Dear Church,

What if the difference between someone hearing the Gospel… and never hearing it… Is our willingness to step into their world? Now, let’s be clear, stepping into their world does not mean conforming to the world or diluting the message. It means being the light that shines in the darkness.

And we see this so vividly in the Gospel of Mark 7:31–37. There is something deeply personal, almost startling, about the way Jesus Christ heals this man. But look closer. Jesus slows down. He gets close. He enters this man’s mental world and gains his confidence.

This man could not hear. So, Jesus doesn’t begin with words. He begins with what the man can understand. That is not randomness. That is intentional, personal, discerning love. This is also a lesson for us. As you can see, the world we are called to reach is no longer just sitting in rows in front of us.

People are not simply walking into churches anymore. They are searching, yes. They are hungry, yes. But many will never walk through our doors. And yet… they are willing to listen, quietly, behind a screen. That is their world. Just like silence was the world of the mute and deaf man in Mark 7.

Research from the Pew Research Center tells us that over 70% of Americans use social media daily. This number is increasing every day. For many, it is where they form beliefs, explore questions, and wrestle with matters of faith. So here is the reality: If we do not step into their world… someone else will. The Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses have already made inroads here. And often, a distorted or false gospel travels faster than truth.

So, what do we do?  If Jesus was willing to step into the world of those struggling… We must be willing to step into theirs. Not to entertain. Not to dilute truth. But to communicate truth in a way they can actually receive it.  Church, the call is not to cling to methods of the past…but to cling to Christ. To cling to Christ crucified. To cling to His truth, His power, His Gospel. And then to follow Him, into the space he is already moving.

Our church, or any church, does not ultimately stand on a particular season of leadership. Leaders will move on. Church is built on Christ; he is our cornerstone. If we abide in Him, He will continue to shape His church with power, with grace, and with love.

Let’s move forward. Following Him and trusting Him and stepping where He steps.

Be encouraged,
Mathews