1Peter 4:12-14
Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.

A spiritual church is one that not only encounters persecution, but embraces it. If everyone is a cheerleader of your acts, you’re doing something wrong. Persecution is healthy. It’s proof that the church can endure growing pains.
Here are some questions the church should ask when it comes to persecution:

How can we grow from this?
How can God receive glory from this?
Instead of asking “Why me?” Ask “WHY NOT ME?!”

1 Timothy 4:1-3
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

For some churches, they will sway whichever way society goes. Example: Endorsing abortion, same-sex marriage, and giving in to political pressure. There is tremendous pressure on the church to give in to societal demands. Here are some excuses given: 

• Society is changing
• There is a need to be more tolerant
• Bible doesn’t mean everything LITERALLY

Plainly said, the spirit of the anti-christ will have a presence in a church that is not spiritual. It is similar to the church that compromises in that it will want to do everything and anything that keeps them out of the house of God. It will develop a spirit of humanism where self-help and motivational speeches seek to replace the unadulterated word of God. But a spiritual church is one that does not conform to the society but compels society to conform to the ways of God.

Matthew 7:16
You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?

You will know them by what they produce.

How is a church spiritual? It’s ALIVE.

How to know when a church is ALIVE:

• Lost souls are coming to Christ on a consistent basis
• Miracles are occurring constantly
• There will be a willingness to become a part of the ministry. Pastor won’t have to beg you
• People will be faithful in their giving
• Prayer and fasting will be consistent, and not just contingent upon special services
• You won’t need for some well-known evangelist to come and stir your church up
• You won’t rely on conferences and events to stir you up
• Altars will be filled, regardless of the song selection by the praise team
• Visitors will feel compelled to return to the church because of the presence of God that is felt
• People will come to your church who you least expect
• The church will expand its influence locally, regionally, and perhaps globally

While the pressures that the local church are paramount, it can and will remain relevant as long as its allegiance stays committed to the doctrine and principles of the Word of God.

Demetrius Minor

Demetrius Minor is a minister, author, and political commentator. He is a former radio talk show host and television personality. He is also a member of the Project 21 advisory board of black conservative leaders across the United States. He and his wife, Riesa, serve on the leadership staff at Tampa Life Church in Tampa, FL.