DOCTOR, HOW IS THE PATIENT?

In determining a church’s health there are quantitative and qualitative measurements. Just as when you go for an annual physical, the doctor will look at numbers—take your blood pressure, check your pulse, do blood work, an EKG, and so forth, since numbers help tell a story. But, the physician will also ask questions, look you over, discuss sleep patterns, exercise regularity, and so forth. A good doctor will then suggest any adjustments and improvements that need to be made. You do not have to listen, of course, but then you may find yourself declining and eventually dying should you fail to take action. 

The church is an organism—a living thing. Leaders are stationed by God to evaluate the church’s health. There are quantitative measurements: attendance, baptisms, giving, participation in Bible study, and so forth. But, these do not tell the whole story. There are also qualitative measurements: how many people are called into the mission field, are young men surrendering to Gospel ministry, what community impact is noted, are members growing in grace and knowledge, is the Gospel being shared with regularity, and such?  

The church leaders: elders, deacons, and perhaps other significant leaders (some of which may not have a title but exert influence) are positioned by God to conduct this examination and lead the church toward better health. If the “doctors” shirk their duty or the “patient” will not listen, then decline and death will come.  Churches are in decline and dying all around us. But, with the Lord of Life, it does not have to be, and even those in such a state can be resurrected to a new beginning. You see, the Great Physician is in the miracle working business!  But, He uses leaders to speak into the issues of a local church. We must step up and be honest without being negative to the point of despair.