There is a Chinese buffet in Chattanooga that I like to visit sometimes. It boasts well over 100 items for someone to choose from. Now I normally only want about 5 or 6 of them, but the benefit of going to this restaurant is that I could have something else if I so desired. Not that I want to, but it's there. What's good for Chinese food is not good for the Lord's church, though (see Ephesians 4:4).
The concept of "church" has been so polluted over the past few years that it has caused many people to become disillusioned with what "church" is and how it is somehow supposed to benefit them (notice how God is never really part of that discussion). "Church" in many people's eyes has long been associated with a mere social gathering. Sometimes "church" is also an indicator of social status. To others, "church" is something they do to entertain themselves. Strangely, there is even "church" for those who don't like "church" (I can't quite figure that one out myself). How could anyone ever think that the current state of "church" is what Jesus had in mind when he said "upon this rock I shall build my church" (Matthew 16:18)?
The division and line of misunderstanding comes in people's minds when "church" is not seen as THE church. It comes when people look at "church" as being a social event or gathering, whereas Jesus saw HIS church as a kingdom. That kingdom belongs to HIM. So, what is it that he had in mind?
Join us May 1-2 to find out!
Hope to see you here!
-Daniel
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