Steadfast saints in a commitment-free culture

A few weeks ago, I met a pastor friend of mine for lunch here in town. As we downed our BBQ, we ended up doing what pastors often do when together—we discussed some of the frustrations and discouragements of the ministry. Don’t misunderstand me, preaching to God’s people is one of the greatest privileges anyone could ever have. There are some really good days in the ministry. However, there are other days as well! I am sure that disappointment goes along with any profession, but pastors certainly see their fair share. It seems to me (and most of those in the ministry would quickly concur) that one of the most challenging issues facing churches today is finding Christians who value spiritual responsibilities over secular.

As I write these articles week by week, it is never my intention to rebuke the readers or disparage the church I pastor. However, the general consensus by those in church leadership is that it is getting harder and harder to find committed Christians. We live in a society that undervalues the eternal and overvalues the insignificant. There are countless activities that vie for the attention of church members, and unfortunately, lesser things often win.

This pastor friend of mine shared with me that numerous families in his church only attend services once or twice a month, yet consider themselves “committed” to Christ. I tried to comfort my colleague by assuring him the church he serves is not unique in this struggle. Week after week, right here in Perry (and all over this nation), pastors grieve as they face the vacant empty pews of indifferent church members. One of the most frustrating aspects of this reality is this … when church leaders confront these folks about their apathetic attitude, they become offended and threaten to leave. Unfortunately, with the sheer number of churches in our area, they can find one that will let them come as they please, or not come as they please; and not be held accountable either way.

The challenge facing all of us is not to allow this commitment-free culture to hinder us from being steadfast saints!

In 1 Corinthians 15:58, Paul exhorts the Christians at Corinth with these words: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”

This 15th chapter of 1 Corinthians is the lengthiest discourse on the resurrection in the entire Bible. The Apostle Paul affirms, then reaffirms, that one day, the Christian will rise again and face judgment. With absolute assurance, the inspired writer declares that the body of every believer will be gloriously transformed, and then every Christian will give an account for their service to King Jesus. After stating this fact in no uncertain terms, Paul then brings this truth to its immediate application; he writes, “therefore.” Because of all that I have just stated and in light of coming judgment, therefore – be steadfast, immoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.

“Steadfast” and “immoveable” aren’t words often used in today’s vernacular, but they are traits that are sorely needed. One of the best examples of these qualities could be illustrated by an interesting report that I read. Perhaps you remember the historical events surrounding the ancient city of Pompeii? In the first century, this affluent Roman city was buried beneath a blanket of ash and volcanic debris when nearby Mt. Vesuvius unexpectedly erupted. Thousands of lives were lost and the town completely destroyed. Recently, archaeologists discovered the fossilized remains of a Roman soldier standing guard at the gates of the ruined city. With spear in hand, this sentinel refused to leave his post and remained resolute – even in the face of danger and death. Readers, this is exactly the kind of Christians we need! Steadfast, immoveable, unwavering and committed to stay at our post, come what may!

The inevitability of facing the Lord should be a motivating factor for every person, but especially the saints, to commit their whole lives to Christ. Folks, just as surely as you are reading this article, you will (Christian or non-Christian) stand before God one day. The born-again believer will give an account for their service while the unbeliever will be held accountable for their sins. If you are reading this and you have never become a Christian, I would plead with you to repent of your sins and trust in the finished work of the Risen Messiah. He lived a perfect life, died for sinners and rose again in order that we could be made righteous before God! Trust Him today.

Eventually, every human being will stand before Christ. Either you will stand there guilty, or you will stand before Him totally forgiven. This certain expectation and our heartfelt appreciation should serve as motivation to be a steadfast saint, even in a commitment-free culture.

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