By Tony Merida
My Personal Takeaways →Love Your Church makes the case for deep, committed, costly membership in a local church — not as a religious obligation but as the God-ordained context for spiritual growth, mission, and human flourishing. Merida pushes back against the consumerist approach to church (attending when convenient, leaving when uncomfortable) and calls for the kind of presence that actually changes communities.
The book is structured around seven marks: belonging, word, prayer, ordinances, fellowship, service, and witness. Read this if you are a church-hopper, a skeptic of institutional Christianity, or simply someone who hasn’t thought carefully about what it means to truly be the church. Implement it by choosing one mark per month and asking: how am I contributing here, not just consuming?
By Tony Merida
If you’re reading this book, then I want you to know that I have an agenda: I want people to love Jesus and his church—and to know how to love their church. That’s it.
every time we walk into our church’s large or small gatherings, we can say of fellow believers, “All of these people are our family.” Some of you may be tempted to say in your (extended) family gatherings, “Unfortunately, all of these people are our family…” That too illustrates the church! Every church has people who are difficult to love. You may be one of them from time to time! Every church has some crazy uncles and wild brothers and sisters; for evidence that this has always been the case, just read Paul’s letters to the Corinthians. But that’s the church.
When you get adopted, you get a new family. And the church is a family of adopted brothers and sisters (see Galatians 4 v 4-7; Romans 8 v 12-17). When we come to faith in Christ, we get not only a new relationship with our Father but new family members too (1 Timothy 3 v 15; 5 v 1-2; Galatians 6 v 10).
In one single, awesome sentence the apostle Paul declares the vitality of the church, the familial nature of the church, and the truth proclaimed by the church: we are “the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth” (1 Timothy 4 v 15).
Consider when Paul spoke to the Ephesian pastors/elders and said, “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood” (Acts 20 v 28)
Consider how Jesus so identifies with his church that when Paul was persecuting the church, Jesus asked, “Why are you persecuting me?” (Acts 9 v 4; 22 v 7)
In this moment, the terrorist who would become the apostle realized not only that Jesus is the living Lord, but that to persecute the church was to persecute him. That is how bound up Jesus’ heart is with his church.
In this book, I want to draw your attention to eight key responsibilities of church members. Each responsibility is also a privilege. In chapter one, we’ll see why it is important to belong to a local church. In the next chapter, we’ll see why and how to practice hospitality, welcoming all types of people into our fellowship. The importance of our worship services occupies the next chapter. Chapters 4 and 5 deal with the calling for church members to care for one another and to serve the body with the use of our spiritual gifts. Chapter 6 will outline some of the key responsibilities of pastors and describe how members should relate to pastors. Chapters 7 and 8 both deal with mission—both our individual witness and how we can impact our communities and the world as a local church.
Many love the idea of the church but don’t actually have fellowship with real believers in a local church. Some keep up with church news on social media, and even offer “advice” for pastors, but are “missing in action.”
We all will benefit by recapturing the New Testament’s vision of Christ’s church. We can all learn to love our church as Christ calls us to.
God has given us a need for community—and he has given us the place where that need for community is met: the church.
He gives us a place where we belong; now we need to commit to belonging.
Belonging to a church means investing your life in a gospel-centered community of believers who joyfully serve one another and advance Jesus’ mission together.
The exuberant joy of the early Christians was one of the most potent factors in the spread of Christianity.
It’s this joy—a Christ-centered joy experienced even in suffering—that’s unique, powerful, uplifting, and attractive. This doesn’t mean the church will be devoid of sorrow; it means that even in sorrow there is a well of joy from which to drink: the wells of our salvation.
The church is a local community of believers who gather for worship and scatter for witness. They share life together centered on Jesus for the good of one another and for the good of the world. This idea of community is everywhere in the New Testament; the Bible knows nothing of “lone ranger” Christianity. I love how Titus says that Jesus “gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works” (Titus 2 v 14)
We show we are part of the universal church by identifying with a real community of people locally.
The metaphors for the church—stones in a temple, members of a family, citizens of a kingdom, and members of a body—all speak to this concept of membership and belonging.
As Christians, we need to overcome at least four obstacles to live out this vision of gospel-centered, Spirit-filled community in the church.
Sensationalism. Many Christians are stuck on the dramatic. We get excited about huge conferences, someone else’s pastor, or the latest controversy. Thrill-seekers simply don’t find life in a local church stimulating enough to really get involved and stay involved. Caring for the elderly in a local church? Restoring a wayward member? Helping the single mom? Serving in childcare? These things don’t usually excite sensationalists. But while these acts may not be sensational in many people’s eyes, they would turn the world upside down if we began to live them out.
We need a renewal of Christians who are wholly committed to living out basic Christianity with their faith family.
Mysticism. When it comes to life in the Spirit, many think of mystical, miraculous, or private experiences.
To be best placed to experience Jesus in a deep, fresh, life-changing way, you don’t need a perch in the desert; you need a pew in a church.
Idealism. In Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s classic book Life Together, he talks about the problem of having a “wish dream” when it comes to the church. Bonhoeffer explains how idealism is the enemy of true community: “He who loves his dream of community more than the community itself becomes a destroyer of the latter, even though his personal intentions may be ever so honest and earnest and sacrificial” (p 26). Wish dreams destroy community. Some have wish dreams related to small-group expectations, pastoral expectations, or program expectations. Real life together will involve highs, and it will involve lows; it will involve frustration, disappointment, and struggle. But by grace, we press on together as sinners redeemed by Jesus. This doesn’t mean we don’t work hard to make improvements in every area in the church (we do!). It means we rethink our expectations.
Individualism. Many (often without realizing it) live isolated lives, especially in the West, never experiencing the satisfying joy of biblical community. We know so many people, but we go deep with very few (if any).
After two weeks of video calls, I was sick of digital interaction. I thought about 2 John 12 during this dreadful experience: “Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete” (my emphasis). John says there are limits to pen and ink (or, for us, the computer/texting/video). Emails, texts, and calls are poor substitutes for embodied relationships.
Action Steps
Based on the New Testament’s perspective of the church, allow me to offer you some next steps. Elevate your concept of the church. Don’t treat the church as unimportant, unnecessary, or a hindrance to doing great things for God. The church is imperfect but indispensable to faithful Christian discipleship. Identify yourself with a people in a local church. If you’re a professing Christian, but not part of a local church, then realize that you’re not following the New Testament pattern. Realize also that you’re not helping yourself, for it is not wise or safe to be apart from accountability, discipline, and the oversight of pastoral leaders who will give an account to God (Hebrews 13 v 17).
