Monthly Archives: June 2026

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: Memorizing Verses That Teach Holiness by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge that young people face today is memorizing verses that teach holiness. This is a very important challenge because we live in a world where immorality, impurity, and temptation are present everywhere. Christian young people need to have God’s Word stored in their hearts so that they can resist sin and remain faithful to the Lord.

The psalmist declared, “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). This passage clearly demonstrates the value of Scripture memorization. When God’s Word is engraved in our minds and hearts, we have immediate access to His will during moments of trial, temptation, and decision-making.

Jesus Himself set the example for us. When He was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, He responded to every temptation with the words, “It is written” (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10). Our Lord used Scripture as a spiritual weapon to overcome the enemy. In the same way, young people today can overcome temptation if they know and remember God’s Word.

Holiness is not optional for the Christian; it is a divine command. God desires His people to reflect His holy character in every aspect of life. For this reason, all young Christians are encouraged to memorize and meditate on the following passages:

Verses on Holiness

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8).

“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).

“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, ‘Be holy, for I am holy’” (1 Peter 1:15-16).

“Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22).

“Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul” (1 Peter 2:11).

“There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9).

“Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge”(Hebrews 13:4).

“How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word” (Psalm 119:9).

“For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality” (1 Thessalonians 4:3).

“For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness” (1 Thessalonians 4:7).

“Flee sexual immorality” (1 Corinthians 6:18).

“Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit?” (1 Corinthians 6:19).

“Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1).

“Abstain from every form of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:22).

“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth” (Ephesians 4:29).

“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness” (Ephesians 5:11).

“Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure… meditate on these things” (Philippians 4:8).

Benefits of Memorizing Verses on Holiness

  1. They help us resist the temptations of sin.
  2. They strengthen our fellowship with God.
  3. They constantly remind us of God’s will.
  4. They protect our minds from impure thoughts.
  5. They help us make wise decisions.
  6. They prepare us to teach and encourage others.
  7. They motivate us to live lives that glorify God.

The Christian young person who dedicates time to memorizing Scripture will be better prepared to face the spiritual challenges of life. When temptations arise, God’s Word will serve as a light to guide their steps and as a spiritual sword to help them overcome the enemy (Psalm 119:105; Ephesians 6:17).

Every young person is encouraged to memorize these verses, meditate on them daily, and put them into practice. It is not enough merely to know them; they must also be obeyed. In this way, they can remain pure before God, be examples to others, and glorify the One who called them out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).

May every young person be able to say with the psalmist:

“Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11).

btsop2004@gmail.com

PRACTICES THAT HARM THE LORD’S CHURCH: The Absence of Prayer in the Christian Life by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another harmful practice that we can add to the list, and one that has seriously affected the Lord’s church, is the absence of prayer in the Christian life. There is no doubt that the Bible exhorts men, women, and young people to be people of prayer. Prayer should occupy an essential place in the life of the Christian (1 Thess. 5:17; Eph. 6:18). In addition to the commandments related to prayer, God has left us numerous examples of faithful servants for whom prayer was a priority. Among them we find Daniel (Dan. 6:10), Jesus (Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16), the first-century church (Acts 2:42; 12:5, 12), Hannah (1 Sam. 1:10–18), Nehemiah (Neh. 1:4–11), and Paul and Silas (Acts 16:25), among many others.

Prayer is one of the greatest privileges God has granted to His children. Through it we can approach the throne of grace to find help in time of need (Heb. 4:16), present our requests before God (Phil. 4:6), give thanks for His blessings (Col. 4:2), and seek His guidance in the matters of life. When prayer is absent, the Christian loses an invaluable source of spiritual strength, and the church suffers the consequences.

Why is the absence of prayer in the Christian life so serious? Consider the following:

1. It Produces Disobedience to God

Prayer is a divine command that must be obeyed (1 Thess. 5:17; Matt. 26:41). Neglecting it constitutes sin before God (1 John 3:4). God expects His children to depend on Him and seek Him continually.

2. It Hinders Spiritual Growth

God grants wisdom and strength to those who ask in faith (James 1:5–6). Without prayer, spiritual development is hindered, and Christian maturity is delayed.

3. It Sets a Poor Example for the Family

A home that serves God should also seek Him in prayer (Josh. 24:15). Children learn the importance of prayer by observing their parents practice it daily.

