When I review the stats in churches today, I am saddened. Last year 47% of churches did not have one person receive salvation. However, isn't that their main function and purpose? "Go and make disciples" and then "teach them how to become a fully devoted follower of Christ". Are these churches and pastors saying there is not one lost person within the reach of the church?
Does the church have to take some responsibility for this? I think so. Have they lost sight of the mission of the church? Do they think more of themselves and their preferences than of those they should be trying to reach? How can they sit by and do nothing? Aren't they called as well to bring the lost to Christ? Have they bought into the distorted belief that it's the pastor's responsibility? It's time for the church to look at itself and face the brutal facts. Really, what is the purpose for the existence of the church if not to win the lost and teach them to remain in the faith. The church must ask itself, "What is our business?" Then, "How is business?" What are we passionate about? It had better be what Jesus was passionate about.
Where do the pastors fit into all of this? Could it be that some have "lost their first love?" Could others have lost sight of their calling? Could some have fallen into the trap that they have a job and not a calling? Could others be waiting for retirement? Could others just be tired and have given up? Have we lost sight that we will one day give an account to God? Does anyone fear that anymore? Are we OK with giving the impression "Just die and go to hell because we just don't care?" Was Jesus kidding when he said "go out into the city and streets and bring them in so that my house will be full?"
So what is the problem? Here is one thought I will suggest to put at the top of the list. It's called passion. When people are really passionate about something, they pour themselves into it. It gets them up in the morning. Its the last thing on their mind before they go to sleep. It affects their work schedule, their work ethic, organizes their priorities, the way they converse or preach, how they lead, and their focus. Passion drives a person. Passion is contagious! Passion is caught by others. Passion removes the option of failure. Passion brings one to life.
So what must a church and a pastor do? Ask God for forgiveness. Pray that God will either renew their passion or place a passion for the lost deep within their souls. The church must focus on its mission. The pastor has to lead with passion. They must become driven. They have to set the example of leading others to Christ. If a pastor's calling doesn't excite them, then they should find something somewhere to become passionate about and let a passionate pastor take their place. Wasn't it passion that drove Christ to the cross? IT'S PASSION MAN, PASSION!
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