The biblical definition of the church (ecclesia) or the “called out,” depicts the idea of a people who are called to form the community and family of God. Antiquity of the church records that Peter, after preaching on the Day of Pentecost, won the hearts of approximately three thousand people, and we see egalitarian acts among the church later. The numerical add-ups introduced responsibilities to the body, meaning that the greater the numerical increase, the greater the responsibilities of the church.
This leads us to the duty of nurturing, discipling, and grooming the “called out,” making the church a home and a center where the physical and spiritual needs of people are met, thus a home and center for solutions. A twist to this understanding is the practice and concept where the church is seen as a “solution center” where people come to merely seek quick results and leave, sometimes in settings that are not their places of worship.
The church, as a home, becomes the fountain where the growth of believers and aids are woven together in an honest effort to fulfill the church’s role: saving souls, discipleship, and community impact. Many of us have been there, where we come to God because we need a child, money to pay rent, seeking a business opportunity, or are in the quest for marriage. This almost portrays the church as a “vending machine” for miracles, and more to it, many people today treat faith like a customer service desk where they show up when there’s a problem, complain if the “fix” doesn’t arrive on time, and stop calling once they’re satisfied. It becomes more transactional without intimacy when you bring a problem, look for results, and leave. It is important to acknowledge that God solves problems, but it is equally important to know that you don’t build a life in an “emergency room” where the sick return immediately after they are cared for.
In a home, you don’t just eat when you’re starving; you eat to grow. It is in the home that you find your identity as a believer and get refreshed from staleness. The home has the “family” to advise, admonish, correct, and help you grow. Know this danger: if you only pray when you’re in trouble, you never learn the voice of God in the silence, and you will be ghosting God until you need a favor.
I undoubtedly agree that the church is a place where our burdens are lifted (Solution), but it’s also where our character is built (Home), and it is in the same that we find the strength to face Monday morning, not just the miracle to get through Sunday. It is time to stop being a visitor and start being a resident. May we find grace in the Lord to abide so we may receive the spiritual imprint that “I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord”
Written: Isaac Asiedu Agyapong
Apostolic Theological Seminary (ACTS).
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