4. It Weakens Brotherly Love

The Bible exhorts us to pray for one another (Eph. 6:18; James 5:16). Prayer is a practical expression of Christian love and genuine concern for our brethren.

5. It Exposes Us to Temptation

Jesus taught that we must watch and pray so that we do not enter into temptation (Matt. 26:41). Prayer strengthens our faithfulness during difficult times and helps us resist the attacks of the enemy.

6. It Distances Us from the Needs of the Spiritual Family

The church must persevere in prayer for its members (Acts 12:5, 12). When we stop praying for others, we lose sensitivity toward their struggles and needs.

7. It Weakens Evangelistic Efforts

We should pray that God will open doors for the preaching of the gospel (Col. 4:2–3; 2 Thess. 3:1). When we fail to do so, we neglect an important responsibility related to the salvation of souls.

8. It Limits Our Dependence on God

The absence of prayer can lead us to trust more in our own abilities than in the power of God (Prov. 3:5–6). Prayer reminds us that we are completely dependent upon Him.

9. It Reduces Our Gratitude

Prayer includes thanksgiving (Phil. 4:6; 1 Thess. 5:18). When we do not pray, we risk forgetting the blessings that God pours out daily upon our lives.

10. It Weakens the Unity of the Church

Congregations that pray together develop greater unity and spiritual fellowship. The early church continued steadfastly with one accord in prayer (Acts 1:14), and God greatly blessed their work.

11. It Prevents Us from Receiving the Peace of God

Prayer helps the Christian cast his burdens upon the Lord. Without it, anxiety, worry, and fear can dominate the heart (Phil. 4:6–7; 1 Pet. 5:7).

12. It Extinguishes Spiritual Zeal

When prayer disappears, enthusiasm for the Lord’s work diminishes. The church loses spiritual vigor and becomes vulnerable to apathy and complacency (Rom. 12:11).

Biblical history demonstrates that the great moments of spiritual victory were accompanied by prayer. When God’s people prayed, they received guidance, protection, strength, and blessing. On the other hand, when they ceased depending upon God, they suffered the consequences of their spiritual weakness.

There is no valid justification for church members to neglect prayer. Let us be Christians who pray continually in order to fulfill the will of God and contribute to the strengthening of His work. Prayer will always be a great blessing to the Lord’s church. Therefore, let us cultivate a deep passion for prayer so that it will never be absent from our lives. May God, through His Word, continue to exhort us to be men, women, and young people devoted to prayer, always remembering the words of our Lord: “But you, when you pray, go into your room” (Matt. 6:6), and the inspired command: “Continue steadfastly in prayer” (Col. 4:2).

btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: “NOT ALLOWING THEMSELVES TO BE OVERCOME BY VIDEO GAMES” by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge that young people face today is not allowing themselves to be overcome by video games. This is a matter that deserves serious consideration because we live in an age where digital entertainment occupies a significant portion of people’s time, attention, and energy. While video games are not inherently sinful, they can become a serious problem when they consume excessive amounts of time, interfere with daily responsibilities, weaken spiritual growth, or become more important than one’s relationship with God.

Video games are designed to be engaging and entertaining. Many games reward players with achievements, rankings, and virtual accomplishments that can create a strong desire to continue playing. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying recreation in moderation, Christians must always exercise wisdom and self-control. Anything that begins to control our thoughts, schedules, priorities, and emotions can become a spiritual danger.

Excessive time spent playing video games can be harmful because it often replaces activities that are truly important, such as prayer, Bible study, worship, church attendance, academic responsibilities, work, family relationships, and service to others. When a person loses control over the use of video games, he or she risks allowing them to become a dominant influence in life.

On one occasion, a young Christian lost the opportunity to continue his studies at a preaching school because of his dependence on video games, which negatively affected his academic performance. He devoted more time to gaming than to studying. Sadly, this situation is not unique. Many young people have seen their grades decline, their family relationships suffer, and their spiritual lives weaken because of uncontrolled gaming habits.

