I think the American Church is in trouble.
After observing God’s work around the world, I’ve started to see that the church here is stumbling because our eyes aren’t focused on Jesus. He is still storming the gates of Hell, but the toxic fog of self-indulgence is obstructing our view of Him.
About 170 years ago, a French historian named Alexis de Tocqueville traveled America to understand why our nation had risen to greatness. This is what he discovered:
“Not until I went to the churches of America and heard her pulpits aflame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.”
In essence, America was great because her churches were great. If America’s churches ever cease to be great, America will cease to be great.
The church is great when Christians support the right causes, live the right way, and embrace the right values. Let’s think about what it means to be committed to the right cause through the words of the Apostle Paul.
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” -Philippians 1:20-21
No matter the threats he received, Paul remained on the offensive for faith because Jesus Christ changes everything. And today His life, work, and purpose continue to ignite believers to boldly live for His cause wherever He has placed them.
That is the need of the hour if the American Church is going to be great again. We must embrace Jesus as the reason behind everything we do.
Brothers and sisters, let’s encourage one another and invite those around us to come and see what we have found in Christ.
To get devotionals from East-West's founder sent to your inbox weekly, sign up below!