The Church: What it is, What it is Not
79
When we look at the institutional Church today we cannot help but see corruption at every level and in every denomination and non-denomination. We see and hear ministers preaching another (materialistic) gospel, others preaching God hates everyone but the members of their particular edifice, we see grand Church buildings and glorious temples that make exclusive country clubs look like dreary shacks in comparison. We see Church satellite systems mixing the Word of God with messages for donations to already million dollar ministries. What would Christ say about how we have chosen to redefine the Christian Church and then justify it in His name?
This is not to disparage materialism. For indeed, God created the material universe and pronounced it good. The covenant community understood that the material world reflects the glory of God. The prophets warned, however, against offering the material as a substitute for offering the self to God. This warning is what, it seems, we are failing to heed.
We have witnessed with our own eyes the visible Church replacing the invisible King. Not only is God being removed from the world, He is also being removed from the Church of Christ. We are witnessing Church buildings as creative architectures to be idolized and therefore, the needs, demands, and goals of the visible institution are seen as real while the call of Christ and His Kingdom go unnoticed. Church leadership often dominates people’s thinking and blurs their focus on God. I agree with Schlossberg who argues that “any institution can become idolatrous, but it appears to be a particular hazard with institutions of religion…it is only a short step to religious institution’s becoming active agents in the promotion of idolatry or even to become an idol itself as people confuse the means of worship with the object of worship.”
Contrary to popular belief, the Christian Church is not an exclusive esoteric club house. It is not a closed society but an open fellowship because at the core of the Church is the universal invitation, “Whosoever will, let him come.”
The Church is not a “favored group” of people believing they are special in some way because they are associated with a particular building. There are some who have an erroneous proclivity to belittle others, who do not attend a Church and subsequently place themselves above those obvious sinners who are apparently headed straight to eternal damnation. This is a devastating untruth that has sent seekers into the waiting arms of unbelief. It is the height of pride which will be called into account by our righteous Judge.
At the heart of the Gospel is the affirmation that "God so loved the world," – not God so loved AMEN Chapel, Deliverance Temple, St Paul United Methodist or any other Church name. But, "God so loved the WORLD," and He shows absolutely no partiality. We do not get divine brownie points because we attend a Church. Remember Peter's words, "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism" Acts 10:34.
This is important because some saints are confused by the concept of God’s elect. Our “election” does not mean that we have had conferred upon us some special honor in the sense of being favored. This is Hebrew Bible 101. Remember, the Hebrews thought that their election meant they were favored by God only to learn that they were not. Rather they were chosen for a “special” mission in accordance with the will of God. So it is with us. We have been chosen by God for service as a result of our accepting His invitation to be His servants in the service of mankind. Many are called, but few are chosen, that is to say, that many are invited to service but few accept the invitation. So our “chosenness,” if you will, is not about being special, but being willing to submit to the will of God by becoming fishers of men and sufferers of the cross.
Lest we become arrogant and prideful and possessive, we need to further realize that the church is NOT ours. We have all probably made or heard statements claiming "my church," and "my pastor," but in truth this is a misnomer because the church does not belong to the people. We may have the title and deed to the physical edifice, but Christ and Christ alone has the title and deed to the spiritual body which is the Living Church. It was Jesus and Jesus alone who said, "Upon this Rock, I will build MY church."
Now, according to some, the Church is not limited to those composing what we know as "institutional Church" but includes even those who stand outside this formal entity. The “fold” of Christ consists of those who made a conscious choice based upon faith through grace. And our faith expresses itself through accepting the Lordship and Shepherding of Jesus Christ because Christ is the Shepherd of His flock. David said in the 23rd Psalm, "The Lord is my Shepherd." But Jesus said, "I am the good Shepherd."
We would therefore, like to affirm that whatever else the Church is or is not, it is first and foremost the family of God. As the family of God, one does not really join it, anymore than one joins a family, but we are BORN into it as we are born into our earthly families. We are BORN into it because we have the imperative of Jesus in John 3:7, "You must be born again." The visible Church, as the redeemed and redemptive fellowship, is the physical presence of Christ in the world. The Church as the body of Christ, is a worshiping, witnessing, learning, serving, loving, obeying, growing fellowship who should be all on one accord in Christ Jesus our Lord.
