The following "Question" was asked about a recent Radio Study: A Member's Guide to Growing a Stronger Church, and "Answered" by John MacArthur Jr. A copy of the tape series can be obtained by writing, Word of Grace, P.O. Box 4000, Panorama City, CA 91412 or by dialing toll free 1-800-55-GRACE. Copyright 2000 by John MacArthur Jr., All Rights Reserved.

Question

When there is a choice between a church with a strong doctrinal foundation and one with a questionable one-though both may have problems-we recommend you go with the one with the stronger doctrinal foundation. It is easier for Christians to exercise their gifts and repair problems in the context of doctrinal truth than in one where error blows around those we seek to help (Ephesians 4:14). But what does a person do if his church is doctrinally sound but weak in other ways?

First, we recommend getting involved in a good fellowship or Bible study group where a person can study God's Word along with other committed believers. If possible, find a ministry within the church that has qualified godly leadership whose faith and life you can emulate. All church leaders have a scriptural responsibility to be an example to believers. Hebrews 13:7 says to "remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct." Peter exhorted the elders to "shepherd the flock of God…serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to [them], but being examples to the flock" (1 Peter 5:2-3). When you need counsel and help with the Word of God, seek out those who are godly examples and know Scripture.

Secondly, even though many Bible believing churches have problems, the Bible assumes that every believer is to be involved in a local church. We would not encourage any believer to stop attending church simply because the church is weak. Continual worship and fellowship with other believers is crucial, as is regular observance of the Lord's table.

Thirdly, to influence churches toward a more biblical ministry, we encourage believers to get involved in whatever way and at whatever level possible. A Christian shouldn't allow himself to get so busy that he loses his focus on spending time in God's Word and in prayer. He should not pull back but remain involved and allow God to use his personal devotion and Bible study to fuel his involvement. If the door is open to teach the Bible in some area of ministry, he should do it. He should carefully and enthusiastically teach God's Word as it ought to be taught. He should obtain some good commentaries and Bible study resources to help with that task.

Last, but not least, if no "official" position is available to exert a positive biblical influence, do not overlook an extremely important but often neglected area of ministry-prayer. The ministry of prayer is not popular with many in the church-in fact, it's hard work. But prayer is foundational to all we do and stand for. Furthermore, it is effective and brings glory to God. Believers in strong and weak churches alike need to commit themselves to faithful prayer for other believers in the church.

Believers should remember to pray especially for their pastors and elders (their church leaders), even those who may seem misdirected (they need our prayer even more). We should pray that God will direct them back to His Word and will and lead them to discard unbiblical ministry fads. We should pray for their personal prayer life and Bible study. We can encourage them by sending a card to thank them for their labor of love and let them know we are praying for them. In 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 Paul wrote, "And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. Be at peace among yourselves." God will bless the believer's obedience to His Word in this matter.

An extension of such a prayer ministry might be the practice of sending cards to various people to let them know you are praying for them. We can approach them on Sundays or phone them during the week and ask what specifically we can pray for them. When we lack specifics, we can pray for their walk with God, their sanctification, their personal holiness and testimony, their usefulness in ministry to others, their love and joy in the Lord, and all of the fruit of the Spirit in their lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

Church members can pray for God to develop and strengthen their relationships both with leaders and laymen in the church. As relationships are forged, we usually find increased opportunities to give input and to express our biblical concerns pertaining to personal and church issues. Most people are far more receptive to someone with whom they have a good relationship. If we are viewed as one who is merely critical, our input is generally not welcome. So it is important to pray for good relationships with the leaders and members of the church.

Every believer should also develop a consistent evangelistic prayer life. We should faithfully pray for neighbors and co-workers within our sphere of influence and friendships. We should be seeking the salvation of all men whenever and wherever we have opportunity. No believer is exempt from the ministry of evangelistic prayer, and our prayers should reflect God's desire for the salvation of all men (see 1 Timothy 2:1-8).

It is exciting to consider all the options available to Christians in imperfect churches. Those who engage in a faithful, fervent ministry of prayer for their weak church will be encouraged by the opportunity God has given them to have an impact there. When believers attend church with a view to ministering to others, it transforms their attitude about church attendance. It is no longer duty and drudgery. They not only want to be at church, but they feel they must be there to encourage others in biblical living and ministry. This kind of involvement develops and stimulates further personal prayer life and Bible study.

When believers develop their ministry within the body of Christ, it cultivates a much deeper gratitude within their hearts. They can even find themselves giving thanks to God for the sometimes misdirected efforts of pastors and church leaders. And perhaps they could become the very influence that God uses to stimulate their church toward a more biblical ministry.

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." -- 1 Corinthians 15:58

© 2000 Grace to You

Added to Bible Bulletin Board's "MacArthur’s Questions and Answers" by:

Tony Capoccia
Bible Bulletin Board
Box 119
Columbus, New Jersey, USA, 08022
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Email: tony@biblebb.com
Online since 1986