Church should be simple, not this complex machine of committees, programs, politics, and ninety-nine ministry options on the ministry menu. That is a fast-tract to meltdown for church leaders and burnout for church members.
I don’t think church should wear people out. Yes, work is involved in carrying out the Great Commission – sometimes unpleasant work – but that’s not what I’m talking about. Work is good. Work is healthy. Avoiding work is not the goal. I’m talking about doing too much. I’m talking about having too many irons in the fire at the same time. If you think the goal of church is to be at every event that is offered, then you may as well go ahead sign up for the burnout program at the local mental hospital because that’s where you are headed!
Some people like to go to church every time the doors are open. They will be there every night of the week. Myself, I don’t have the energy or desire to do that. I don’t have the strength or conviction to minister in that kind of culture. Keeping people this busy takes away time from getting to know their neighbors, not to mention putting a strain on the family.
Church attendance on Sunday should be the first and most important thing on the list. Absolutely. There, you gather for corporate worship with other believers, honor God, are instructed by God’s Word, and are empowered to go back into the community as a missionary and ambassador for Christ.
Yet, many churches have turned themselves into conglomerate of assorted programs, committee meetings, and ministries that is overwhelming. It keeps people too busy; they have little time for their families or getting to know their neighbors. Instead of being a place of joyful relationships, church becomes an institution whose mammoth sized machinery must be maintained.
I want a church that helps me, not drains me.
I don’t think church should wear people out. Yes, work is involved in carrying out the Great Commission – sometimes unpleasant work – but that’s not what I’m talking about. Work is good. Work is healthy. Avoiding work is not the goal. I’m talking about doing too much. I’m talking about having too many irons in the fire at the same time. If you think the goal of church is to be at every event that is offered, then you may as well go ahead sign up for the burnout program at the local mental hospital because that’s where you are headed!
Some people like to go to church every time the doors are open. They will be there every night of the week. Myself, I don’t have the energy or desire to do that. I don’t have the strength or conviction to minister in that kind of culture. Keeping people this busy takes away time from getting to know their neighbors, not to mention putting a strain on the family.
Church attendance on Sunday should be the first and most important thing on the list. Absolutely. There, you gather for corporate worship with other believers, honor God, are instructed by God’s Word, and are empowered to go back into the community as a missionary and ambassador for Christ.
Yet, many churches have turned themselves into conglomerate of assorted programs, committee meetings, and ministries that is overwhelming. It keeps people too busy; they have little time for their families or getting to know their neighbors. Instead of being a place of joyful relationships, church becomes an institution whose mammoth sized machinery must be maintained.
I want a church that helps me, not drains me.
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