I see the church differently today than I did twenty-nine years ago. I was twenty-one years old when I became a believer. I was "saved" in the Lutheran church, Missouri Synod. After two years I joined the Wisconsin Synod which was more conservative. Later I spent time in a non-denominational church and eventually ended up in a pentecostal church.
I held different positions from youth leader to worship leader. I was on a pastoral search committee and lead a small group.
At one time I thought of church as only the people that belonged to my group. Church was confined to everyone within the four walls of the building. I was only seeing a part of the picture. The building had windows but I thought they were for letting in light not looking out into the world. I'm glad God is bigger than that. I am thankful that He began a good work in me. (Philippians 1:6)
I am no longer a member of a particular church body. I meet with a group of people on Sunday morning for coffee, bagels, Bible study, and encouragement. I still lead a small group. I am a part of the body of Christ! I always was! Today I have a fresh perspective on what that means.
Does this mean that believers who gather in different places with different forms are not a part of the body? NO! That's the point! We're all a part of the body! I need them! They need me! Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-30. One body, many parts!
When another part of the body has a need and I can help, I should. When another part of the body needs encouragement, I should speak up. When another part of the body needs prayer, I pray. Should I not fellowship with other parts of the body because I'm not a member of their church? Should they keep me from fellowship because I'm not a member? 1 Corinthians 12:26 says, "If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad."
This world has enough challenges. We need Jesus and we need each other. How healthy is a body with missing parts? God bless y'all real good.
