have no relational safety net. They suddenly expect “the pastor” to “be there for them,” like he’s a spiritual Genie. Just rub the lamp and *poof*, there he is! But that’s not even the biblical calling of pastors.
According to Ephesians 4:12, pastors are called to equip the members to be the hands and feet of Jesus. God designed the church to be a community of connected Christians, not a collection of customers waiting to be served. In such scenarios, pastors come under severe criticism when it isn't their fault.
A church is a place where gifted teachers will explain the Bible and how I can apply it to my life, but it’s up to me to align my life with God’s truth;
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (Jas 1: 22)
Sadly,many wave off the "doing" aspects,yet expect God to meet our needs. And again,the blame is on pastors,when there's no spiritual alignment with Christ Jesus;
17. I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
18. Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (Pro 8: 17-18)
That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (Pro 8: 21)
If ye love me, keep my commandments. (Joh 14: 15)
Thus,if our expectations aren't met in a particular church,it isn't because the Word of God wasn't taught,but it's because WE WANT THE PASTORS TO DO THE*OBEDIENCE* SIDE FOR US.
And yes,but unfortunately,some not fully yielded pastors in a bid to keep these members have committed themselves to unholy practices, damaging their calling (if it was genuine in the first place)!
As a starter, we are taught on personal evangelism,(saved to save others). So just out of curiosity, how many people have we personally shared our faith with in the last 3 months? 6 months? Year? These things we see as trivial matter so much to God.
How many unchurched people have we invited to church recently? Can we name at least one person, who is far from God, that has come to church because of our invitation within the last year?” Every Christian believer is an evangelist (ordained or not)
A church is a place where I can use my gifts, passion, skills, personality, and life experiences to serve, but it’s up to me to become a servant;
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Mat 20: 28)
It’s been my experience that some of the most vocal critics in the church are often the least engaged. They have a lot of suggestions, but no involvement.
It’s a lot easier to criticize from the pews. People who aren’t serving in the church are often one change away from becoming disgruntled.
There are two kinds of church members. Those that are serving and those that believe they are deserving.Only one of those will make you like Christ Jesus.
This is personal. But I believe that the metric for maturity is ministry. I am never impressed by someone’s Bible knowledge, but I am always impressed by unselfish service. Serving in a ministry that delivers hope and healing to hearts and homes immunizes us from apathy and keeps us trapped into the mission.
A church is a place where I have the chance to change the world by fulfilling the Great Commission, but it’s up to me to actually become a person of impact;
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (Rom 10: 14)
Finally, perhaps the greatest misconception of all is when we think that the church’s primary mission is to meet our needs.
Churches exist primarily for their non-members. They exist to bring hope and healing to a broken and hurting world.
This is why I said earlier that there is no perfect church because there are no perfect people.
There are only imperfect churches filled with imperfect people striving to make an impact on this broken world.
Whenever we forget the critical nature of that mission and begin to focus on pettiness and preferences, we grieve the heart of God and we fail the mission of the Master.
As a pastor, I’ve heard plenty of those who have let me know how the church has let them down, but I’ve rarely heard from those who have realized how they’ve let the church down.
The needs of a lost world are too critical for us to waste time. So, let's get busy being the Hands and Feet of Christ Jesus.
May God help us to fulfill our mandate in Christ Jesus' Name,Amen!TOWARDS THE PERFECT MAN![JAMES 1:4]
THERE'S NO PERFECT CHURCH, BECAUSE THERE ARE NO PERFECT PEOPLE!(ROM.3:10)
We're not here to exonerate pastors from the rot in the church of God today,after all,if truly called,we know what we're in for.
BUT THE TRUTH WE OFTEN OVERLOOK IS THAT MEMBERS GET AT LEAST 70-80% OF THE BLAME.
Have you ever wondered why people change churches like underwears? It's because they feel their needs weren't met in a particular church. Yes, it's saddening to see seemingly fervent members disappear into a life of complancency and apathy.
It’s one of the saddest parts of being a pastor.
