Revitalizing Faith: 5 Reasons Your Faith is DYING and How to Fix It

In a world filled with challenges and distractions, maintaining a vibrant faith can often feel like an uphill battle. Pastor Bill Brannan addresses the critical reasons why faith may falter and offers insightful strategies to reignite the passion for a Christ-centered life. This blog explores the necessity of community, scripture, and perseverance in nurturing a resilient faith.

We Need the Body of Christ

The body of Christ is essential for a thriving faith community. Each member has a unique role and contributes to the overall health of the church. When we come together, we create an environment where support, accountability, and encouragement flourish.

Imagine a family where every member plays a part. In a similar fashion, the church operates as a family, with each person bringing their gifts and talents to the table. Without this collaboration, the church struggles to fulfill its mission.

The Importance of Community

• Support: We all face challenges, and having a community provides emotional and spiritual support.
• Accountability: Being part of a body keeps us accountable in our faith journey.
• Growth: We grow together as we learn from one another’s experiences and insights.

We must ask ourselves: how can we better engage with our church community? Whether it’s through small groups, volunteering, or simply reaching out to someone in need, every action counts. It’s in these moments that we truly embody the body of Christ.

Encouragement from God’s Word

God’s Word is a source of strength and encouragement. It offers guidance and reassurance during difficult times. When we immerse ourselves in scripture, we find the hope and encouragement we need to keep moving forward.

Finding Hope in Scripture

• Proverbs 13:12: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when desire comes, it is a tree of life.” This verse reminds us of the importance of hope in our lives.
• Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Faith allows us to trust in what we cannot see.
• Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This promise empowers us to face any challenge.

As we delve into these scriptures, we are reminded that we are not alone in our struggles. God is with us, and His Word provides the comfort and strength we need to persevere.

Sewing and Reaping

The principle of sewing and reaping is central to our Christian walk. What we sow in our lives—whether good or bad—will ultimately come back to us. This truth serves as both a warning and encouragement.

The Cycle of Sewing and Reaping

• Sow Good Seeds: Engage in acts of kindness, love, and service. These seeds will yield a fruitful harvest.
• Be Patient: Just as a farmer waits for the harvest, we must be patient in our spiritual growth. Good things take time.
• Trust God’s Timing: Remember that God’s timing is perfect. The harvest may not come when we expect, but it will come.

As we sow into the lives of others, we create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our immediate circle. We must remain faithful, knowing that our efforts will bear fruit in due time.

What Do You Seek

In our pursuit of faith, it’s vital to reflect on what we truly seek. Are we chasing after superficial goals, or are we longing for a deeper relationship with God? This introspection can lead to significant spiritual growth.

Questions to Consider

• What are your priorities? Are they aligned with God’s purpose for your life?
• What do you want to achieve? Are your goals rooted in faith and service to others?
• How can you deepen your relationship with God? Consider prayer, study, and community involvement.

By assessing our desires and intentions, we can realign our focus towards what truly matters—our relationship with God and our service to others.

The Cost of Being a Hero of Faith

Becoming a hero of faith requires sacrifice. It means stepping out of our comfort zones and facing challenges head-on. This journey is not without its costs, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Understanding the Sacrifice

• Embrace Challenges: Every hero faces trials that test their character and resolve.
• Be Prepared to Suffer: Sacrifice often involves suffering for the sake of others and for the cause of Christ.
• Stay Committed: True heroes remain steadfast despite opposition and adversity.

As we reflect on the sacrifices made by heroes of faith throughout history, we are inspired to follow in their footsteps. Their legacies remind us that the cost of faith is worth every moment of struggle.

Building a Church

Building a church goes beyond physical structures; it is about establishing a community grounded in Christ. Our mission is to create a space where people can encounter God and grow in their faith.

Foundations for a Strong Church

• Christ as the Foundation: Jesus must be at the center of everything we do.
• Community Engagement: Foster relationships within and outside the church to impact the surrounding community.
• Discipleship: Invest in the spiritual growth of members to equip them for service.

As we embark on this journey of building a church, let us remain focused on our mission and purpose. Together, we can create a vibrant community where faith flourishes and lives are transformed.

Why Do People Go to Church

People attend church for various reasons, often centered on personal benefits. While great music and engaging messages attract many, deeper motivations are crucial for long-term commitment.

Common Reasons for Attending

• Music: High-quality worship music can draw people in and create a powerful atmosphere.
• Messages: Inspiring sermons that resonate with personal experiences can encourage regular attendance.
• Friendships: Building relationships within the church community provides emotional support and connection.
• Social Mobility: Some may see church as a means to network and advance their personal or professional lives.

While these reasons can be positive, they often focus on individual needs rather than collective purpose. A stronger foundation is necessary for a thriving church experience.

Shifting the Focus

The motivation to attend church should shift from “What do I get?” to “How can I honor God?” When our focus is on worshiping Jesus and participating in His body, we build a resilient community. This commitment helps us endure challenges and fosters a deeper connection with our faith.

