Is it wrong to replace our church?
Q: Our church just started a campaign to raise money for a new building. I haven't said anything, but I don't see anything wrong with our old building. They say we need it to attract new people, but I'd rather keep things the way they are. I don't like the idea of going into debt either (which we may have to do). Am I wrong? -- G.G.
A: I don't know if your church needs a new building -- but I'm thankful your leaders are looking to the future, and that they want to reach out to those in your community who may not know Christ or have any connection with a church. Jesus said, "I have other sheep. ... I must bring them also" (John 10:16).
On one hand, you're wise to be concerned about too much debt; occasionally I've known of churches whose ministry was crippled because they took on an unwise amount of debt. God is not honored when churches or other ministries ignore sound business principles. The Bible's warning applies to organizations as well as individuals: "The borrower is slave to the lender" (Proverbs 22:7).
On the other hand, however, I hope you'll encourage those who want to expand your church's outreach. I'm thankful for the fellowship you've experienced through your church -- but God put us here for a deeper reason: to declare the good news of Christ's love to those who do not know Him. Jesus' command has never been withdrawn: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19).
Up-to-date church facilities may have their place -- but even more important is a commitment to use them for God's glory. Pray for your church and its leaders -- and pray too that God will give you a burden for those in your community who do not know Christ.
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(Send your queries to "My Answer," c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.)
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