The problem came as a result of misplaced expectations. In other words, they expected something from the church that the church promised,but couldn't fulfill. Here, you see them going to a particular church because of what I can call disinformation by a pastor...a man like them. Remember God has no grandchild.
Most of us go to church not really knowing why we are there. Others have promises made to them by overzealous pastors who play God. These are mostly those hunting for a child or a spouse ,others for quick prosperity,others for protection from probably imaginary enemies and a host of other reasons space and time won't permit. AND TRULY,MANY OF US UNSCRUPULOUS PREY ON THIS VULNERABLE GROUP.
WHAT WE SHOULD KNOW!
A church is a place to gather weekly for worship, but it’s up to me whether I will experience the presence of God;
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (Joh 4: 24)
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is to mistake music for worship.
Music is not worship. Organs, pianos, keyboards, drums, choirs, guitars, lights, speakers, hymnals, screens, projectors, and soundboards,etc, are not instruments of worship. They are accessories for music.
Nor is Worship singing. Worship is surrendering. If you attend a large group gathering of Christians committed to honoring Christ Jesus and walk away without having worshiped, the fault is yours, not theirs.(Genuine pastors)
A church is a family I can belong to, but it’s up to me to develop friendships;
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. (Pro 18: 24)
So many people join our churches but never invest in relationships. These are they which I said don't know the actual purpose of being there. They simply attend services. They treat the church like a fast-food restaurant – get my food and get out quickly and with as little interaction as possible. But sooner or later life happens, and when their world starts coming apart they have no relational safety net. They suddenly expect “the pastor” to “be there for them,” like he’s a spiritual Genie. Just rub the lamp and *poof*, there he is! But that’s not even the biblical calling of pastors.
According to Ephesians 4:12, pastors are called to equip the members to be the hands and feet of Jesus. God designed the church to be a community of connected Christians, not a collection of customers waiting to be served. In such scenarios, pastors come under severe criticism when it isn't their fault.
A church is a place where gifted teachers will explain the Bible and how I can apply it to my life, but it’s up to me to align my life with God’s truth;
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (Jas 1: 22)
Sadly,many wave off the "doing" aspects,yet expect God to meet our needs. And again,the blame is on pastors,when there's no spiritual alignment with Christ Jesus;
17. I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
18. Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (Pro 8: 17-18)
That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (Pro 8: 21)
If ye love me, keep my commandments. (Joh 14: 15)
Thus,if our expectations aren't met in a particular church,it isn't because the Word of God wasn't taught,but it's because WE WANT THE PASTORS TO DO THE*OBEDIENCE* SIDE FOR US.
And yes,but unfortunately,some not fully yielded pastors in a bid to keep these members have committed themselves to unholy practices, damaging their calling (if it was genuine in the first place)!
As a starter, we are taught on personal evangelism,(saved to save others). So just out of curiosity, how many people have we personally shared our faith with in the last 3 months? 6 months? Year? These things we see as trivial matter so much to God.
How many unchurched people have we invited to church recently? Can we name at least one person, who is far from God, that has come to church because of our invitation within the last year?” Every Christian believer is an evangelist (ordained or not)
A church is a place where I can use my gifts, passion, skills, personality, and life experiences to serve, but it’s up to me to become a servant;
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Mat 20: 28)
It’s been my experience that some of the most vocal critics in the church are often the least engaged. They have a lot of suggestions, but no involvement.
It’s a lot easier to criticize from the pews. People who aren’t serving in the church are often one change away from becoming disgruntled.
There are two kinds of church members. Those that are serving and those that believe they are deserving.Only one of those will make you like Christ Jesus.
This is personal. But I believe that the metric for maturity is ministry. I am never impressed by someone’s Bible knowledge, but I am always impressed by unselfish service. Serving in a ministry that delivers hope and healing to hearts and homes immunizes us from apathy and keeps us trapped into the mission.
A church is a place where I have the chance to change the world by fulfilling the Great Commission, but it’s up to me to actually become a person of impact;
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (Rom 10: 14)
Finally, perhaps the greatest misconception of all is when we think that the church’s primary mission is to meet our needs.
