I recently made the following statements in a sermon …

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Colossians 1:18 and Ephesians 1:22 describe Jesus as the head of the church.

A church might call themselves First Baptist Church, Second Baptist Church, Calvary Baptist Church, Central Baptist Church.  Yet, Jesus is always the head of the church.  

A church might refer to their pastor as brother, reverend, doctor, or “hey you.”  Yet, Jesus is always the head of the church.

A church might have 3 deacons, 5 deacons, 12 deacons, 40 deacons, 100 deacons.  Yet, Jesus is always head of the church.

Perhaps the most quoted verse regarding the church is Matthew 16:18,“And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”

The gates of hades will not prevail against the church – but that doesn’t mean every single, individual church. Remove Jesus as the head and the church will die.

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In a follow up conversation a few days later, I was asked to provide a few reasons why a church might die. I offer you a few reasons without explanation. Of course, this list is not exhaustive.

Reasons a Church Might Die

1. The church is plagued with gospel ignorance or gospel confusion
2. The church doesn’t view the Bible as authoritative
3. The church is marked by spiritual immaturity
4. The church is void of discipleship and disciple makers
5. The church has an absence of evangelists in the pews
6. The church prioritizes personal preferences over gospel priorities and the great commission
7. The church functions merely as a social club

This might need a part two …