After having discussed the biblical principles describing what a Jesus community looks like, we must ask, “How do we develop and express community/fellowship in our churches today?” Is the biblical model a pattern for all times? Not necessarily, otherwise we would all have to meet in private homes, share a common meal in our gatherings, and eat the Lord’s Supper in the context of that fellowship meal. Yet, it is important that we follow the principles discussed above. We must be careful not to make every action of the early church an authoritative precedent to be rigorously copied without regard to time and place. The New Testament is not a second Levitical Code. It is our responsibility, guided by ancient precedent and wisdom from above, to adapt to the current and future needs of our world. Whatever forms, projects, programs, or activities we use today, they must be guided by the fundamental truths that Jesus is Lord, the Holy Spirit is present, the gospel must be lived out, and...
I'd like to talk more about our purpose here on earth AFTER we are saved by the blood of Jesus.
ReplyDeleteI know that I am to study God's Word so that I become more & more like Jesus, but what is the purpose of that? Why do we want a church family that has community and a deep love for one another? Why doesn't God just snatch us on up to heaven once we are saved? Why leave us here in this corrupt world?
I believe that He leaves us here so that we can witness & testify about Him so that others can be saved into His kingdom. He has included us in his plan to save the rest of the world. What a wonderful privilege!!
So if that is our primary purpose, are we looking for lost souls to witness to? Are we telling people about Jesus & how he transformed our lives and saved our souls? Do we live our lives with a purpose of mission work?