Better Together Pt. 2

Last week we discussed the first church and how it all got started. This week we fast forward ahead to today and examine our role in the church as individuals.

There are certain phrases that a pastor hears from time to time after a Sunday morning service:
*I really enjoyed the service today Pastor.
*I thought the sermon was awesome this morning.
*I liked the song selection today.
*Thanks for getting us (pronounced: me) out early!

Now, let me begin by saying that there isn't anything inherently wrong with any of those statements. But...what (or rather, whom) do all those statement revolve around? Yup, you guessed it: I.

As a pastor when I hear those statements I always try to dig down below the words. The reason I do this is because some people really felt the Holy Spirit working and others simply were entertained from an individual standpoint. Why do I try to distinguish between the two? Because I'm overjoyed when the Holy Spirit speaks to you; I'm saddened when you leave simply entertained.

What is your primary reason for going to church? Is it because it's comfortable and enjoyable or is it because it's challenging and life-altering?

Imagine a church where everyone's individual desires were catered to. Imagine a church where the pastor did everything for the congregation. Imagine a church were being uncomfortable equaled transferring to another church.

When Paul talks about the church in 1 Corinthians 12:14-21, he compares the church to a body. The body is formed of different parts all created for specific purposes. In order for the body to function properly, all parts must be doing their jobs.

This is common sense when talking about the body, but do we view the church in the same light? Do you view your church as broken when your gifts and talents are removed from it?

We're created as individuals by an awesome God. The uniqueness we see in ourselves was created for a reason. When you fail to take your place in the church body, the whole body suffers. Too many times we're focused on trying to serve exactly like somebody else in the church. We see their impact and want to mimic their ministry (we pastors are notorious for this). Other times we simply sit in the pew and watch everyone else do the work. Neither is the recipe for a healthy church body.

In order for the church to function as it is intended, each and every person needs to be active in the church body by allowing the Holy Spirit to work through his or her gifts and talents.

Are your gifts and talents being full utilized in the church? If not, why not?