If stale, lifeless, and dutiful drudgery were honest descriptions of our church experience I think most pastors would drown in depression. Your church experience may not be as bleak as I just described it, but according to recent formal and informal studies it is, in the minds of many, hovering close to uncomfortably cool. We’re no different than other churches. Our church has had its share of tepid zones. We have had some success in maintaining life and energy. What is it that has helped us energize the church? Simply put, we have returned to the uncluttered and basic.
First, we have returned to the priority of salvation with water baptism. Purposefully, we have moved toward those things that give us opportunity to develop relationships with people far from God and be the incarnational presence of Jesus to our community. Breaking away the crust of numbing apathy surrounding evangelism is a huge step toward energy building. When individuals are saved and the church hears their testimony (before they are baptized), it rekindles life in the people. It validates our missional efforts that we are doing the right things, that God is alive, answering prayers, and transforming lives in our midst.
Second, we have returned to the priority of individuals vitally connecting with God. People are profoundly impacted by closeness with their creator and the Son. The Bible affirms that people drawing close to God will encounter Him up close and personal. This creates spiritual energy in the congregation. Our worship services and disciple programs have come under scrutiny. What are we doing that unintentionally distracts or worst, works against people encountering God? Are our current methods really equipping people to nurture a vibrant, life long relationship with God? These are tough questions. But energizing the church takes courageous leadership.
Dr. Timothy A Hager
Senior Associate Pastor
Manassas Assembly of God
11500 New Life Way
Bristow VA 20136
703.368.2895
www.magchurch.org
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1 comment:
What about boldly proclaiming and practicing the baptism in the Holy Spirit? I'm not talking about a Barnum & Bailey sideshow, but a genuine seeking and manifesting the Holy Spirit's presence instead of just 'spiritual energy'. What if Seymour and Parham had had their groups keep it down so seekers wouldn't be scared away? Yes, we need to return to the priorities that will empower our people to be Jesus' ambassadors to a sick and dying civilization: Jesus -- Savior, Healer, Baptizer, Coming King.
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