John tells us in 1 John 3:2, "Now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears,we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is." The growth and development of the true Church is not predicated on the relationship that exist between the pastor and people but on our relationship with Christ as the head of the Church.
Our concept or understanding of the mission of the Church reflects our concept of the purpose of the Church. Purpose refers to that for which something is created or brought into being. It reflects aim, objective, intention.
For example, the purpose of food is to nourish the body; the purpose of clothes is to cover the body; the purpose to water is to quench thirst. The Greek word for purpose is teleos. So the Church is a purposeful organism because it has a specific mission.
The primary mission of the Church is to fulfill the Great Commission by evangelizing the world. We are to spread the Good News that “God so loved the world…” that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, that Jesus, the Savior of the world shed His own blood for our souls.
The Great Commission tells us that we are “to make disciples of all nations.” A disciple is a student, learner, or follower of someone else. Thus, to “make disciples’ means that we are to win others to Christ by witnessing to the love of God in our lives and by demonstrating the love of God through our lives. And, after winning souls to Christ, making disciples of those souls (teaching, training and equipping for Church outreach ministry and evangelism), and then sending those souls out to make other disciples. In other words, disciples reproduce disciples. This is the method used by Jesus and His apostles after Him which is what accounts for how they were able to evangelize the then known world in four decades.
Disciples are created through steady spiritual feeding and a believing response in those who hear, which includes overcoming their sins. The local Church congregation is the place where disciples are made because it is where the Church intersects with the world, witnessing to Jesus Christ, introducing seeking people to Him, and inviting them to give themselves to Him.
Acts 2:42 could be considered a mission statement for the church: “They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” James added the all important: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world” (1:27).
Dallas Willard explains that the greatest need of the modern Church is obedience to Jesus Christ. He writes that “more than any other single thing, the practical irrelevance of actual obedience to Christ accounts for the weakened effect of Christianity in the world today, with its increasing tendency to emphasize political and social action as the primary way to serve God. It also accounts for the practical irrelevance of Christian faith to individual character development and overall personal sanity and well being.”
Time has come to get right Church, and let’s go home.
References
Herbert Schlossberg, Idols for Destruction: Christian Faith and Its Confrontation with American Society. Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1983.
Howard Ball, Churches Alive Seminar, First Baptist Church, 1989.
Dallas Willard, Renovation of the Heart, Putting on the Character of Christ. NavPress, 2002.
CommentsLoading...
Your positive feedback put me in the mood for a good night's sleep (Good Lord willing of course). Thanks MS.
Forever His,
Dear RevLady great hub and one very close to my heart. God told us to go into ALL Nations and Preach the Gospel. I have my concerns for some of the Pastors and the Churches of today. They are so wrapped up in themselves that they can't see the forest for the trees.
Yes Pastors need to look prosperous in the way they look.If they are serious about filling seats with converts.
Sadly we are seeing Clergy with 10 million dollar homes Private jets, expensive clothing to name just a few.
This does not go well with me as there are so many people out there that desperately need food water and clothing.
If the Church could only share some of their wealth. There must be thousands over the world who could be brought to Christ if only they could get something to eat and feel the LOVE in the Church. God loves a cheerful giver.
Fantastic hub RevLady! I could not agree more! Using that "my" always tends to lead to ownership rather than the idea of being owned, of being a servant of the one true King. And that partiality in the church is very evident. Many still claim that those outside the "church' are lost, but the truth is, He died for everyone, especially those outside the church. He died for the ones who were crucifying Him and beat Him. He died for everyone, not just those that convert. He knows the intent of man's heart, He knows the truth of us all. That is why He warns in Matthew 7:21-23 that some even saying Lord Lord and doing things in His name, won't be saved. And as far as those cathedrahls go, Christ warned the day would come when one stone would not remain on another, and He was not impressed at all by the glory of buildings. How easily mankind can decieve with the things we perceive to be holy and good. Oh to be humble and giving, peaceful and content. What a wonderful Sunday I am going to have now. Thank you for this hub. Peace.
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Lord. RevLady this hub lifted my soul this morning. I feel wonderfully blessed for having read it. I get this alot in my walk with Christ. The primary mission of the Church is to fulfill the Great Commission by evangelizing the world. We are to spread the Good News that “God so loved the world…” that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, that Jesus, the Savior of the world shed His own blood for our souls. THIS IS our family primary mission to be the Lord personal witnessing tool. That you for this and may the LOrd forever keep you in his loving arms we need more WORD preaching persons like yourself. Peace and Love
I cannot shout AMEN loud enough. This message is where I live my life, repeating over & over again that the church is people--it's not programs, buildings, budgets, business or whatever else. It's people sharing life with each other while reaching out to those outside their circles.
