7 Pillars of a Faithful Church; 1

For whatever the reason, churches seem to have a season of life. A period of time in which they flourish; then endure a period of stasis; then begin to decline; and then die altogether. The record of church history is a chronicling of ecclesiastical cycles in which churches grow up and die out.

But what is the pathology in the death of a church (Sardis)? Or, in one that has lost all its impact and been rendered so useless as to be described by our Lord as 'lukewarm' (Laodicea)? According to one Bible teacher, it happens by one or more of either becoming embroiled with controversy; enmeshed in sin; encumbered with programs; or, enamored with the world. I think that is a very astute observation and assessment.

In Revelation chapters two and three, we discover our Lord's own assessment of both that which is commendable in His churches and that for which He issues a startling rebuke. We would do well to heed His Words.