How can we grow numerically? How can we grow spiritually? How can we eradicate apathy? How can we bridge the gap between the elderly and the youth? How do we ensure evangelical success?

These are a few of many reappearing questions in the minds of the spiritually discerned, and concerned. This mindset is admirable. We need to constantly ask ourselves, “Can we do better?” and “HOW can we do better?” However, we need to know the difference between REFORMING and RESTORING practices, doctrine, etc. to make things “better.”

Reformation is the process of taking something with a form, and changing said form. Restoration is the process of taking something that has deviated from its original form, and restoring it to said form.

Example: Reformation – A congregation decides to attract more people to the worship assembly by incorporating a common meal into their service. Restoration – A congregation decides to please God by taking away the common meal because the original “form” of worship does not authorize such practice (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:17-26).

The above example is an extreme, yet, realistic example of the differences between reformation and restoration. The constant indicator of either reformation or restoration is scripture. If there is not scriptural authority the change is an act of reformation. If there is scriptural authority the change is an act of restoration.

We should be careful when we talk about “change.” Are we talking about change because we have somehow diverged from the pattern, or because we think the “same ole’” pattern isn’t cutting it anymore?

“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus…” (Colossians 3:17).

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