Thank you. Preach it, sister. And be encouraged.
Idolatry Mam Rev, and it is scary, as church should be the frontrunner of good -- not bad -- materialism and corruption!
Thank you for a good read and it is Sunday, HUGS and blessings. You are an inspiring soul and I am learning a lot frrm your posts here and everywhere where I follow you, Maita
Loves To Read,
I regretfully must agree with you LTR. As my mentor use to say, the Church and the world have become kissing cousins. Of course, we know that it is not all Churches, but enough that the Church's former power has cease to exist and is steadily declining. The huge ministries overshadows the work of smaller, dedicated Churches that really are trying to allow Christ to lead and guide them in ministering to the needs of the community and promote evangelism. May the Lord have mercy on our souls!
A M Werner,
I am with you on your point. Paul would have much to say to 21st century Christians regarding the church. The Church today is far removed from the Church of Christ. For the life of me, I cannot comprehend why alleged Christians believe those outside the Church are hell-bound, which is where many in the Church is headed if they do not repent. Man keeps looking at "appearances" and making erroneous judgments.
I remember reading somewhere that going to Church does not make one a Christian any more than going to a garage makes one a car. I am convinced that many in the Church has lost sight of its mission and purpose. May the Lord have mercy on our souls!
SmilingHeart,
All glory to God! I am with you brother. Spreading the Good News is the first order of business and the core mission of the Church.
By the way, did you know that according to a survey conducted by the Barna Research Group, the US has become the new mission field? We have at least 195 million unchurched people. America has more unchurched people than the entire populations of all but 11 of the world's 194 nations. And what is even more astounding (if that is possible) is that here in the US, several thousands of people will die every day without ever hearing about the Good News that Christ died and rose again for them. If this is true, and we have no reason to believe it is not, what in the world is the Church doing? May the Lord have mercy on our souls!
Ken R. Abell,
AMEN Ken, AMEN. And we must keep preaching this God's truth that is so clear in Scriptures. It takes a lot of repeating to undo years of tradition and ecclesiastical brainwashing. May the Lord have mercy on our souls!
Maita,
The condition of the Church is scary and sad. It is my prayer that generations following will be successful in undoing this terrible injustice to the Church Christ founded. Love and hugs dear friend.
Blessings and love to you all. It is encouraging to hear from others who know what Church really means and what its mission is in the context of the Christian faith.
Forever His,
Hi, this is so true. I don't know whether it has been on the TV in America, but the catholic church is really underfire at the moment about priests abusing children a few years ago, and the fact that the Pope is covering up for them, They seem to have forgotten what the church is about, and I am disappointed in the Pope and his followers for not doing the right thing. Jesus said, ' look under a peace of wood and you will find me, hear me in the wind and you will find me' that is the truth. thanks nell
Nell Rose,
You are, of course, correct. Catholicism is now at the crossroads and must confront its sins, repent, make restitution, "sin no more" and go on in the blessed name of Jesus.
There is schism in the Episcopal and the United Methodist Churches over gay issues, and the Presbyterian Church is struggling to halt it membership from leaving by the droves.
Church splits, internal battles, sex scandals are all very destructive to its parishioners and inflicts irreparable damage to the body of Christ, not to mention how it feeds into the negative concepts of unbelief.
The Church is suffering a life threatening illness and need immediate emergency surgery by the Chief Physician.
Thanks Nell for sharing your thoughts. It is a sad commentary when thinking about the Church brings grief to spirit.
Forever His,
REVLADY you realy got it together here,when Jesus went out to preasch he did not have all these fancy buildings to get the people to listen to him, no, he was just there in the open.
when you look around today all you see are these Glass houses costing milloins, this sort of money could be used to help the poor through mission programs.
I'm sure that people would still go to hear the preaching without these type of buildings.
You see so many of the todays preachers now have jet planes, posh homes,cars,holiday homes as well.
I read where it says don't get rich from preaching.
But we can get rich in spirit by spreading the word and helping others to know the truth.
