The Power of Community: Loving and Belonging in the Local Church
As followers of Christ, we are part of a vibrant community that reflects the love and beauty of God. Our local churches are not just ordinary gatherings, but outposts of heaven itself. In her book, A Place to Belong: Learning to Love the Local Church, Megan Hill reminds us of the importance of participating, loving, and praying for the body of believers.
Radiant Loveliness in the Church
“We cannot make anyone lovely—not in the way that God does by removing our sin and imputing Christ’s perfect righteousness to us. But our love for one another in the church does produce a sort of radiant loveliness that shines before a watching world.” This quote highlights the transformative power of love and community in the church.
Unlikely yet United
The local church is an unlikely collection of people, but with spiritual eyes, it is clear that we belong together. “In the church, we all have one testimony,” Hill writes. This unity is rooted in our shared faith and our identity as children of God.
A Family Obligation
Unlike other social groups, the church is not a man-made society that we can participate in or opt out of according to our comfort level. As Hill notes, “Family does [obligate us to personal sacrifice when things get tough]. Because God’s people are our family, we will hold our own preferences and priorities loosely.”
Receiving the Ministry of Christ
When we receive the ministry of our elders, we receive the ministry of Christ himself. This is a powerful reminder of the significance of church leadership and the importance of submitting to their guidance.
Experiencing the Fullness of Christ
To experience the fullness of Christ, we must belong to the church and use our gifts to serve others. As Hill writes, “Belong to the church. Use your gifts where he sets you. Exhort. Serve. Give. Show mercy. Work alongside his people for the common good.”
Vital Partners in the Gospel
The members of the local church may seem insignificant, but from the perspective of heaven, they are vital partners in the work of the gospel. This quote highlights the importance of every individual in the church and their role in advancing the kingdom of God.
Cultivating Healthy Relationships
We ought to regard our fellow church members with delight and warmth, covering their weaknesses with love and celebrating their advances in godliness. By doing so, we cultivate healthy relationships that reflect the love of Christ.
Living Out the Gospel
By living consistent gospel lives, we encourage our unbelieving friends and neighbors to embrace the good news of Christ for themselves. By speaking a word of Christ to those we know, we invite others to be his disciples.
May these quotes inspire us to deepen our love for the local church and to live out our faith in community with others.
Leave a Reply