We Are the Body of Christ (Introduction)

"There wouldn't be so many non-church goers if there were not so many non-going churches."  - Billy Sunday

May I ask you a question? What comes to mind when you think of the word "church?" Perhaps this brings images of an simple, quaint, white-painted, clapboard building with a plain cross mounted atop a tall steeple; this may even be a bell tower.

Or, a large, capacity worship center inside a cavernous structure, complete with a sizable stage, giant video screens and a top-notch sound system. These are but a few examples of what many may associate with the word "church."

For the next several weeks we shall delve into this question. As we will discover, there is so much more to "church" than what most of us think of. Now, in order to have a good start we should have some basic knowledge in order to better equip ourselves for our study.

"Church," as it is commonly used in the New Testament, is derived from the Greek word ekklesia, which by definition means “a called-out assembly or congregation.” As you can see, "church" refers not so much to a building, but rather to people.

As we saw above, the word "church" generally conjures up visions of structures of varying designs with four walls, windows, doors, and a roof. The apostle Paul in Romans 16:5 refers to the church as a body of believers, instead of a designated building.

We should think of the church as the "body" of Christ, with him being the head (Ephesians 1:22-23). In this respect, all of the believers in Jesus Christ make up the body of Christ, or the church. In addition, the body of Christ consists of two important features.

The first is the universal church. This is made up of all who possess a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 12:13). According to this verse, anyone who believes (in Jesus Christ) is a part of the body of Christ; obtaining the Spirit of Christ as proof of this. Plus, they have all received salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, as members of the universal church of God.

Second, is the local church (Galatians 1:1-2). This is not in the denominational sense as in the universal church, but rather a local body of believers, hence, a "local church." Consider the universal church as formed of those believers in Christ who trust in their salvation through him. The fellowship and instruction sought by these members can be found in a local church.

To summarize, we have learned that the church is not a building in the physical sense, as many think. It is the "body of Christ," or all who believe in Jesus Christ for salvation from sin (John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 12:13). We find members of the universal church gathered with local churches (local bodies of believers).

Here, they can fully practice the principles imparted in 1 Corinthians 12, which are: inspiring, teaching, and strengthening each other in the understanding and grace of Jesus Christ. We now have a good footing on which to build on. Next time, we will embark on our study of the glorious church of Our Lord Jesus Christ. I hope to see you then!

Scripture: 1 Peter 2:5; Matthew 16:18; Acts 20:28;1 Corinthians 3:9; Ephesians 4:12 

Prayer: Lord, Lord, be the foundation on which I build my life always, amen.

May the Lord bless,

Shawna

Necessity of Faith and Forgiveness

"Secret sins commonly lie nearest the heart."  - Thomas Brooks

There are three basic topics which Jesus taught. We can categorize these as: the nature of man, how he relates to others (relationships), and aspects regarding the faith life. Luke 17:1-12 offers us wonderful insight on these.

Reasons to sin, or stumble as some Bible versions use, are difficult to avoid. Think about this in your own life. The opportunity is always there. As Jesus declares to his disciples in Luke 17:1, "Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come."

Perhaps nowhere is this more significant than when you present this with man's (our) power to choose. This sets us considerately apart from other life forms here on earth; essentially making us moral, or ethical beings. Nothing else here on God's creation is as directly affected by sin as we are.

Of course, having the ability to choose assumes that there must be choices. And it is this ability, power, or right to choose that carries with it the risk of sin. Therefore, we must be aware that the possibility of sin lies in anything of God's creation. We must be on guard against any stumbling blocks that may appear.

If we take the above to heart, then we must also consider how this affects our relationships with one another. Given that opportunities to sin surround us, we must call our attention to a few things. First, each Christian must be ever vigilant to forgive, or ask for forgiveness when sin occurs. Secondly, citing Matthew 7:12, "in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you."

Also, as Christians we must always set a good example for others; steering them in the right direction; allowing faith to lead the way, in effect, minimizing the possibility to sin. We do this not only because of the threat of punishment (Luke 17:2), but because we all know the fate of anyone who dies in a corrupt relationship with God.

Luke 17:3-4 highlights the responsibility of forgiveness. We must pay attention not only to ourselves, but to others, as well. Jesus strongly warned the disciples on this point. If we see sin happening in another's life, we should bring it to their attention, maybe even more than once. However, we must be careful as to whether we are looking at sin subjectively, or truly as God defined it.

How is your faith as of today? Are you entertaining any thoughts of giving it up? Throwing in the towel? Maybe you've been thinking along the lines of the apostles: I need more faith (an extra dose) Luke 17:5! If so, don't expect an extra supply coming coming anytime soon.

