Is The Church Broken?

The following is from Mark Brown's Blog---Good stuff:

I am really bothered by the slowly eroding influence of the church in the West. Our message is still as fresh and as deeply relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. And without a doubt we continue to have something important to offer society. So it is with this conviction that I share my hopes for the church.

My hope is that we the church take the time to understand the society we seek to influence and serve, and out of this observation we shape our offerings to meet the contemporary reality.

My hope is that we the church are seen within the local community as an amazing resource for assisting people in navigating the challenges of life.

My hope is that we the church are an outspoken advocate for the poor, the marginalized and those with mental illness.

My hope is that we the church focus on growing people as well as congregations. We certainly need more people in church but equally we need those people to be growing in their faith.

My hope is that evangelism becomes part of the church culture and not some uncomfortable add on.

My hope is that the Bible will become not just a peripheral resource but a central part of the church’s practice and identity.

My hope is that creativity is encouraged within the church and that creative people are given more say and influence.

My hope is that we the church can honestly discuss the reality of our situation and see any predicament as a glorious opportunity for change.

What is your hope for the church?