“To accept status quo is the equivalent of accepting the death sentence.” — Andy Stanley

I will have no part in a death sentence! If accepting the status quo is the equivalent to accepting a death sentence, then count me out!

When I read the above quote by megachurch pastor Andy Stanley, I immediately wrote it on the wall next to my office door because I wanted to challenge the Mobilization Department at Crossworld not to accept a death sentence. I want them to be innovative and creative, and to think outside the box. The cost is too great not to.

Stanley goes on to say:

Progress requires change. If an organization, ministry, business, or relationship is going to make progress, it must change. That is, over time it must evolve into something different. It must become better, more relevant, more disciplined, better aligned, more strategic. … Accepting the status quo is the equivalent of accepting a death sentence. Where there’s no progress, there’s not growth. If there’s no growth, there’s no life. Environments void of change are eventually void of life.

This paragraph ignited a fire within me that sparked four questions. Ponder these questions, or, better yet, talk about them with someone in your community, church or workplace.

1. What is status quo for the church in North America in relation to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20)? What must change?
2. How do we change the status quo when it comes to mobilizing people?
3. How do we change the status quo so that the church mobilizes people from all professions to take the gospel to nations?
4. How do I personally keep from accepting the status quo when it comes to fulfilling the Great Commission?

Have some thoughts? Email Mark.

Part 1 – Choose to Pray … Daily!
Part 2 — Choose to Embrace Your Potential to Impact
Part 3 — Choose to Develop Your Heart for All Nations

Mark Silvers served with Crossworld in the Philippines for 10 years and joined the home office staff as Director of Mobilization in 2009. Mark’s driving passion is the goal of reaching the the 2.9 billion people in the world today with no access to the gospel. Reply to Mark.