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THERE HAS BEEN QUITE- a bit of talk recently about the consolidation of our local churches. When asked for my opinion, I was frank to state that I would rather have a consolidated church than no church at all.
IUseems that the factors involved are sentimentality versus practicality. We can understand that an old church that spiritually nurtured our parents, can have a great sentimental value; but is that church dying on the vine? Is it a burden to the few worshippers who still attend its services? Is it practical?
And what can we say in favor of consolidation? “In union there is strength.” In Luke 14:23 it seems that God wants His house to be full. “Go out and compel them to come in?” Now, I can’t seem to relate to ae congregation that has been brought kicking and screaming into the church. But, according to Luke, those will be more favored than those who refused an invitation.
In verse 24 the Book says; “None of those who were invited (and refused) will eat at my table.” I am amazed at the apathy of Christians. Maybe I should say church-goers. There are some almost in the shadow of the church that do not attend regularly, would they drive a few miles to attend a centrally located church? I doubt it, but it might create a challenge to that person.
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