This is the beginning of what I believe will be several writings regarding “The Church”. For this first installment I will seek to define what I believe to be the true biblical church and then go from there.
As I began studying this topic intently a few years ago, it became evident that so much of what we’ve come to know as “church” is very loosely related to what the Bible actually refers to as “The Church”. We have tacked on so many ideals, programs, traditions, and focused way too much on such things as buildings and internal church ministries. I would ask that as you read what I have to say, or any other writer, you would always seek to validate it through the lens of scripture, and pray that the Holy Spirit would give you clarity and discernment.
The background: Key passages in scripture that give us an understanding of the Church and how it should look and work.
ACTS 2: 41-47
41″ So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.”
This passage speaks directly to how the early new testament church began as directed by the Holy Spirit. We talk about the Holy Spirit in our “churches” but I feel that far to often do we do not recognize the Holy Spirit in our daily living and practice. As Francis Chan says in his book “Forgotten God”:
“The world is not moved by love or actions that are of human creation. And the church is not empowered to live differently from any other gathering of people without the Holy Spirit. But when believers live in the power of the Spirit, the evidence in their lives is supernatural. The church cannot help but be different, and the world cannot help but notice.” -Francis Chan- Forgotten God
In my study , through the lens of scripture and the Holy Spirit, I began to see how many churches are no longer directed by the Holy Spirit as a whole. By their sheer size, they are driven by debt, large mortgages, program support (Many of which are internally driven) and other burdens that have so carelessly placed around their necks. We can see this in our own personal lives as well! Is our treasure truly in the kingdom or something different? (Matthew 6:21)
Please bear in mind that my intent is not to say that the way we’ve “done church” is entirely wrong or entirely ineffective, but I do see that there is a better and more closely biblical approach. We’ve got to spend way less time supporting tradition, and more time joining in with the gospel message and mission as directed by the teaching of Jesus through Holy Spirit.
I look forward to sharing more of my heart, wisdom from the word of God, and others who inspire. Thank you for your comments, corrections and constructive criticism!