Jesus told three parables as recorded in Luke 15: ‘The Lost Sheep,’ ‘The Lost Coin,’ and ‘The Prodigal Son.’ These parables all have the same central theme. There are Christians in the House of God (a House of Prayer), who are lost spiritually in their understanding and knowledge of the church. Jesus gave a message to the church at Ephesus.
“I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent,” Revelations 2:4-5. There are some who think the church is an organization like other organizations. Rather, it is a new way of life—a life lived in Jesus Christ. But there are those who have the view that being a part of the church is like being a member of a lodge, a sorority, a luncheon club, a political party, or even a business.
Those who think this way are seriously mistaken. They feel they should give to the church the same kind of support and loyalty they give to these other organizations. It becomes my church, as it is my club, or my lodge, or my team. One’s Christian loyalty to the church should be unique, for in reality it is a loyalty to Christ and His way of living.
The church is like no other institution on earth and a person’s membership in the church is like no other membership, which can be sustained.
The church is more like a vibrant, living organism, not like a cold, structured organization. Some make the mistake of thinking that the church exists for the entertainment and enjoyment of its members.
On the contrary, the church exists in order that its members may have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ and the eternal God, as well as a close relationship with mankind. (Love thy neighbor as thy self).
My weekly prayer is that the reader of this commentary becomes spiritually inspired of God.
Become a Prayer Partner with Expressions of Faith. Send for a copy of an Intercessory Prayer and re-dedication of life. Contact EOF at P.O. Box 330127, Nashville, Tenn. 37203; or e-mail <watsonwr68@ gmail.com>. God bless!