In some cases, excessive gaming can negatively affect a person’s physical health. Spending long hours in front of a screen may lead to sleep deprivation, fatigue, eye strain, poor posture, and a lack of physical activity. The gaming industry has even developed specialized chairs and equipment designed to make extended gaming sessions more comfortable, which can encourage individuals to remain seated for prolonged periods of time. While there is nothing inherently wrong with using such equipment, Christians should be careful not to allow comfort and entertainment to promote unhealthy habits or an unbalanced lifestyle. The apostle Paul reminded believers that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and that they have a responsibility to glorify God through the proper care and use of their bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Wise stewardship includes maintaining physical health in a way that enables us to serve God effectively and honor Him in all aspects of life. The Bible exhorts us to be wise stewards of the time God has given us. The apostle Paul wrote:

“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16).

Every day is a gift from God, and every Christian will one day give an account of how that time was used (Romans 14:12; 2 Corinthians 5:10). Time is one of the most valuable resources God has entrusted to us because once it is gone, it can never be recovered.

Young people should also remember that any activity that gains control over their lives can become a form of slavery. Paul declared:

“All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any” (1 Corinthians 6:12).

A Christian should be governed by Christ, not by hobbies, entertainment, or personal desires. Anything that consistently controls our thoughts and behavior may become an idol in practice, even if it is not recognized as one.

The Word of God teaches the importance of maintaining proper priorities. Jesus said:

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).

When video games occupy first place in the heart, God no longer occupies the position He deserves. The Christian must continually evaluate whether his activities are helping him grow spiritually or distracting him from his ultimate purpose in life.

The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and spiritual focus. Paul compared the Christian life to that of an athlete who exercises self-control in all things:

“And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things” (1 Corinthians 9:25).

Just as athletes discipline themselves to achieve their goals, Christians must discipline themselves to pursue spiritual growth and eternal rewards.

Young people must also remember that life is short. Solomon encouraged youth to remember their Creator during the days of their youth (Ecclesiastes 12:1). Many people look back with regret on the years they wasted on temporary pleasures when those years could have been invested in serving God, learning His Word, and helping others.

Furthermore, Christians should be careful regarding the content of the games they choose to play. Some games glorify violence, immorality, profanity, greed, revenge, and other attitudes contrary to Biblical principles. Paul instructed believers:

“Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report… think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).

Entertainment should never lead Christians to become comfortable with sinful attitudes or behaviors.

Therefore, what can young people do to avoid being overcome by video games?

1. Cultivate Self-Control

2 Timothy 1:7; 2 Peter 1:5-6; Galatians 5:22-23.

Christians must learn to control their desires and habits rather than allowing those desires and habits to control them.

2. Learn to Use Time Wisely

Colossians 4:5; Psalm 90:12; Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Organize your schedule so that responsibilities and spiritual activities receive proper priority.

3. Pray for Wisdom

James 1:5-6; Philippians 4:6-7.

God can help you make wise decisions regarding the use of your time and resources.

4. Spend Your Time Doing God’s Will

Matthew 6:33; Colossians 3:1-2; Romans 12:1-2.

Invest more time in activities that strengthen your relationship with God.

5. Grow in Your Love for God

Mark 12:30; Deuteronomy 6:5.

As your love for God increases, worldly pursuits naturally assume their proper place.

6. Dedicate More Time to Reading the Bible

1 Timothy 4:13; Psalm 119:97, 105.

God’s Word strengthens faith and provides guidance for daily living.

7. Study the Scriptures Diligently

2 Timothy 2:15; Colossians 3:16; 2 Peter 3:18.

Spiritual growth requires effort, commitment, and consistency.

8. Surround Yourself with Good Spiritual Influences

1 Corinthians 15:33; Proverbs 13:20.

The right friends can help you maintain a healthy balance and encourage spiritual growth.

9. Use Your Youth to Glorify God

Ecclesiastes 12:1; 1 Timothy 4:12.

The best years of life should be dedicated to serving the Lord and preparing for eternity.

10. Regularly Examine Your Priorities

1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17.

Ask yourself whether your activities are bringing you closer to God or pulling you away from Him.

11. Set Reasonable Limits on Entertainment

Proverbs 25:28; 1 Corinthians 9:27.

Establish healthy boundaries regarding screen time and recreational activities.

12. Become Involved in Service to Others

Galatians 6:10; Hebrews 6:10.

Serving others helps Christians focus on eternal values rather than temporary pleasures.

13. Remember the Eternal Reward

Matthew 6:19-21; Colossians 3:23-24.

The greatest reward is not found in virtual achievements but in faithful service to God.

