Which of the challenges described in this lesson surprise you the most? Why? Are any of these challenges similar to those you face in your faith community? If so, which ones and in what ways?

[Donna]

The challenge of doctrinal disagreements and schisms was surprising to me in that I wonder why something as the foundational beliefs in doctrine ends up dividing and creating new groups instead of bringing them together. This is similar to what my church is having issues with regarding women as pastors and deacons, instead of the congregation coming together they are separated into two camps which makes it uncomfortable for everyone.

[Cheryl Hollingsworth]

Geographical distance surprises me the most. We live in a time that the message of the gospel can be transmitted by several different modalities. No need to always ‘physically be there.’ One person is able convey much to the masses. The challenge our local churches are currently facing are doctrinal disagreements. We have recently had another split and a new church group formed over the question…”Can a woman pastor the church?”

[Rebecca Crone]

I agree that there are many different ways to receive a message/gospel via technology, but in order for the local church body to be active and grow, people should attend and connect with others. I think geographical distance is a bigger issue in the United States than people realize. It is not a challenge about being too far from a church; it’s more about not connecting due to technology or moving on to another church as soon as something is not what one thinks it should be. I think it is too easy for people to distance themselves from a church body.

[Stacy Colwell]

This is a very good point. Even when we are physically close in proximity, we can be very distant due to pulling away and disconnecting ourselves. While technology has great advantages for those who are truly cut off for a myriad reasons, it can hinder those who can convince themselves that they are fellowshipping when they are, in fact, forsaking the assembly.

[Gail Bradley]

Doctrinal Disagreements and Schisms use to have a strong hold on me. I could not understand why such a wide variety of fellowship felt the need to worship, praise, and teach Christianity under so many different umbrellas. Here is a list of some in my community:

Baptist

Sanctified

Jehovah Witnesses

Catholics

Evangelistic

Apostolic

Today most of them are coming together in agreement as to who God is but using all different sorts of titles and names to identify God. Muslims and Buddhists people today are now calling their Gods Bishops instead of God. But still, why are there so many different ways of describing His Goodness in so many different ways to the extent of only confusing everyone.

[Jeff D]

The only surprise was’t much of a surprise. I always have thought of us on a defensive from the attacks of Hades. The church has always divided, and Jesus did come to divide (Luke 12:51). So the cultures standing against the Christ is a norm, but how we respond in the face of this criticism is all important.

[CHIA CHIN MING]

None of the challenges discussed in the lesson surprises me because they are similar to those, we face in our faith community. The challenges are briefly explained below:

1. Geographic Distance

The spread of the church across vast geographical regions has always been a significant challenge. Early missionaries often travelled long distances by sea to China to spread the gospels. About 140 years ago, our forefathers travelled from China to my country, and they brought along their gospel and established churches here. In modern times, while transportation has improved, geographic distance still poses logistical challenges in coordinating activities, maintaining communication, and providing support to remote congregations in my country.

2. Cultural Boundaries

Cultural differences have posed a considerable challenge to the church’s mission. I live in multiracial country where different languages, traditions, and social norms can create barriers to understanding and acceptance of the gospels. The church has had to navigate these differences sensitively to effectively communicate its message.

3. Hostility from Surrounding Societies

Throughout history, the church has frequently encountered hostility from surrounding societies, especially when they are of different religions. In more recent times, churches may experience government crackdowns, societal violence, and discrimination. This hostility challenges the church’s ability to operate openly and safely.

4. Favourable Societies

In certain areas of my country where the church is widely accepted or even state-sponsored, there can be a temptation towards complacency, nominalism, or aligning too closely with political powers. This can lead to a dilution of spiritual enthusiasm and a focus on maintaining social status rather than fulfilling the church’s mission. Additionally, it can create divisions when the church’s values conflict with societal norms or governmental policies.

5. Doctrinal Disagreement

Doctrinal disagreements within the church have led to significant challenges in my place. These disagreements have led to establishment of different churches. It requires special efforts to unite these churches to face challenges such as hostility from different religious groups and government intervention.