Many times such statements aren’t meant to be critical, but are the words of brethren sincerely wanting local churches to be better and more involved. No question, apathy (or indifference) is a great enemy which holds the church back in some places – apathetic members either content with things the way they are, or else more concerned with other things than the work of the Lord. In some cases, it’s not so much apathy as it is uncertainty as to how to go about reaching a congregation’s potential – “What must we do to make things better? --- How can we get moving toward this goal?”

Of course, God’s instructions are clear that we must seek and save the lost --- Matthew 28:19-20 saying, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”

His will is clear that we must be ready (prepared, and willing to rise to opportunities we have to engage in all aspects of His work --- Titus 3:1 commanding, “…to be ready to every good work,”

In all things we are commanded to do, and be, as Christians, we are further instructed in Colossians 3:23-24, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” This passage makes plain that God’s commands are not given to groups, so that some can do the Lord’s work for others --- but to individuals --- because Christianity is an individual religion. Each of us has responsibility to find, develop and use the abilities God has given us – and heartily do all we can to help the church be “the pillar and ground of the truth”