Video games can be a form of entertainment, but they must never become the center of a Christian’s life. The wise young person understands that time is precious and limited. Therefore, he seeks to use it in ways that honor God and produce fruit for eternity.

Let us remember the words of Jesus:

“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36).

Temporary activities have their place, but spiritual matters possess eternal value. No level, achievement, trophy, ranking, or virtual success can compare to a faithful relationship with God and the hope of eternal life.

May every young Christian strive to place God first, exercise self-control, use time wisely, and pursue spiritual growth above all else. Time spent with God, in His Word, in prayer, and in His service will always produce far greater blessings than any passing form of entertainment.

“Redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16).

btsop2004@gmail.com

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PRACTICES THAT HARM THE LORD’S CHURCH: The Danger of Spiritual Discouragement Among Brethren by Willie A. Alvarenga

Another harmful practice that we can add to the list, and one that has seriously affected the Lord’s church, is the danger of spiritual discouragement among brethren. What is meant by this expression? By spiritual discouragement, we refer to the lack of encouragement, support, and edification among members of the body of Christ. We are speaking of brethren who do not take the time to strengthen, encourage, and build up their spiritual family in the Lord. At first glance, this attitude may seem insignificant; however, its consequences can be devastating to the spiritual health of a congregation.

The Scriptures have much to say about this matter. For example, the writer of Hebrews exhorted the church, saying, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24). Notice the text carefully. God not only commands us to love one another, but also to think of practical ways to encourage one another spiritually. The phrase “consider one another” implies paying attention to the needs of our brethren so that we may help them remain faithful to the Lord.

The apostle Paul wrote to the church in Thessalonica: “Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing. And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all” (1 Thessalonians 5:11-14). This portion of Scripture reminds us of our responsibility to build one another up. It also teaches us that there are brethren who need encouragement because they are going through times of weakness, sorrow, or discouragement.

Sadly, some Christians have become accustomed to attending worship services without taking the time to encourage anyone. They arrive, worship, and leave without offering a word of comfort, gratitude, or encouragement. Such an attitude is contrary to the spirit of the New Testament. God wants us to be instruments of encouragement for our brethren. Barnabas is an excellent example of this. His name means “Son of Encouragement” or “Son of Consolation” (Acts 4:36). Because of his willingness to encourage others, many were strengthened in the faith and the church was edified.

How much time do you take to express appreciation and encouragement to the elders, deacons, preachers, and teachers of the congregation? They face many struggles, responsibilities, and challenges in their service to the Lord. Elders watch over souls as those who must give an account (Hebrews 13:17). Preachers labor diligently in the teaching of God’s Word (2 Timothy 4:1-5). Teachers devote time and effort to instructing the church. All of them need our prayers, our support, and our words of encouragement.

Many times, our brethren go through afflictions, illnesses, family difficulties, financial problems, and spiritual trials. During such times, words of encouragement can have a tremendous impact. Proverbs 12:25 declares, “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.” Likewise, Proverbs 16:24 teaches, “Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.” We should never underestimate the power of a word of encouragement spoken at the right time.

How can we encourage one another? Consider the following suggestions:

(1) By obeying the command to encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11-14; Hebrews 10:24-25).

(2) By letting our spiritual family know that we are praying for them (Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:12).

(3) By avoiding actions, words, or attitudes that discourage our brethren (3 John 9-10; 2 Timothy 4:10, 14, 16).

(4) By loving our brethren as Christ has loved us (John 13:34-35).

(5) By considering others better than ourselves (Philippians 2:1-4).

(6) By letting them know how much we appreciate and value them (Philippians 1:7-8).

(7) By weeping with those who weep and rejoicing with those who rejoice (Romans 12:15; 1 Corinthians 12:26).

(8) By speaking words that edify and impart grace to those who hear (Ephesians 4:29).

(9) By bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).

(10) By exhorting one another daily so that none may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin (Hebrews 3:13).

(11) By showing hospitality and kindness toward our brethren (1 Peter 4:9; Romans 12:13).

(12) By expressing gratitude for the work and service of others (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13).

Often, we fail to realize the positive influence that words of encouragement can have. The faith of many is strengthened when they understand how much they are loved and appreciated by their brethren in Christ. Sometimes a simple text message, phone call, visit, or handshake accompanied by sincere words can make a tremendous difference in the life of someone who is struggling.

