The Remnant Church

 The Remnant Church: A Call to Faithful Perseverance

In the Bible, the term "remnant" often refers to a small group of faithful believers who remain true to God despite the pressures of society, sin, and spiritual apostasy. In the Old Testament, God used the remnant to preserve His promise to Israel, and in the New Testament, it represents the true Church that holds firm to the teachings of Christ in the face of a fallen world. Understanding the concept of the remnant church is vital for Christians today as we seek to live faithfully in a world that increasingly rejects biblical truth.

What is the Remnant Church?

The remnant church is composed of those believers who remain faithful to God's Word, even when it may be unpopular or difficult. This church is not defined by numbers but by spiritual integrity. While the world may follow the culture, the remnant is called to follow Christ, adhering to His teachings and standing firm in their faith. The remnant church is a people who are set apart, who live according to God's will and remain committed to His truth, regardless of the challenges they face.

In the Old Testament, God spoke of a remnant that would remain after His judgment upon Israel. In the midst of Israel’s sin and rebellion, God promised that He would preserve a faithful group of His people. Isaiah 10:20-22 says, “In that day the remnant of Israel, the survivors of the house of Jacob, will no longer rely on him who struck them down but will truly rely on the Lord, the Holy One of Israel.” This promise points forward to a faithful people who remain committed to God, even in times of hardship and destruction.

The Remnant in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the idea of the remnant continues. Jesus speaks about a narrow gate and a difficult path (Matthew 7:13-14), indicating that not everyone will choose the way of righteousness. In Romans 11:5, Paul says, “So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.” Here, Paul emphasizes that God's grace is what sustains the remnant, not their own strength or ability. The remnant church is not a group that can boast of its righteousness, but rather it is a group that humbly relies on God's grace and mercy.

Characteristics of the Remnant Church

1. Faithfulness to God’s Word
   The remnant church is rooted in the Bible. In a world where truth is subjective, the remnant holds to the unchanging Word of God. Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." The remnant church remains faithful to Scripture, using it as a guide for life, doctrine, and worship.

2. Perseverance in Faith
   A remnant believer perseveres in their faith, even through trials and persecution. James 1:12 encourages us, "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."

3. A Call to Holiness
   The remnant is set apart. As 1 Peter 1:15-16 calls us, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’” The remnant church strives to live a life that reflects God’s holiness, rejecting the sinful ways of the world.

4. A Passion for Evangelism
   The remnant church is also marked by a deep desire to see others come to Christ. It is not content to remain in a spiritual bubble but actively seeks to share the gospel with those around them. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 calls all Christians to make disciples of all nations, and the remnant church answers this call.

5. Unity in Christ
   Despite the world’s divisions, the remnant church is unified under the banner of Christ. Ephesians 4:4-6 reminds us that, “There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all.” The remnant church stands together, knowing that their unity in Christ is greater than any earthly division.

Why Does the Remnant Matter?

In our current age, where many churches may compromise on doctrine or adopt worldly values, the remnant church is vital. It serves as a witness to the world that God’s truth is unchanging, and that His promises are still faithful. The remnant church is a beacon of hope, showing that no matter how dark the world may seem, God is still at work and His purposes will prevail.

In Revelation, John speaks of a victorious group of saints who have overcome the trials of life. Revelation 12:11 says, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” This speaks to the victory of the remnant church—those who stand firm in Christ’s finished work and the power of the gospel.

Living as the Remnant Today

As believers, we are called to live as part of the remnant church in the world today. This means making choices that honor God, standing firm in our convictions, and being faithful in sharing the gospel. We may be few in number at times, but we are powerful in the truth of God’s Word and the strength He provides.

Let us remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:14-16, where He calls His followers the "light of the world." Even as a remnant, we are called to shine brightly, to reflect His truth and love, and to draw others to Him. The remnant church is not just about survival; it’s about thriving in God’s grace and being a testimony to His greatness.

May we remain faithful, living as the remnant church, trusting in God's promises and His call on our lives. We are part of something much greater than ourselves, and our God is faithful to preserve us, even in the most difficult times.

Dr. Phil Spears