Social distance is a term as inaccurate as it is unfortunate. We needed physical distance and social nearness in times like these. Many of the churches that left the building continued to meet online; not forsaking the gathering.
I recently completed a series of sermons based on Thom Rainer’s excellent book “I Am a Church Member.” The small book (79 pages) outlines what it means to be a church member in a clear, biblical manner with a focus on relationships. I wanted to explore and expound on what the Bible says about church membership.
Rainer stands opposed to the idea that the church exists, primarily, to serve the needs of its members. That would make it more like a country club. A place where, if your needs aren’t met, you will take your money elsewhere.
Church members are the body of Christ gathered to worship, love one another, and bear witness to God’s love for the world. However, we often behave badly towards each other. Some will bully others to get there way. Some will become possessive of their turf. Backbiting and gossip are not uncommon. Jesus said that the world will recognize us as His disciples by our love. We can do better.
“I Am a Church Member” encourages us to move beyond being spectators and consumers. We are to give of our time, talent and treasure in service to God through the church. We are to be loving and humble in our relationships with others. We are to respect and pray for the leaders of our church. We ought to view church membership as a gift; an opportunity to be part of something greater than ourselves.
1 comment:
I always believed this way until I started to volunteer. I really don’t know what to believe anymore. And it is not because of Covid and all the changes that made me start feeling differently. I loved volunteering. And it became even more important for me to volunteer after I lost my spouse. But it became difficult to volunteer in a toxic environment. I tried many times to do the right thing. I tried to do the things that I was taught in Sunday school and church. But nothing was resolved and volunteering in a unwelcoming environment became uncomfortable. I prayed, I spoke with others about the situation, and I hung on for months. But, a work place, even if just volunteering, should not make anyone feel uncomfortable or unwanted. And I was told by a deaconess that she didn’t want me around her. So, I had to do what I didn’t want to do and that was to leave my church, even if it meant leaving people I knew and friends people I cared for. I don’t understand the rules of a church when it comes to communication, but I think communication is lacking in some churches.
I don’t know if I will ever go to church again, but for now, I am doing the best I can to watch services and Bible studies online. I pray each day for churches everywhere. There has to be better communication.
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