Churches exist primarily for their non-members. They exist to bring hope and healing to a broken and hurting world.
This is why I said earlier that there is no perfect church because there are no perfect people.
There are only imperfect churches filled with imperfect people striving to make an impact on this broken world.
Whenever we forget the critical nature of that mission and begin to focus on pettiness and preferences, we grieve the heart of God and we fail the mission of the Master.
As a pastor, I’ve heard plenty of those who have let me know how the church has let them down, but I’ve rarely heard from those who have realized how they’ve let the church down.
The needs of a lost world are too critical for us to waste time. So, let's get busy being the Hands and Feet of Christ Jesus.
May God help us to fulfill our mandate in Christ Jesus' Name,Amen!
TOWARDS THE PERFECT MAN![JAMES 1:4]
🚥🚥🚥🚥🚥🚥🚥🚥🚥🚥🚥🚥
THERE'S NO PERFECT CHURCH, BECAUSE THERE ARE NO PERFECT PEOPLE!(ROM.3:10)
🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️🛏️
We're not here to exonerate pastors from the rot in the church of God today,after all,if truly called,we know what we're in for.
BUT THE TRUTH WE OFTEN OVERLOOK IS THAT MEMBERS GET AT LEAST 70-80% OF THE BLAME.
Have you ever wondered why people change churches like underwears? It's because they feel their needs weren't met in a particular church. Yes, it's saddening to see seemingly fervent members disappear into a life of complancency and apathy.
It’s one of the saddest parts of being a pastor.
The problem came as a result of misplaced expectations. In other words, they expected something from the church that the church promised,but couldn't fulfill. Here, you see them going to a particular church because of what I can call disinformation by a pastor...a man like them. Remember God has no grandchild.
Most of us go to church not really knowing why we are there. Others have promises made to them by overzealous pastors who play God. These are mostly those hunting for a child or a spouse ,others for quick prosperity,others for protection from probably imaginary enemies and a host of other reasons space and time won't permit. AND TRULY,MANY OF US UNSCRUPULOUS PREY ON THIS VULNERABLE GROUP.
WHAT WE SHOULD KNOW!
👉A church is a place to gather weekly for worship, but it’s up to me whether I will experience the presence of God;
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (Joh 4: 24)
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is to mistake music for worship.
Music is not worship. Organs, pianos, keyboards, drums, choirs, guitars, lights, speakers, hymnals, screens, projectors, and soundboards,etc, are not instruments of worship. They are accessories for music.
Nor is Worship singing. Worship is surrendering. If you attend a large group gathering of Christians committed to honoring Christ Jesus and walk away without having worshiped, the fault is yours, not theirs.(Genuine pastors)
👉A church is a family I can belong to, but it’s up to me to develop friendships;
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. (Pro 18: 24)
So many people join our churches but never invest in relationships. These are they which I said don't know the actual purpose of being there. They simply attend services. They treat the church like a fast-food restaurant – get my food and get out quickly and with as little interaction as possible. But sooner or later life happens, and when their world starts coming apart they have no relational safety net. They suddenly expect “the pastor” to “be there for them,” like he’s a spiritual Genie. Just rub the lamp and *poof*, there he is! But that’s not even the biblical calling of pastors.
According to Ephesians 4:12, pastors are called to equip the members to be the hands and feet of Jesus. God designed the church to be a community of connected Christians, not a collection of customers waiting to be served. In such scenarios, pastors come under severe criticism when it isn't their fault.
👉A church is a place where gifted teachers will explain the Bible and how I can apply it to my life, but it’s up to me to align my life with God’s truth;
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (Jas 1: 22)
Sadly,many wave off the "doing" aspects,yet expect God to meet our needs. And again,the blame is on pastors,when there's no spiritual alignment with Christ Jesus;
17. I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
18. Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (Pro 8: 17-18)
That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (Pro 8: 21)
If ye love me, keep my commandments. (Joh 14: 15)
Thus,if our expectations aren't met in a particular church,it isn't because the Word of God wasn't taught,but it's because WE WANT THE PASTORS TO DO THE*OBEDIENCE* SIDE FOR US.
