The Interdependent Church

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   Social media can at times seem like a combat zone, and I have a tendency to add to the fury by posting a statement or question which can generate some heated debate. A few weeks ago, I posted this comment, which at the time I didn't think was very controversial: "Every Christian must be an active member of a local church. You cannot be your own pastor any more than you can be your own doctor or lawyer. On top of this, you were born again into a new family, to which you are to give and from which you are to receive." The first comment I got was from someone I do respect, although our connection is outside of church circles. He simply said, "Hard disagree." While I appreciated the civil interaction I had with him about this post, I still stand by what I wrote.

   This morning, I was reading in 1 Corinthians 12, where the Apostle Paul is telling this very dysfunctional church about the importance of being part of the body. In verses 4-7, "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons. But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good." God in His infinite wisdom has worked through His Spirit to give gifts to believers in such a way that none of us has all of them, but all of us must equally give and receive. God has created a body with members who need one another and who can help meet the needs of one another. 

   Let me expand this a bit beyond the individual congregation, if I may. I think what is true within a local church can also be true between local churches. No two churches are identical in their gift mix and composition. It is profitable for local churches to look for like-minded churches to encourage and partner with for the sake of unity and the gospel. While we have responsibilities to ourselves, we also have responsibilities to pray and care for one another. Let me challenge us, as individual people and individual congregations, to seek out those opportunities God may be giving each of us to serve and be served by the larger body of Christ.