“As each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”
Romans 12:4-5
A pastor in Northern Ireland noticed that one of his congregants had stopped coming to church. When he paid the man a visit, they both sat by the fire, discussing how the man felt he could be a good person and love God without all the formalities of attending church.
The pastor listened. Eventually, they both sat in silence. Finally, the pastor took up the tongs and removed a glowing piece of coal, placing it on the ground just outside of the fire. Both men stared at it for some time. The glow lasted for several minutes, but slowly and inevitably began to lose its heat and its light. When it died out, the pastor stood up, excused himself, and left.
You see, there is a greater purpose to church than just hearing a motivational message. We need fellowship, teaching, accountability, and community to keep the fire of our faith burning, to help us live and grow as followers of Christ. Let church be the place your heart’s passion is kindled for a life of service and growth so that your passion for worship and for the Lord does not burn out.
The pastor listened. Eventually, they both sat in silence. Finally, the pastor took up the tongs and removed a glowing piece of coal, placing it on the ground just outside of the fire. Both men stared at it for some time. The glow lasted for several minutes, but slowly and inevitably began to lose its heat and its light. When it died out, the pastor stood up, excused himself, and left.
You see, there is a greater purpose to church than just hearing a motivational message. We need fellowship, teaching, accountability, and community to keep the fire of our faith burning, to help us live and grow as followers of Christ. Let church be the place your heart’s passion is kindled for a life of service and growth so that your passion for worship and for the Lord does not burn out.
Scripture Focus
Ephesians 4:11-16
Insight
We don’t go to church to be entertained. There we grow as followers of Christ as we set aside one day in seven for Him.
Bible In A Year
- Numbers 33-34
- Psalm 78
- John 20
