Tag Archives: faithfulness

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.

btsop2004@gmail.com

PRACTICES THAT HARM THE LORD’S CHURCH: Dragging Church Members into Hypocrisy by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another harmful practice we can add to the list of things that damage the Lord’s church is the act of dragging other brethren into hypocrisy and error. This problem is not new; it has existed since the days of early Christianity and has caused great divisions, stumbling blocks, and spiritual harm within the body of Christ. When brethren with influence, leadership, or spiritual reputation engage in conduct contrary to the will of God, they often end up negatively influencing other members of the congregation. For this reason, the Bible exhorts every Christian to live with integrity and carefulness, recognizing that our actions affect those around us.

The apostle Paul wrote the following to the brethren in Galatia:

“But when Peter came to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed. For before certain men came from James, he would eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. And the rest of the Jews also played the hypocriste with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy” (Galatians 2:11–13).

Many of us know what happened in this context. The apostle Peter, out of fear of certain Jews, began to act hypocritically by withdrawing from the Gentile Christians. Paul had to confront him publicly because his conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel (Gal. 2:14). The purpose of this article is not to analyze every detail of the context, but to consider one of the most dangerous consequences of hypocrisy: the negative influence it can have on other Christians.

The text states that “even Barnabas was carried away by their hypocrisy” (Gal. 2:13). The word carried away implies being led along with others into wrong behavior. The term hypocrisy denotes acting falsely together with others—pretending or participating collectively in an improper practice. This teaches us a very serious lesson: sin and hypocrisy can spread quickly within a congregation when they are not confronted Biblically.

The case of Barnabas makes this incident even more striking. Barnabas was known as an exemplary Christian. The Bible presents him as a generous man who helped the needy (Acts 4:36–37), a brother who supported the apostle Paul when many were afraid of him (Acts 9:26–27), a “good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith” (Acts 11:24), and a faithful defender of the gospel (Acts 15). Yet even a man as spiritual as Barnabas could be negatively influenced by the conduct of others. This shows that no Christian should think he is completely immune to the danger of being dragged into error (1 Cor. 10:12).

The same thing happens today in many congregations. Some brethren possess great influence because of their seniority, Biblical knowledge, close friendships, or position within the church. When such brethren begin to practice sinful attitudes or promote ideas contrary to sound doctrine, others end up following them blindly. Some drag others into discouragement, constant criticism, division, doctrinal liberalism, worldliness, favoritism, rebellion against Biblical authority, or spiritual apathy.

The Bible repeatedly warns about the danger of bad influences:

  • “Bad company corrupts good morals” (1 Cor. 15:33).
  • “A little leaven leavens the whole lump” (Gal. 5:9).
  • “Do not participate in the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them” (Eph. 5:11).
  • “See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled” (Heb. 12:15).

It is sad to observe how some congregations have suffered divisions and conflicts because certain influential brethren persuaded others to follow the wrong path. At times, respected brethren use their influence to sow discontent, speak evil of others, question Biblical decisions, or promote carnal attitudes. Such actions deeply damage the unity and spirituality of the church. Paul urged the brethren: “Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them” (Rom. 16:17).

We must also recognize that hypocrisy not only harms the one who practices it, but also new converts and those who are weak in the faith. Jesus spoke severely about those who cause others to stumble:

“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matt. 18:6).

Every Christian must carefully examine the impact of his example. Our words, attitudes, and actions can strengthen or destroy the faith of others. For this reason, Paul wrote: “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). Every Christian should strive to be a godly influence and not a stumbling block to the church.

What lessons can we learn from Galatians 2:13 regarding the danger of dragging others into hypocrisy?

  1. Even faithful brethren can be led into error.

No one should place excessive confidence in himself (1 Cor. 10:12).

  1. Brethren with influence can affect others positively or negatively.

Example carries enormous power within the congregation (1 Tim. 4:12).

  1. We must not follow any man blindly.

Our supreme loyalty must always be to Christ and His Word (Acts 5:29).

  1. When a brother walks disorderly, he must be exhorted with love and firmness.

Paul corrected Peter publicly because the damage was public (Gal. 2:11–14).

  1. Hypocrisy can spread quickly within the church.

Tolerated sin ends up contaminating others (1 Cor. 5:6).

  1. Every Christian must guard his influence.

Jesus taught that we are the light of the world and the salt of the earth (Matt. 5:13–16).

  1. True unity can exist only when all walk according to the truth of the gospel.

Unity without truth does not please God (John 17:17; Eph. 4:1–6).

The Lord’s church in many places has been hurt and hindered in its spiritual work because of brethren who do not conduct themselves according to God’s will and who also negatively influence others. For this reason, every Christian must constantly pray to God never to become an instrument of division, hypocrisy, or stumbling within the congregation.