God loves you
Raymond
Rev Lady, I love the way you wrote this hub about what a church shouldn't be and what it should be about. I have a church that is as close to what I think God would have one to be and I don't church hop. There has been a lot of corruption in churches for some years now and it is sad as it turns people away. Excellent hub.
Raymond,
Isn't it disheartening to know that "many of the today's preachers now have jet planes, posh homes, cars, holiday homes as well." Some have even given homes to their children and other family members while congregants live as usual.
I wish some of the wealthy ministries would financially support smaller struggling ones trying to help the homeless, abandoned children, the addicted and so forth, but limited by a lack of funds. May the Lord have mercy on our souls!
Pamela,
I rejoice in knowing there some "Smyrna" Churches performing as close to what God desires as humanly possible. You are blessed to have connected with one.
Thank you for your comments and may you abide in His love.
Forever His,
Thank you RevLady for the Hub and without any disagreement from this end for certain. For years I have watch people being misled from some of the words coming from the pulpit.
God has been placed in a box for certain and replaced with programs and excess in building. Some do much good with what they receive but they as well need more to maintain those stats.
Give me a small setting in a "Home Church" any day where no one except for the God the Father is the boss, where the true and real ministry takes place, where people who are hurting can come and be themselves. A place where God is welcome...
Blessings and Hugs
Good evening, Reverend Lady, and thank you for yet another wonderful hub.
There are very few churches and ministers today that believe in living a meek and humble life. Over the years we have visited many churches, and witnessed how richly the pastors live. I don't, however, believe there is anything wrong with them dressing well, but to wear hundred dollar suits is another matter.
They live in big houses filled with very expensive furniture, etc, all this on the collection of moneys from faithful tithe givers. I even knew of a pastor that had hired bodyguards that carried guns...in church! Something just didn't seem right there to me. But maybe, I thought, what do I know.
Thank you for bringing this subject to light, it needed to be spoken.
May our Good Lord richly bless you, and keep you writing His Word, His Truth.
Much love and many BIG hugs to you, in Christ Jesus,
VKA
Nice hub RevLady with an interesting point!
I can understand the desire to make the building where you gather to worship God the most beautiful building in the neighborhood. But then that beautiful building can so quickly misdirect where our focus should be. It can become the focus of our attention and so become our idol. All we really need is a place to gather to worship Jesus and pray together.
There are so many more important things to be done in His name than keep up a beautiful building!
May God bless you and keep you writing.
Quill,
The good news is that Home Churches are gaining ground as seekers of truth are becoming more and more disillusioned and dissatified with traditional authorities and eccelsiastical controls. In lieu of encountering God, too many seekers are encountering man disguised as Head of the Church.
I must repeat with urgency, the Church is in dire need of honest repentance and a return to obedience to Christ. Until we acknowledge, confess our sins, and re-commit to obedience, the influence of the Church in the world will continue to diminish until alas it will be a totally ineffective representative for the Kingdom of God.
VKA,
All of what you stated is certainly true. My concern is the Churces apparent neglect of the Kingdom of God. Anything that diverts seekers of truth away from the Kingdom of God is counterproductive to the Christian cause. When we neglect to make disciples, we as Christians will continue to reproduce more and more of the same spiritual corruption that has clogged the fields in our Churches over the past generations as well as in the present day. Christianity will ALWAYS reproduce itself after its own kind.
I am further concerned over the fact that the whole thrust of the Church, its approach to prosperity, its program based ministry, and the consumer mindset, has all domesticated the call to the Kingdom of God. The Lordship of Jesus Christ over the individual believer's life, and the functional headship of Christ over the corporate Church's mission is slowly being removed. May the Lord have mercy on our souls!
MR,
"I can understand the desire to make the building where you gather to worship God the most beautiful building in the neighborhood."
I agree with you. In fact, there are those who believe God's house deserves the most beautiful edifice that man can build. We remember Solomon who desired building a great house for God ( to house the Ark of the Covenant). It was a primary goal that ultimately passed on to his son who was able to achieve it.
However, New Testament Church founded by Christ was of a spiritual nature directing people to a sense of their own spiritual sickness (sins) and the healing remedy offered by Kingdom of God. Jesus, who had no place to lay His head, did not ask us for beautiful buildings. He told us to go into the world and spread His message of love and salvation. The early church was people's homes and money asked for was to help widows and orphans, the hungry and so forth, not to build great cathedrals which, as we are witnessing, only feeds man pride and arrogance. May the Lord have mercy on our souls!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and comments. It is so important that we, as the body of Christ, the true Church, stand up for the Kingdom of God.