Never forget that it’s a privilege to belong to a local family of faith, and to be part of the larger universal church! Locally, it’s a gift to extend Christ’s welcome to one another, to gather corporately for worship, to share life together, to give our time, talent, and treasure to further the gospel, and to live on mission together. Globally, it’s a gift to stand together with our brothers and sisters around the globe, who confess Jesus as Lord. Eternally, it’s a gift to know that we will be joined with all the redeemed from all time singing “Worthy is the Lamb.” Pray for your church regularly. Don’t underestimate the importance of praying for the people of God, for its leaders, and for the advancement of the mission.
we’re tempted to show partiality based on appearance, accent, age, affluence, ancestry, affinity, or achievement.
For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? (James 2 v 2-4)
we should ask ourselves what kind of attitude we have toward those of different backgrounds. Is your instinct one of “Sit by us,” or “Let’s go sit by them,” or is it one of “I hope they sit elsewhere” or “Let’s move somewhere else”? Do you joyfully move toward those who are different than you or do you shuffle quietly away?
As a good Father, God gives us reasons in Scripture, not just commands. He teaches us for our good. Through James, he outlines four compelling reasons for not discriminating in the assembly: or, to put it more positively, four motivations to be a welcoming church member.
First, partiality doesn’t reflect God’s grace (2 v 5a). James says that God actually has chosen many of the poor to become “rich in faith” (see also 1 Corinthians 1 v 26-31). This was certainly true of the early church—the gospel was exploding on the fringes of society in major cities.
Second, partiality doesn’t reflect God’s kingdom (James 2 v 5b-7). Not only are many of the poor rich in faith, but they are also “heirs of the kingdom.” In the kingdom of God, everything is turned upside down. God has reversed the poor Christian’s status (see Luke 1 v 53). And one day, the total truth will be revealed about the most honorable of saints. There will be some surprises on the last day. We may well find that a poor custodian, or a poor farmer, or a struggling single mother receives more honor than a big-name pastor.
There are many ways in which the church today can still dishonor the poor: failing to plant churches in poorer areas; relocating the church out of poorer neighborhoods; devaluing the poorer believer’s opinion on various aspects of the church; failing to give attention to the poor in regard to church programming and scheduling; not giving poor believers equal opportunities for training and leadership in the church; allowing the rich to control decision-making in the church—just to name a few.
Third, partiality doesn’t reflect God’s royal law of loving our neighbor as ourselves (James 2 v 8-12).
Jesus taught us that these neighbors include foreigners and enemies. This means we are simply utterly forbidden to discriminate against those who walk through our doors, regardless of where they’re from or what they are like (v 9). Ignore this and, James says, it’s a total violation of the whole law (v 10). The law is united, and everything hangs on loving God and neighbor.
Finally, partiality doesn’t reflect God’s mercy toward us (James 2 v 13). James concludes by saying, “For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy.” He inverts Jesus’ Beatitude—“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy” (Matthew 5 v 7)—into its opposite: Cursed are those who are not merciful, for they will not be shown mercy.
Our proper response to the grace shown toward us in Christ is the extension of grace to others. Those who apply the gospel of grace deeply in their own hearts will be a welcoming, hospitable, grateful, generous, and joyful people.
So, to all who are weary and need rest… To all who mourn and long for comfort… To all who fail and desire strength… To all who sin and need a Savior… This church opens wide her red doors in the name of Jesus, the friend of sinners.
Action Steps
- Reflect regularly on how Christ gently and graciously welcomed you. Welcome others with that kind of warmth and hospitality. Ask God to search your heart for any pride and prejudice that you may have. The only thing you have to lose is the sin that entangles you; so repent and allow God to change you, making you more like Jesus. In your gatherings, be on the lookout for those who are by themselves. Author Rebecca McLaughlin offered three rules of engagement recently on social media: “(1) An alone person in our gathering is an emergency. (2) Friends can wait. (3) Introduce a newcomer to someone else. Let’s all be missionaries at church today!” Don’t attend corporate worship as a consumer watching the show but as a minister eager to welcome and to bless. Consider volunteering for ministries that extend hospitality. Perhaps that’s your church’s greeting team, childcare team, parking-lot greeters, or ushers. Don’t underestimate how important these ministries are! When you practice hospitality, you’re reflecting the character of God and the storyline of Scripture, and displaying the fruit of the gospel in your heart.
The author of Hebrews instructs us not to neglect meeting together “as is the habit of some” (Hebrews 10 v 25). Instead we should assemble regularly, “encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Notice that you have a role: encouraging one another. Rather than sitting and soaking, come ready to bless your brothers and sisters with meaningful words of encouragement. Come ready to study the Scriptures, to seek the Lord’s presence, to confess sin and repent, to renew your commitment to follow Jesus, and to welcome those who are guests.
Here are a few ways to sit well under the teaching of God’s word: Listen humbly. Receive the word “with meekness” (James 1 v 21). This is the first key to learning Scripture: humility. We don’t stand over Scripture and criticize it, but we sit under it as we allow it to confront us, instruct us, and change us.
Listen intently. Fight to stay alert.
Listen biblically. Use your mind and your Bible, like the Bereans (Acts 17 v 10-15). Listen personally. Listen for yourself, not just for someone else. Don’t come to critique the pastor’s sermon but come ready to be addressed from God’s word.
Listen obediently. Don’t merely be a receiver of the word; be prepared to be a doer of it. Listen in order to make disciples of all nations. Listen practically. Think about specific ways you should apply the message in your life. Listen gratefully. Be thankful that God speaks to his people, including you!
We know these things. The question, though, is this: do we do them?
Paul gives us the following important instructions related to singing: Be filled by the Spirit: speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music with your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 5 v 18b-20, CSB) Let the word of Christ dwell richly among you, in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. (Colossians 3 v 16, CSB) Notice that both of these texts mention a rich variety in singing (psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs), and both emphasize the heart.
“If someone walked into your worship service and saw you singing, would they think from your singing and expression that you believe what you’re declaring?” Let the answer be yes.
But let us make sure that we are committed to prioritizing meeting together, and that our question is not “Shall we go to the church gathering?” but “How can we make the most of our church gathering?”
