Paul M Ethington

Unholy Dominion Paul M Ethington

Since nothing made by man is without fault, and since satanic influence is an ever present reality, we must rely heavily on the power and promise of Christ to uphold His church. "I will build My church" reminds us that our man-made institutions, impressive though they might be, are not the essence of the church. The institutions of the church, local or world-wide, may not bear scrutiny in response to the question, "Is it really Christ's church?" We have traced the history of the church for two millennia, discussed the major movements, changes, nuances, trends and shifting paradigms. We have written about the necessity of periodic revival due to complacency and sin. We have been given warnings of hypocrisy, corruption, heresy and false doctrine. God has always presented solutions to these assaults. We have spent much time discussing the "church growth movement" of the last 50 years alongside a shrinking church, particularly in North America and Europe. But the church has continued to grow in China, Africa, Asia and even in Muslim countries, due to the work of the Holy spirit in building the Church of Jesus Christ. We have given some attention to the calling and character of Christian shepherds and the culture of the church if the gospel is to be presented effectively to a lost world. Finally, we are reminded of our preparation, as the bride of Christ, for His return. We should enjoy what He is doing to build His church, to worship Him and to go with Him into those pastures He would lead us. We must know His Bible and let His Word dwell richly within as we follow His lead.