RE: "Churches should not focus on numerical growth, but faithful teaching and service."

Churches might also find it worthwhile to assess their own character. Jesus said, "By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35 ESV) Love -- the kind that takes an active interest in the well-being of other people -- can change hearts.

Also, "the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law ." (Gal. 5:22-23 ESV) No indeed. We are the body of Christ, and by God's ongoing grace, we can live it up and indulge in cultivating and expressing all those things!

So, "let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works." (Heb. 10:24) And, "Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them." (Rom. 12:6)

God redeemed us to be his instruments, declaring (1 Peter 2:9) and demonstrating (Eph. 2:10) his mercies. What is the purpose of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:20), even between human beings, if not to restore the potential for fruitfulness in the relationship?