Church or Country Club?

I am often amazed at the expectations that people have of their local church. I was recently reading in Acts 2 a description of the early church or "fellowship of believers" as my Bible titles this section. The description is of the believers devoting themselves to their leaders' teachings, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. They sold their possessions and "gave to anyone as he had need." (vv. 45) The benefit of all this is that they enjoyed the "favor of all people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." (v. 47) Is this what you expect of your church?

Too often church has become like a country club. Let me explain. You prepare for service on Sunday morning by showering and primping so that you will look and smell good for your fellow parishioners. You arrive, look for a good seat and sit back and enjoy the show. You "pay" your offering with the expectation that certain services will be provided (ie. "good" sermon, music you like, children's programs, refreshments, visit from the pastor). You chat in the lobby after service, critiquing the worship or message and then leave. It is no different than a country club membership that is purchased with certain expectations. Acts paints a much more vibrant picture of church life for the believer. It is one of community, growth, and service. While we all naturally have needs and expectations, demanding that they be met is often not the best way to get results. If we focus on personal growth and serving others, God blesses our efforts and our needs are met. So which one do you participate in - country club or church?