New England Perspectives
A regularly updated collection of articles written by New England leaders and thinkers. Looking for news articles? Click here.
Our (Not-So-Secret) Weapon
“By this all people will know that you are my disciples,” Jesus said, “if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). The reference here is not our love for nonbelievers (as important as that is), but Christian love for one another. Our love as a church is our not-so-secret weapon to witness to the world about Jesus Christ. The local church, far from an obstacle to evangelism, is the God-ordained means to share the Gospel with the world.
Jesus Versus the Church?
There is a rumor going around that Jesus doesn’t much like the church. He is sort of annoyed with his bride, or outright disgusted by her. Some might even suggest a breakup. This perceived animosity has led people to the conclusion they can love Jesus and hate the church.
The Case for Denominations
Denominations as a whole are in decline, and the number of non-denominational churches is increasing, “13 percent of total American adults now identify as non-denominational. That is more than all mainline denominations combined” (Thom Rainer). Making a case for denominations today is like canoeing the Mighty Mississippi... upstream. However, it might be worth the effort to at least make the case.
Local Church Fallacies
We hear the refrain that church is unnecessary more frequently nowadays. The idea is that church is an optional club Christians can either choose to take part in or not, and going to church is a sort of side issue in the real business of following Jesus. Let’s briefly attempt to address some local church fallacies.
Church Red Flags
Not all churches are equal, and not all ministries are the same. While some are healthy and vibrant, others are spiritually harmful. Here are some red flags to identify a church that is heading in the wrong direction, and how to take actions against them.
What is the Church?
What is the church? To the readership of this blog, such a question might seem insultingly basic. Not so. It’s foundational. I am passionate about the revitalization of declining historic churches in New England. Answering this question will lead directly into another twin question, one that is the single watershed in whether a church will revitalize or continue in the throes of death.
Scattered
I was sitting on the front lawn of the church I attend a few days ago. We were having a potluck meal and time of connecting after Sunday service amidst the summer season. Two houseguests from overseas had joined me that day and I was sharing about various members of the congregation. Not being shy they had already met and had conversation with others on their own.