What Is The Church?

Why Do People Have a Problem with Church?

So many leave Christ because of church. Some leave one church and go to another. Some leave church altogether and choose to worship offline. Whatever the case, “church” has become a problem.

So, what is church?

Body of Christ

Members of the body where Christ is the head. (1 Corinthians 12:27)

Temple of God

A place of worship. (Acts 2:46)

House

We are together built on the apostles’ faith and doctrine, where Jesus is the chief cornerstone. (Ephesians 2:20)

Fellowship

A place to encourage one another. (Hebrews 10:25)

Keeping the above in mind, it is critical for every Christian to understand a couple of things — lest we become proud.

Who Is the Church?

From Wretched to Whole

The church is full of wretched people — for all have sinned. No one is inherently good, and therefore our good works are entirely a work of God’s grace.

No One Can Boast

No one can boast about their calling. God chose the most insignificant people on earth for Himself. (1 Corinthians 1:26–29)

Why Is Church Seen as a Problem?

Our expectations of what church should be do not match who we actually gather with. When expectations go unmet, they cause a great deal of friction. We expect an ideal scenario where everyone walks perfectly with Christ.

Saints with varied personalities, experiences, and levels of understanding come together — and there is bound to be some measure of confusion. People grow at different paces. Some learn to wait patiently; others snap. The carnal blame people. The Spirit-led consider everyone’s state and correct, rebuke, and serve as required.

Whether we stay in or leave a church, let the Holy Spirit lead. Eventually, you will find your place in another congregation.

The church itself is not the problem. It is our response to God’s leading that will either make us or break us.

Pay attention to your heart. Examine yourself daily. Let the Holy Spirit prepare you for each new day and every encounter. Only the Spirit-led church will rise when Jesus comes.

Maranatha. Praise God. Amen