And yes,but unfortunately,some not fully yielded pastors in a bid to keep these members have committed themselves to unholy practices, damaging their calling (if it was genuine in the first place)!
As a starter, we are taught on personal evangelism,(saved to save others). So just out of curiosity, how many people have we personally shared our faith with in the last 3 months? 6 months? Year? These things we see as trivial matter so much to God.
How many unchurched people have we invited to church recently? Can we name at least one person, who is far from God, that has come to church because of our invitation within the last year?” Every Christian believer is an evangelist (ordained or not)
👉A church is a place where I can use my gifts, passion, skills, personality, and life experiences to serve, but it’s up to me to become a servant;
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Mat 20: 28)
It’s been my experience that some of the most vocal critics in the church are often the least engaged. They have a lot of suggestions, but no involvement.
It’s a lot easier to criticize from the pews. People who aren’t serving in the church are often one change away from becoming disgruntled.
There are two kinds of church members. Those that are serving and those that believe they are deserving.Only one of those will make you like Christ Jesus.
This is personal. But I believe that the metric for maturity is ministry. I am never impressed by someone’s Bible knowledge, but I am always impressed by unselfish service. Serving in a ministry that delivers hope and healing to hearts and homes immunizes us from apathy and keeps us trapped into the mission.
👉A church is a place where I have the chance to change the world by fulfilling the Great Commission, but it’s up to me to actually become a person of impact;
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (Rom 10: 14)
Finally, perhaps the greatest misconception of all is when we think that the church’s primary mission is to meet our needs.
Churches exist primarily for their non-members. They exist to bring hope and healing to a broken and hurting world.
This is why I said earlier that there is no perfect church because there are no perfect people.
There are only imperfect churches filled with imperfect people striving to make an impact on this broken world.
Whenever we forget the critical nature of that mission and begin to focus on pettiness and preferences, we grieve the heart of God and we fail the mission of the Master.
As a pastor, I’ve heard plenty of those who have let me know how the church has let them down, but I’ve rarely heard from those who have realized how they’ve let the church down.
The needs of a lost world are too critical for us to waste time. So, let's get busy being the Hands and Feet of Christ Jesus.
May God help us to fulfill our mandate in Christ Jesus' Name,Amen🙇🙏!TOWARDS THE PERFECT MAN![JAMES 1:4]
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THERE'S NO PERFECT CHURCH, BECAUSE THERE ARE NO PERFECT PEOPLE!(ROM.3:10)
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We're not here to exonerate pastors from the rot in the church of God today,after all,if truly called,we know what we're in for.
BUT THE TRUTH WE OFTEN OVERLOOK IS THAT MEMBERS GET AT LEAST 70-80% OF THE BLAME.
Have you ever wondered why people change churches like underwears? It's because they feel their needs weren't met in a particular church. Yes, it's saddening to see seemingly fervent members disappear into a life of complancency and apathy.
It’s one of the saddest parts of being a pastor.
The problem came as a result of misplaced expectations. In other words, they expected something from the church that the church promised,but couldn't fulfill. Here, you see them going to a particular church because of what I can call disinformation by a pastor...a man like them. Remember God has no grandchild.
Most of us go to church not really knowing why we are there. Others have promises made to them by overzealous pastors who play God. These are mostly those hunting for a child or a spouse ,others for quick prosperity,others for protection from probably imaginary enemies and a host of other reasons space and time won't permit. AND TRULY,MANY OF US UNSCRUPULOUS PREY ON THIS VULNERABLE GROUP.
WHAT WE SHOULD KNOW!
👉A church is a place to gather weekly for worship, but it’s up to me whether I will experience the presence of God;
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (Joh 4: 24)
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is to mistake music for worship.
