State of the Church
I often question, as many do, why the Church doesn’t seem to have the same power that it once did? The first century church was powerful enough that the mere shadow of Peter passing over a person could heal them. It is people’s faith (true undoubtable belief) that makes them whole, but why was their faith SO much stronger then, than what we see now? Let me introduce you to a couple named Ananias and Sapphira.
Here we see a couple who were disciples of Jesus. In fact, they were a very highly esteemed couple regarded as some of the most holy examples of Jesus’ teaching. They were among the examples of Peter and John. One of the highest examples of servant hood was to sell all of their possessions to have funds to give to the poor. As you remember, they DID sell their lands as an example (to the people) of their holiness. The issue was that they didn’t do it with the right heart. They did the act of selling their property for the elevation of status among the people and disciples and even kept some of the proceeds to protect their own financial position. They were practicing deception and wanted their own elevation of status, and did not truly believe what the position that they were seeking represented. IT WAS ALL ABOUT THE STATUS OF POSITION! An example that it wasn’t about the money is the example of the ‘rich ruler’ of Luke 18. This man didn’t sell everything or give it to the ministry of Jesus and he walked away while Ananias and Sapphira dropped dead.
What does this mean then? Let me answer with a question. How many pastors hold their position because of the status? Who would preach and teach without the paycheck, the free lunches or car washes by the grateful congregation? Who would continue to teach the difficult message even if their message gained them only scorn and ridicule by their congregation of followers? The answer to these questions, I believe, would also answer my very first of why the church is weak. Christian martyrs will be held at a higher position than nominal, just get in the door Christians, not because of their personal sacrifice, but because of their infallible faith. They believe enough to not only go without a paycheck and car wash, but to sacrifice their very life to help another find salvation. THIS is where we see the bride of Christ in her whitest robes and at her most powerful. It is important for the leadership of the Church to check their motives, because we ARE held to a higher standard based on reality and not just appearance.
I am constantly faced with the REALITY that non-believers (atheists and agnostics) often know more Bible literature than Christians. It takes work to know what we are supposed to believe. It takes effort to study and understand the message that God Himself, painstakingly took the time to create, write and even manifest simply so that we could clearly understand it. Let’s get in the gym and become the powerful bride that God would like for us to be.
