Down in the South, there are many churches known as "answer back"
churches. When the preacher says something, the congregation naturally
replies.
One Sunday, a preacher was speaking on what it would take for the church
to become better. He said "If this church is to become better, it must
take up its bed, and walk." The congregation said "Let it walk,
Preacher, let it walk."
Encouraged by their response, he went further. "If this church is going
to become better, it will have to throw aside its hindrances and run!"
The congregation replied, "Let it run, Preacher, let it run!"
Now really into his message, he spoke stronger. "If this church really
wants to become great, it will have to take up its wings and fly!" "Let
it fly, Preacher, let it fly!"
the congregation shouts.
The Preacher gets louder. "If this church is going to fly, it will cost money!"
The congregation replied. "Let it walk, Preacher, let it walk."