If We Have to Keep Asking …
The composition of every local church of Christ consists of those who have heard the gospel, believe it, repented of their sins, confessed that Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God, and have been immersed into Christ for the remission of their sins. While we are commanded to be “like-minded” in all we say and do as brethren in Christ Jesus (Romans 15:5; Philippians 2:2; 20), the unfortunate reality is that some of these brethren require constant reminders of this commandment, as well as ongoing encouragement to remain faithful in all things, including attendance! For these souls, it seems that unless they receive consistent urging to attend, their faithfulness to the assembly wanes quickly. It truly begs these questions: Just how dedicated to Christ are they? Just how willing are they to be like-minded? Why must they be so frequently reminded of their duty?
Let’s look at this issue from a child's perspective. Children need reminders about various tasks until they understand that these tasks are part of their responsibilities. We might call them “chores.” As parents, we begin with simple tasks, such as picking up their room, helping to set and clear the dinner table, and taking out the trash. As they grow older, these responsibilities increase to more mature tasks, such as mowing the yard, completing their homework, and supervising their younger siblings. Eventually, we expect them to complete their various chores (i.e., responsibilities) without reminders, at least at the same consistent rate as when they were young children! Their duties become “automatic,” and as such, from youth into adulthood, the knowledge of “ethical responsibility” comes to fruition.
If this perspective is correct, then as Christians, we might ponder the level of maturity in our members regarding their responsibilities to God. Unless they are true babes in Christ (Hebrews 5:12-14), we expect growth after a few months, and very certainly, after a few years! Yet, some souls continue requiring reminders regarding faithfulness. Again, when realizing we’re speaking of adults in most cases, it begs these questions: How dedicated to Christ and His church are they? Why are they not like-minded on their need to assemble? Do they not realize their duty as Christians?
It’s one thing to remind souls in the way Peter used: “I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance,” (2 Peter 3:1). It is quite another to require a form of “coaxing,” to do what should come naturally and be desired. Clearly, this irresponsible behavior verifies that the kingdom of God and His righteousness are not the main focus of their lives! (Matthew 6:33; Colossians 1:18) It becomes increasingly difficult, if not impossible, for such souls to prove without compromise their love for the Lord Jesus Christ!
Let me offer this thought regarding the need to keep reminding these souls of their duty. In the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), please note that the father did not go chasing his wayward son. The evidence shows the son had been taught rightly, and eventually returned to his senses, repented, and returned home. There was no consistent coaxing for him to return!
Granted, we care and want to “fix it” for others, but the fact remains that souls, like children, need to grow up and accept their responsibilities! If they’ve been taught correctly, constant reminders are not needed. They’ll live the truth in all they say and do! (Colossians 3:17)