Monday, November 22, 2004
The church was given us by God and was intended for all people in all cultures. He (God) kept the model simple so that it would fit any setting. The church is an assembly of believers in a given area united in worship of God and support of each other. Organization is likewise simple. A cadre of servant leaders drawn from the assembly who demonstrate spiritual maturity, as spelled out in scripture, are charged with maintaining doctrinal orthodoxy and direction for the group.
Historically, the church was also identifiable. This was due in part because of our group worship. It was also largely a result of the church being out of step with contempory culture (as the church should always be). Being maladjusted has its advantages. Differences are noticed. When those differences are the fruit of the indwelling Spirit of God people may just be drawn to them.
Every time the church has attempted to fit into the culture, it became something other than what God had ordained. When that happens people lose. They lose the truth and ultimately life itself, for life is only found in Jesus. They have no where to turn.
Why is this important? When was the last time a stranger knocked on your door looking for rescue from a shattered life? That happens all the time at church.
Historically, the church was also identifiable. This was due in part because of our group worship. It was also largely a result of the church being out of step with contempory culture (as the church should always be). Being maladjusted has its advantages. Differences are noticed. When those differences are the fruit of the indwelling Spirit of God people may just be drawn to them.
Every time the church has attempted to fit into the culture, it became something other than what God had ordained. When that happens people lose. They lose the truth and ultimately life itself, for life is only found in Jesus. They have no where to turn.
Why is this important? When was the last time a stranger knocked on your door looking for rescue from a shattered life? That happens all the time at church.