Creating a Thinking Church

A church should not only be a place of worship but also a community that encourages thoughtful engagement with faith. It’s essential to cultivate an environment where diverse thoughts and beliefs can coexist while remaining rooted in Christ.

Fostering Open Dialogue

• Encourage Discussions: Create a culture where members can express differing views without fear of judgment.
• Emphasize Essentials: Focus on core beliefs while allowing for varied interpretations on non-essential matters.
• Build Relationships: Encourage members to engage with one another to foster understanding and respect.

In this way, we create a space where faith can be questioned, explored, and ultimately strengthened. A thinking church nurtures believers to grow in their understanding of God while learning from one another.

Do We Have the Best Worship

The quality of worship is often debated within church communities. While many desire the best musical talent, the heart of worship lies in authenticity and a genuine connection to God.

Authenticity Over Performance

• Heartfelt Worship: Genuine worship experiences can transcend musical talent.
• Community Participation: Encourage congregation involvement in worship to enhance the experience.
• Focus on God: Shift attention from performers to the One being worshiped.

When worship is approached with authenticity, it becomes a channel for experiencing God’s presence, regardless of musical expertise. This connection is what truly transforms hearts and lives.

Growing Our Church

Church growth is not solely about increasing numbers; it involves deepening relationships and expanding the community’s reach. Healthy growth is rooted in active participation and outreach.

Strategies for Growth

• Engage in Outreach: Actively participate in community service and outreach programs to connect with those outside the church.
• Build Relationships: Take time to foster meaningful connections with fellow members and newcomers.
• Invite Others: Extend personal invitations to friends and family to attend services or events.

Each of these strategies contributes to a vibrant church community that reflects Christ’s love and purpose. By focusing on relationships and outreach, we can effectively grow our church and strengthen our faith.

Becoming More Like Jesus

The ultimate goal of a church community is to help its members become more like Jesus. This transformation requires intentional practices and a commitment to spiritual growth.

Practices for Transformation

• Regular Prayer: Encourage personal and communal prayer to deepen one’s relationship with God.
• Scripture Study: Promote Bible study groups to explore God’s Word and apply it to daily life.
• Serve Others: Engage in acts of service to develop a heart of compassion and humility.

As we embrace these practices, we cultivate a community that reflects Christ’s character. This journey of becoming more like Jesus strengthens our faith and impacts those around us.

 

Growing the Church of Jesus Christ

(Preaching Outline)

1)      We have been focusing on becoming more like Jesus every day.

a)      Model:

i)        We must be filled with the Holy Spirit

ii)      We need a continual revelation of Jesus

iii)    We need the body of Christ

iv)    We need to feed on the Word of God

v)      We need a life of prayer

b)      Because of the upcoming outreach, today I want to focus on  “we need the body of Christ.”

c)      It began with Shonda telling me that LSCC has something special and people need what we have.

i)        Most businesses fail not because they do not have a great product or service, but because people do not know about them.

2)      Before we focus specifically on the church, I want to take some time to encourage us from God’s word.

a)      Proverbs 13:12 (NKJV) — 12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life.

b)      Galatians 6:7–10 (NKJV) — 7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

c)      First blade

d)      Philippians 4:10–14 (NKJV) — 10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. 14 Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress.

3)      Building a church

a)      1 Corinthians 3:11–14 (NKJV) — 11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. 14 If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward.

b)      There are many ways to grow a church, some fast and some slow, but will it endure?

c)      For example, we can focus on being special for a variety of reasons. – or how the news/social media works.

d)      2 Timothy 4:3–4 (NKJV) — 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.

e)      What is the outcome we are looking for?  That is an important question.

f)       I think we all agree that Christianity in America is not having the impact in America that it could.

g)      If we want to change the outcome, the church in America has to do something different.

h)      People are concerned about the downward trajectory, but there was once an upward trajectory, that is what we want to find.

4)      Why do people go to church?

a)      Some common reasons

i)        Great music

ii)      Like the messages

iii)    Social mobility

iv)    Friendships

v)      Personality

b)      Exploring stronger foundations

i)        Most of those reasons are all about “me.”

ii)      How about a conviction of the value and importance of church?

5)      What is special about LSCC?

a)      Do we have the best preaching? No

i)        Why many preachers?

ii)      Why in depth messages?

b)      Do we have the best worship? No

i)        Authentic worship where we hopefully increasingly experience the presence of God.

c)      What do we have?

i)        Authenticity

ii)      Really good people

iii)    Genuine diversity

iv)    A great mission

6)      What can you do to grow LSCC?

a)      Pray

b)      Join the outreach committee.

c)      Talk about why church is important and what you see is special about LSCC with other members.

d)      Take time to build relationships with members of the church.

e)      Talk to me to share testimonies or thoughts about our church on Sunday mornings.

f)       Invite people.

g)      Seek to become more like Jesus every day.