Therefore, God’s people are encouraged to take time to strengthen their spiritual family. Take a few minutes to send an encouraging message to a brother or sister. Let others know that you appreciate their work and faithfulness to the Lord. I assure you that your brethren in Christ will greatly appreciate such a loving gesture.

Let us remember that we are running together in the race that leads to heaven. None of us will arrive there alone. We need the support, prayers, and encouragement of our brethren. Let us fight together and never cease encouraging one another. May every congregation strive to be filled with “Barnabases,” men and women committed to strengthening the faith of those around them.

Personally, I am grateful to all my brothers and sisters in Christ who throughout the years have taken the time to offer me words of encouragement. May God bless them for being true “sons of consolation.” May the Lord help all of us become instruments of encouragement, hope, and edification for His people.

btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: Being a Light in the Darkness by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge young people face today is being a light in the midst of darkness. We live in a world where sin is promoted, immorality is celebrated, and Biblical values are increasingly rejected. In the face of this reality, God calls Christian young people to live differently and to exert a positive influence on those around them. The apostle Paul wrote to the saints in Philippi: “That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world” (Phil. 2:15). These words clearly demonstrate the responsibility every Christian has to reflect the character of Christ in daily life.

Jesus also exhorted His disciples to be lights in the world when He said, “Ye are the light of the world” (Matt. 5:14-16). Light has the ability to dispel darkness, reveal the right path, and guide those who are lost. In the same way, the Christian young person must allow his or her conduct, words, and actions to reflect the will of God. Peter wrote, “But ye are a chosen generation… that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light” (1 Pet. 2:9).

How can young people be a light in the darkness? Consider the following ways:

(1) By loving God with all their being (Mark 12:30). Genuine love for God motivates obedience and faithfulness (John 14:15).

(2) By being an example of faithfulness (Titus 2:6-8). Paul exhorted Timothy, “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12).

(3) By being an example of holiness (1 Cor. 6:18-20; Heb. 12:14). God calls His children to be holy in all their conduct (1 Pet. 1:15-16).

(4) By refraining from corrupt speech (Eph. 4:29; Col. 4:6). A Christian’s words should edify and impart grace to those who hear them.

(5) By obeying their parents (Eph. 6:1-3). Obedience and respect toward parents please God and serve as a powerful influence on other young people.

(6) By loving their neighbors (Mark 12:31). Christian love demonstrates to the world that we are disciples of Christ (John 13:34-35).

(7) By refusing to imitate bad examples (3 John 11; Rom. 12:1-2). The faithful young Christian does not follow sinful trends or practices that are contrary to the will of God.

(8) By speaking to others about Christ (Mark 16:15). Sharing the gospel is one of the most effective ways to illuminate a lost world (Rom. 1:16).

(9) By maintaining purity in thought and conduct (Phil. 4:8). Moral purity is increasingly necessary in a society filled with corruption and impurity.

(10) By choosing good friends (1 Cor. 15:33). Companions greatly influence one’s character and spiritual decisions.

(11) By persevering in prayer (1 Thess. 5:17). Prayer strengthens faith and helps the Christian remain steadfast in the face of temptation (Matt. 26:41).

(12) By diligently studying the word of God (2 Tim. 2:15). Spiritual light increases when Christians know and apply the Scriptures in their lives.

These are only a few of the ways young people can allow the light of Christ to shine through their lives. When a young person lives according to the will of God, he or she can become a positive influence on friends, classmates, family members, and the community. Their example may motivate others to seek God and obey the gospel of Christ.

Never underestimate the impact that a faithful life can have on others. Daniel was a light in the midst of a pagan nation (Dan. 1:8; 6:10), Joseph remained faithful to God in Egypt (Gen. 39:7-12), and Timothy served as an example to believers from his youth (1 Tim. 4:12). These men demonstrated that it is possible to remain faithful to God even when the majority chooses to follow a different path. They provide excellent examples of what it means to be a light in the darkness.

Therefore, we encourage every young person to be a light in the darkness so that God may be glorified. Remember that you have the potential to accomplish this because God has given you everything that pertains to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). He has also given you a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline (2 Tim. 1:7). Allow the light of Christ to shine continually in your life so that others may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven (Matt. 5:16).