Let us instead strive to be faithful Christians who encourage others to remain firm in truth, love, and spiritual purity. May our example always lead others closer to Christ and never away from Him.

Willie A. Alvarenga | (817) 681 4543 | btsop2004@gmail.com

PRACTICES THAT HURT THE LORD’S CHURCH: WIVES MISTREATING THEIR HUSBANDS by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another harmful practice that we can add to the list, and one that has seriously harmed the Lord’s church, is wives mistreating their husbands. This has been a very serious problem for a long time and, sadly, it continues to affect many Christian homes. God designed marriage to be a relationship of love, respect, mutual help, and spiritual edification (Gen. 2:18; Eph. 5:22-33). When a wife fails to fulfill the responsibilities, God has given her, she not only affects her marriage, but also the spiritual stability of the home and the well-being of the church.

The mistreatment of husbands by wives can be observed in many ways: (1) Not showing respect toward their husbands (Eph. 5:33; 1 Pet. 3:1-6), (2) Not submitting to them according to the order established by God (Eph. 5:22-24; Col. 3:18), (3) Being quarrelsome and contentious with their husbands (Prov. 21:9; 27:15), (4) Being wrathful and controlled by anger (Prov. 21:19), (5) Speaking evil of their husbands before others (Eph. 4:29; Mt. 12:36-37), (6) Refusing to live as the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31, (7) Being foolish women who tear down their homes with their own hands (Prov. 14:1), (8) Failing to honor marital faithfulness (Heb. 13:4; Mt. 5:28), (9) Neglecting the home and family responsibilities (Tit. 2:4-5), (10) Becoming a stumbling block to their husbands by failing to encourage them spiritually (Job 2:9), (11) Refusing to demonstrate a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God (1 Pet. 3:4), and (12) Failing to fulfill their marital duties (1 Cor. 7:1-5).

In some cases, the behavior of certain wives has become one of the reasons many husbands do not live happily with them. It also prevents husbands from properly fulfilling the duties they have within marriage. This should never be the case; nevertheless, sadly, it often is. Many husbands suffer emotionally and spiritually because of the mistreatment they receive from their wives. These wives do not always consider the great harm they cause when their behavior is not in harmony with the will of God.

The Bible clearly teaches that the home must be characterized by peace, love, and mutual edification. Colossians 3:19 commands husbands to love their wives and not be bitter against them; likewise, wives should seek to have a conduct that helps and strengthens their husbands. Marriage was not designed to be a relationship of competition, manipulation, or disrespect, but rather a union where both glorify God (Eccl. 4:9-12).

In what ways does the mistreatment of husbands by wives affect the church? Consider the following consequences:

  1. Husbands are hindered from fulfilling the responsibilities God has entrusted to them.
  2. Some husbands do not become preachers because their wives do not wish to support them in the work of the Lord.
  3. Some are unable to serve as elders because of the unfaithful or disorderly conduct of their wives before God (1 Tim. 3:1-7; Tit. 1:6-9).
  4. Others cannot become deacons because of a lack of spiritual support in the home (1 Tim. 3:12).
  5. Many cannot fully participate in certain ministries because of constant conflicts within the marriage.
  6. The church receives reproach from the world when it observes the unfaithful conduct of some wives.
  7. The Word of God is blasphemed because of wives who fail to fulfill their God-given duties (Tit. 2:5).
  8. Children are negatively affected when they grow up in homes filled with conflict and disrespect.
  9. The spiritual atmosphere of the home is weakened, affecting prayer, Bible study, and faithfulness to God.
  10. Satan takes advantage of these difficulties to divide homes and weaken the church (1 Pet. 5:8).

This is a very serious matter with painful consequences. The church is hurt when married Christian women do not conduct themselves as God commands in His Word. It should always be the case that God’s people strive to live in such a way that He may be glorified in the lives of all the members of the church (Mt. 5:16; 1 Cor. 10:31).

Thanks be to God, change is possible. Our heavenly Father has provided everything necessary for wives to develop a godly and pleasing character before Him. Through the study of the Word, prayer, humility, and a sincere desire to obey God, every wife can become a blessing to her husband, her home, and the church. All wives are encouraged to strive every day to become the kind of wife God commands them to be. This can truly be accomplished!

Willie A. Alvarenga | btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: NOT GIVING IN TO THE PRESSURE OF THE WORLD by Willie A. Alvarenga

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One of the greatest challenges young people face today is not giving in to the pressure of the world. We live in a society where sin, immorality, disobedience to God, and the rejection of Biblical values are constantly promoted. Young people are bombarded daily through social media, friendships, entertainment, and modern culture, all of which often seek to draw them away from God and His will.

The wise man wrote: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not” (Prov. 1:10). The term “consent” denotes the act of allowing oneself to be seduced or influenced by someone; yielding to their demands or voluntarily accepting a certain course of action as a sign of obedience or submission. God desires for young people to have the courage to say “no” to sin and to remain steadfast in the midst of a corrupt generation (Phil. 2:15).

