We cannot neglect fundamental principles in ministry and expect to make a difference for eternity. We might put up some good appearances but in time what we do will suffer. We need to keep going back to the basics.
Why Remembering the Basics of the Christian Life Are So Important
How well we remember the basics can determine how well we stand and persevere. The basics form the foundation of all we do. A faulty foundation and eventually we crumble. A firm foundation and we can stand no matter how difficult life becomes. (Read Luke 6:46-49.)
How well we remember the basics can determine how well we flourish. Roots need good soil. Toxins, chemical imbalance, or excessive weeds can weaken or destroy what started as a good plant. Hard or rocky soil can keep things from growing. (Read Luke 8:12-15.)
Church Leaders May Need to Get Back to the Basics of God’s Purposes, Design, and Mission
Everything church leaders do needs to be firmly rooted in the basics of life in Christ like God’s purposes, design, mission, heart, and power for the Church. When leaders have a good grip on God’s intent for the Church, their own roles become more obvious, as well as the heart and means needed to fulfil that role.
Check out the church leadership training division of Ministry Tools Resource Center, TrainChurchLeaders.com, which devotes a section to getting leaders back to the basics.
Also check out the downloadable resources to help leaders steer the church in these directions.
All Believers Need to Remember and Live in Accordance with Who We are and What We Have in Christ
We all, regardless of ministry roles, need to get back to the basics in order to walk worthy of our calling in Christ Jesus (Eph. 4:1). We need to remember some key spiritual truths:
- We are sinners saved by grace, cleansed from sin because of Jesus’ death on the cross. — Are you remembering that it is all about what He has done for you?
- We were taken out of darkness to live in the light of His truth. — Are you living like a child of the light?
- We are new creatures in Christ Jesus. — Are you growing more and more into the likeness of who you are in Christ Jesus?
- We were placed into a Body of believers to be members of one another. — Are you taking time to fellowship with and serve other believers?
- We are to be salt and light in this world. — Are you a testimony for Jesus in a bland and dark world?
Let’s guard against complicating the Christian life and what the Church is about. If we remember these basics we will be used by God to make a difference for eternity.