To God be the glory through your life and faithful service to the Lord.

btsop2004@gmail.com

PRACTICES THAT HURT THE LORD’S CHURCH: The Problem of Pew-Warming Christians by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another harmful practice that we can add to the list, and one that has seriously damaged the Lord’s church, is the problem of “pew-warming Christians.” What does this expression mean? The idea behind it describes church members who merely attend the worship services but have little or no active involvement in the work of the Lord. By the work of the Lord, we refer to responsibilities such as personal evangelism, teaching Bible classes to various age groups, preparing or purchasing food for church fellowship meals, helping with cleanup after congregational events, assisting with decorations for special occasions, participating in worship services, welcoming visitors, promoting church activities through social media, offering assistance to elders and deacons, visiting the sick, encouraging the discouraged, helping new converts grow spiritually, and many other opportunities for service. This list covers only some of the many ways Christians can actively contribute to the Lord’s work.

Sadly, many church members are content with simply attending the services and then returning home without further involvement. Others do not even attend regularly and, when they do, their only contribution is occupying a seat. Some attend faithfully but spend their time criticizing the congregation rather than encouraging it. Brethren, this should not be the case.

Faithful members of the Lord’s church should attend the worship services regularly (Hebrews 10:25; Matthew 6:33; Colossians 3:1-4). However, our service to God extends far beyond merely being present. Christianity was never intended to be a spectator religion. Every Christian has been called to serve, to grow, and to contribute to the spiritual welfare of the congregation. The New Testament teaches that every member has a function within the body of Christ (Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12:12-27). Just as every part of the human body has a purpose, every Christian has abilities and opportunities that can be used for the glory of God.

The Christians of the first century sought to be useful both inside and outside the worship assembly. Their dedication was extraordinary, resulting in spiritual and numerical growth to the glory of God. This is exactly what we observe throughout the book of Acts. We see Christians teaching others (Acts 8:4), encouraging fellow believers (Acts 11:22-24), caring for those in need (Acts 2:44-47), and laboring together to spread the gospel throughout the world (Acts 17:6). The early church was composed of active workers, not passive observers.

One of the greatest dangers of becoming a pew-warmer is spiritual stagnation. A Christian who does not serve often ceases to grow. God expects His people to mature spiritually and to bear fruit in His kingdom. Jesus taught, “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit” (John 15:8). When Christians fail to engage in the Lord’s work, they deprive themselves of opportunities to grow, encourage others, and glorify God.

Furthermore, the Scriptures repeatedly condemn spiritual laziness. The servant who buried his talent instead of using it was rebuked by his master (Matthew 25:24-30). The church needs workers who are willing to dedicate their time, talents, and resources to the cause of Christ. The apostle Paul exhorted Christians to be “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). Notice that Paul did not encourage occasional involvement but continual dedication to the Lord’s work.

What can Christians do to avoid falling into the error of merely warming a pew in the Lord’s church? Consider the following:

  1. Cultivate a deep love for God (Mark 12:30). Genuine love for God will motivate active service and faithful obedience.
  2. Remember that God desires continual growth in His work (1 Corinthians 15:58; 2 Peter 3:18).
  3. Keep in mind that idleness in the Lord’s work does not produce fruit for God’s glory (2 Peter 1:5-11; Titus 3:14).
  4. Remember that a lack of spiritual growth can hinder one’s entrance into heaven (2 Peter 1:10-11; 2 Timothy 4:7-8).
  5. Cultivate a deep love for the Lord’s church, remembering that Christ died for her (Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:25).
  6. Discover and develop your God-given abilities so they may be used in service to others (1 Peter 4:10-11).
  7. Make it a goal to encourage at least one person each week (Hebrews 3:13; 10:24-25).
  8. Become actively involved in evangelism and sharing the gospel with others (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 8:4).
  9. Pray regularly for opportunities to serve and for the wisdom to recognize them (Colossians 4:2-6).
  10. Remember that one day we will all give an account of our stewardship before God (Romans 14:12; 2 Corinthians 5:10).

God does not want Christians who merely warm pews. He desires faithful servants who glorify His name through lives of dedication, service, and spiritual growth. The church is strongest when every member is actively engaged in the Lord’s work. Therefore, let us strive each day to give God our very best, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). May we never be content with simply occupying a seat when God has called us to occupy a place of service in His kingdom.

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