Forever His,
AMEN RevLady. The Church of God are the people of God come together as one family to carryout the task of teaching the gospels of Jesus to the world so that all can learn and understand that only through the grace of God, and the acceptance of Christ as our salvation through his resurrection can one be saved and permitted to be face to face with Our Father again. BRAVO! RevLady.
Christ's commission to baptise and spread the word is everyones duty as a Church.
Brother Dave.
RevLady: this hub was needed in the worse way. I can't tell you how sad it is to see so-called Christians flaunt their holier than thou attitudes. This is an intolerable ignorance of the true word of God. Jesus had no church he went where he was needed. Some would have you think that the religious entity they're a member of has given them a seat on the right hand of God which is blasphemy . Thanks for this wonderful hub. Rated and shared
Dave Mathews,
I agree with you as you described the TRUE body of Christ and the physical presence's (Church) mission.
PM,
The truth of this statement bears highlighting:.
"I can't tell you how sad it is to see so-called Christians flaunt their holier than thou attitudes. This is an intolerable ignorance of the true word of God. Jesus had no church he went where he was needed. Some would have you think that the religious entity they're a member of has given them a seat on the right hand of God which is blasphemy."
God is not impressed with buildings, He is looking for "FRUIT." Thus, by their fruit you will KNOW them.
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Thank you for visiting, the thumbs up and leaving gold nuggets of truth.
Forever His,
Amen Rev Lady.
A true conversion; that is those who truly have the Holy Spirit and a real relationship with Jesus Christ. Know the Lord and are Known by him. When the Lord speaks those who are his hear his voice.
Words are spirit RevLady and so you will understand the Sheep and the Goats; the wheat and the tares.
Indeed the parable of the sower speaks to the current church and is in a way a fulfillment of prophecy.
The elect groan in the spirit daily for what they perceive is happening to the church. The Bride.
Alas we are constrained by a servants heart in bondage to Christ Jesus; we pray for that great day yet are mortified at the same time for what it portends.
Just know Sister that you are not alone. God has his own and will preserve them. Be encouraged, run your race, finish the work that has been given you. Obedience has its rewards sister and remember; "eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of a man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him"
God will continue to make known to us through his spirit what the health of the church is. It is a spiritual discernment that is given to those who are in the direct service of him.
Pray without ceasing. God is not mocked.
His love and grace is holding up the whole world. Let us continue the work according to his will.
The grace and love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with you.
Your brother in the faith.
Terced_Ojos
terced ojos,
Thank you for the truth and encouragement of your comments. Uplifting to the spirit. All glory to God!
Forever His,
Hi RL. Lovely piece, well articulated. The "church" is on the verge of divine dynamics, encounters, revelation, and a divine shaking as has never been seen before. We make the choice of what we hold onto, hay, wood, stubble or refined gold, and all that is of Kingdom unshakeable material. When John the Baptist spoke of Jesus coming with power and the fire of Holy Spirit, many people stop at this part of the verse, but it goes on to say that in his hand is a winnowing fork (or fan) and he will cleanse his threshing floor and gather his wheat, and all the rest will be burned with unquenchable fire... Matt.3 Many seem to think that we are going to be exempt from feeling, seeing, experiencing this Holy tumult. We should each have a rope around our foot as the Levite priest had when he entered the Holy of Holies; in other words have a heart of repentance and a holy lifestyle. Be blessed my friend, St.L.
AMEN, Saintatlarge, you said it best:
"Many seem to think that we are going to be exempt from feeling, seeing, experiencing this Holy tumult. We should each have a rope around our foot as the Levite priest had when he entered the Holy of Holies; in other words have a heart of repentance and a holy lifestyle."
Thank you for the wisdom of your comments for the edification of our souls. Blessings and peace,
Forever His,
love the presentation and detail, truly you have honored your god with this hub.....thx 4 share
loveofnight, your comment really did make me rejoice. I love the Lord and try to honor Him in all I do and say. Thank you for making me feel I accomplished it through this hub.
(love the cute avatar).
Have a blessed day!