Music is not worship. Organs, pianos, keyboards, drums, choirs, guitars, lights, speakers, hymnals, screens, projectors, and soundboards,etc, are not instruments of worship. They are accessories for music.
Nor is Worship singing. Worship is surrendering. If you attend a large group gathering of Christians committed to honoring Christ Jesus and walk away without having worshiped, the fault is yours, not theirs.(Genuine pastors)
👉A church is a family I can belong to, but it’s up to me to develop friendships;
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. (Pro 18: 24)
So many people join our churches but never invest in relationships. These are they which I said don't know the actual purpose of being there. They simply attend services. They treat the church like a fast-food restaurant – get my food and get out quickly and with as little interaction as possible. But sooner or later life happens, and when their world starts coming apart they have no relational safety net. They suddenly expect “the pastor” to “be there for them,” like he’s a spiritual Genie. Just rub the lamp and *poof*, there he is! But that’s not even the biblical calling of pastors.
According to Ephesians 4:12, pastors are called to equip the members to be the hands and feet of Jesus. God designed the church to be a community of connected Christians, not a collection of customers waiting to be served. In such scenarios, pastors come under severe criticism when it isn't their fault.
👉A church is a place where gifted teachers will explain the Bible and how I can apply it to my life, but it’s up to me to align my life with God’s truth;
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (Jas 1: 22)
Sadly,many wave off the "doing" aspects,yet expect God to meet our needs. And again,the blame is on pastors,when there's no spiritual alignment with Christ Jesus;
17. I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
18. Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (Pro 8: 17-18)
That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (Pro 8: 21)
If ye love me, keep my commandments. (Joh 14: 15)
Thus,if our expectations aren't met in a particular church,it isn't because the Word of God wasn't taught,but it's because WE WANT THE PASTORS TO DO THE*OBEDIENCE* SIDE FOR US.
And yes,but unfortunately,some not fully yielded pastors in a bid to keep these members have committed themselves to unholy practices, damaging their calling (if it was genuine in the first place)!
As a starter, we are taught on personal evangelism,(saved to save others). So just out of curiosity, how many people have we personally shared our faith with in the last 3 months? 6 months? Year? These things we see as trivial matter so much to God.
How many unchurched people have we invited to church recently? Can we name at least one person, who is far from God, that has come to church because of our invitation within the last year?” Every Christian believer is an evangelist (ordained or not)
👉A church is a place where I can use my gifts, passion, skills, personality, and life experiences to serve, but it’s up to me to become a servant;
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Mat 20: 28)
It’s been my experience that some of the most vocal critics in the church are often the least engaged. They have a lot of suggestions, but no involvement.
It’s a lot easier to criticize from the pews. People who aren’t serving in the church are often one change away from becoming disgruntled.
There are two kinds of church members. Those that are serving and those that believe they are deserving.Only one of those will make you like Christ Jesus.
This is personal. But I believe that the metric for maturity is ministry. I am never impressed by someone’s Bible knowledge, but I am always impressed by unselfish service. Serving in a ministry that delivers hope and healing to hearts and homes immunizes us from apathy and keeps us trapped into the mission.
👉A church is a place where I have the chance to change the world by fulfilling the Great Commission, but it’s up to me to actually become a person of impact;
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (Rom 10: 14)
Finally, perhaps the greatest misconception of all is when we think that the church’s primary mission is to meet our needs.
Churches exist primarily for their non-members. They exist to bring hope and healing to a broken and hurting world.
This is why I said earlier that there is no perfect church because there are no perfect people.
There are only imperfect churches filled with imperfect people striving to make an impact on this broken world.
Whenever we forget the critical nature of that mission and begin to focus on pettiness and preferences, we grieve the heart of God and we fail the mission of the Master.
As a pastor, I’ve heard plenty of those who have let me know how the church has let them down, but I’ve rarely heard from those who have realized how they’ve let the church down.
The needs of a lost world are too critical for us to waste time. So, let's get busy being the Hands and Feet of Christ Jesus.
May God help us to fulfill our mandate in Christ Jesus' Name,Amen🙇🙏!
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