This is a series. See previous articles.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19 is a popular scripture that describes the Church’s role in reconciling people to God.
It evokes a picture of an ambassador charged with diplomacy. And just like the government parallel, the Church uses every tool from its sovereign nation – eloquence, representation, negotiation, and incentives to restore relations between the world and God. Our most potent offer of course is the grace of Christ.
Everything in the Christian faith rises and falls on a relationship with Jesus. In this world, that’s the primary mandate of the Church.
Platforms for Evangelism
One of the strengths of physical churches is pooling resources for services and outreaches.
These spaces act like diplomatic missions, supporting and funding activities that are important to the fatherland, Heaven.
What’s more, many become Christians because someone invited them to church. Thus, churches play a dual role – local and international evangelism.
It need not be in the formats people are used to – church services, street preaching, crusades or global missions. It could be media platforms too.
Nonetheless, whenever we optimize churches to reconcile people to Christ, there is great purpose there.
Locus of Worship
People ought to worship what they know. Jesus taught this lesson in John 4:22.
Therefore, it’s quite significant when folks come together to worship a God they intimately know.
Yes, we can worship individually in our homes. But there’s something powerful about God inhabiting the praises of his people during corporate worship (Psalms 22:3). It evokes power and presence. And this is a gift.
In some congregations, the resources invested in worship may seem significant. But perhaps it underscores its importance. And I’m glad for it.
Next week, we’ll explore Discipleship.
Thank you for reading.