Forever His,
RevLady, Amen & Amen! Brilliant “Message!”
I/ we have traveled the world and taken note of the “Church” gathering in many places for whorship, many different denominations both large and small, inside and outside! Keeping in mind the Church on the day of Pentecost grew rapidly because they were on one accord! It was by the move of “The Holy Spirit” the Church expanded. Why is it so divided now?
“We have witnessed with our own eyes the visible Church replacing the invisible King. Not only is God being removed from the world, He is also being removed from the Church of Christ. We are witnessing Church buildings as creative architectures to be idolized and therefore, the needs, demands, and goals of the visible institution are seen as real while the call of Christ and His Kingdom go unnoticed. Church leadership often dominates people’s thinking and blurs their focus on God.” Amen & AMEN!
There is much more emphasis on leadership wanting others to follow them rather than follow Jesus! I love nothing more than praising, worshipping the Lord and proclaiming His WORD! But it has become quite evident that there is an unspoken cover charge in many places of worship! This is not an excuse to neglect “giving,” but to reveal the political worldliness that has attached itself to God’s Church! The pastor all too often becomes the king and rules as though there are members in his court as well as commoners! It is also why I know that true ministry goes beyond the walls! Not just to the homeless but to everyone! “God is not a respecter of persons! He died for everyone! "Whosoever will let him come... "God is able!
This is where my heart lives! After many decades within the walls The Lord has freed me! I will always worship Him both inside and outside the walls! “To much is given much is required!” It is by His grace that my husband and I humbly climbed up “Mars Hills”on hands and knees in Athens Greece to "Worship the Lord in Spirit and in TRUTH", praise and Thank The Lord!
Thank you for sharing this wonderful “Message!” May the Lord continue to use you to spread the TRUTH of HIS WORD! In His love, Peace & Blessings! "To GOD be The GLORY!"
All glory to God DeBorrah, Praise His name!
You are in the truth of His Word. Your comments echo my feelings and thoughts so precisely that its a bit scary (smile).
"After many decades within the walls The Lord has freed me! I will always worship Him both inside and outside the walls!"
This is also my testimony and I thank God daily for illuminating my mind and freeing me from the bondage of Church politics, ecclesiastical strongholds and unyielding pride.
Thank you for the inspiration and edification of your comments. Your spirit permeated through your words and my spirit rejoiced within me. All glory to God!!
Forever His,
Excellent hub Rev Lady,
Ministries appear to think God is rubber stampng His approval on them if they have a large church congregation and buildng. With so much emphasis on material blessings for the "King's Kids", it's no wonder they come to this conclusion. No doubt the recesson has been a golden opportunity for sermons on continued giving and tithing in order to ensure one does not loose their job, or to ensure that the unemployed are "led" to a job.
When Jesus said that on this rock (the fact that He is the Son of God - not a reference to Peter) He did not suggest institutionalised religion.
You are right on about today's emphasis also on programmes, and political and social issues. Whilst these are good works, they should be as a result of the Fruit of the Spirit in our lives, not an end in themselves at the cost of a life centred on Jesus.
Go Well.
Disappearinghead,
Thank you for your visitation and the inspiration of your comments.
Forever His,
RevLady, I had so many hubs to choose from this morning as I visited you for the first time after being mere seconds apart on posting comments on other hubs so many times, I finally said to myself, "self, why are you ignoring a message to visit with this lady after so many close calls of collision with her?" self said "self let's do this thing!" the rest is now history. You in turn signed on with me, becoming my 100th person so I'll try and be worthy as the last shall be first. Thank You.
