In
every healthy congregation you will find certain people
that comprise the essential “heart and soul” of the
church. Note . . . -- They are always present at the
assemblies. They make it a point to never miss any of the
services. If it is necessary to make changes, adjust
schedules, suffer inconvenience or simply miss out on
other activities, they will do so because they are
committed to being present every time the doors are open.
--
These folks actually look for opportunities to serve. If
there is work to be done, Bible classes to be taught, weak
members to be encouraged, sick folks to be visited, menial
chores to be fulfilled, they will step up and get the job
done. They are not waiting to be told what to do. Instead
they are searching for more and more that can be
accomplished.
--
In matters of personal purity and morality, these people
are setting a worthy example. They don’t look for “loopholes”
to justify untoward behavior. Rather they “go the extra
mile” to make sure that there is not even an “appearance
of evil” (1 Thess. 5:22). In the clothes they were, the
language they use, the places they go, the movies and TV
they watch, these brethren are determined to do the right
thing.
--
Most surveys indicate that 80% of what is contributed in
any church comes from about 20% of the membership. The
kind of people we’re describing here are among that 20%.
They are truly sacrificial in their giving.
--
When conflicts arise in the church, these people can be
counted on to help make resolution. They are not the sort
to get their feelings hurt easily. Instead, they work hard
to address situations that -- unheeded -- could lead to
serious division. They stand firmly and without compromise
for the truth, they love their brethren, and they care
about the church.
More
could be said, but the picture is pretty clear. Local
churches depend on these members. In fact, without them a
congregation will never prosper. Now, the simple question
is: Are you one of these ‘essential’ church members?
Think!
Back to Bulletin Fodder