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?
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For years my family and I have participated in a "Country Club" church. One that was run by and for the few big givers. A place that did not welcome outreach and evangelizing. A place that did not welcome other races, community service or even childrens ministry. These things were not only put on a back burner, but were flat out igmored and not talked about. This is not how Jesus intended for the church to behave. The book of Acts and all of Paul's letters describe the Church. Jesus wanted us to follow his example. To reach others for Christ and serve the needs of our community, to love eveyone, and to help everyone become more like our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are looking for a Church that is serious about outreach and true ministry as well as a place to learn and grow to be more like Jesus. Most Churches are more interested in what services look like or sound like or feel like to it's members. What we all need to be concerned about is what it "IS" to Jesus. What are we doing to fulfill his mission for the chruch and ourselves? L.R.P. Jackson ms
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