The 21st Century Church - Part One

When we think about the church today, that is the Christian Church, there are many images that come to mind. Some see the church as an institution, one of values and standards and morals that is mostly out of touch with society. At least that’s how those not part of it often see it. Some will say the church is simply another organisation which adheres to a certain moral code, mainly existing to establish a social structure. In fact most people, because of the churches high profile in society, will have an opinion of the church. But the real question is how does God and in particular Jesus view his church?

When Jesus in Matthew 16:18 states to Peter previously known as Simon, and pronounces him Petrus meaning rock he declares “Upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.” This amazing declaration not only of Peter and the transformation of a weak and feeble fisherman into an immovable force but also the declaration of the church which Jesus would himself build as an unstoppable force to be reckoned with begins what has to be a different church than what we see today.

The early church not only was unstoppable but literally turned the known world upside down and scripture along with secular reports from writers such as Josephus tell us that thousands began flocking to the church or the movement as it was also known. Reports of people being healed by simply passing under the shadow of the disciples or being set free of demonic bondage by a spoken command was common practise. The church was on its way and yet this was merely the beginning and start of what God had planned for his bride in waiting.

And so two thousand years have passed and we the church of today must ask the question, are we who Christ intended us to be? Do we within the walls of our fine cathedrals and lofty office places portray the image of Christ in all that we do? Would Jesus, if walking amongst today, say “well done good and faithful servant” or would he cringe and turn away saying “I do not know you”. Although harsh and unthinkable to someone who knows of the incredible love that God has for his creation and especially his church, this must always be at the forefront of our hearts and minds in wanting to continually please God and not man.

It is this difficult question that I would like to ask, not only of the church as a whole but even as myself, a part of the incredible body of Christ on this earth. Knowing that He, Christ is returning to a bride that is “without spot or wrinkle” as scripture tells us.