Now on with this hub. I chose it as the picture shown in it's invitation was quite familiar to me as I have driven by it from any angle that was present up to 1994, the crystal cathedral, a place I wonder how many folks starved to death while it was being constructed. A place where I walked the grounds but once, it was for the funeral of a dear friend, one of the men who I can count on less than one hand that always did right by me no matter the circumstance. With out him I wonder if some of my goals completed would have been recognized. It was here where his wife went to church and on a day of remembrance I thought I'd finally see the inside. The service was shuffled to a building that was just like a classroom at a school, no windows and stacked desks off to the side and metal folding chairs set up for the attendees. Not that it mattered at the time, as I was shook to the bone by the gangland killing that John was taken by, they drove up in the parking lot of the grocery store and 9 times shot him getting out of his car, never a motive, they guessed a membership motive to belong to a gang. Today seems like a long time since then, but I find the topic of this hub ironic as I wonder about the dollars that built this monstrosity, in part, came from Johns pay check as tithes. Another thing I wonder is how many lives might have been saved or changed for the better if all of this money had been spent differently. It is just not just this one it's all of them. I had plenty of opportunity to see the inside of this one, they hosted huge plays, one about Noah, complete with Giraffes,elephants, lions tigers and bears I am told. I have been inside the cathedrals in Utah and I have to agree they are quite pretty to look at, but so was Mount St. Helens, but after a little peek at hell look at it now. I suppose folks find a bragging point in "my" church especially if it is one like this, I'm not sure as I've never owned one, I've toured a few from old industrial buildings to the fanciest ones. None much mattered as I could not stay at any for long. A couple like the last one left me feeling dirty after being fooled so well. I've heard the statement before by women who were raped, that they just couldn't wash it off. I never understood it but I do now. I have heard of church meeting in homes and they made sense to me, no plates being passed for money as the overhead was covered by the owners and they rotated around. It seemed to make sense. I worked around and was invited to attend, and the service was straight reading from the Bible and one gave commentary of the chapters and verses followed by a discussion of the teaching. Afterward I stood outside speaking with the one who had invited me and to my surprise I was politely let know that after the services they joined in a meal, but until I was baptized into the fold they could not break bread with me. At least the slap came up quickly! I wasn't expecting to be fed and planned on inviting them out for a meal in fact. I just found it amusing that these "Christians" could not eat with anyone as filthy as I. I'm pretty sure that's an example of what a church is not. I've been Baptized into Jesus and I believe that is enough, I'm troubled by churches that require to be a member another baptism is required. If I'm missing something I wish to be taught.
Thanks for the hub for this morning, I'll be back again. Much Love and Peace.
So glad you stopped by this morning 50 Caliber. Thank you.
First, like you, I do not believe in coincidences. I do not know why I chose this particular church to display and only in getting the picture did I learn who the pastor was, which was surprising to me. From your comments, It now connections for me.
Secondly, I agree with EVERYTHING you have posted and think the same way when I look at the many mega-church buildings and suffering humanity. Nowhere in Scripture will we find any instance of Jesus or His disciples or His many other followers indicating that we should take money to invest in exquisite architectural buildings that we call church at the expense of suffering humanity. It is disturbing to my spirit and the message it gives to the world is not favorable to Christianity.
I also agree and am troubled by churches that require persons to undergo another baptism. We are initially baptized in obedience to Christ and trying to follow the example He set. It is a symbolic gesture showing to others that we have received His salvation. Thus, in my understanding and interpretation of Scripture, I see no evidence that would lead me to believe another baptism is ever required. Furthermore, it is the baptism of the Spirit that is the most important.
Your experience was apparently with a house church that believed baptism administered by any minister or any church holding a belief different from theirs is invalid, probably due to their interpretation (or misinterpretation) of Ephesians 4:5.
Thanks for dropping in on me this lovely morning. Love and peace, my dear brother.
Forever His,
RevLady, Ephesians 4:5, is in it's self true, but it is a sad leap a church takes believing they are the "one way" and your baptism is worthless unless applied by their hand in a borrowed baptismal from another faith.
Love and Peace
It's a "human" thing. Like Paul, before his conversion, they believe they are right. I am not one to judge but I do disagree and believe it contributes to division in the body of Christ, the true Church.
Love and peace to you as well,
Forever His,
The weird just happened. I was on another site doing a search and the next thing you know i'm here, with the comment block open??? Too weird.??? So I will pray for you. Blessings St.L.
Thank you, please do, always. I may name drop as well (smile).
Forever His,
Blessings to you RevLady...my apologies for taking so long to read this and get back to you with my thoughts. We had been at a Leadership Conference these last few days and I am struggling to catch up! It was interesting reading your hub on the Church. Our leadership conference theme was Go and make disciples...with the main thought...to make disciples you must BE a disciple.