Action Steps
Recognize that you need your church and your church needs you. If you are hit-or-miss on a Sunday, it will impact your spiritual health. If you’re late or if you don’t engage in worship, it will impact your experience. And failing to take the corporate gathering seriously doesn’t help your brothers and sisters, who need your voice, your encouragement, your solidarity, your prayer, and your joy. Sanctify Saturday nights. If you have a big meeting coming up, then one thing you know to do is to get rest the night before. Athletes know that they need to prepare the day before a big event. The same is true for Sundays. Get rest on Saturday night, pray with your family, and consider reading Sunday’s sermon text around the dinner table.
Have some special traditions on the day of corporate worship. After corporate worship, consider doing something that you reserve for this special day. This may involve a particular meal, or a long nap, meals with others, or afternoon tea and reading. Look at something beautiful or enjoy God’s creation on a walk, or a drive, or at a park. Whatever the case, make your day of corporate worship special and unique. Make these times so enjoyable that should you have kids, they will look back with delight on these experiences. Build holy and happy habits on the day of corporate worship.
One of the most remarked-upon aspects of the early church was how they cared for one another. If someone spied on your church today, would they remark about the same thing? Or would they say something like, “Behold, how they criticize one another!” “Behold, how they gossip about one another!” “Behold, how polite they are toward one another, but not authentically caring toward one another.”
The “one another” passages in the New Testament demonstrate the importance of caring for our brothers and sisters in our Christian community. That there are so many of these passages illustrates that this is a non-negotiable for brothers and sisters. Consider the following (non-exhaustive) list: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13 v 34) “We, though many, are … individually members one of another.” (Romans 12 v 5) “Love one another with brotherly affection.” (Romans 12 v 10) “Outdo one another in showing honor.” (Romans 12 v 10) “Instruct one another.” (Romans 15 v 14) “Have the same care for one another.” (1 Corinthians 12 v 25) “Through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5 v 13) “Bear one another’s burdens.” (Galatians 6 v 2) “Bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4 v 2) “Be kind to one another.” (Ephesians 4 v 32) “Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” (Ephesians 5 v 21) “In humility count others more significant than yourselves.” (Philippians 2 v 3) “Do not lie to one another.” (Colossians 3 v 9) “Encourage one another.” (1 Thessalonians 4 v 18) “Always seek to do good to one another.” (1 Thessalonians 5 v 15) “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” (Hebrews 10 v 24) “Do not speak evil against one another, brothers.” (James 4 v 11) “Do not grumble against one another.” (James 5 v 9) “Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (James 5 v 16) “Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.” (1 Peter 4 v 9) “Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another.” (1 Peter 5 v 5) “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.” (1 John 4 v 7) “No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us.” (1 John 4 v 12)
Putting them all together shows that God calls us to a high level of commitment to one another; but doing so also gives us an exciting picture of what our local churches can be, if we learn to give and receive care for one another like this.
It is no accident that Paul moves from the “fruit of the Spirit” (5 v 16-24) to church care-giving (6 v 1-10). The Spirit-filled life is not so much about dramatic and miraculous power encounters or inner mystical experiences as about faithful Christians living in joyful devotion to Christ and one another. We are to display the fruit of the Spirit in the context of familial care.
“Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness” (v 1). You need a family to care for you spiritually.
The fallen need a brother or sister to come to their aid in these times: to open the trap and help set them free. They need us to do the ministry of restoration (see also James 5 v 19-20). Tim Keller points out that the term translated as “restore” was used for setting a dislocated bone into place. He then says: A dislocated bone is extremely painful, because it is not in its designed, natural relationship to the other parts of the body. To put a bone back in place will inevitably inflict pain, but it’s a healing pain. It means we are to confront, even when that will be painful, but our confronting must be aiming to prompt a change of life and heart.
In Galatians 6, Paul does not give any steps for restoration, but he does talk about the restorer. The restorer should be “spiritual” (v 1). This doesn’t mean perfect, and it doesn’t mean we are to be the “righteousness police,” but it does mean that we are to operate in the spirit of the ultimate restorer, Jesus.
Some object to this kind of one-another rebuke and restoration, seeing it as judgmental or none of anyone’s business. Didn’t Jesus say, “Judge not, that you be not judged” (Matthew 7 v 1)? Yes, he did—but those who appeal to this verse are often oblivious to verse 5: “You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.” In other words, once you take the log out of your eye, then you may go take out the speck in your brother’s eye. Jesus isn’t saying we should never be concerned for the spiritual welfare of our brother or sister! He’s urging us to see to our own heart first, and then act.
But when we act, we should be gentle. Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit, which implies that such a virtue happens as we abide in Jesus personally. He makes us gentle, like himself (Matthew 11 v 29). Further, the restorer should be careful. Paul says, “Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted” (Galatians 6 v 1b). We must always be aware that we are not immune to falling ourselves. Be careful that you do not exalt yourself over your brother or sister; and be careful that you do not step into the same trap as you attempt to restore the other person.
Next Paul turns to a brother or sister who is weighed down by some burden: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6 v 2). Here’s a daily mission for all of us: be alert to the burdens of others and be committed to making them lighter.
Don’t get puffed up because someone is sinning in a way you don’t or is burdened in a way that you aren’t. Paul says, Stop feeding your pride by comparing yourself to others. At the same time, though, Paul wisely points out the need to differentiate between heavy burdens and lighter loads. We are to “bear one another’s burdens (v 2), but at the same time “each will have to bear his own load” (v 5).
So I need to take responsibility to wake up for work on time—that’s my load. But if I lose my job and am in need as a result, that is a burden that may well require some help from others. Spending your money wisely is your load. Losing a loved one to cancer is a burden. The single mom with four kids has the right to expect care and help from her church. If you are the burdened Christian, make sure someone knows about your situation. Sometimes Christians aren’t aware of a brother’s or sister’s burdens, and that’s the reason why they don’t offer support. Part of being in biblical community means that we communicate with each other. It involves us being transparent enough to express to others our burden as well as humble and caring enough to help the burdened.
While it’s true that pastors have a special role in the church, the work of giving care is something that is to be shared by all members. All members can do the work of listening, caring, getting underneath the burden of others, and supporting wounded and wearied saints.
