By Prof. Oyewole O. Sarumi | Ph.D.
The church, as the body of Christ, is called to be a beacon of light, truth, and love in a world shrouded in darkness. However, over time, the modern church has drifted from its foundational purpose, leading to a myriad of problems that hinder its effectiveness in fulfilling God’s mandate. These issues did not arise overnight but are the result of gradual compromises, misplaced priorities, and a departure from biblical principles.
This article explores the root causes of the church’s decline, highlighting twelve critical areas where we have strayed from God’s design. It concludes with a prayer for revival, asking God to cleanse and restore His church to its rightful place as a vessel of His glory.
1. Abandoning Discipleship for Membership
One of the earliest signs of trouble in the church was the shift from discipleship to membership. Jesus commanded us to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19), emphasizing the importance of nurturing believers to grow in their faith and relationship with Him.
However, many churches today prioritize increasing membership numbers over fostering spiritual growth. The focus has shifted from producing fruit-bearing disciples to merely gathering crowds. As Jesus warned, “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire” (Matthew 7:19). When we abandon discipleship, we lose the essence of what it means to be the church.
2. Ignoring Compromises Among Leaders
Another critical issue is the failure to address small compromises among church leaders. Like a spark that ignites a forest fire, unchecked compromises can grow into significant problems. The Bible warns, “A little leaven leavens the whole lump” (Galatians 5:9). When leaders tolerate sin or compromise biblical standards, it sets a dangerous precedent for the entire congregation. Over time, these small fires become uncontrollable, leading to widespread corruption and a loss of credibility. The church must hold its leaders accountable and address issues promptly to maintain its integrity.
3. Misplaced Measures of Success
The modern church often measures success by external metrics such as the number of branches, the size of congregations, and financial prosperity. While growth and resources can be blessings from God, they should never replace faithfulness as the true measure of success. Jesus commended the church in Smyrna, saying, “I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich!” (Revelation 2:9). True wealth lies in our relationship with God and our commitment to His mission. When we prioritize worldly success over spiritual faithfulness, we lose sight of what truly matters.
4. Distorted Spiritual Fatherhood and Mentorship
Spiritual fatherhood and mentorship are biblical concepts designed to guide believers toward Christlikeness. However, these roles have been distorted in many churches, becoming tools for oppression, manipulation, and control. Paul exemplified true spiritual fatherhood when he wrote, “For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel” (1 Corinthians 4:15). Spiritual leaders must serve with humility and love, pointing others to Christ rather than elevating themselves.
5. The Pursuit of Fame and Celebrity Status
In today’s church, fame and celebrity status have become driving forces for many leaders. The desire for recognition and influence often overshadows the call to preach the gospel with humility and sincerity. Jesus warned, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 6:1). The gospel is not about elevating individuals but about glorifying God and leading others to salvation.
6. The Commercialization of the Church
The church was never meant to be a business enterprise or a franchise. Yet, many churches today operate like corporations, focusing on wealth acquisition rather than discipleship. Jesus drove out the money changers from the temple, declaring, “My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of robbers” (Matthew 21:13). When the church prioritizes financial gain over spiritual growth, it betrays its divine purpose.
7. Elevating Miracles Above God’s Word
Miracles, signs, and wonders are powerful manifestations of God’s presence, but they should never overshadow the importance of His Word. Jesus rebuked those who sought signs without faith, saying, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign” (Matthew 12:39). The Bible is the foundation of our faith, and it must remain central in the life of the church. When we prioritize supernatural experiences over biblical truth, we risk falling into deception.
8. Replacing Jesus with Human Leaders
In some churches, leaders have usurped the place of Jesus in the hearts of the people. Instead of pointing others to Christ, they have become the object of worship. Paul and Barnabas faced a similar situation when the people tried to worship them, and they responded, “We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God” (Acts 14:15). The church must always exalt Jesus as the head and reject any form of idolatry.
9. The Infiltration of Occult Practices
A troubling trend in some churches is the incorporation of occult practices under the guise of “kingdom mysteries.” Witchcraft, syncretism, and other forms of occultism have no place in the body of Christ. The Bible is clear: “Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God” (Leviticus 19:31). The church must remain pure and uphold the truth of God’s Word.
10. The Proliferation of Similar Visions
God often gives similar visions to multiple people to fulfill His purposes. However, when leaders compete over these visions instead of collaborating, it leads to division and confusion. Paul urged the Corinthians, “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10). The church must embrace unity and work together to advance God’s kingdom.
11. The Loss of Genuine Love
The church is called to love God and others wholeheartedly. Yet, many believers have become self-centered and driven by personal ambition. Jesus said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). When love dies, the church loses its witness and effectiveness. We must rediscover the selfless love that reflects the heart of Christ.
12. Prioritizing Earthly Treasures Over Heavenly Ones
Finally, the church has been distracted by the pursuit of earthly treasures. Jesus warned, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-20). When our focus shifts from eternal rewards to temporal gains, we lose sight of our heavenly calling.
Conclusion: A Prayer for Revival
The problems facing the church today are deep-rooted and multifaceted, but they are not beyond God’s power to heal and restore. As we reflect on these issues, let us humble ourselves and seek God’s forgiveness. Let us pray for a fresh outpouring of His Spirit to cleanse and revive His church.
Dear Lord, let the fire of revival sweep through Your church from the top to the bottom. Purify our hearts, restore our focus, and realign us with Your will. Help us to prioritize discipleship, uphold Your Word, and love You and others with genuine hearts. Remove every form of compromise, idolatry, and selfish ambition. Restore the church to its rightful place as a light to the nations and a vessel of Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
