What Builds A
There are two divine institutions - the home and the church. A
third institution exists with God's approval - government. God desires strong
homes and strong churches. Both are an honor to His name. Following are some things that will contribute to building strong
churches:
Prayer builds strong churches: When Peter was released from
prison by the angel of the Lord he went to a home where the church was gathered
for prayer. "So, when he had considered
this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark,
where many were gathered together praying." (Acts
Friendliness builds strong churches: "Let brotherly love
continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels." (Hebrews
13:1-2.) People who attend our
assemblies should be overwhelmed with kindness and friendliness. Brethren should greet them with smiles,
greeting and hand shakes in the parking lot, foyer, as they enter and leave the
auditorium, and those that sit near them should give them special attention.
When visitors leave our assemblies they should be glad they came to be a part
of our church service.
Faithfulness builds strong churches: You may suffer for a
little while, but if you will remain faithful to God the church will be strong
and you will be blessed. "Do not fear any of those things which you are
about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison,
that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful
until death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Revelation 2:10.)
Those willing to teach God’s word, those that work and serve with Christ-like
hearts build strong churches.
Liberality builds strong churches: The liberality spoken of
here is liberality in giving, not in doctrine. Strong churches must be loyal to
God's word! Liberality in giving is a quality that builds strong churches. "He who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with
liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness."
(Romans 12:8.)
Some members build the
church. Others tear down what is built. Are you a builder? "Finally, my
brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might." (Ephesians
6:10) Salvation is available through the precious blood of Jesus. Each person
should obey the gospel of Jesus Christ (Mark