Enthusiasm for the Lord

Approximately 60% of congregations of the Lord’s church in America do not have elders. Since 1988, thirteen congregations in northeast Louisiana have ceased to exist. Many congregations are hanging on by a thread. According to the Christian Chronicle, approximately 10 church of Christ congregations have closed their doors each month since 2016.

Why are these things happening? I believe a large part of the problem is we have lost our enthusiasm for the Lord. Enthusiasm means to have zeal, zest, and zing. We need to love our Lord and our fellow man with all our hearts (Matthew 22:37-39). We need to be outward focused rather than inward focused (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15). We need to support our elders and deacons (1 Timothy 5:17). For congregations who do not have elders, we need to be working to have qualified men (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5). We need to give of ourselves and our financial means cheerfully and liberally (2 Corinthians 9:16; Ephesians 2:10). We need to worship in spirit and in truth (John 4:24).

We are fortunate here at Naff Avenue as I see enthusiasm for the Lord and our doing the needful things necessary to stay healthy as a congregation. What can we do to improve? We need more Bible class teachers (see Jake Maxwell). We need more men preparing to serve in leadership roles. We need to be inviting others to our services. We need to be looking for opportunities to have in-home Bible studies. We need to devote ourselves to study (Bible) and prayer.

Friends, how is your enthusiasm for the Lord? What motivates you? What are your top three priorities in your life? Jesus said so well, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).

Stay true to the Word,

Brother Travis