We are the Church...
Origin:
1570–80; < Latin < Greek ekklēsía assembly, equivalent to ékklēt ( os ) summoned ( ek- ec- + klē-, variant of kal-, stem of kaleîn to call, + -tos past participle suffix) + -ia -ia
All who are Born Again, as the Scripture hath said, are
called, summoned.
In order that we might not just run around with our own little agenda and whatnot,
God designed that there be pastors, teachers, apostles, prophets in this called out Body.
This "assembling together," be it an edifice built specifically for this purpose, a dining room in your home, or a brush arbor, is often called "church."
But it is not THE Church...we are THE Church.
The place where we assemble is simply a place we have set aside for prayer, instruction, edification, giving, and fellowship of like minded disciples of Christ.
It is all scriptural, and CCI is absolutely right in this...assembling together and pastors, etc. is all scriptural.
To say otherwise is to pick and choose which part of truth we will embrace.
I am deeply sorry that many have been wounded by those who sought to follow their own way rather than the Word of God, or by those who lacked the love of God in administration.
Trust me when I say that I have horror stories in my family, and as I write, there is an ongoing issue that I am dealing with...NOT with my church or pastor!!!!
So I
DO understand, but with all that is going on, I must remember that God's plan for the Church...the summoned and called, has not changed just because charlatans raise their ugly head.
God's Word stands as strong and true and right today as it did when the first century saints first read those letters of instruction.
I still be believe in the Church and I believe in her worth. If that involves having a pastor and attending services/meetings, I am honored to do so.