Next Paul shifts gears a bit: “One who is taught the word must share all good things with the one who teaches” (Galatians 6 v 6). He is focusing on our responsibility to share “all good things” with the one who teaches us: for a church to support its teachers materially. This would include food, money, and whatever good things are appropriate for the teacher’s welfare. Paul sometimes provided for himself to keep from burdening the church, but sometimes he did take support (see Philippians 4 v 10-20 and 2 Corinthians 11 v 8). But his principle was that it is good and right for the church to support ministers of the word (1 Corinthians 9 v 11-14; 1 Timothy 5 v 17-18). Keller comments, “We should not be consumers, who come to a church to plunder the benefits of it, without doing significant giving to that church” (Galatians For You, p 174). But Paul’s ultimate concern is not money; it is the furtherance of the gospel, and he knows that the God-ordained means for accomplishing this is the steady proclamation of the word of God by faithful teachers.
Our personal lives directly impact our relational lives, and therefore one of the most important ways we contribute to the health of a local church is by practicing Spirit-filled godliness. When I seek to put sin to death in my life, it will inevitably bless others; and when I am indulging in sin, it will have a negative impact on others. We never really sin in isolation. If you sow to the Spirit, you will reap from the Spirit. If you sow to the flesh, you reap from the flesh (5 v 16-25). If you plant mustard seeds, don’t expect peppers to grow. And if you sow to the flesh, don’t expect holiness to grow. To sow to the flesh is to pander to it, give in to it, and coddle it instead of crucifying it. The old adage is true: “sow a thought, reap an act; sow an act, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny”. Some Christians sow to the flesh every day and wonder why they don’t reap holiness and victory and blessing.
The books you read, the people you are with, the things you do for entertainment, and the things you think are acts of sowing. Are they of the flesh or the Spirit?
Caring is tiring. It is a privilege and a blessing, but it is not easy. That is why Paul encourages us to “not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (v 9). Every Christian can become discouraged in doing good deeds. Paul says keep sowing. Keep loving one another. Keep resisting bickering with others. Keep rejecting false teachers. Keep bearing one another’s burdens. Keep preaching the gospel, because Jesus is worth it. “As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith” (v 10).
Here, then, is another daily mission for all of us: to look for opportunities to bless others by doing good. This will not happen by accident. It requires a sensitivity to the well-being of others. This kind of life will not happen if we are preoccupied with ourselves: preoccupation with me and care for you cannot coexist. We will not get under the burden of others, nor will we be zealous to do good, until Christ captivates our hearts and we walk by the Spirit.
Love acts. Christian love is not some abstract idea; it involves real displays of goodness, empowered by the Spirit (5 v 22). The apostle John says this about love: “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers” (1 John 3 v 16). The cross shows us that Christian love involves a passion that leads to action. Jesus didn’t merely say he loved us—he demonstrated it. So, John points out, “If anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth” (v 17-18).
Action Steps
Do the important work of restoring, bearing burdens, sharing, and doing good. If someone comes to mind as you consider Galatians 6, then resolve to act on their behalf.
Recognize that caring for sinners and sufferers is ministry work that all believers should take part in.
Look at your schedule and see if you have any margin that will allow you to do the work of listening, praying, and helping the burdened and the wayward; if not, then make some room for this important work.
Remember that your personal life will always have an impact on your community, so be serious about sowing to the Spirit. Consider adding some new “holy habits” to your life (a set time to pray, read Scripture, sing, and so on). If there are “unholy habits,” resolve to put them to death! Understand that sometimes one simple change in your daily life can have a huge impact on the rest of your life and a positive impact on those around you.
Look for opportunities every week to do good to others. What might you do today? I have a friend who plans his week each Sunday evening, and that planning involves surprising people with acts of goodness.
Pray for your church family. Pray that it could be said of you, “Behold, how they love one another!” Pray that your church would truly care for the sick and the suffering, the weak and the wounded. Pray for yourself—because we all get weary. Ask the Lord to fill you with his Spirit so that you may put on display the fruit of the Spirit.
As a Christian, you shouldn’t think of your church as “the place where I listen to sermons” but as “the place where I serve.”
listening to sermons is important. But church members are contributors to the ministry of the church rather than consumers of that ministry—and contributing involves giving your time, talent, and treasure for the health and growth of your church.
in this chapter I want to lay out three motivations from Scripture that will fire up your desire to serve, or refuel you if you are growing weary of serving: (1) God’s mercy, (2) the Spirit’s gifts, and (3) the Son’s return. The first looks back to what God has done for us; the second reminds us that we’re empowered and enabled to serve; and the third helps us to remember that our serving is not in vain!
when you look hard at God’s mercy to you, offering yourself to him is the logical, rational, reasonable response.
We are called to be wholly consecrated worshipers, being committed to God in every realm of life. It’s as if we’re putting ourselves in the offering plate!
This is an astonishing thought: that the God of the universe is brought pleasure whenever you or I offer ourselves sacrificially in the service of his people!
Part of what it means to offer our bodies to God is explained in verse 2. There are two commands: “do not conform” and “be transformed.” First, do not allow the world to squeeze you into its mold (as the Phillips para-phrase of the Bible puts it). We are to think differently than the outside world. Second, be transformed by the renewing of your mind. We’re to make a break from the “mind that is set on the flesh” (8 v 7), which typifies humanity, and the debased minds of pagans (1 v 28). Our minds are to be renewed by the Spirit (7 v 6; 8 v 27). This involves giving our minds to that which is good, right and beautiful (see Philippians 4 v 8), and not returning to our old way of thinking (Ephesians 4 v 22-32). It involves filling our minds with the truth of Scripture (Colossians 3 v 16). It involves meditating on the glory of God in Christ (2 Corinthians 3 v 18).
The purpose of this transformed self and renewed mind is “that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God” (Romans 12 v 2, CSB). This means we will be able to recognize and appreciate what honors God, and we can then set ourselves to obey his will.
Ponder what you deserve: judgment. Ponder what he’s given you instead: salvation. This should stimulate a life of worshipful service.
(1 Corinthians 13 was not, originally, written to be read out at weddings but to correct a view of our gifts that is self-promoting rather than church-serving.)
Speaking gifts. Teaching probably involves instruction in both formal and informal settings, for the building up of other believers. Exhorting has a range of meanings (comforting, encouraging, pleading) and may also be done in both formal and informal settings.
