The Church
On Tuesday last, Sherry and I had the privilege of spending an evening with a small group from our church. Outside of their group time, they also serve together in the church. As we visited with them, we continued to experience a great model for what a small group should be. There was structure and focus on what was important. We studied the Scriptures (this week’s focus was giving thanks to God), prayed, shared announcements, and broke bread (and other yummy stuff) together. One family was missing a husband and a dad because he’s been deployed overseas. I could tell that it wasn’t just his wife and kids who missed him – the whole group recognized his absence and expressed their desire to have him back while also providing strong support for his wife and kids. Other concerns were shared. Encouragement and prayers were offered. God was glorified. Wow.
In a previous post, I asked the question “When is the Church, the Church?” A better question might be, "Who is the Church?" I witnessed my answer on Tuesday. The church is a body of believers who love God as they trust Christ, love others through actions, and put themselves after that. Only by God’s Spirit will this spark be fanned into flames that illuminate, warm, and comfort the world. He knows we need it. This group knows we need it. I wish all of us knew we needed it, too.
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:42-47, KJV)
In a previous post, I asked the question “When is the Church, the Church?” A better question might be, "Who is the Church?" I witnessed my answer on Tuesday. The church is a body of believers who love God as they trust Christ, love others through actions, and put themselves after that. Only by God’s Spirit will this spark be fanned into flames that illuminate, warm, and comfort the world. He knows we need it. This group knows we need it. I wish all of us knew we needed it, too.
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:42-47, KJV)
Comments