The Model Church
0 comments | Posted by Steven Layson on 07 Jun 2009 in From Steve's Study ::
An interesting part of our trip overseas was visiting many churches. It’s hard not to be taken aback by the grandeur of European Cathedrals and the beauty of the pictures and stain-glass windows, not to mention the incredible expense that must have gone into building and furnishing them. Although we were literally often just visiting, it did make me wonder what can we at St Peters learn from such churches. Apart from some big ideas about new decorations and alterations to the church (a spire like Salisbury Cathedral would be nice!), is there anything that we can learn from them? Should they be a model for us?
This may be a discussion for another day, but today we will be looking back to see what we can learn from another far-off church. We will go back to the very earliest church and catch a “snap-shot” of their lives together as we look at Acts 2:42-47. What we see there is a very challenging model for us to consider. When we do we see a number of things:
First and foremost we see a community. We see a group of people who are committed to one another. Being a Christian immediately brings you into relationship with a group of people who are committed to the same goals and life directions you are – it is a family… no, closer than a family… it is a single body. That is how intimately we are connected with each other. Do you feel this way about our church family here? What would it look like if you did?
Secondly, you see a community that is committed to growing in their love of God. They love to hear him speak through his word. They look to see him at work in the world. They love to sing his praise. Faith is not theoretical, it is always practical. Is this something that characterises our church? Do we expect to see God at work among us?
Thirdly, it we see a community that makes an impact – people are loved and cared for, both physically and spiritually. Is this a hallmark of St Peters? What impact do we make on our community?
It’s a great model… in fact, these three characteristics seem somehow familiar…
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