10 of My Reasons for Hope in the American Church

Last week, I posted on ten of my fears for the American church. Today, here’s the other side of the coin: ten of my reasons for hope for the American church:

1. Many believers are committed to the authority of the Word of God. We don’t always live it out like we should, but many evangelicals in particular stand on the Bible as genuinely the Word of God. Even a remnant who believe and follow the Word can make a national and global difference.
2. More churches are getting involved in international missions. Convenient travel and Internet access now take us to the world more rapidly than ever; as one result, more believers are now concerned about the spiritual condition of the nations. Local churches are increasingly becoming senders – and that’s a good thing.   
3. More churches are supportive of church planting in North America. Even in our churched country, we need many more healthy, Great Commission-minded churches if we want to reach this nation. The growing interest in church planting will help us reach that goal.
4. Many older believers are beginning to ask, “What legacy will we leave behind?” That’s not to say that every older believer is asking this question, but many are starting to do so. We want to leave behind churches that really reach people, so we’re learning to accept (and even celebrate, sometimes) change.
5. More young believers deeply want relationships with the older generation. They recognize the value of multi-generational life learning, and that trend can strengthen today’s American church.
6. Many young believers are ready to go anywhere, regardless of the cost. I’ve never seen a generation so committed to the nations – particularly to going to the hard places. Their faith challenges mine every day.
7. Church-based mentorships are increasing. We’re not where we need to be yet, but some pastors are discovering the value of discipling like Jesus did even as young leaders are looking for mentors. The intersection of these trends at the local church level excites me.
8. More leaders, both young and old, are increasingly interested in church revitalization. I’m particularly hopeful that I see (1) longer-term pastors who feel called to invest in a church revitalization, and (2) younger leaders ready to tackle the same challenge. The best days for some dying congregations may be yet to come.
9. More leaders are recognizing the value of team leadership. I’m not one who argues that a plurality of elders is the single model of church in the Bible, but I would argue that lone ranger leadership is dangerous for both the leader and the congregation. Leaders who welcome the input of others give me optimism for the American church.
10. Jesus told us that the gates of hell cannot prevail against His church (Matt 16:18). I trust those words. Hope is that simple.   

What other signs of hope in the American church do you see?