Day 20 | What is the Purpose of the Church in My Life?
Ephesians 3:10, “His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms.”
The purpose of the church is to encourage your spiritual growth through fellowship, teaching, prayer, worship, and ministry. The term for church in the Greek, “ekkl?sia,” basically means “assembly or gathering.” Specifically referring to Jesus it means, “the gathered disciples.”
The term “church” refers to two things in the New Testament. First, the word church is applied to the disciples themselves because they together are the one universal church, also known as the “Body of Christ,” 1 Corinthians 12:27. The universal church transcends all culture, locations, and even time. It is the complete and unified followers of Jesus in all times and places.
Secondly, the word “church” in the NT refers to the local gathering places the disciples meet in. These churches are called the “local church” as opposed to the “universal church” because they are localized. Most early churches met in people’s home like in Romans 16:3-5, “Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co workers in Christ Jesus… also the church that meets at their house.”
Here are some criteria to use when looking for a good church to join, (a) Make sure the church believes the fundamentals of Christianity, “The Trinity, the Deity of Jesus, Salvation by faith alone, Heaven & Hell, etc…”; (b) Look for a church that has relevant and Biblical teaching, great worship, and discipleship; lastly, (c) Find solid and accountable leadership that serves by example and encourages Christian service, Hebrews 13:17.
Therefore, as Paul taught in the above passage when you consistently participate in the local church God will reveal His wisdom and ways to the world you live in- even in the heavenly realms!
Reflection
Action
- Repent if you have not always honored God’s church.
- Find a good church to join, if you haven’t already.
- As a part of the Body of Christ serve in the local church- touching heaven and changing earth!