Why Does Our Church Matter?

The significance of the church cannot be overstated, especially within the framework of our spiritual journeys. As we delve into the third lesson of our "Why Series," we reflect on two prior lessons: that children matter, and families matter. Today, we focus on a vital question: Why does our church matter?

Listen to audio here. 

The church is more than a building or an institution; it is a living organism composed of God’s people. To delve into this concept, I you may reflect on your own Church experience or church history.  You may find the building blocks upon which our church's foundation rests. Our future endeavors are only as strong as the principles laid down by those before us.

In the coming weeks, we will also explore the themes of vision, leadership, and prayer, all of which are interconnected with the existence and purpose of the church. 

Recently, a member of the Lancaster Wesleyan Church shared why her church matters. Hear that audio here. 

The Living Church

The church is alive! It is not simply a building defined by brick and mortar. Instead, it serves as a vibrant gathering of believers, a beacon of hope, and a sanctuary for worship. The church exists not just for itself but for the glory of God, acting as a place of worship where we come together in fellowship.

As the body of Christ, we are reminded that we are the church. We are God’s temple; we are the custodians of His presence. This brings us to our next reflection: Why does our church exist?

God’s Best Instrument

The church is God’s best instrument for reaching those who are lost, marginalized, and in need of hope. Matthew 28:18-20 contains the Great Commission, which commands us to make disciples of all nations. This is not merely a suggestion; it is a divine directive. The purpose of the church is to spread the gospel and reflect the love of Christ to the world.

The essence of the church can be defined in several ways:

- The church is people, not buildings.

- The church is made up of followers of Jesus.

- The church consists of workers in God’s Kingdom.

- The church is a community of worshipers of God.

But who are we, and what is our purpose? A challenging yet illuminating question was posed: If your church ceased to exist, would anyone miss it? This question embodies the essence of our impact on the community. Proverbs 22:6 reminds us to train up a child, essentially passing our faith heritage to the next generation.

The church matters deeply because God established it and blessed it. Our congregation is not a mere social club; we are called to be ministered to and to minister to others for God’s glory.

The Nature of the Church

As we examine early church practices in the Book of Acts, we observe that the first church was filled with vitality and purpose, living out their faith in community. Today, however, many churches have evolved to fit contemporary culture, potentially losing the essence of their original mission. 

Filled with His Presence: Acts 1:8 reinforces our identity as believers empowered by the Holy Spirit. The early church was characterized by the presence of God manifested through its people. Our distinctiveness as the body of Christ in a secular world is marked by the presence of the Holy Spirit working within us.

Understanding Our Identity

Every individual has an innate emptiness that often seeks fulfillment in worldly distractions or material possessions. However, as believers, we are invited to be filled with the Holy Spirit, which offers true fulfillment and purpose. 

God’s presence in our lives enables us to be effective vessels of transformation. Through the power and promises of God, we can extend hope to others, leading them to embrace the love and grace of Christ.

God’s people make the difference:

- They reflect God’s love in their communities.

- They carry God’s presence into various spheres of influence.

- They embody the promises of God through action.

- They share the good news of the gospel.

- They offer peace amidst broken pieces. 

Worshipers and Workers of Jesus Christ

In addition to being witnesses of God’s work, we are worshipers and workers of Jesus Christ. Our worship is a response to who God is and what He has done in our lives. Our role as worshipers involves allowing the Holy Spirit to fill us and inspire our actions.

Reflecting on the influential figures in my life—people like Clyde, the Candy Man, Carl Brooks, who gave me my first Bible (The Living Bible), and Ada, my camp counselor—I see the profound impact that dedicated worshipers can have. 

Revelation 3:20 illustrates the relational nature of God, depicting Him as someone who knocks gently on the door of our hearts. This imagery reinforces that God desires to connect with us personally. This connection extends beyond the individual; it permeates our communities and churches.

As a congregation, we are called to:

- Make a difference through collective worship.

- Serve one another and the community.

- Become a holy priesthood that intercedes for others.

The Importance of Community

The church is not only about personal spiritual growth but also about coming together as a body to glorify God. Worship and work are intrinsically linked; our works do not earn us salvation, but they affirm our faith and validate the God we worship. 

As we serve in various ministries, we embody the mission of the church, inviting others into a relationship with Jesus. By proclaiming the gospel, we fulfill our divine mandate.

Summary: Why Does Our Church Matter?

In summary, the importance of our church can be distilled into several key points:

1. It is God’s best instrument for outreach and ministry.

2. We are filled with His presence through the Holy Spirit.

3. We exist as worshipers and workers for Jesus Christ.

Closing Prayer

"Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your church. Help us to understand Your plan for us. May we actively participate according to Your purpose. May we respond in love to all people and strive to do Your good for Your glory! In Jesus’ name, amen."

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