Serving gifts. Service carries the idea of practical help for those in need. Such humble service reflects our Lord (see Mark 10 v 42-45). Those with the gift of contributing are called to exercise this gift with “generosity”—the kind of generosity that reflects the generosity of God (2 Corinthians 8 v 9). Those with the gift of leadership are to lead “with zeal.” Those with the gift of mercy, who minister on behalf of the poor, weak, and hurting are to be “cheerful” in their display of mercy, instead of serving with a begrudging spirit.
Notice the spirit in which we are to use both speaking and serving gifts. Paul mentions generosity, zeal, and cheerfulness. These are the attitudes beneath these actions, for God cares about our hearts and motives and not just our external actions.
The question is often raised, “How do I identify my gift?” And a question that’s not too far behind it is “Should I only do the things which I’m particularly gifted at?” Regarding the first question, Keller points out that Paul implies at least two ways to discern your gifting (see Romans 8 – 16 For You, p 113-114): Self-examination. In light of the calling to exercise “sober judgment,” ask: What do I enjoy doing? Am I any good at what I enjoy? What kind of ministry is fulfilling? What problems do I most notice? What opportunities do I notice? Experience. In light of Paul’s statement about “using” your gift, realize that you need experience to know if you have certain gifts. Keller says, “It is best to try all kinds of ministry as a way to learn your spiritual ‘aptitudes.’” He adds that you should study the biblical lists in order to take an inventory and better process your experience.
Regarding the second question, my answer is no, you don’t you need to limit your service in the church to only those things that you are particularly gifted at. While serving in your gifting will bring greater fruit and joy, we shouldn’t neglect other aspects of Christian service. Someone may have the gift of contribution but that doesn’t mean that only those with that gift should give financially to the ministries of the church! Someone else may have a gift of teaching, but that doesn’t mean they are the only ones called to make disciples by teaching (Matthew 28 v 18-20). Still another church member may not have the gift of mercy but we’re still all called to show mercy (Micah 6 v 8). So, I would encourage you to be on the lookout for particular ways to use your spiritual gifts, but at the same don’t be bothered if you are volunteering for service in a place where you may not be most gifted; see it as an act of loving service.
In 1 Peter 4 v 7-11, we find another important motivation for serving: The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies — in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Often the anticipation of the return of Christ stimulates wild fanaticism or a drastic withdrawal from the world, but Peter doesn’t mention anything extreme here. Rather, he emphasizes basic Christian living: being self-controlled and sober-minded so that we can engage in effective prayer, earnest love, gracious hospitality, and the exercise of our gifts.
The end is near: pray. The end is near: love one another earnestly. The end is near: practice hospitality. The end is near: serve.
Do you believe Jesus will return? Do you believe he will reward those who have faithfully served him? Then let that inspire you to serve your local church. You don’t need an official position to serve. And don’t limit your service to those things that are convenient, exciting, or likely to be noticed by others. Serve out of love for Christ and his people, even if that service seems mundane or trivial. When you see Christ and hear him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” you will be glad you did!
Action Steps
Dwell deeply on gospel truths to give you regular motivation. Since faithful Christian service is motivated by theological truths (like God’s mercy, the Spirit’s gifting, and the Son’s return), think much on God’s redeeming work. Here is Keller again: “To fail to give ourselves in complete obedience to God is not only offensive morally, it is a failure to think clearly” (Romans 8 – 16 For You, p 107). Think regularly and thoughtfully about God’s grace and mercy, and serve out of the overflow of a heart of gratitude and joy. Remember that discipleship involves more than knowing things. While maturity involves being able to articulate biblical truth, it also involves living out biblical truth. A lot of Christians know a lot of Bible verses but aren’t serving anyone, and some don’t even belong to a church. You grow into maturity by faithfully living out the Christian life, which involves service. This has been called the “information age,” but sadly it won’t be called the “application age.” Don’t settle for endless studies, conference, blogs, and social-media interactions. Go wash feet. Use the preaching of the word and the ordinances of baptism and the Lord’s Supper as ways to cultivate a heart for service. Each time you hear the word preached, ask the Lord to convict and change you. Conviction is not a bad thing but a good thing. It’s a sign of the Father’s love. He doesn’t discipline us with a whip but with his word. As you are convicted and challenged, repent and plan to make changes so that you may be a “doer of the word” (James 1 v 22). As you observe someone’s baptism, remember your own baptism. Remember what it symbolized: the death of your old life and the arrival of the new. As you take the Lord’s Supper, examine your heart, give thanks to Jesus, and be reminded of the coming kingdom; allow this sacred ordinance to give you renewed passion for service. Be a servant, not a critic. It’s easy to argue and criticize. But instead, choose another path: humbly seize opportunities to serve Jesus and his people even if your service may seem small or insignificant. Welcome a new family to the fellowship, have college students in your home, give generously to the church, care for the children in the church, volunteer for students ministry, arrange chairs, play in the band, serve those who are struggling in your small group, serve the refugee family, take food to an elderly saint, or tutor a student. These are but a few examples of ways to be devoted to good works in Jesus’ name.
Stay in touch with the volunteer needs of your church and offer to serve as you can. Pay attention to announcements, church newsletters, or other forms of communication so you can know what’s going on and can contribute. Ask your church leaders where the particular needs are and offer to help as you can. There may be an opportunity for you to use your gifts or to simply offer assistance to someone else. Pray that you and your fellow church members will “serve the Lord with gladness!” (Psalm 100 v 2). When my wife has a birthday and I bring her a nice gift, my response to her question, “Why did you do this?” is not “Because I had to.” That doesn’t honor her. The attitude that honors her is “It was my pleasure; there are none like you.” Likewise it is the cheerful attitude of service that shows your love for God and brings him glory, for he stands alone as being glorious and worthy of endless praise.
So when this chapter speaks about honoring pastoral leaders, I can understand why you may bristle at the idea. But we must allow the Bible to shape us on this matter, as with every other matter. And this is what we see in Scripture: the presence of both bad and good leaders, and the call to honor the latter. Paul speaks often about false teachers and corrupt leaders—for instance, he tells the Romans to “watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them” (Romans 16 v 17). And he also speaks often about faithful pastors and leaders (for instance, 1 Timothy 3 v 1-7; 4 v 11-16; 5 v 17). Paul was clearly aware of the fact that there were honorable leaders and dishonorable leaders (2 Timothy 2 v 20-21).
