I heard these disturbing words last week: "There is sure a lot of churches that are closing!" *"The United States Census Bureau Records give some startling statistics, backed up by denominational reports and the Assemblies of God U.S. Missions:"Every year more than 4000 churches close their doors compared to just over 1000 new church starts!There were about 4,500 new churches started between 1990 and 2000, with a twenty year average of nearly 1000 a year. Every year, 2.7 million church members fall into inactivity. This translates into the realization that people are leaving the church. From our research, we have found that they are leaving as hurting and wounded victims-of some kind of abuse, disillusionment, or just plain neglect!" * (Churchleadership.org)
Prior to Jesus' statement in our text, Peter is commended for stating who Jesus is. "You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God." (v.16)
Not only is Peter commended, but he is given the responsibility, that all Christians have, and that (as the church) we are to share with the world, who Jesus is, and what He did to save the world, from sin and eternal death. How can we accomplish this, if we keep on declining and quitting?
If we plug into the power of the Holy Spirit, we will be that mighty army that Satan cannot overpower. It comes down to having a strong handle on our purpose. (Matthew 28:19-20) Letting our light shine for Jesus, is our call, and commitment. How many people will come to the Savior, if we decide that the best thing to do is to decline, and eventually quit? GP
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