Mikhail Cherenkov, Doctor of Theology, and pastor of Revival Baptist Church in WA shares about the perspectives and plans for ministry and the work PCSBA’s Executive Committee. The interview was conducted by a member of the Information Ministry, S. Iotko.
S.I.: Greetings to You! You are a member of PCSBA’s Executive Committee. How would you evaluate its importance in the life of the Association?
М.C.: I think that the committee plays a critically important role in decision-making and evaluating key issues in developing the Association of churches. The committee does not interfere with the life of the local churches, but is dedicated to functional unity, and providing a direction for the future. In other words, the committee is serving all the Association’s churches focusing on the things that unifies them and facilitates relationships among the churches. Sometimes there is a need to look into Theological issues, church ministry and leadership, as well as the contemporary crises and challenges. There are also some financial, organizational, and legal issues as well. While focusing on these issues, the committee provides the direction and parameters of growth within the Association.
S.I.: What would you say are the greatest accomplishments in the Association’s ministry?
М.C.: I see that over the years of PCSBA became more active; there doesn’t seem to be as much passivity. There are honest attempts to critically evaluate the usual practices. Things that have always been done the same way before, have been challenged and improved. There is a need to make a speedy evaluation of issues such as development of pastors and other ministries, the generational unities, and a more proactive involvement of the youth, establishing the outreach ministry, and improving the quality of leadership. Right now, there is a huge emphasis on evaluating these issues. We also have a huge benefit of a continual improvement of working with American churches and associations. This step is helpful in overcoming familial exclusivity within the immigration sub-culture. There is also an improvement in new mission fields, especially in Europe. I see that there is a tremendous improvement in not having the Theological debates. Apparently, we are tired of fighting for or against Calvinism. Although we do need to talk about this issue, but we need to do it without getting too extreme or hostile. Right now, there is a time for a civil and well-balanced conversation.
It is encouraging to see that there is a common understanding about the war in Ukraine. For me personally, this is an important test that many of the Association’s churches did not pass. The PCSBA was not afraid to respond to this issue by taking a stand. I understand that different pastors have their own understanding of the situation, but the overwhelming majority of the Association’s churches are in agreement and that is very encouraging to see. This means among the churches of the Association, there is a growing support, trust, and respect for leadership. One more thing: I see that among the church leaders there are more young, educated, and promising pastors. This means that we are investing into our future, and are working together to involve the youth so that they can see themselves serving with us.
S.I.: What opportunities do you see for future ministry?
М.Ч.: I see potential growth in two key areas: in education, and in missions. We need to be intentional about preparing the next generation of ministers in the church. There are different level of education beginning with investment in developing the Sunday School ministry and an expensive seminary. In looking for potential among us, we need to help them to understand their calling, help them to cover the expenses, and then to find a place in our church and not somewhere else.
The second important area is the missions. I am not talking about supporting missionaries abroad. That is also very important. But I am talking about the broader area where every church need to re-evaluate their own perception on missions. If every church, and more importantly, every believer, does not understand the purpose of missions for themselves, they will spend their time in the pursuit of entertainment, or fall into depression; they will be focused on themselves and their goals. If we can grow in the areas of education and missions in the coming years, then the churches will experience an improvement in vitality and will grow.
S.I.: What mistakes should be overcome, and what do you think is needed to be emphasized?
М.C.: I am concerned that our churches resemble the Soviet collective farming where there is very little motivation, and low standards. This is especially noticeable in leadership. I keep encountering a problem of people not willing to change their thinking, habits, and how they make decision. But I do not see any other way. If we want to grow, then these things need to happen. Leadership, administration, and organization should be of the highest standards. Every church administrator should be appreciated for all the things that they are doing.
We also need to learn to treasure a good Bible teacher. I think that the churches need to trust those who invest into Biblical and Theological studies. Not everyone should be a teacher. Today, people have a much higher expectation of a sermon. We need to attain to these higher standards. Therefore, we need to move away from the “farming, herd mentality” to building “oases” of the Kingdom of God so that our churches would be an example in these areas to everyone. They need to be a perfect model to society, business, politicians, managers, and professionals.
S.I.: What do you wish to say to the PCSBA’s churches?
M.C.: I would like to encourage them that in our pursuit of improvement and progress, we need to appreciate what we have. We need to be more grateful to God and treasure each other. We ought to support each other. We should plan for growth and pursue greater things but should also be faithful in little. In pursuit of changes, we should not destroy what has been built. If you do not agree with something, do not be demeaning. Celebrate every little improvement and all victories. As you turn the page, do not rip it out. The church is about improvement, not a revolution. Let us be careful in preserving and being grateful for all things as we continue to serve and make our own history together!