Pastors are called to do their work willingly (1 Peter 4 v 2). They’re called to live holy lives before God—most of the pastoral qualifications are related to character, not skills (see 1 Timothy 3 v 1-7). They’re called to be humble servant leaders, like Jesus (see John 13 v 1-35). To be sure, pastors aren’t perfect, and they will have bad days and make mistakes, but the pursuit and pattern of a shepherd’s life should be marked by happiness, holiness, and humility.
In his book Stott on the Christian Life, Tim Chester tells the story of how a reporter once asked Stott, “You’ve had a brilliant academic career; firsts at Cambridge; rector at twenty-nine, chaplain to the Queen; what is your ambition now?” Stott replied, “To be more like Jesus” (p 225). This was more than the Sunday-school answer for Stott; it was his way of life.
René Padilla tells a story of traveling with Stott to Argentina. They arrived late at night in the pouring rain and ended up being quite muddy when arriving at their destination. The following morning Padilla awoke to find Stott cleaning Padilla’s shoes! When he objected, Stott said, “My dear René, Jesus told us to wash one another’s feet. Today we do not wash feet the way people did in Jesus’ day, but I can clean your shoes.” Stott’s long-time secretary, Frances Whitehead, said, “It still amazes me that he emptied my office wastepaper basket every day for many, many years”
Some view the work of a pastor as being like that of a CEO, others like that of a military general, and so on. But it is a mistake for us to take a worldly leadership category and map it onto our church. If a member (or leader) doesn’t have the proper expectation of pastors, then sooner or later there will be a lot of disappointment and a lot of heartache. So, what should we actually expect from a pastor/elder/overseer? In 1 Peter 5, Peter outlines three aspects: the pastor’s task, heart, and reward.
A plurality of elders is normative in the New Testament (for instance, 1 Peter 5 v 5; Acts 11 v 30; 15 v 2; Titus 1 v 5), and the term refers to a role or “office”: not to age but to the work of spiritual oversight. Since all church leaders are sinners, concentrating power in one person’s hands carries potential for disaster—hence a church will (or should) have elders, plural—and those elders should not be mere “yes men.” Different churches work this out differently. For instance, our church has both paid and unpaid pastors/elders (and we use both terms regularly).
The task. Peter underlines the responsibility of pastors as being to “shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight” (1 Peter 5 v 2). The job of the pastor is to tend to the sheep through careful and skillful shepherding and oversight. The idea of shepherd is a rich biblical theme providing a beautiful backdrop for pastors to understand this role. Good shepherds know the sheep, lead the sheep, protect the sheep, and feed the sheep
The heart. Peter gives considerable space to the heart of the shepherd, pointing out some of the most prominent temptations of church leaders: they should serve “not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5 v 2-3).
Faithful pastors should be motivated by the sheer love of the work. This doesn’t mean pastors shouldn’t be compensated (1 Timothy 5 v 17-18), but their motivation must not be one of seeking financial gain. Further, pastors shouldn’t play favorites in the congregation based on the wealthiness of members. The New Testament often ties false teachers and unfaithful leaders to an unhealthy love of money (see 1 Timothy 6 v 3-5).
Finally, pastors shouldn’t be domineering, but rather they should set a humble example. The desire for power and control often leads to toxic church environments. Christian leadership is not lordship; it’s about laying down your life, humbly following Jesus, and inviting others to follow you as you follow him
The reward. Pastors need to keep their eyes on Jesus: “When the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory” (v 4). Jesus is the real “Senior Pastor,” and he will reward the faithful service of elders. Shepherds are also sheep, and they depend upon the saving grace of Jesus Christ no less than any other church member. They, too, are looking for the glorious coming of Jesus, like every other Christian. And when Jesus returns, faithful pastors who lived out verses 2-3 will receive “the unfading crown of glory.”
This doesn’t mean that your elders are always right, or that they will always do things well and are therefore beyond correction. Peter made mistakes that required someone else to confront him and call him to repent (Galatians 2 v 11-14). In Acts 6, the apostles neglected the Greek-speaking widows in the congregation, and this needed to be brought to their attention. They didn’t intend for this to happen, surely, but it did. If the apostles had weaknesses and blind spots, then I’m quite sure I do! Humility before leaders does not mean you can never question what they do: it means that when you do need to have a conversation about an issue, it’s carried out humbly and biblically, not haughtily and hatefully (1 Timothy 5 v 19-20). Avoid two extremes here. Some feel that they should challenge their church leaders over everything, while others deem them as practically infallible and beyond correction. Humility navigates between the two.
Respect faithful pastors. “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work” (1 Thessalonians 5 v 12-13). If you see leadership being carried out in a way that reflects biblical principles and reflects the example of Jesus, respect such leaders. The church is called to “outdo one another in showing honor” (Romans 12 v 10), and that calling extends to honoring pastoral leaders (1 Timothy 5 v 17).
Love your pastors. “Esteem them highly in love” (1 Thessalonians 5 v 13, my emphasis). The honor to be given to pastors shouldn’t be a distant honor but a warm honor. There should be deep affection between pastors and members (2 Corinthians 6 v 11-13). Pastors shouldn’t withhold affection from members, and members shouldn’t withhold affection from pastors, and all members should “love one another deeply as brothers and sisters” (Romans 12 v 10a).
Follow the example of your pastors. “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith” (Hebrews 13 v 7). Pastoral leaders are called to keep a close watch on both their life and their teaching (1 Timothy 4 v 16), and by doing this, the church is built up because God’s people can heed God’s word and follow godly examples. The idea of imitation may sound cultish, but the point isn’t that a church becomes a personality cult. Rather, the idea is that you consider your leaders’ conduct, love, faith, and purity, and imitate that kind of life.
Be a joy to pastor. As we saw earlier, the writer of Hebrews told those Christians to obey their people’s leaders who were keeping a watch over their souls, so that their pastors could “do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you” (Hebrews 13 v 17). Avoid being a burden to them by opposing their teaching. Avoid burdening them by refusing to attend gatherings. Avoid being quarrelsome and divisive (whether in person or online). Don’t burden them by failing to contribute to the church’s ministry financially. Avoid being a burden by undermining or refusing to engage in the church’s mission. As they do this work, be mindful of their calling, and recognize that they seek your good and the glory of God. Let them have the joy of seeing you sitting humbly under the teaching of the word, repenting and changing as you do so.
