If every denominational entity in the SBC burns down tonight, if there are no more seminaries, no more mission boards, no state conventions, if it all disappears, the first manifestation of the SBC structure would be recreated tomorrow: Associations. They would be re-created almost immediately.

Local churches have always banded together regionally for fellowship, mutual support, and cooperative ministries.  The impulse to cooperate is not cultural, it is Biblical.  It is unimaginable that Jesus expected individuals and churches to function separately from every other individual and church.  Associations will remain a part of the SBC for as long as the SBC endures.

How can you get the most out of the association?

Participate. Attend the meetings, give your opinions, and get involved in the Associational ministries.  Every church has a member who “snipes” at the pastor or church programming.  This member is rarely involved in the church, but seems to be an expert on everything going on.  Don’t fill this role in your association.

Support it financially. Put the Association in the budget of your church and get involved financially in the special projects of the Association.  Area wide crusades, evangelistic emphasis, training—your church’s financial participation helps churches that cannot afford to participate.

Involve your church members. Encourage them to go on the associational mission trips.  Encourage them to participate in the associational training meetings.  Let the Associational Missionary preach while you are present at your church. Brag on him.

Befriend the Associational Missionary. He is an asset.  He knows more folks in the association, he knows people in the state convention that can help you.  He is a man who cares about you and your church and there are not many like him.

“My people are not interested in the Association” is a cop-out.  Your church members care about what you care about.  If you lead them to be involved in the Association, they will care about it.  It is your leadership that makes it happen, not their “interest.”  Be the leader.

Ralph Webber was the first Associational Missionary I ever knew.  He prayed for me and with me.  He told me what to expect in my first church, and he grieved with me, and rejoiced with me.  Billy Kite was an Associational Missionary who cared about churches.  The smaller churches in our association were made strong by Billy’s selfless ministry.  I’ve had some good ones.  You have, too.  Be a part of your association.  You will be better and your church will have greater resources as a result.

This blog is posted every Friday. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it