In one of the other threads we got a little off topic talking about the church not fulfilling it's duty to God and it's members, and of course it got me thinking (thanks Jullianna). Throughout the New Testament, both in Christ's teaching, and in the letters we see a recurring theme of the church being active in good works. Not that works save us, but they should come naturally out of obedience to God.
People in the church look to their church for weekly services, activities for their children, support in their time of need, etc, but it seems that churches are always having to search for people to fill volunteer positions to keep those ministries functioning. All too many people when they hear about people who are sick, or on some other need in their community, they think to themselves that it's the church's job to take care of it without beginning to think that THEY are the church.
I've heard so many people complain (not necessarily here) that their church isn't doing different types of ministry, yet they never begin to think that maybe God has put that burden on their heart for a reason. Maybe THEY should begin that work, rather than complain that no one else has.Sure, not everyone has the gifting for some types of ministry, but we all are gifted in some way. Recent years have seen a growing number of pastors and other leaders dropping out of the ministry because of burn out and frustration with the lack of help from those within the church.
We, as singles, tend to have a lot more available time to involve ourselves in ministry and service than those with families. Even the apostle Paul took the time to point out the benefits of being single in regards to our walk with God. (no I'm not suggesting permanent singleness) We should be seeking God as to what He would have us do to serve Him in our churches and communities. Not for our glory, but His.
People in the church look to their church for weekly services, activities for their children, support in their time of need, etc, but it seems that churches are always having to search for people to fill volunteer positions to keep those ministries functioning. All too many people when they hear about people who are sick, or on some other need in their community, they think to themselves that it's the church's job to take care of it without beginning to think that THEY are the church.
I've heard so many people complain (not necessarily here) that their church isn't doing different types of ministry, yet they never begin to think that maybe God has put that burden on their heart for a reason. Maybe THEY should begin that work, rather than complain that no one else has.Sure, not everyone has the gifting for some types of ministry, but we all are gifted in some way. Recent years have seen a growing number of pastors and other leaders dropping out of the ministry because of burn out and frustration with the lack of help from those within the church.
We, as singles, tend to have a lot more available time to involve ourselves in ministry and service than those with families. Even the apostle Paul took the time to point out the benefits of being single in regards to our walk with God. (no I'm not suggesting permanent singleness) We should be seeking God as to what He would have us do to serve Him in our churches and communities. Not for our glory, but His.