Gerry Organ
Guest Columnist
Jesus said, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” So how is Jesus doing with this promised declaration as we enter 2017? May I state that there is no greater human entity on Earth than the Church of Jesus Christ…end of story.
Corporations, even the likes of Apple, Amazon, and Audi, pale into minute insignificance compared to the glorious Church that Jesus came to build and died to create. The United Nations and NATO combined produce a trickle of impact on this world compared to that of the River of Life flowing from the heart of Jesus and His Church. Remember, His Church is paid for by His blood, sustained by His love, and enabled by the Holy Spirit.
There is much evidence in the Bible that describes the teaching, preaching, and habits of Christians in that first glorious and sacrificial period, as Jesus built His Church. It begs the question, just how different is the local church today and what questions can we use to explore this with our friends, neighbours, leaders, pastors, and priests?
Remember, His Church is paid for by His blood, sustained by His love, and enabled by the Holy Spirit.
Let me suggest a few questions that will spark healthy discussion among enquirers, visitors, leaders, friends, and various study groups. Jesus asked many questions, including “Who do you say that I Am?” So let’s ask!
- There are no perfect churches. Yet, in humility we should ask, do we seek to be obedient to the Word, to love Jesus, and to love others as ourselves?
- Is my church being strengthened by regular worship, prayer and reverence, and encouraged by the Holy Spirit?
- Are the folks here taught to be intimate with Jesus Christ and called to be His holy people?
- Do we teach our people to be eager to seek the gifts of the Spirit that build up the Church?
- Is it true that no New Testament scripture promises material wealth as a reward for obedience to its commandments?
- One atheist asked, “Is this what Jesus told you guys to do?” Did Jesus tell us how to do church?
- Is our mission to go into all the world or to invite the world into our church?
- What does it mean for us to be the church outside these walls, in the streets of our city?
- Is it our duty to defend life, witness the truth, and live out Jesus’ love in our community?
- What portion of our church budget goes into reaching out to our neighbours here and overseas?
- Are we doing something to address global inequity, injustice, slavery, and persecution?
- Are you confident that this church is fulfilling Jesus’ command to make disciples?
May Ottawa be known for the unity of the Body.
I trust this will stir some to come to terms with the spiritual poverty of too many Christians in these busy days of chaotic acquisition, comfort, and non-intervention. After all, the living Christ is within the heart and soul of those who profess Jesus as Lord and they have become the “treasured capital” for a vibrant church.
May Ottawa be known for the unity of the Body, with many churches inspired and alive in making disciples, lifting up the poor, and sending our very best to fulfill their calling, to the glory of God.
Perhaps you have questions to spark healthy discussion. Share them below in the comments.
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