Whose Church Is it Anyway?

August 7, 2008

By Gary Rogers

Some people seem to believe they can choose a church like picking a restaurant, movie, or hairdresser. The menu needs a large selection in which the consumer finds everything to accommodate personal taste. The plot and characters need to be entertaining so as to not be a personal waste of time. Specific expectations must be followed to make sure that what is seen in the mirror gives a pleasing appearance and a strong self-confidence. This thinking places the church “consumer” as the authority in how the church should function.

Jesus said, “I will build My church” (Matthew 16:18, NKJV). Jesus was focusing on “Church” with a capital C, the worldwide body of His followers. But every local church is an expression of that greater identity. Jesus chose to use an assembling together of believers as a point of unifying contact and a point of visionary dispersion. Paul teaches us that the Spirit distributes gifts, or spiritually empowered abilities, according to His will (1 Corinthians 12:11).

If you’re considering a church to attend, or wondering how you can make a greater contribution to your church, pray about it. The Savior wants you to be an active part of His local gathering of believers. The Holy Spirit wants to equip you to be a wonderful blessing to those around you.

Church selection is nothing like picking a restaurant or movie or hairdresser. Your choice of a church is so much more vital. The potential impact on your life and on others goes infinitely beyond that of a gourmet meal, blockbuster movie or latest hairstyle. In reality, at “your” church, you’re working hand in hand with Jesus in building His church. It should be you following the leading of the Holy Spirit and being where He wants you to be.

What a privilege!

— Gary Rogers is senior pastor of First Assembly of God in Coweta, Okla.