Why the Church?

It is popular in today’s society to separate oneself from the local church on the claim of wanting more of Jesus and less of religion. Unfortunately what in being included in the phrase “less of religion” is the concept of the local church. Many are bailing out of church in favor of something more subjective and personal. I will be the first to admit that we have failed in the church to show the world of believers and of unbelievers what the church is supposed to be and why it exists. It is easy to get a little too focused on programs and numbers and forget the real purpose of the local church.

The Apostle Paul helps shape our thinking biblically in the wonderful letter of First Timothy: “I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory. (1 Tim 3:14-16).

The biblical teaching of “the incarnation” is taken from this passage (as well as others). Jesus is the incarnation or physical representation of God. To know what God is like, look at Jesus. He Himself made that claim and stated it: “Thomas said to him, "Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?" 6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him." 8 Philip said, "Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us." 9 Jesus answered: "Don't you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'? 10 Don't you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves (John 14:5-11).

Jesus is basically saying: “If you want to know what God is like, look at me.” So let’s connect the dots here with the passage in 1 Timothy. Jesus is the revelation of God to the world. The church is the revelation of Jesus to the world. The church has the responsibility and privilege to show the world around what Jesus is really like.

How do I recognize the love of Jesus? Through His church that surrounds me in love when I am grieving or failing. How do I learn the wisdom of Christ? Through His servants who explain His Word correctly. How do I learn not to fear the future? From His church as we learn to care for each other.

When you take a serious look at Jesus you see God the Father. When you look at your church do you see Jesus?