Where do you fit in the body?



"And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you." 1 Corinthians 12:21 (KJV)

As a Pastor it is sometimes a little embarrassing plugging one's church service and reminding the congregation that "we would really like it if everyone could show their support for..." that special meeting you have been praying over and burning the midnight oil in preparation for. However, being part of a local congregation and finding your role in that gathering of Believers, is an important part of what it means to be a Christian.

 

The word "church" is the English translation of the Greek word "Ekklesia," meaning "called out ones" or "congregation." It is clear, from this word, that the church is not a building but a body of people - Christ's body.

 

"So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another." Romans 12:5 (KJV)

 

Some may say that they are part of Christ's body, but they are fine on their own. They have their Bible, prayer-life and are actively serving the Lord and sharing the Gospel. They don't need their congregation! But what if the congregation need you?

 

Here are 14 reasons by Kenneth Kuykendall why you might not want to miss that next meeting: 

•The body of the congregation is incomplete.
•Your voice is not heard in the worship and singing of the saints.
•You cannot actively serve others who may need your gifts.
•You cannot contribute in the offering.
•You do not receive the Word of God in a preaching format.
•You miss out on corporate prayer.
•You forfeit fellowship with other believers.
•You send a message to the youth that missing church is acceptable.
•You make it easier to miss the next week, and then the next.
•You become susceptible to apathy and indifference.
•You make it harder for others to bear the weight and burdens of ministry.
•You miss opportunities to share your own struggles with the saints of God.
•You cause unnecessary worry for your pastor, teacher, staff, and leaders.
•You miss out on altar invitations, life-changing decisions, and spiritual experiences.

 

 

"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." Hebrews 10:25 (KJV)