Notice in Luke 17:6, that Jesus immediately instructed them that even the smallest amount of faith could perform the impossible. Pressing this further, he reminded them that even if they comply with everything they were told, they were merely doing what was expected of them (Luke 17:7-10). There was no basis to ask for any special favor. Thus, has the character of the faith life always been.

Scripture: 1 John 3:4; Ezekiel 18:4; Hebrews 10:26-27; Matthew 24:13; 2 Peter 3:18

Prayer: Dear Lord, if we say that we have no sin, we only deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. Help me to always be honest and open about sin; and to pray for forgiveness whether committed by myself or another, amen.

Have a blessed day,

Lori

Video - Beth Moore: Why, Lord, Why?

Bible teacher Beth Moore shows how God often takes our "why" and points it in a better direction. Worth a watch for sure!  ~Eve

A Trustful Heart and Submissive Will for God

"It is an undoubted truth that every doctrine that comes from God, leads to God; and that which doth not tend to promote holiness is not of God."  - George Whitefield

It is no surprise that Scripture teaches the greatest possession we can acquire is not obtained through advanced degrees displayed on the wall, or by our actions and effort. Actually, it really isn't complicated, at all. We secure it by the trustful heart and a faithful and submissive will.

We see this clearly in John 7:17 (NLT). Not anywhere is this powerful spiritual lesson more clearly and effectively communicated than in this passage. Jesus was an enigma to the Jews. They had great doubts about him. He said that He came from heaven and was the Son of God (John 3:17).

However, they were familiar with his background (i.e., where he was born, his family background, his occupation, and lack of education). Still, he spoke with authority, wisdom, refinement, and performed many wonderful works.

Yet, Jesus didn't match up with the Messiah whom the Jews expected. This was what confronted Jesus and confounded the Jews. Let's review the passage before moving along. The verse reads: "Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own" (NLT).

The big, stumbling block for the Jews was Christ's doctrine; specifically the source. They knew about his circumstances, which made it hard for them to digest what he was talking about. The doctrine of which he spoke wasn't his; he even told them so. They just couldn't understand it.

We are not immune to this kind of thinking today. Many are confused by religion, especially those who lack the experience and learning;  this not only being restricted to one subject. Such was the case with the Jews. There were various points which they had difficulty in understanding.

We know how this is. Some say one thing, and some another. Who's to say what is true or not? There are individuals who, turning to the Bible, take the same exact words. and one says they mean this, and another that. How is the average person supposed to know what is correct, or not?

The answer lies in Our Lord's own words as stated in John 7:17 (NLT). If anyone, no matter how ordinary and uneducated, has his heart set upon God and truly aspires to serve Him, that person will not be left to wallow in darkness.

The things that seem murky will gradually manifest themselves, doubts and difficulties will clear up. More importantly the Gospel will be perceived to have come from God, Jesus Christ in His person and works will be more obvious, and the mind more comfortable with the truth.

Yes, there will still be some difficulties and points of debate, but the main points will be evident, the way of salvation exposed, and he who sincerely seeks after the truth will not be left clueless as to how he is to follow and please God.

Scripture: Matthew 16:24; John 14:6; Ephesians 2:8; 1 Corinthians 11:1-2; Micah 6:8

Prayer: I know, O Lord, that the way of man is not in himself, that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps; I pray that You will always direct mine, amen.

May God richly bless you,

Claudette

Blessed With God's Wealth

"Material wealth is either a window through which we see God or a mirror in which we see ourselves."  - Warren Wiersbe

Who among us, while toiling away at work, hasn't on occasion entertained the thought of being wealthy? Visions of an early retirement, vacations, houses, cars, and other similar fantasies may fill our minds. We take a deep sigh (Sigh...) then get back to work.

It's no secret that those of us who are trying to make ends meet place a much higher personal priority on this than those who are affluent. But can having abundant possessions, especially material wealth, be a bad thing as some might think?

I suppose it is if this is our only concept of being well-off. However, there are other components we should factor into one's perception of true wealth. Naturally, material wealth, or money, is on the list.

Our reputation, or how others see us, is important, too. Then there is power, such as being in a position to decide and direct. And, possessing solid judgment or discernment which enables us to lead or command.

Any of the above may be considered a "good thing" if they are acquired by our own hard work and efforts. God recognizes this and blesses us accordingly. What's more, His blessings on us are greatly enhanced as a result of our faith and labor. After all, He is in control of all material wealth.

Okay, how does this all work out in the grand scheme of things? Some become rich without God's blessing. Sometimes the wicked one bestows riches to his subjects, when neither the giver nor the recipient acknowledge the sovereignty of God.

Conversely, God Himself can entrust riches to some who belong to Him. There is a crucial difference between the godly and the godless recipients of wealth that we must be aware of. It is God's blessing, or the absence of it. Those acquired with it are able to sleep at night.