You said, Quote "So our “chosenness,” if you will, is not about being special, but being willing to submit to the will of God by becoming fishers of men and sufferers of the cross." End Quote
So many are willing to be fishers of men...but not suffers of the cross. That seems to be the hardest concept to over come. Yet that is where the blessing and victory is, in and through the cross. Yes Jesus went to the cross and died for my sins...but He also said pick up MY cross and follow Him. When I am willing to take me and mine (those things I carry in my heart) to the cross it sets me free to truly be His body, His servant, His child...the Church. Excellent Hub RevLady. You do so bless me with your thoughts and I love that you encourage me to continue thinking.
Love and Blessings
UlrikeGrace
Wow! You have had a tremendous amount of comments on this Hub! And no wonder. This may be your best article to date. You were truly inspired when you wrote these words.
AG,
It sounds like the Conference was addressing an issue that is sorely needed to be heard loud and clear in the body of Christ. I think it is crucial that we get back to the early church basics of, as you stated, first being disciples and then helping other newcomers develop into disciples.
I also agree when you said, "Yes Jesus went to the cross and died for my sins...but He also said pick up MY cross and follow Him." EXACTLY! AMEN! No cross, no crown.
JW,
I am not sure inspiration was the motivation as much as righteous indignation. I am deeply concerned about the institutional church and doing my best to help create a discipleship mindset for our next generation leadership.
Blessings to you and peace from God our Father!
Forever His,
-"When we look at the institutional Church today we cannot help but see corruption at every level and in every denomination and non-denomination."-
Christianity is "losing face" to many. I just left a comment on another hub that could read like I'd like this comment to read. I am very reluctant to call myself Christian. I'm sure everyone here is truly Christian. How would I know? The voting record for all of America is horrendous! Absolutely horrible! We are a Christian nation?!? The quickness that America goes to war is atrocious. The "injustice system" of America is atrocious. I know there can only be the few who are actually Christian. Until Christians come together about "one thing" I cannot take "Christians" seriously. I will continue to call myself Christlike. Being Christlike was what a Christian should adhere to! I will make my stand with this "one thing". If Christians of this country do not abolish this injustice system as it is- no- I cannot take Christians serious -as a whole!
It's every day. It's since the beginning of this country. It was more transparent during reconstruction-more in retrospect. This system that locks people up for the lack of money for a lawyer is abominable.
This isn't vague as in "weapons of mass destruction or who really attacked the WTC". This is right here right now. It is every day in this country that someone is walked over in a court room. Now Christians and other Americans can say that "ours" is the best system in the world. Being the best might mean it was created by Lucifer.
there is no question mark here. Just search for yourselves. Search for the falsely imprisoned, falsely convicted and put to death. Your search is never ending.
Besides all these people who are put to death and imprisoned there are people whose lives are "just" ruined because of a fictional "injustice system.
Until this is taken to heart by Christians I cannot "join" Christianity as is. I will worship God. I will love my fellow man! I will speak for those who are dead and in prison because of Americans who cannot and will not speak out and up for their fellow man. This is a great hub. Perhaps I've taken it too far from your intent.
I seek out people who will "tell it like it is". I was directed here so here I am. I just can't tell "who's with me". Thanks very much for a great message.
Micky Dee I wish I could disagree with you but I cannot. I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts with readers. It is important and sorrowful echos from your heart and soul.
I also agree that Christianity is losing face because of our unfaithfulness. I am not sure we can recover but repentance and a turning around would be a good start.
Being Christlike, is being a member of the true body of Christ. God bless and enbolden you as you continue to be the voice of those who cannot or have not the strength to speak for themselves.
Bless you!!
Forever His,
I think that this a great and true hub. I see a lot of churches today thats put God on the back burner and luxury of a church on the front. A nice church is all good, but the primary foundation should be God. People need Gods word, not a social club with offering plates. God bless you sister.Great hub...
You are right my Texas friend. Nice churches are okay as long as God's Word does not suffer. When people are more into socializing than evangelizing, something is wrong.
Bless you dear brother and thank you for enhancing this hub with your comment.
Forever His,
Great hub RevLady, you sho-nuff know what you are talking about. How ever, I do believe I am blessed and highly favored of the Lord and so is all His saints. Nothing to brag about though.
Yes, Oscar, I sense your spirit and share in the belief that you are indeed one of God's highly favored and chosen. I rejoice in glorigying Him for considering us worthy of His call to our particular vocation.
Love, peace and joy in Him.
Forever His
msorensson Level 3 Commenter 2 years ago
I love the way you presented it, with perfect emphasis on the very core of God's love.
Thank you, RevLady.