No Innocent Bystanders

God said to Samuel, "And I declare to him that I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons where blaspheming God" (1 Sam 3:13).

The condition of our church has weighed heavily on my heart and I fear we are no different than the majority of other Baptist churches. We have some many on our roles who have made a profession of faith and linked arms with God's people but now have nothing to do with God's people. Generally we have a pretty good idea of why they are gone. Often there are financial problems, relationship problems, or they have found something better than the Church. We may not know the specifics but we know there is iniquity. And now we know there are no innocent bystanders in the church. We are responsible for each other whether we admit it or not. We can deny God's standards all day but that does not dissolve our responsibility or God's righteous judgment.

"By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or in talk but in deed and in truth" (1 John 3:16-18).

Father, help us to love each other in Your church. God give us eyes to see what You want for Your church. Give us strength and endurance to work for what You want for Your church. Do not let us turn a blind eye to the problems. Do not let us turn a deaf ear to the cries for help. When a brother or sister separates himself/herself from the brethren I pray You would give us hearts that are concerned. Father, I am concerned about the trials and strife pursuing people will bring. Some will return gladly to the church and others will go further away taking offense. Give me love, patience, gentleness, boldness, and endurance. Make me like Your Son. Make Your church a healthy body. I want us to be fruitful for You. I want us to be a church not just a once a week gathering of people. Show us the way and give us the strength to walk on it.

In Christ's name
Amen