Introduction
In this teaching, I share personal reflections, including my family dynamics and experiences of being on the mission field. These reflections bring me to a vital question that even my young son probes: why we act or believe as we do. When he asks "why" about everyday things, it reminds me of my childhood and the essential inquiries we all have about our identity and purpose. The theme revolves around the importance of community and our gathering as a church, not merely as a routine but as an intrinsic aspect of who we are in Christ.
Main Points
We Gather As Believers Not Because
We gather as believers not because it's a cultural norm or a trendy activity of the modern church but because it reflects our essence as a community shaped by Christ. This act of coming together is not just what we do; it is foundational to our identity in God.
- The context of our church life involves sacrifice and commitment, especially as families with busy schedules.
- Thus, we must articulate clearly why gathering matters, recognizing that it stems from our calling as a community of faith rather than simply a checkbox on our weekly agenda.
- Understanding who we are as the church fosters a deeper appreciation of our communal life.
- Just as my children exhibit the playful essence of being kids, we, too, display the nature of being God’s people made anew in Christ.
The Christian Community Is Unique It
The Christian community is unique; it includes different cultures and backgrounds unified in the truth of the Gospel. As 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us, we are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, called out of darkness into His marvelous light.
- It is through this understanding of our identity that we can fully appreciate the significance of our gatherings.
- In John 2, we see Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding, demonstrating His delight in celebration and joy.
- This transformative act reveals God’s nature; He is one who fulfills and brings joy to His people.
- As we gather, we reflect that joy and fulfillment, reciprocating the love and grace we have received from Christ.
Our Community Should Be A Place
Our community should be a place where joy thrives, encouraging one another to celebrate life together, creating an atmosphere where each of us encounters the warmth of God's presence. Jesus breaks down societal and religious barriers when He interacts with individuals like the Samaritan woman. In these times, we are called to step beyond our comfort zones and engage with others in a manner that explores and magnifies God’s inclusive love. In our church gatherings, we must be intentional about fostering relationships that reflect the diversity and grace found in the body of Christ, embracing one another no matter our backgrounds or stories. By doing this, we embody the mystery of the Gospel. As I reflect on the societal quest for authenticity, I recognize that the church must not only be true to its nature but also reflect a genuine community of love and service.
Hebrews 10 24-25 Calls Us Not
Hebrews 10:24-25 calls us not to forsake fellowship, indicating that our gatherings help each other grow in love and good works. As we live out our faith authentically, we draw others into the beauty of the Gospel and the community life that springs from it. When we gather and show love, we not only affirm our identity but also reveal the uniqueness of who we are as God’s people. Engaging in community is a statement of our new existence in Christ, demonstrating the transformation He has accomplished in us. As we gather, let us focus on being a loving, serving community that embodies the character of Christ, reflecting His love to the world around us.
Conclusion
In summary, our gatherings as the church serve as a manifestation of who we are, people redeemed by Christ and called into community. Each meeting is an opportunity to reflect our identity and purpose as a unique people of God, committed to loving and serving one another. As we strive to be true to who we are, may our actions resonate with the world, drawing others toward the hope and joy we find in Christ and the genuine community He has established.