Churches in Transition (Plain Bible Teaching)

Plain Bible Teaching: The First Ten Years

The following is an excerpt from the book, Plain Bible Teaching: The First Ten Years.

As local churches work to build themselves up, they are in a constant state of transition. Paul told Timothy of the importance of training others to help in this transition: “The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).

Local churches do not remain static. The New Testament records a very concise history of the church in Ephesus. It went from infancy (Acts 19:1-7) to maturity with elders overseeing the congregation (Acts 20:17). Afterward the church went through turmoil (Acts 20:29-30) and eventually apostasy (Revelation 2:4). Even if change is slow, every congregation is in transition. Every member will someday be a former member – they will either pass away (2 Timothy 4:6), move away (Acts 18:1-2; 1 Corinthians 16:19), or fall away (2 Timothy 4:10). But that does not mean that every congregation will be in a state of decline. Churches can grow in spite of this and must work toward doing so.

However, it is important that we understand that the future of our local churches is not completely in our control. Man has free will (cf. Joshua 24:15; 2 Corinthians 5:11). We cannot force people to convert or remain faithful. But we must do what we can. Paul said, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth” (1 Corinthians 3:6). We must do the work God has given us to do.

You can read more in Plain Bible Teaching: The First Ten Years. Follow the link to learn more about the book and purchase your copy today!

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