In a culture of convenience, some view church as a place to “consume” spiritual experiences rather than committing and contributing to a local body. Many Christians may not fully grasp the biblical call to be planted and serve in one local church. However, according to the scripture, the local church is meant to be a vibrant community where believers grow in faith, serve one another, and reach out to the world. It is a place where the Word of God is preached, believers are encouraged to use their gifts, and love and unity prevail. The local church is not just a place to consume spiritual experiences but a community where each member is planted, grows, and contributes to the body of Christ.
Christians are called to commit to a local body of believers where they can grow spiritually, serve others, and be held accountable. By doing so, they fully experience God’s purpose for their lives and actively participate in building His kingdom. A thriving local church is one where everyone plays an active role in fostering community, spiritual growth, and outreach, ultimately reflecting the love and mission of Christ.
The early church provides a powerful model of vibrant fellowship. Believers gathered together regularly, sharing meals, praying, and supporting one another. The local church should nurture this kind of close-knit community where relationships are deepened, and believers are united in purpose. In Acts 2:42-47, we read:
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer… All the believers were together and had everything in common… They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people.”
Every member of the church is vital, and the local church should provide opportunities for each believer to use their spiritual gifts in service to one another and the wider community. Whether it’s teaching, leading, encouraging, or helping, each person plays an important role in the body of Christ. As 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 states:
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.”
This unity and diversity within the body of Christ are essential to the health of the local church. Every believer is given a unique role, and together, the church functions as a powerful witness of God’s kingdom on earth.
In summary, the local church should be a place where believers are spiritually nourished, equipped for service, and actively involved in building the community of Christ. Christians are called to be planted, to commit to a body of believers, and to use their gifts for the common good. This commitment not only brings personal growth but contributes to the church’s mission to love and serve the world, making disciples and advancing God’s kingdom.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk