[The purpose is] that THROUGH THE CHURCH the complicated, many-sided wisdom of God in all its infinite variety and innumerable aspects might now be made known to the angelic rulers and authorities (principalities and powers) in the heavenly sphere. – Ephesians 3:10 (Amplified)
The living church of Jesus Christ is the hope of the dying world and the world at its worst needs the church at its best. The church may not have attained its place of perfection – of no wrinkle or spot, but it is still God’s primary agent of change on earth, it is still the only authorized embassy of heaven to issue visas into the kingdom of God to all men. The church is God’s battle axe against all the stratagem of Satan and against all his hordes of demons.
Think of all the good the church of Jesus Christ has done on earth – building lives, homes and marriages, bringing God’s healing to dying humanity, teaching Christian doctrines, baptizing saints into Christ, education, medicine, philanthropy, humanitarian initiatives, community development projects, etc.
We have been taught so much by our Pastors and spiritual leaders. They have shown us the way of salvation, they have trained us to fight and win spiritual battles, they have, through the scriptures, challenged us to live as good citizens and for God, their teachings have brought out our potentials and they have been there in our times of mourning and rejoicing.
Remember the preaching that turned your life around, remember the prayer that broke your yoke, remember the word of knowledge that confirmed God’s leading in your life, and the word of healing that set you free from infirmity. Pause and Praise God; Think and Thank God!
We have also found friends and friendship in church, we have found purpose and significance, we have found eternal security in Christ’s love and we have found family and community.
Imagine a world without the church of Jesus Christ…the powers of darkness would have run roughshod over mankind. Jesus said, “I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18).” The church is the Lord’s and He is daily building, moulding and mending it.
Your church may not be perfect, just as mine isn’t, but the blood of Jesus cleanses us daily and makes us accepted in the beloved. Therefore, think back on the unforgettable things God did in your life through your church (Pastors, Teachers, Ministers, Worshippers, etc) and thank Him. #IDareYou to thank God for your church leaders and Pastors…thank Him for a place to go to and be fed with the word of God – it is a privilege.
ADDITIONAL STUDY
Revelation 3:1-13, Hebrews 10:23-25 and Acts 2:41-47.
PRAYER POINTS
Thank you Father for giving us pastors after Your own heart to feed us with the bread of life.
