Now Is the Time for Church Revitalization
If so many churches in America are plateauing or declining, we must focus on church planting, but must also focus on church strengthening and revitalization. I often say that church planting is a spiritual battle. Obviously, the same is true for church strengthening and revitalization. The Lord Jesus gives us the declaration that He will build His church. We read in Acts that the church was edified, built up, strengthened. We also realize from reading the New Testament that First Century churches faced serious challenges and substantial obstacles. Many of the New Testament Epistles address church struggles in the area of doctrine as well as ministry practice. We see the same in this century. In the month of May, SBC of Virginia will be giving special focus to church revitalization.
Church revitalization is Kingdom work. Church planting and missions is Kingdom work – and so is church revitalization. The Lord Jesus loves His church. He loves His new churches, healthy churches, and His churches that are ailing. This is Kingdom work.
Church revitalization begins with personal revitalization. “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. (Acts 20:28 ESV) The verse tells us to pay careful attention to our own walk with the Lord first as we work with the church.
Church revitalization is a battle. We are in a spiritual battle when it comes to being the church. But, be encouraged, the Scriptures resound with the truth that the battle belongs to the Lord.
Church revitalization is hard work. It involves “God’s inspiration but our perspiration.” Let us encourage one anther in this work.
Church revitalization demands persistence. It takes time. It is a process not just an event. Not one size fits all. By the way, four out of seven of the churches referenced in Revelation appear to have needed revitalization. Persevere.
Church revitalization requires God’s blessing. This is spiritual work. This is supernational work. G. Campbell Morgan said, “We cannot cause the wind of the Spirit to blow, but we can set our sails to catch the wind when it does blow.” Let us pray, preach, and proclaim the Gospel. We know that only God brings revival and revitalization.
Church revitalization involves action plans. As we read the Scriptures, we see that God’s people must rely on His power, while also implementing a plan that people can understand and follow.
“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20–21 ESV)
I am indebted to Dr. Timothy Beougher, Dr. Charles Lawless, and others for their writings and encouragement in sharing insights and shaping ideas regarding church revitalization. I hope you will join us for one of our Revitalization Summits in May as we seek to learn from others and one another.
Keep pressing on! You are not alone!
Your brother in Christ,
BRIAN AUTRY