While riches or wealth gained without God's blessing always have a price attached to it, such as: guilt, remorse, regret, grief, and troubles. God's blessing enables us to fully enjoy it without cost.

But far and away, the most important treasure we can obtain are His spiritual blessings, which make us abundantly wealthy in faith, grace, and glory. And that, as they say, you can take to the bank!

Scripture: Matthew 6:19-21; Hebrews 13:5; Proverbs 11:28; Luke 12:15; 1 John 2:16

Prayer: Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name, amen. - Psalm 86:11

Have a blessed Monday!

Hailey

Then Ye Shall Know... (Part 2: Conclusion)

"We tend to be a generation of Christians who major on minor matters but do not seem to possess the true measure of the gospel in the knowledge of God. We do not really know God. At best we know about Him."  - Sinclair B. Ferguson

When we last met, we noted some basic knowledge about God that believers should be familar with. But as we were reminded, what good are these principles if it doesn't include purposeful and continual growth on our part. This will be our subject of discussion this time.

Obviously, in order to grow there must be action in some form. It is simply not good enough for the believer to merely possess knowledge about God; it must evolve or wither on the vine. We must continue seeking this knowledge along with diligent effort to improve on it.

Now, how can we put this into action? Let's compile a list of some things that we can do:

- give careful attention to the means provided. These are varied. One is contemplation of the divine works; another is earnest reading of the Scriptures; there is also regular church attendance where we can hear the Word; and finally, meditation followed by prayer.

- practical application of what we already know. This leads to an increased knowledge that is feasible and sensible. There is no more effective way than this. As the old saying applies, "Use it or lose it!"

- fostering a deep, internal desire for more of this knowledge. We must embrace its importance, know its value; appreciate and pursue it.

- consistently add to our knowledge. There may be a tendency to lose our enthusiasm and motivation to do so. In order to keep ourselves on track we should periodically self-evaluate to see whether our divine knowledge and understanding is increasing, or stagnating (2 Corinthians 13:5).

As we have seen, the knowledge of God is not a given, nor is it a one-time offering. We must seriously and persistently pursue it. It must grow with us; become a part of us. Certainly God could, if he wanted to, just wave His Almighty hand and furnish us with all we need to know.

But, He knows us too well to do that. So that we can gain and grow in knowledge about Him we must work at it. This is the only meaningful way in which it will be instilled within us, as believers. To grow and function in our knowledge of Him is both a privilege, and a gift. Remember that always.

Scripture: Philippians 4:9; 2 Timothy 3:16-17;  Romans 10:17; Romans 10:8; John 6:63

Prayer: Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long, amen.  - Psalm 25:4-5 

May the Lord bless,

Shawna

A Fuller, More Abundant Life

"Daily living by faith on Christ is what makes the difference between the sickly and the healthy Christian, between the defeated and the victorious saint."   -A.W. Pink

Who among us doesn't want to live a full, abundant life? If you watch any television at all you've probably seen many commercials promoting different items and ideas to help us live abundantly. But there has to be more to it than that, right?

Our lives here on earth were meant for more than what a commercial or ad is selling. However, an earthly, abundant life is based on worldly or temporal things. These things are not made to last. They must be upgraded constantly in order to stay relevant.

Where does that leave you and I? John 10:10 tells us that the Lord means for us to have happy, useful, fruitful lives. It sounds simple and attainable for us all. There is no fancy formula or secret to it. This is truly living abundantly as Jesus intended for us.

Here are three basic components, which if followed, can help you lead an abundant life, too. First, the abundant life is a life of healthy thought processes. We can learn alot about this from observation. People who have a good, positive outlook generally get much more out of life than those who don't. Negative people are usually miserable (Proverbs 23:7).

Secondly, the abundant life is a life that has spiritual insight and wisdom. We are made to have fellowship with God. When we deny this we destroy the possibility of having a happy life. There's no way we can ignore God and have ultimate happiness. To run from God is to run toward misery.

Lastly, the abundant life is a life that has social richness. Those we associate with can make or break us, therefore, we must choose wisely. Also, we must be kind and courteous to all, not just to a select few. We should always have the mind of Christ in our dealings with others.

God has planned a happy, victorious life for us. He has also given us the means whereby we can obtain this life. God wants us to live our lives to the fullest, or abundantly. And an abundant life is one where we are comitted to Him and walk in His Spirit.

Scripture: Matthew 6:33; 1 Corinthians 2:9; John 1:12; 1 Peter 3:18; Romans 5:1

Prayer: Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! With my lips I declare all the rules of your mouth. In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all riches. I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word, amen.  - Psalm 119:12-16

May God bless you,

Eriana