The True Church (Part 2)

If I had to point you to a single place in the Bible that lays the groundwork for the church...I would direct you to Acts 2:42-47. This is the first broad picture we get of the church as a whole after Jesus ascends back into heaven. As I read that passage I can't help but be drawn to what a wonderful church that must have been. Here are the principles from that example that we can apply in our congregations today.

1. The church should be a community of people.
In Acts 2 the church seemed to do everything together. They were involved in each other's lives and invested in each other. I don't picture the members arriving right as church starts, sitting alone in back, and leaving immediately following the final 'amen'. They cared for each other and lived life together. When church is over do you leave as fast as you can or do you take time to learn about the lives of those around you?

2. The church should be a place where the message of God is spoken and taught.
This falls more on the shoulders of pastors, but each member of a church is still responsible. While some people may not teach often at church they still need to make sure that what is being taught to them are God's words. Does the pastor preach out of his/her own agenda or are the words spoken coming straight from the Bible?

3. The church should be a place where community members provide for each other.
Now, don't picture Communism in your head. This is simply those in the church helping out others who are in need. This involves realizing that everything you have is a gift from God and then using that gift to meet the needs of other people. How often does God give us an abundance, not for ourselves, but so that we can make a big impact in someone else's life?

4. The church should be a joyful, happy place.
This is so evident when reading this passage. The joy is not forced. It flows freely from people enjoying being a part of a family of believers whose first mission is to love God. This aspect of our church should draw people in off the street in droves.

Bottom line...to find a perfect church on earth is impossible. Churches are made of humans who make mistakes. However, what role are you playing in causing these 4 things to be true of your church family?