The pressure of the world can manifest itself in many ways: pressure to participate in impure conversations, consume sinful entertainment, dress immodestly, engage in bullying, use drugs or alcohol, participate in sexual immorality, lie in order to be accepted, or abandon faithfulness to God in order to fit in with others. Many young people have yielded to this pressure because they desire acceptance from others. However, the Bible clearly teaches that “evil companionships corrupt good morals” (1 Cor. 15:33).

Moses understood that the pleasures of sin are temporary. Hebrews 11:25 says that he chose “rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.” The world offers temporary pleasure; however, such pleasure always brings painful consequences. Romans 6:23 teaches that “the wages of sin is death,” and James 1:13-15 explains that sin, when it is fully grown, brings forth spiritual death.

The Christian young person must remember that he cannot love the world and please God at the same time. The apostle John wrote: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world” (1 Jn. 2:15-17). James also declares that “friendship with the world is enmity with God” (Jas. 4:4). For this reason, the faithful young Christian must strive to live a holy life separated from sin (1 Pet. 1:14-16).

What can the Christian young person do in order not to give in to the pressure of the world? The Bible offers practical principles that will help one remain faithful:

  1. Pray constantly to God in order not to fall into temptation and ask Him for wisdom (Mt. 26:41; Jas. 1:5-6; Phil. 4:6-7).
  2. Put on the whole armor of God in order to resist the schemes of the devil (Eph. 6:10-18).
  3. Imitate the example of faithful young people such as Joseph, who fled from immorality (Gen. 39:7-12), and Daniel, who purposed not to defile himself (Dan. 1:8).
  4. Fill your mind with the Word of God, because it helps overcome sin (Ps. 119:9-11; Col. 3:16).
  5. Choose wise and spiritual friendships that will help you draw closer to God (Prov. 13:20).
  6. Remember that the things of this world are temporary and will soon pass away (1 Jn. 2:15-17; 2 Cor. 4:18).
  7. Develop a deep love for God with all your heart (Mk. 12:30), for those who truly love God will seek to obey Him (Jn. 14:15).
  8. Stay busy in spiritual matters, faithfully participating in worship, Bible study, and good works (Heb. 10:24-25).
  9. Think before acting, remembering that every decision has consequences (Gal. 6:7-8).
  10. Trust that God will always provide a way of escape in times of temptation (1 Cor. 10:13).

The Christian young person is not alone in this struggle. God promises to strengthen those who remain faithful. Paul wrote: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Phil. 4:13). Although the pressure of the world may be great, the power of God is far greater. Therefore, the young Christian must remain steadfast, courageous, and faithful, always remembering that in Christ “we are more than conquerors” (Rom. 8:37-39). Therefore, never give in to the pressure of the world.

btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: LEARNING TO STAY BUSY IN THE WORK OF THE LORD by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge young people face today is learning to stay busy in the work of the Lord. The distractions that this world presents to the young Christian are many. In most cases, these distractions keep young people from remaining active in the service to God. The Bible reminds us that Christians must not allow the world to pull them away from their faithfulness to God. 1 John teaches that we must not love the world or the things in the world because the world is passing away, but the one who does the will of God abides forever (1 John 2:15-17). Young Christians must remember that Satan constantly seeks opportunities to discourage them from serving God faithfully. For this reason, they must remain spiritually alert and steadfast in their commitment to Christ.

What are some activities in which young people should participate, but often fail to do because of distractions? The following are worthy of serious consideration: (1) Participating in the different privileges during worship to God such as singing, leading prayers, Scripture readings, assisting with the Lord’s Supper, devotionals, and other areas of service, (2) Participating in youth activities that strengthen Christian fellowship and spiritual growth, (3) Taking part in personal evangelism by sharing the gospel with friends, classmates, neighbors, and relatives, (4) Helping in congregational events such as lectureships, gospel meetings, seminars, vacation Bible schools, and evangelistic campaigns, and (5) Encouraging other young people to become active and faithful members of the congregation. Ecclesiastes reminds young people to “remember now your Creator in the days of your youth” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). Likewise, 1 Timothy teaches that young Christians can be examples “in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).

God has always been pleased with young people who take seriously the work of His kingdom. Throughout the Scriptures we read about faithful young servants such as Joseph, Daniel, and Timothy who remained faithful to God despite difficult circumstances and worldly pressures. Young person, you have great potential to serve our God faithfully. Never underestimate the value of your service in the kingdom of Christ. Therefore, you are encouraged to make every effort to keep the distractions of this world from pulling you away from offering acceptable service to God. Colossians exhorts Christians: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men” (Colossians 3:23). To all the young people who are already active in the Lord’s work, thank you for your faithful service to God and for your example to others. Keep pressing forward, “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).