It is unfortunate that modern religion has been made to feel so... impersonal. When we think of religion, we think of stodgy religious officials, fancy buildings, set teachings and traditions, programs, and bulletins. Even in contemporary circles, we often thing of crowds facing forward to stare at a band or screen displaying lyrics. It can be easy to forget that all of this started as a communal activity; something we did together so that we could grow closer to one another and closer to God.
In Acts 2, following Peter's first great sermon, we get a glimpse at the church before it had all the ornaments we associate with religion today.
44 Now all the believers were together and held all things in common. 45 They sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with joyful and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. Every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved. (Acts 1:44-47)
I think its interesting to see what early Christians did before they had all the pomp and circumstance of "church services". They got to know each other, they helped each other through their trials, they learned together and helped keep one another accountable. Basically... they were a family.
This idea of togetherness is built into the fabric of who we are as a humans (Gen 2:18 - "It is not good for the man to be alone...") and as a church (Heb 10:25 - "Not neglecting to gather together"). This is one of the reasons why I am saddened when I hear someone say "I can be a Christian by myself" or "I don't need a church to believe in Jesus". While partially true, living your life this way misses out on a huge part of the blessing God has in store for us. If we desire a deeper relationship with God, we should desire a deeper relationship with one another. A relationship with Christ which eschews relationships with Christ's body (that is, the church) is unhealthy at best, and a farce at worst.
One thing I have always tried to emphasize as a pastor is the sense of connectivity and closeness we should feel towards one another. When a tragedy strikes, I want us to be right there to help carry you through. When a victory is achieved, I want us celebrating with you. Just like a family, we are destined to have ups and downs, joys and sorrows, moments of harmony and moments of conflict. Regardless of what we face as believers, we want to face it together. If you feel tired and weary, lean on your brothers and sisters... they're waiting here with open arms.
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