What if...

Articles

Mark Roberts
03/23/25 - Christian Living

What if we…

Were hopeful about the future of congregations instead of acting like most churches are failing?
Called out the good - the churches that are growing (spiritually and numerically), where the prodigals know they can come home (so they do), and thirsty women seeking living water find it?
Were optimistic about what is going on instead of disheartening people by calling as much attention as possible to problems?
Assumed the best of our brethren instead of spreading a steady stream of negativity?
Could be real and admitted we don’t really know what’s happening in most churches—there are hundreds across the country, and we’ve only visited a handful—so broad criticisms aren’t fair or kind?
Recognized the many churches where First Days are victory-revived as worship follows the New Testament pattern, glorifies God, and edifies the saints?
Commended the hard-working preachers among us who connect the dots between truth-facts and life-application ... sermons that accomplish a lot because they are based in scripture, not the latest evangelical best-seller, and speak to disciples’ lives today?
Didn’t act like the small minority represent the majority?
Spoke up for those who defend the truth rather than accommodate error, who respect Bible authority and refuse to compromise with institutionalism, and who preach biblical grace instead of Calvinism? What if, instead of labeling them “legalists” and “Pharisees,” we encouraged them?
Tried to be balanced and fair—noting the good while still working to improve where needed?

It’s easy to criticize and complain. Ten men did that in Numbers 13. A lot of people “shared it” and “liked it” but God’s people suffered for it. What if we chose a better way? God is doing so much good among us. What if we opened our eyes and thanked Him for it? (Facebook post, March 19, 2025)