Pray for your pastors. A careful look at the task of pastors should naturally cause us to pray for them. There isn’t anything better you could do for a pastor than this. In several places we find Paul asking for the church’s prayers (2 Thessalonians 3 v 1; Colossians 4 v 3-4; see also Ephesians 6 v 18-20). If the apostle needed the prayer of his churches, then your pastors certainly do! When someone asked the great 19th-century preacher C.H. Spurgeon what the secret to his effectiveness was, he said, “My people pray for me.”
Action Steps
Respect your pastors by being attentive to their teaching and by refusing to participate in rumors and backbiting. Recognize the amount of work put into sermon preparation and give honor to them by receiving God’s word humbly (1 Timothy 5 v 17). Further, do what you can to end divisive gossip and petty complaints about your pastor; this honors the office and the leader, and ultimately God, who has established the structure of the church for our good.
Love your pastors by doing something kind for them.
Express your thankfulness for your pastors teaching and example by offering words of encouragement to them. Don’t adopt the approach of “I told you ‘good sermon’ on your first week, and if I change my mind I’ll let you know.” Be consistent and thoughtful in your gratitude to God for them. You might encourage your pastor via email, a card, or a simple word of encouragement as you go out the doors each week: the more specific, the better! Those comments matter to pastors. Let them know that you appreciate them, you’re for them, and you love them.
Be a joy to pastor by doing the little things well. Some of these things involve showing up on time, volunteering to serve, being an encourager, avoiding gossip, watching out for the welfare of leaders and members, being generous, and maintaining a joyful attitude.
Pray for your pastors personally, with your family, and with other church members. One of the biggest blessings I hear from some of our church members is “Our family prayed for you last night at dinner” or “Our kids prayed for you before they went to bed.” Your prayers for your pastors will not only bless them, but they will bless you as well.
“If you build it, they will come” is the classic line from the movie Field of Dreams. I like the movie; but this is a terrible evangelism strategy. Most unbelievers have no interest in joining us this coming Sunday morning. Simply offering “a good product” isn’t enough to attract people in post-Christian contexts. It doesn’t matter how cool our venue is, how great the acoustics are, or how hip the pastor looks. Those who do turn up on a Sunday are almost always there because someone brought them.
Evangelism isn’t reserved for pastors or traveling evangelists—it’s the responsibility of all of God’s people.
Some believers have taken courses and read books on evangelism, memorized presentations, and more… but they still aren’t engaging non-Christians. That’s because evangelism is first and foremost about our hearts, not our methods. The how-to is important, but the lack of want-to is often the most obvious problem. This can creep into our hearts for a variety of reasons: lack of success in the past, the inconvenience often involved in holding out the gospel, or the fact that we run the risk of being mocked or rejected. But the truth is that we speak out of the overflow of the heart. When a young woman gets engaged, it’s amazing how her life and conversations change. She shows off that ring. She shows pictures of her fiancé. She updates her Facebook status. She begins planning the wedding. She starts shopping for that wedding dress! Why? She has a new love! She doesn’t go days and weeks without talking about Mr. Right. She doesn’t have to be forced or guilted into talking about him. She wants to. Guilt won’t motivate, but beauty will; hope will; love will; awe will. We talk about that which we love, treasure, revere, and hope in.
Though Peter’s context was different than ours is, he gives us three timeless priorities for faithful witnesses everywhere: practical goodness, Christ-centered reverence, and daily readiness. If we can cultivate this kind of attitude and passion, then we can see fruit in our ministry to the people in our networks.
Our witness involves more than good deeds, but it definitely includes good deeds (Matthew 5 v 16). The Great Commandment (love God and neighbor) and the Great Commission (make disciples of all nations) are not at odds. They represent what we could call the “integrative model” of mission—proclaiming good news and doing good deeds.
In our present cultural moment, everyone seems to want to be on the right side of an issue. These are volatile times, and social media makes things worse in enabling and encouraging people to rant about their opinions on all things political and cultural. But what Peter emphasizes isn’t political agitation or argumentation, but rather living a beautiful life that demonstrates the fruit of the gospel in our lives. I don’t mean to suggest that we shouldn’t have political opinions or discuss cultural matters, but in our present culture we need to notice that Peter’s emphasis is on living a life of good deeds before a watching world.
Many Christians have been trained to answer some of the basic questions that people might ask about our faith, and that’s wonderful; but they don’t know how to get that conversation started! Here’s Peter’s model: bless and do good to people. Live an attractive life under the lordship of Christ that provokes questions.
Fear will keep you from being a faithful witness. It can prevent you from serving someone, giving a book to someone, inviting someone to a meal, or from going in deep on the gospel. This is why Peter urges Christians to “have no fear of them” (v 14). The fear of others enslaves us, traps us, and constrains our thoughts and actions.
How do you avoid this? Peter says you avoid it by revering Jesus more than people: “Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3 v 14-15, my emphasis).
Two key words in this passage are easy to miss: “always” and “anyone”: Peter wants us to “always [be] prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (v 15).
Readiness means that we have to put away excuses for our lack of engagement with unbelievers. We need to accept the fact that it’s never really a perfect day for evangelism. We can always find an excuse: “I didn’t sleep well.” “I got in an argument with my spouse.” “This pollen is killing me.” But everyday evangelism says, “Game on.”
The word “defense” is the Greek word apologia, from which we get “apologetics.” In one sense, this does demand some level of study because giving a “reason” calls for logical thought. But Peter doesn’t have formal or academic apologetics in mind. He’s not thinking about sophisticated answers for the existence of God, the problem of evil, and so on, in some kind of public debate. What he has in mind are ordinary conversations about our hope.
Peter doesn’t tell us to “defend the faith” (though we should), but to defend our “hope.” Hope, in the New Testament, is not wishful thinking
It’s a settled confidence in future glory. This hope energizes our lives now, especially in suffering, and this hope shines in a hopeless world. This hope is so rare that some people will ask you about it, particularly when they are going through suffering or when they see you suffering with confidence.
This is liberating in many ways because some of us hear the word “apologetics” and panic, thinking, “I need to be prepared with all the answers to all the deep questions.” It’s certainly not a bad idea to read some apologetics books, but Peter’s focus is more on the heart level. You might call it an “apologetics of hope.” It’s more about adoration than argumentation.
To be an effective witness you need more than a knock-down argument on paper; you need a joyful song in your heart. You need more than logical answers; you need a heart captivated by Jesus.
Evangelism is not for the elite special-forces Christians but for everyone who abounds with gospel hope.
