1. For the past few weeks we have been studying "How To Fulfill The Mission Of The Church.

2. Thus far we have studied the following topics.

• How To Evangelize The Local Community

• How To Evangelize The World

• The Church Is To Edify

• How To Help The Needy

3. This lesson will be devoted to another mission of the church, "Keeping The Saved Saved."

1. Almost no one would deny the church has the responsibility to proclaim the saving gospel to the lost world. (Mk. 16:15).

2. Almost no one would deny the church has the responsibility to keep the saved saved.

1. If you look through the current and old church directories, you will find the following.

• Some have passed away.

• Some have moved away and placed membership elsewhere

• Some have quit coming to church.

• Some come part of the time.

• Some are coming to church, but are weak or discouraged or both.

• Some are very faithful.

• Some are just going through the forms.

• Many we do not know what has become of them.

2. What can the church do?

• Some estimate we are losing 50% of those baptized.

• I believe the real figure is probably higher.

1. Knowledge

• New converts classes

• Home Bible studies

• Bible classes

• Teach people how to study the Bible.

• Powerful preaching

2. Fellowship

• All Christians need fellowship.

• Some Christians do not get the needed fellowship.

• Some do not want it.

• Some are shy and find it difficult to make friends.

• Some are of a difficult economic level than the majority of the members.

• Some find it hard to get along with others.

• Some have unusual schedules.

3. We must try to get members involved.

• This is the way the church will do the most good.

• This keeps people interested and gives people a sense of importance.

4. We must try to restore those who have been overcome by sin. (Gal. 6:1).

• Satan is constantly seeking to devour us. (1 Pet. 5:8).

• Many Christians fall into the quicksand of sin.

5. We must help people bear their burdens. (Gal. 6:2).

• Death

• Divorce - We are losing most single divorced people.

• Illness

• Self

• Someone close

• Unemployment

• Bad marriage

• Problems with children

• Financial problems

1. I hope these lessons on "How To Fulfill The Mission Of The Church" will inspire us to do more.

2. They are not the final word, but hopefully they have stimulated thought that will not end with our discussion.