This is part one in a series of posts about the dynamics of a powerful and effective church. I want you to take specific note on what is not here: attendance numbers, pod casts, books, special effects, programs and compromise. This is all about what we as Christ-followers must live out in our lives (both as individuals and corporately) in partnership with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I have broken down thirteen qualities of a biblical church into three categories: personal, devotional, and corporate.
The first area I am going to tackle is personal qualities, as these are the cornerstones of our faith. By personal I do not mean personality, I mean things that must happen in an individuals life that can have impact on the church as a whole. And I am going to start out with something that a lot of post-modern church’s do not like to dive into.
Repentance.
What is repentance you ask? It’s a total shift in the direction of your life. It takes you away from the old life of sin, and towards your new life in Jesus. Now before I go further let me just clear this up; repentance is instant, holiness is a work in progress. Do not look down upon those who are new to the faith, help them find the way.
One of the biggest buzzwords that I hear thrown around in christian media and church’s today is “believe”. A lot of emphasis is put on belief, because it is easy. Who can’t say that they believe in Jesus? But how do you believe in Him? As a prophet? As a teacher? As a good man? How about as a personal savior? Acts 16:31 does say “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved.” Believing is important. But is it enough? In James 2:19, James writes “You believe that there is one true God. Good! Even the demons believe that – and shudder.” Everyone reading this can most likely agree that there will be no demons in heaven.
Repentance is more than belief. It is the foundation of Jesus’ teachings. Matthew 4:17 reads “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Merely attending church and believing is not enough. Becoming a christian starts with belief, but our faith and beliefs must match what the Bible teaches. And that my friends is powerful, life changing repentance.
Want to see God move in a powerful way in your life and your church? Take the first step, its the one away from sin and death, and towards the Father’s arms.
Sources:
Wood, George O. , Acts: The Holy Spirit at Work in Believers, Global University, 3rd ed. 2010, p. 77-78
All scriptures taken from Holy Bible, New International Version, International Bible Society
Resonant Love 