Heard On Sunday - The Household of God

In a world that often emphasizes individualism, it's easy to forget the profound importance of community, especially within the context of our faith. Yet, as we delve deeper into the scriptures and reflect on God's design for His people, we discover a beautiful truth: we are called to be part of something far greater than ourselves.

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, paints a vivid picture of this reality. He reminds us that through Christ, we have been brought near to God and to each other. No longer are we strangers or aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of His household. This transformation is not just a personal one; it's a collective journey that shapes us into a new kingdom, a new family, and a new building.

Let's explore these three powerful metaphors:

A New Kingdom
As believers, we've been granted citizenship in God's kingdom. This isn't just a future hope, but a present reality. Jesus himself proclaimed, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel." (Mark 1:15)

This citizenship comes with both privileges and responsibilities. We enjoy the protection of our King, Jesus Christ, and the blessings of being part of His realm. But we're also called to participate actively in kingdom life - serving, submitting to godly leadership, and using our resources to advance God's purposes.

A New Family
Perhaps even more intimate than citizenship is our adoption into God's family. Paul writes that God "predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 1:5). This familial bond goes beyond mere sentiment; it's a covenant relationship that reflects God's own nature.

In earthly families, we experience both deep joys and profound challenges. The same is true in God's family, the church. We're called to love one another, bear with one another, and grow together. This process isn't always smooth - there will be conflicts and growing pains. But just as we don't abandon our biological families when things get tough, we're called to persevere and work through difficulties in our spiritual family.

A New Building
Finally, Paul describes believers as being "built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit" (Ephesians 2:22). This metaphor beautifully captures both our individual uniqueness and our collective purpose.

Each of us is like a living stone, chosen and shaped by the master builder, Jesus Christ. He carefully places us alongside others, fitting us together to create a magnificent structure - His church. This building process involves some chiseling and refining, as our rough edges are smoothed to fit with others. But the end result is a temple where God's presence dwells.

Importantly, we're not isolated blocks meant to stand alone. We're designed to be joined together, creating something far more beautiful and purposeful than we could ever be on our own.

Reflecting on these truths challenges us to reconsider our approach to faith and community. In a culture that often promotes a "consumer" mentality towards church - where we shop around for the best experience or only engage when it's convenient - we're called to a deeper, more committed way of life.

As pastor Bob Hyatt insightfully notes, "The church is not here for you. You are here for the church and your community. The church is here for the world. Jesus did not die to make you into a sanctified consumer. He died to bring you alive to God and to a desperately needy world."

This perspective shift is crucial. When we view church primarily through the lens of what we can get out of it, we miss out on the profound joy and purpose found in giving ourselves fully to God's family and mission.

Consider the analogy of a newborn baby in a family. The baby doesn't contribute in tangible ways - it requires constant care and attention. Yet the baby is fully part of the family, loved unconditionally, and a source of joy. In the same way, spiritual "babies" in the church family need nurturing and patience. And those who are more mature are called to extend grace, recognizing that we're all at different stages of growth.

Living out this "life together" isn't always easy. It requires intentionality, vulnerability, and a willingness to work through conflicts rather than bail when things get tough. But the rewards are immeasurable. As we commit to one another and to God's purposes, we experience a depth of community and spiritual growth that simply isn't possible in isolation.

Moreover, as we unite as the body of Christ, we become a powerful witness to the world. Jesus prayed for His followers to be one, "so that the world may believe" (John 17:21). Our unity and love for one another testify to the transforming power of the gospel.

So, how do we practically embrace this vision of life together?

• Commit to a local church family, not as a consumer, but as a contributor.
• Seek ways to serve and use your gifts to build up others.
• Be patient with those who are at different stages of spiritual growth.
• Work through conflicts with grace and perseverance, rather than running away.
• Remember that your participation in the church is not just for your benefit, but for God's glory and the world's good.

As we do this, we'll discover the profound joy that comes from being part of God's grand design - a new kingdom, a new family, and a new building where His presence dwells. May we embrace our role in this beautiful tapestry, allowing God to work in and through us for His glory and the good of the world.