An Observation

Howdy to all (3?) of my faithful readers, and one in particular (you know who you are)...

Thought I would at least give you an update on something that has been on my mind of late. After living in the Pacific Northwest for a short time (it wasn't short at the time), I found a rather disheartening situation. I related some of this on previous blogs.

I met some very faithful Primitive Baptists who met twice a month near my abode at the time. Without any initial contact, they enjoyed having me visit the church as much as possible. However, I found myself the only one of my generation in attendance. After asking of the pastor about this situation, he related that through the failure of the generation before his, active efforts to evangelize to his generation did not exist. Thus, now a whole generation (and the one below) is in large part missing in those churches.

The pastor of that church does live over 3 hours away and pretty much continues to come to support the last remaining member and two of her family members.

My point in broaching this subject is not to lambaste the church or the members, but to exhort us to avoid apathy in the churches we attend (or maybe not attend).

The Bible is replete with examples of the failures of one generation resulting in the next generation wandering away from the church. Albeit, I understand the movements of the Holy Spirit in regeneration and God's merciful election. However, I see in places where PB churches are numerous in a particular area or where a vibrant church exists, members that become so encumbered with worldly pursuits that they cease to attend or only attend near holidays or when church discipline is needed. I will not claim myself to be perfect as I am not able to be at every service due to my rotational shift duties with the Federal Gov't (i.e. the bad weather does not just come on Monday through Friday from 8-5). I dislike this feature of my service, but desire to work towards a goal of higher positions that would allow a more normal schedule.

How deplorable that even the freedoms we enjoy to attend church are diminished because we do not exercise those freedoms? Would those Christians from China, Vietnam, or Russia agree?

The book of Revelations mentions various churches that had spiritual problems. Two in particular...Laodicea was lukewarm...Ephesus had left the First Love. The Lord commanded them to repent or have the candlestick removed. The same thing could happen (and is happening) today.

So, you might ask...What is the solution(s)?

First, I would say submit your life completely to God, search out the scriptures with fear and trembling, and pray without ceasing for the church members and pastor (especially for unity and revival). Attend every Sunday, Wednesday, etc. service that you can.

Second, exhort other members of the church that may not be as faithful to continue coming and perhaps try to discuss what they have been studying lately. You might even stop by and visit with those that have not attended in a while. Older members that cannot attend church due to infirmity sure would like to come to church...visit with them we you can.

Third, remember that the generation(s) below (and above) you is (are) watching your actions. Be a Godly example to them.

Fourth, ask others around you whether in school or work to come with you to church. Yeah you may receive rejection on that one, but you never know until you ask.


Well, this is quite a daunting task and I did not even list some other "solutions". My apologizes if I seem like I am just reflecting on things others may already know or worse yet, have painted a picture of myself as the perfect Christian. I struggle with all of these things myself, but would exhort you to continue to fight the good fight and remember what Christ has done for us (I Peter 2:20-24). May He be our example.

And to continue with my new tradition on posts...Hope you like this video from the Muppet Show of long ago.