A Church Home
Some of you are going to be looking for a new church home in the near future so I wanted to share some thoughts and biblical insights that might help you in your search. It’s a big decision with far reaching impact so its important to approach it from the right perspective. A good place to start is to gain an understanding of the true purpose of the church given to us in scripture. Before we go there, I want to look at some key influences in today’s culture that impact church attendance - technology and “consumer-oriented” worship.
Even before COVID hit, virtual church was becoming more and more appealing to some and it was a concern to those in church leadership. COVID made it a necessity for a period of time and it is now viewed by some as an acceptable substitute for attending church. I completely agree that technology can be a great asset in our spiritual lives. It is very useful for studying, devotionals and to use when we cannot attend church. However, it cannot replace our physical presence in gathering together for church anymore that FaceTime or texting can replace in-person communication with our spouses or friends. It supplements, but doesn’t replace.
There is a trend referred to in church world as “consumer-oriented worship.” This refers to those that come to church (the consumer) looking to be entertained and fulfilled through worship and church programs. They are basically making the church experience about themselves instead of who they came to worship. We live in a “consumer-oriented” society so this just becomes a natural extension for many with that mindset. The truth is that God should be the “consumer” of our worship and our approach to church should be reflected in that. We benefit and are blessed in many ways from the church experience but our focus is on God - not ourselves.
What then is the purpose of the church?
The original Christian church in Jerusalem was referred to in Acts 2:42 and this has long been considered the purpose statement for the church:
Acts 2:42 "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”
Based on this passage the original stated purpose of the Church is as follows:
Teaching Biblical doctrine
Providing a place of fellowship for believers
Observing the Lord’s Supper
Praying together
There are several other key roles of the church that are mentioned in other passages in the Bible:
Evangelism - Being a “lighthouse” in the community that points people to Christ
Ministering to those in need - the vulnerable
Helping believers with their personal growth in purity and righteousness
Equipping believers to serve by helping them discover and develop their spiritual gifts
Children - The church is a big part of the “village” that helps us raise up our children in the faith and with a biblical worldview.
As you visit churches, it’s important to remember that no church is perfect. Churches are made up of imperfect people and led by an imperfect staff. However, when the “body of Christ” gathers together in the form of a church, God works mightily through his people. Perfection is found when we have our eyes set on Christ and not ourselves.
Your church home should have all of the characteristics listed above. Use this list to help you compare one church to another. I pray that you find a church that is perfect for you and that your experience there points you to our perfect Lord.
Stay hungry,
Big E
Matt. 5:6