Musing – Why might the Church Be the Greatest Force On Earth?

Hebraic Musing – Why might the Church Be the Greatest Force On Earth?

I confess that from time to time I have been critical of the structure of our modern day churches and longing for the “Good old days” of the first century Church structure, or lack thereof.  So when I’m teased with points complimentary of the Church as we know it, I feel obliged to listen and process. 

Maybe these will awaken us to support, respect and work within the current church structure since the current Church is “The only boat that floats.”  After all, the Church has already survived abuse, massive persecution, widespread neglect and the sinfulness of its members.  The Church is still God’s chosen instrument for blessing and nurturing His children for 2,000 years.  And the lost-ness and problems of the world can only be effectively addressed through the Church.

1.      The Church has massive, world-wide participation.  Approximately 1/3 of the world claims to be followers of Jesus Christ.  And the Church is the largest force working for the good of the world.

2.      The Church has a record of responding to humanitarian crises faster than governments can.  The will and commitment of individuals is extremely responsive, not having to wait for committees and congresses to convene.   Individuals can react fast to needs.

3.      The Church has been around for almost 2,000 years, longer than any nation, company, kingdom or fad.  It is unshakable; it was built by Jesus – “…and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”  Matt 16:18  NKJV

4.      The Church has the greatest capacity for growth.  We in the United States fret over the shrinking of churches here and in Europe, but Churches in China, India, Africa, Central and South America are growing.  Missionary efforts and Church plantings are growing the Church in those areas.  Result – Overall growth of the Church of Jesus Christ.

5.      The Church provides positive motivation for its members to contribute to something bigger and more important than themselves.  Our love for God propels us to love and serve our neighbors sacrificially.

6.      The Church is divinely authorized to take on the biggest of tasks.  God uses ordinary people to do extra-ordinary things empowered by the Holy Spirit. Remember “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Phil 4:13   NKJV

7.      The Church has a simple, responsive administrative structure.  The largest organization in the world, Roman Catholic Church, has an organization chart used as an example by management teachers because it has only four layers of management (Pope, Cardinals, Bishops, Priests) serving the congregants.  The Church is not hindered by the bureaucracy and budgets in governments and charities. 

The Church is God’s instrument for ministry here on Earth and will last for eternity.   It is truly the greatest force on Earth and it is tackling the world’s biggest problems – Spiritual lost-ness, egocentric leadership, poverty, disease, and ignorance.  These can only be addressed through the Church.

Points to ponder

What could happen if all the individual churches worked toward unity?

Love your neighbor as yourself

Yosef   a.k.a.  Joe Brusherd                                   August 9, 2016

Author: “Hebraic Insights – Messages exploring the Hebrew roots of our faith” 
“Biblical Marriage” “Musings - A Victorious Life”  “Musings - The Torah and New Testament”
Weekly “Hebraic Musings”      www.InsightsByYosef.com

Inspired by Pastor Rick Warren’s Toolbox -- June 29, 2016