Welcome to episode 241 of Grasp the Bible. In this episode, we will examine the Church in crisis.  Key takeaways:   The reality:  Churches face both internal and external threats The promise:  Christ is building the Church and he will prevail The church’s foundation does not depend on: Gifted leaders Perfect doctrine Cultural acceptance Impressive programs or large numbers For the five churches we examine in the Book of Revelation, we see a pattern and a promise. The pattern:  Acknowledge the problem honestly, remember what you've received, repent and change direction, return to faithful obedience. The promise:  This varies, depending on the church, but is made to ordinary Christians who overcome the challenges specified  Quotable:   Our job isn't to save the church—Jesus did that on the cross.  Application:   How to minister in crisis: Start with prayer:  Our first response to church problems should be prayer, not criticism, complaining, or gossip. Demonstrate personal faithfulness and integrity:  Instead of focusing on what others need to change, ask what God wants to change in you. Speak truth in love Support godly leadership:  Church leaders need your support, not second-guessing. Our job is... To be faithful in our generation.  To pray.  To serve.  To love.  To persevere.  To trust God with results.  Connect with us:   Web site:  https://springbaptist.org   Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/SBCKleinCampus (Klein Campus)   https://www.facebook.com/SpringBaptist (Spring Campus)   Need us to pray for you? Submit your prayer request to https://springbaptist.org/prayer/      If you haven’t already done so, please leave us a rating and review in your podcast provider.