Mat 16:18 "I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church;
and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.
The first time the word church is used was in Matthew 16:18. Here Jesus is describing the revelation truth Peter just spoke of by saying that the foundational truth of Jesus as the Messiah would become the foundation of the church. Act 4:11 says "He is the STONE WHICH WAS REJECTED by you, THE BUILDERS, but WHICH BECAME THE CHIEF CORNER stone.
The word church in the Greek is ekklēsia (ek-klay-see'-ah) a calling out, a popular meeting, a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue, or Christian) - assembly, church. According to the National Congregational Study Survey, there are an estimated 380,000 Christian churches in America. That means there are many choices, not all of which are good. As I have moved around the world and many states, my family and I have been forced to seek out new places of worship. Often this isn’t as easy as one might think. If you have ever sought out a new place to worship you know my concerns.
In today’s modern society we see the rise of “Seeker Sensitive” churches. These are churches that make everyone feel welcome while watering down the gospel so as not to offend anyone. Marketing and eye candy are the focus not the Gospel. The topics of sin, repentance, the blood and the cross are rarely spoken of. Main topics include self-help issues such as how to be happy, how to get along or “name and claim it” prosperity gospel. Our modern churches have gone from worshipping to lights and entertainment. The mentality of many is to go to church, feel good and then go home. Lifestyles rarely change, folks' troubles still exist, and the emptiness soon returns.
As you read this, please don’t misunderstand my point. People have the right to worship any way and anywhere they want. My concern is that Paul tells us in 2 Thessalonians 2 that in the last day there would be a falling away from the body of Christ and he also tells Timothy in 2 Tim 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires.
We, as believers, must seek out a local body of believers with these qualities
Belief that the Bible is the inerrant Word of God. (no mistakes-no gray areas)
Non-Compromising the Word nor doctrine in order to build a church (no caving in to society or culture)
A shepherd who is focused on God and the church not name, fame or popularity
Services that are filled with worship and seeking - not emotion and entertainment
Churches should strive to be diverse as much as local culture allows
Spirit led prayer – A church without prayer warriors is defeated before it starts
Doctrinally sound teaching
The Day of the Lord is rapidly approaching, and we must be ready. We need to hear not only feel good sermons but sermons on repentance, change conviction and most of all worshipping and seeking the Lord. May the Lord direct your steps and you continue to seek His Face.
Pro 3:13 How blessed is the man who finds wisdom And the man who gains understanding. (14) For her profit is better than the profit of silver And her gain better than fine gold. (15) She is more precious than jewels; And nothing you desire compares with her. (16) Long life is in her right hand; In her left hand are riches and honor. (17) Her ways are pleasant ways And all her paths are peace. (18) She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy are all who hold her fast.
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