The Church Beyond Walls: A Drastic Difference

Embracing Fellowship, Community, and Service: The Ture Call of the Church

Church at Lakeview Christian is a little bit different. Recently Jim passionately spoke about the essence of the church, emphasizing that it’s not merely a physical building but a community of people bound by their love for Jesus. The message is clear: the church is not confined to the walls of a structure; it’s about individuals coming together, fostering fellowship, and changing lives.

At the core of Jim’s message is the idea that each member of the body of Christ plays an integral role in its vibrancy. The sense of togetherness goes beyond attending a weekly worship service; it’s about being the body of Christ in every facet of life. As the clip suggests, the church is continually moving and changing lives, with various ministries serving as the heartbeat that keeps it in rhythm.

One key takeaway from Jim’s sermon is the emphasis on fellowship. It’s not just a buzzword; it’s a profound concept that goes beyond casual interactions. In Acts, it is mentioned that the early Christians gathered daily, a practice that might seem impractical in today’s fast-paced world. Jim challenges this notion by suggesting that fellowship is not limited to formal gatherings but can be woven into the fabric of our everyday lives.

The idea of daily gatherings may sound overwhelming, especially in a world where schedules are tight and commitments abound. However, Jim encourages a shift in perspective. Instead of viewing fellowship solely as attending church services, he suggests entering into a time of connection with others through various means. This could be meeting someone for coffee, engaging in a phone call, exercising together, participating in Bible studies, or sharing devotions.

Jim’s message resonates with the reality that fellowship extends beyond physical proximity. In an age where digital connections are prevalent, the church can leverage online platforms to foster community. The mention of a brand new online campus opens up exciting possibilities for reaching people beyond geographical boundaries. Sharing online content, whether it’s a thought-provoking post or an inspiring message, becomes a way of sharing fellowship and understanding what it means to be part of a larger community.

The importance of fellowship cannot be overstated. It serves as a foundation for building strong relationships within the church. As individuals come together, not just on Sundays but throughout the week, they become a living, breathing expression of the love of Jesus. The body of Christ, in essence, becomes a dynamic force, impacting lives and communities.

Beyond the traditional understanding of church involvement, Jim’s sermon encourages a broader perspective. It challenges the notion that the church is confined to a specific place and time. Instead, the emphasis is on being the church in the world – a community that engages in acts of love, kindness, and support. The various ministries mentioned by Jim are not mere activities but instruments that help the church stay connected with the heartbeat of God.

In conclusion, Jim’s sermon serves as a powerful reminder that the church is more than a building; it’s a living, breathing community of individuals bound by their love for Jesus. Fellowship, far from being a routine or a formality, is the lifeblood that keeps the church in motion. As we embrace the idea that we are the church, not just attendees, we unlock the potential for transformative fellowship that can impact lives, both within and beyond the physical walls. Whether offline or online, the church’s rhythm is set by the heartbeat of God, and every member has a role to play in keeping that rhythm alive.

The church, in its truest sense, is not a building but the people who believe in and follow Jesus Christ. This concept is foundational to Christian understanding and can be explored deeply in both scripture and practical application.

God’s People

Biblical Foundation

1. 1 Corinthians 12:27: “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”
   • Paul uses the metaphor of the body to illustrate how believers collectively form the church. Each person has a unique role, and together they function as one body, with Christ as the head.
2. Ephesians 2:19-22: “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.”
   • Here, Paul describes believers as members of God’s household, emphasizing that the church is built on the foundation of Jesus Christ. Together, believers form a spiritual temple.
3. 1 Peter 2:5: “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”
   • Peter refers to believers as “living stones” being built into a spiritual house. This imagery underscores that the church is a living, growing entity made up of people.

Practical Implications

1. Community and Relationships:
   • Since we are God’s people, relationships and community are at its heart. Building strong, loving, and supportive relationships within the church is crucial. Fellowship, discipleship, and mutual support are essential components of being the church.
2. Worship and Service:
   • Worship isn’t confined to a physical space. Believers can worship God anywhere, and their lives are meant to be acts of worship. Serving others, showing love, and living out the teachings of Jesus are practical ways the church functions daily.
3. Mission and Outreach:
   • The mission of God’s people is to spread the gospel and make disciples. This mission goes beyond the walls of any building. Believers are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus in their communities, workplaces, and beyond.

Historical Perspective

• The early meeting of God’s people often met in homes and public places, emphasizing that their identity as the church was rooted in their shared faith and community, not a specific location. For example, Romans 16:5 mentions the church that meets in the house of Priscilla and Aquila.

Living Out the Concept

1. Community Groups
   • Encouraging community groups can foster deeper connections and more personal discipleship. These gatherings emphasize that church can happen anywhere believers come together.
2. Service-Oriented Gatherings:
   • Organize group activities that focus on serving the community. This might include volunteering, hosting community events, or supporting local charities. Such actions demonstrate that the church is active and present in the community.

Final Thoughts

The idea that God’s people, are not a building, aligns with the teachings of the New Testament and the example set by the early church. By focusing on relationships, community, and mission, believers can embody the true essence of the body of Christ. This perspective helps to break down barriers and emphasizes that faith is lived out in daily actions and interactions, not confined to a physical structure.