It is striking, as you read the Gospels, that in his interactions with people Jesus never used one canned presentation; he knew each person and addressed them individually.
Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. (Colossians 4 v 5-6)
“Seasoned with salt” was used to refer to witty, amusing, clever, humorous speech. Their saltiness will prevent them from being ignored as irrelevant bores … Godliness is not to be equated with stodginess. Flat formulas or lifeless platitudes do not capture the gospel’s excitement. It must be made palatable with a savory combination of charm and wit. (Colossians and Philemon, p 274, 287)
Work to make your witness interesting, lively, and colorful. Avoid boring, tedious, monotonous conversation. Use your personality.
If you’re quiet, use your natural gentle tone. If you’re witty, use your wit. If you’re the extroverted social butterfly, let your excitement shine. If you practice hospitality well, let your kindness melt your guests.
Network evangelism isn’t an event, nor is it a program. It’s a lifestyle. It’s about living with gospel intentionality within the everyday rhythm of life. It’s done among people who fall into one’s current web of relationships.
Network evangelism has several advantages. It recognizes the sovereignty of God. It fosters the belief that every person in our sphere of life matters, and it helps us remember that God has us living in this time and place in history, surrounded by particular image-bearers that he has sovereignly put in our path (Acts 17 v 26-27).
It’s helpful to think of your web of relationships in the following five network-categories: Familial: people in your family Geographical: people in your neighborhood Vocational: people at your workplace Recreational: people you play with or hang out with Commercial: people you see at shops
Pray for them. C.S. Lewis said, “I have two lists of names in my prayers, those for whose conversions I pray and those for whose conversions I give thanks.
Invite them. Have people over for dinner, to play sports, to go to a movie, or to come with you to a church event. Serve them. Identify a way that you can bless those in your networks. Offer to do childcare, pick up groceries, or do some lawn work for them. Give resources to them. Ask them to read a book or article with you, or to listen to a sermon or podcast. This can be a great way to start a gospel conversation. Share the gospel with them. Look for various points at which you can go deeper into your faith. Remember that you’re not the only one commending something or someone to others. Everyone is evangelizing about something: extolling the wonders of aroma therapy, kale smoothies, La Croix, life-changing skin care, Downton Abbey, Busch Gardens, CrossFit, Alexander Hamilton, LeBron for MVP, and more. The gospel is too good, and too important, to keep to ourselves!
So this is our call: to live a good and faithful life even in the midst of trial and suffering (1 Peter 3 v 17); to respond to questions with the right content and tone; and to always be in our “ready position” to share the hope that we have. Some people may respond in faith to the gospel, while others will not. Some may oppose you. But your call is to be faithful, and to leave the results to God.
Action Steps
Never stop praying. Of all the things you can do for the people in your networks, this is the easiest and one of the best things you can do: pray for them. Identify the people in your networks and begin praying daily for them. Pray quietly as you see them. It’s amazing what might open up if we would simply start asking God to bring them to faith in Christ. E: Exercise your faith wisely. How can you “walk in wisdom toward outsiders”? Be a good employee, live with integrity, and be alert to opportunities when you walk the neighborhood, when you shop, or where you play. Consider giving a book to someone or inviting them to dinner or to a church service. Consider surprising them with an act of service.
Talk graciously and winsomely. Commend the gospel in a way that is natural, gentle, and appealing. Treat each person uniquely. Consider thought-provoking questions that you could ask them, or respond to their questions with humility and thoughtfulness. If they disagree with you, do they still enjoy time with you? Carefully consider how Jesus, the friend of sinners, engaged outsiders with the gospel, and pray that you may have that kind of engagement with those far from God.
Christian, consider what a grand story you are part of! This unfolding story of God gathering a people for himself should encourage you as you look at your local church. Marvel at the faithfulness of God as you consider how the gospel got from Jerusalem to your church and to you. Let your heart be filled with praise—and long for the day in which you join all of our redeemed family from all ages from all around the globe.
We read of the birth of the church in the 28 chapters of Acts, but the story goes on, and our church and your church are part of that story! Perhaps this is why the book of Acts has such an abrupt ending. Acts 28 closes with a cliffhanger. Paul is ministering in prison, and a bunch of loose ends related to Paul, Peter, the early churches, and more are not tied up. If you were reading a novel with a similar lack of closure, you may be tempted to think that your book is missing a chapter! We’re left with the impression that the story is still in progress. And it is! The church today is living out what we might call Acts 29 (which is the reason for the name of the church-planting network that my church is a part of).
It was now that these new believers in Antioch became known by the name “Christian” (v 26). This was the term that unbelievers used to describe believers. These saints in Antioch (of all places!) so identified with Jesus that fellow Gentile citizens called them “little Christs.”
Mercy ministry (meeting needs through deeds) is a selfless ministry.
To reflect the Antioch model, we need to consider the needs of this broken world and give as we have the ability. Hopefully your church has ministries and partnerships that can help you do this, whether it’s ministry to the orphan, widow, refugee, prisoner, sick, dying, hungry, oppressed, and more. This kind of generosity shows that the gospel has transformed you (2 Corinthians 8 v 9).
When it comes to sending missionaries and planters, we need to avoid both individualism and institutionalism. Individualism means Christians act as lone-ranger missionaries. That’s not the picture in Acts. The church affirms the missionary calling, and they also provide ongoing support. Institutionalism means a mechanical and bureaucratic process, devoid of prayer and the Spirit’s leadership. Instead, we’re to learn from the model here: missionaries are directed by the Spirit and sent and supported by the church.
Action Steps
What we sometimes fail to consider is that the church is at the heart of God’s plan for the world. We fail to remember what Christ did to have a bride for himself, and we fail to consider how the church points to the future.
When your church gathers together to praise our Redeemer, you are getting a foretaste of this coming glory. Future reality is breaking into the present in your local church.
And God has given you your church to be the place where you sample that reality; where you are formed to be more and more like our Savior as you are reminded in his word and in baptism and the Lord’s Supper of what he has done for you; where you respond to his love in song and prayer and service; where you find family who can share your joys and walk with you through your valleys. It is an awesome thing to be a member of a local church, and it is a wonderful thing to know that our prayers and our efforts can make a difference not only today, but for eternity. So, pursue faithfulness to Christ and his church today. Belong, welcome, gather, care, serve, honor, witness, and send. The Lord of the church loves you with an undying love. So, love your church.