Let’s be honest: many of us have probably thought about giving up on the church at some point. God’s people can be problems. Sin invades congregations. Some folks treat leaders poorly. There are times when it’s inviting to be a Christian apart from the church (despite the oxymoronic thought of that last statement). Here are some reasons we can’t give up on the church:
- The church is still God’s church. He called the church into existence. It’s His body. Messy though we are, we are still His people – including those believers who bug us!
- Even in the most dysfunctional church is often God’s remnant. Some of the greatest people in the world are in the chaos of God’s church. God has a way of raising up the one or two among the many, the faithful few among the several rebels. Find the remnant, and you’ll see hope in the church.
- Your church is likely no messier than the church at Corinth. That church was dividing, arguing, tolerating sin, debating gifts, and questioning the resurrection – and still Paul said that he thanked God for them (ch. 1) and loved them (ch. 16). If Paul didn’t give up on that church, we have reason to hold on.
- Opposition is to be expected. You can’t expect everyone to be fully supportive. Jesus didn’t get that kind of support. Paul didn’t. If you think church must be perfect, you’ll quickly give up on it. Don’t let the few knuckleheads color your view of God’s church.
- Even one changed life in the church can restore hope. It’s amazing what happens to our spirit when even one person is transformed by the grace of God. Instead of giving up on God’s church, open your eyes wide to see that one person.
- It’s through the church that we live faithfully. God didn’t create us to be “lone ranger Christians.” He gives us brothers and sisters – some who are wonderful, some who aren’t always so – to walk beside us. All of us need each other.
- Hell cannot stop the church. That’s what Jesus told us (Matthew 16:18). The demons can, and will, attack the church, but they will not ultimately win. Trust the Lord’s words even when doing church is hard.
- God has given us no other plan. Through the work of His church, God is drawing to Himself a people from every tribe, tongue, and nation (Rev. 7:9-10). If you give up on the church, to where else would you turn? There is no other option, but there need not be – God’s already given us the right plan!
What other reasons would you add?
A strong reason for me. We are the church not the building. To give up on the church is to give up on us.
Well said, Jim. Thanks.