In offering a general invitation for people to attend the church of their choice I was not surprised that I was met with this response, "I don't have to go to a building to worship God. I can worship Him wherever I am". I would not dispute that since I believe it as well. However, the implication was that going to church is not necessary thereby rending obsolete one of the richest teachings of the Bible.
When we speak of the church it is necessary to understand its dual meaning as used by most people today. Unfortunately, the two are all too frequently blurred which can bring about much misunderstanding.
"Church" is the word most of us use for the building or location that Christians attend for times of worship. It is often referred to as "house of worship". The Bible frequently refers to this meaning in various locations. For example, in Hebrews 10:24,25 Paul says, "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." It seems to be a natural assumption that the great Apostle is encouraging Christians to attend a specific location so as to meet together.
As used in the New Testament, our word "church" comes from a Greek word meaning those who have been called out. It refers to the true location of God's dwelling place on earth...within the born again believer (1 Cor 6:19). Therefore, the church consists of every person redeemed by the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ, born into the Kingdom of God by the power of God for the purpose of bringing glory to God. You, believer, are the church!
Which brings me back to my original question; "Is The Church Relevant?"
Over the next few weeks I will explore this topic in the posts and expanding on the question on Sunday mornings. I hope you will tune in.
For now... God bless and I hope to see you soon.
When we speak of the church it is necessary to understand its dual meaning as used by most people today. Unfortunately, the two are all too frequently blurred which can bring about much misunderstanding.
"Church" is the word most of us use for the building or location that Christians attend for times of worship. It is often referred to as "house of worship". The Bible frequently refers to this meaning in various locations. For example, in Hebrews 10:24,25 Paul says, "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." It seems to be a natural assumption that the great Apostle is encouraging Christians to attend a specific location so as to meet together.
As used in the New Testament, our word "church" comes from a Greek word meaning those who have been called out. It refers to the true location of God's dwelling place on earth...within the born again believer (1 Cor 6:19). Therefore, the church consists of every person redeemed by the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ, born into the Kingdom of God by the power of God for the purpose of bringing glory to God. You, believer, are the church!
Which brings me back to my original question; "Is The Church Relevant?"
Over the next few weeks I will explore this topic in the posts and expanding on the question on Sunday mornings. I hope you will tune in.
For now... God bless and I hope to see you soon.
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