Welcome to episode 241 of Grasp the Bible. In this episode, we will examine the Church in crisis. 

Key takeaways:   

• The reality:  Churches face both internal and external threats 
• The promise:  Christ is building the Church and he will prevail 
• The church’s foundation does not depend on: 
  • Gifted leaders 
  • Perfect doctrine 
  • Cultural acceptance 
  • Impressive programs or large numbers 
• For the five churches we examine in the Book of Revelation, we see a pattern and a promise. 
  • The pattern:  Acknowledge the problem honestly, remember what you've received, repent and change direction, return to faithful obedience. 
  • The promise:  This varies, depending on the church, but is made to ordinary Christians who overcome the challenges specified 

Quotable:   

Our job isn't to save the church—Jesus did that on the cross. 

Application:   

• How to minister in crisis: 
  • Start with prayer:  Our first response to church problems should be prayer, not criticism, complaining, or gossip. 
  • Demonstrate personal faithfulness and integrity:  Instead of focusing on what others need to change, ask what God wants to change in you. 
  • Speak truth in love 
  • Support godly leadership:  Church leaders need your support, not second-guessing. 
• Our job is... 
  • To be faithful in our generation.  
  • To pray.  
  • To serve.  
  • To love.  
  • To persevere.  
  • To trust God with results. 

Connect with us:   

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https://www.facebook.com/SpringBaptist (Spring Campus)   

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