Embracing the Church as the Beacon of Christ: The Impact of Unity Among Believers

Being part of a church can feel like a rollercoaster ride; the highs are exhilarating, but there can be lows that make you question the ride itself. Church styles and traditions can be quite diverse, which can lead to debates and divisions. But if we strip it all back, what's at the heart of church? 

We find the word ‘church’ in the scripture only three times, with Jesus being the speaker on each occasion. He speaks of building His church and providing guidance on church discipline. From these conversations, we can gather that Jesus didn't just stumble upon the concept of 'church'; He intentionally established it and outlined clear conduct for its members. The term 'church' is derived from the Greek word 'ekklesia', which translates to 'that which is called out'. There's an inherent expectation that followers of Jesus, those called out and chosen, would congregate. Jesus promised His presence when we gather in His name, as stated in Matthew 18:20, 

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” 

Considering the concept of the church was initiated by Jesus, it's of significant importance to us today. In the assembly of believers, there's an assurance of Jesus’ presence. There's a power in our unity, in collective prayer, and praise. At the Last Supper, Jesus urged His disciples to remember Him when they gathered. This expectation hints at a future where they would share meals together (read my previous post for more thoughts on sharing meals). Our current practice of taking communion together serves as a collective remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice, symbolized by the bread and wine. The act of breaking and sharing the bread also signifies that we are united in Jesus’ death and resurrection. 

The immediate aftermath of Jesus’ death saw the disciples naturally gravitating towards each other for support and encouragement, setting the precedent for the ‘early church.’ New Christians formed groups to aid each other, learn from each other, and share their 'gifts' with each other. These gifts – be they financial resources, possessions, talents, or spiritual – were perceived as God-given for the common good. 

Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

The apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthian church, uses an analogy of the human body to illustrate how the Christian church should function. He emphasizes that every part of the body, or church in this context, has a role to play and should be valued accordingly. 

1 Corinthians 27-31 “Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.” 

The church's importance is rooted in its diversity and unity. Each person's unique gifts have a place and a purpose within the church. The parts of the body, or church, depend on each other for the body to function fully. Unity within the church reflects the infinite wisdom of God. The harmony of God’s people living together in unity sanctifies His people, setting them apart. This sanctification brings a blessing of fruitfulness! 

Psalm 133 “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes! It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore.”

The church serves as a place for corporate worship and a space for Christians to express their love and support for each other. It is a place of discipleship, ministry, and where the gifts of the Holy Spirit are exercised. It also serves as the epicenter of the mission to share the gospel, reaching out to the local community and beyond. The importance of the church to the community is rooted in the fact that it embodies the body of Christ, composed of various diverse parts. 

Philippians 2:1-5 “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus”

The church represents Christ to a lost world, and unity among the body's members resonates powerfully. 

The church remains essential, not because it's perfect, but because it's composed of imperfect people just like us. It's a place where we learn to put aside our wants and consider the needs of others. It's a place where we learn to 'practise resurrection' and show love and kindness to one another, even when it's difficult.