Yes, I've seen some bad stuff under the name of "church." Here's a few: abuse, division, quackery, mishandled funds, affairs and more. For this reason, some have said, "I'm a part of the invisible church." Or, "I don't believe in organized religion." Behind every statement like that is a hurt or disappointment. Someone somewhere in the church let them down.
But I've also seen some amazing, miraculous things in the "church." Just this weekend, here are a few stories from people. (Names changes to protect identity):
T.S. - former alcoholic, suicidal, marriage "on the rocks." Now? marriage restored, secure in Christ, solid Bible teacher
K.W. - rape victim, suicidal, raised by single parent. Now? secure in Christ, great leader, financially stable
R.K. - sexually abused as a child, disappointed and hurt by church leadership, struggled with homosexuality. Now? secure in Christ, training for vocational ministry, leading and helping others.
For every bad story about church, I could give you several good ones. No wonder Jesus loves the church and gave Himself for it.
You need to love it too. Don't love Jesus and dis' His bride. (see Eph. 5.25, 1 Cor. 3:16-17)
2 comments:
Great sermon Sunday. Not loving Christ's church is a problem I've noticed in the last few years, and not just in others. I've struggled too. It's nce to see thet topic taken on so bluntly like you did.
Be blessed pastor!
Great post! While it is true that the church is a fallible institution, it is the means by which Christ operates in this world. Hopefully more of what you wrote about will get published so the fingerprint of God is clearly seen.
Thanks!
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