Strong Churches

“But Paul chose Silas and left, being committed by the brethren to the grace of the Lord.  And he was traveling through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches” (Acts 15:40-41).

“Strengthening the churches.”  As I was reading through the book of Acts this past week, this phrase caught my eye.  Further study revealed that this “strengthening” was the ministry of establishing, supporting, confirming, and upholding the work of various assemblies of disciples.  Scripture tells us that it is a service that both Jesus and the apostles valued and promoted (Luke 22:32; Acts 14:21-22; 15:32; 18:23).

The fact that assemblies need to be strengthened implies that the church is a living organism that experiences the struggle that comes to all living things as they seek to mature.  There are seasons of vitality and seasons of weakness.  There are advances and retreats.  Our adversary is always seeking to keep us from reaching our full potential as a body of believers.  Some attacks come from without.  Others come from within.  Sometimes it is just the wear and tear of life.  But the end result is the same -- the weakening of an assembly of God’s people.

Understanding the importance of “strengthening the churches,”  I need to evaluate my own participation in this valuable ministry.  How can I strengthen my own congregation?  By taking advantage of the opportunities for fellowship and learning that it provides.  By setting a godly example for younger believers.  By supporting its efforts with my time and resources.  By promoting and participating in its ministries.  By living in harmony rather than fostering division.  The list could go on and on.

Everyone wants to be part of a strong church.  But am I willing to do MY part to strengthen it?  It’s not everyone else’s responsibility.  It is MY responsibility.  And if you are a disciple of Christ, it’s YOUR responsibility.  A strong church doesn’t just happen.  It results from local disciples rolling up their sleeves and committing to its success.  Let’s all work together with God to strengthen OUR congregation.

God loves you!
Mike