Every year, the Kingdom of God is challenged by a plethora of problems and issues. Some of the biggest challenges are issues of the times. They are added to the perennial challenges and generic problems like sin, ego, ignorance, selfishness, etc.
Potentially, all or a number of the choices can affect the segment of the Kingdom in which you are involved. I am looking for what you expect to be the greatest challenge in your sphere of ministry.
Please feel free to comment.
I am sure that I left out a big one or two or three, so feel free to share them.
Poll Results
What contemporary issue do you expect to be the greatest challenge within your church family in 2022?
COVID and COVID related issues Votes: 7
Political polarization in the church Votes: 2
Two or three of the above are roughly equal as to what will be MOST challenging (please comment) Votes: 3
Other Votes: 3
LGBTQ issues Votes: 0
Living together without marriage issues Votes: 1
Theological compromise and/or drifting Votes: 0
Economics and financial Votes: 1
Ecclesiastical separation and/or welcoming as “Christian” groups that should not be recognized Votes: 0
Race relations Votes: 0
Foreign missions vs. local charity (or Great Commission vs. “social justice”) Votes: 0
Commitment to faithful church attendance/involvement of younger generations Votes: 2
Discussion
NewMarriage, or lack thereof
The number one issue our church people are facing as they make disciples is the lack of marriage. Most of our recent converts are either divorced/remarriaged and/or living with someone other than their spouse. It’s been a tricky issue to navigate. While there are certianly other major issues in the world at large, that is the one that we are having to deal with the most on a personal level.
Josh Stilwell, associate pastor, Alathea Baptist Church, Des Moines, Iowa.
Fun and Mental