What is the history of our land? In the 19th century we had higher criticism – attacking the supernatural nature of the Bible revelation. A stand was taken but it was not good enough. In 60 to 70 years it had destroyed the denominations. Why? Because the churches were not informed and praying. When I was converted I was in church affiliated with the Baptist Union of England and Northern Ireland. People spoke of our beloved denomination, and they did not say that ninety percent denied the basic doctrines. I learned there were very few in the BU like my church, which did believe those doctrines. They spoke as if everything in the garden was lovely, but all was taken over by error. Now historic denominations are nearly all dead. This could not have happened in New Testament times – Paul was careful to tell them ‘all things’. Today, we have pollution of worship and lack of separation from the world. We need to be well-informed. We need interest, not of a ‘soap’ type, not gossipy, but to avoid these dangers by learning of what other churches have faced on the wider scene. We must ensure we pray and are heard on high. Pray for the persecuted. Always be full of praise. Then we shall be delivered from a village mentality.
Is a family in trouble? We consider ourselves also. There are sick among us and some with forms of illness which seem humanly incurable, but God can save. We pray. Some have special burdens. Some have particular vocational opportunities. The young need our prayers – how many older people prayed for you when you were young? There are the young rebels, and then there are the young in faith who face far more temptation than we had. Remember the seekers who are being awakened by the Lord, but who need to close with Christ.