The Key Element In Keeping The Church Alive

What is the key element that keeps the church alive in every generation? Some say it is a strong eldership, while others would answer that it's a strong pulpit. Some believe it to be based on strong Bible-based classes. Others would say it is worshiping in spirit and in truth. Still others say that it is based on generous giving and in the teaching and involvement of our young people.

The fact is, that all of the above answers have a part in helping the church remain alive and vibrant. However, the key element in keeping the church alive in every generation, is evangelism. Without evangelism, there would be no elderships, no one to fill the pulpit, no Bible class teachers, no givers, and no youth being involved in the work of the church. Without evangelism, any church will die, regardless of whatever else it has or does (Revelation 3:1-3; cf. Revelation 2:5; 1 Timothy 4:11-16).

As sure way to guarantee the closing of the doors to the church in generations to come, is to fail to evangelize in this present generation (Deuteronomy 6:1-15; Deuteronomy 11:13-21; Psalm 78:1-8). The church cannot continue to adopt an entertainment type atmosphere, where God's word is served up in a light and frivolous way, and remain solvent. True evangelism is one beggar [that's us!] telling other beggars [those who are "hungering and thirsting after righteousness"] (Matthew 5:6), where to find spiritual food — that food being "the bread of life" (John 6:35,48,58).

The image of the church means nothing unless it is the reflection of Jesus Christ (cf. 2 Corinthians 3:18; Gal. 2:20; 1 Peter 2:13-25). Serving up the saving gospel to the lost, is what the church is to be about (Acts 13:32-39 ESV; 1 Corinthians 2:1-2; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4). It gives substance to who we are (Gal. 3:26-29; cf. Romans 8:16-17), and what our assignment is (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16). It provides the Word of life to others, and as a result, keeps the church alive and vibrant.

Beloved, the bottom line is this: We either evangelize, or fossilize. We either reach out, or fade out. The choice is ours to make (Joshua 24:14-15).

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets