Christ loved the church, and gave Himself for it. We too, reflect Christ's love for the church, by our example. Most Christians will realise that it is people that compose the church, not a building made with hands. We are said to be 'a dwelling place of God, in the Spirit'. The local church is typified in the Book of Revelation as a lampstand, and Christ, as The Light of the world, shines through us. Churches in the Bible are addressed individually, and thus we see the existence of local churches, not under a denominational grouping, although clearly there is room for fellowship between like-minded churches.
The Church is described as a 'holy nation', but it is a nation that has no territory, or land. It works, and is governed by established principles. We become citizens of this 'holy nation' when we are converted. As those who care for each local church, we look for signs of credible conversion; for evidence of the converted life, not just for vague experiences. We gather together voluntarily, and not because we are compelled. We come to our local church because we want to be here. As Jesus Christ, our Saviour bids us, we appeal to the unconverted, for it is Christ, and Christ alone that can forgive and pardon our sins, and He it is, through the Holy Spirit who calls us into the fellowship of our local church. |
