Have you ever wondered who is paying the price for the issues we see in our churches and our faith communities today? Who is paying for the churches becoming of the world, not just in it? Who is paying for Christians who are not evangelizing, for the lack of attendance at churches across America, for the lack of discipleship, and for the lack of unity across denominations and within them? Who is paying for the lack of Christians giving their time and money to support their pastors? Let’s take a closer look.

The truth is, we are all paying the price. Our families, our churches, and our communities are suffering because of these shortcomings. But there’s hope because Jesus already paid the ultimate price for our sins and our redemption. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23, NKJV).

When churches become more like the world, compromising on biblical truths and conforming to societal norms, we pay the price in weakened faith and diluted witness. “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2, NKJV). We need to stand firm in our faith and resist the pressure to conform.

When Christians fail to evangelize, people miss out on hearing the gospel. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19, NKJV). Evangelism is not just a task for pastors and missionaries; it’s a call for every believer. Our failure to share the good news means souls remain lost and communities remain unreached.

The decline in church attendance is alarming. Hebrews 10:25 urges us, “not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (NKJV). Regular fellowship is vital for spiritual growth and encouragement. When we neglect it, we miss out on the strength and support that comes from being part of a church family.

Discipleship is another area where we are falling short. Jesus commanded us to make disciples, not just converts. “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7, NKJV). Discipleship requires time, effort, and commitment to teaching and mentoring others in the faith.

Lack of unity within and across denominations is causing division and weakening our collective witness. Jesus prayed for unity among believers: “That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me” (John 17:21, NKJV). Unity is crucial for our effectiveness in fulfilling the Great Commission and demonstrating God’s love to the world.

Finally, when Christians do not support their pastors with their time, resources, and prayers, the church suffers. “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine” (1 Timothy 5:17, NKJV). Pastors and church leaders need our support to continue their work effectively. Without it, they become weary and discouraged, and the church’s mission is hindered.

There was a time when I was growing up that church was central to our lives, and the opportunities for worship and discipleship were abundant. Every Sunday started with Sunday School, where we engaged in structured biblical study tailored for all ages. This was followed by the main worship service, and later in the evening, we gathered again for Sunday night worship and youth group sessions dedicated specifically to young people. Midweek, we returned for Wednesday night Bible study, where the pastor led us in teachings that were relevant to everyone, regardless of age.

Additionally, our church hosted week-long revivals once or twice a year. During these revivals, an evangelist or guest preacher would join us, stirring our hearts and motivating us to recommit our lives to Christ. These events were a call to action, urging us to renew our dedication to attending church and deepening our relationship with God.

All these gatherings and teachings were designed to instruct, motivate, and engage us, making us wise in God’s ways and equipping us to live out our faith daily. The opportunities and ways of teaching changed because Christians were not willing to commit the time to go to church like the Christians before them. They had things to do, people to see, and places to go, and church, teaching, and worship were not on the list. As a pastor’s wife, I know firsthand how disappointing and heartbreaking it was and still is for pastors across America to watch those they were called to shepherd and be responsible for decide that 1-2 hours a week was enough, all they could fit in their schedule for God.

The shift in priorities has led to a decline in regular attendance and active participation in church activities. Pastors, who dedicate their lives to guiding their congregations spiritually, often feel the weight of this change deeply. They see the potential for growth and transformation in their members’ lives but are faced with the reality that many are no longer willing to invest the time and effort required.

This lack of commitment not only affects individual spiritual growth but also weakens the collective strength and unity of the church. When church members prioritize other activities over worship and learning, the church’s ability to function as a supportive and nurturing community is compromised. It’s a trend that has serious implications for the spiritual health of both individuals and the church as a whole.

It’s time to admit where we have caused problems and turn back to God. Jesus already paid the price for our redemption and reconciliation. We can turn our families and our churches around by recommitting to biblical principles and practices. “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14, NKJV).

Let’s take the first step in fixing these problems by acknowledging our shortcomings and seeking God’s forgiveness and guidance. Together, we can strengthen our faith, our churches, and our communities. Will you be part of the solution? Will you commit to being a faithful, dependable, and passionate follower of Christ? The race is on, and we need all hands-on deck to win souls for the kingdom of God. Let’s turn back to Him and see the amazing things He will do through us.