This post is part of a series of core Christian principles for new believers. For more, visit the series archive.
Learn the importance of your new family in Christ and how to use spiritual gifts to benefit them.
Church family vs. Church home?
In Christianity, the term 'Church' has two distinct definitions. One is referring to a group of people, and the other is a location.
1. The Church - All true believers of Jesus Christ born during the Church Age.
2. A Church - A building or place of worship for Christians.
Each member of 'The Church' is connected spiritually to one another by the Holy Spirit.
This holy union is often depicted in the figure of a human body or as a marriage.
Collectively, we are a living and growing organism that forms the body of Christ.
"For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit." - 1 Cor. 12:13 (NASB)In the bible, an authoritative relationship is similar to the natural functions of the head and body.
Even though both body parts are dependent on each other, the head is the leader and authority.
While the body, the majority, is to obey and trust the directions given despite its desires.
As Christians, Jesus Christ is our head, holding ultimate authority, above family, friends, circumstances, and even our own lives.
We are even called the bride of Christ, painting a beautiful picture of our future relationship.
"He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me] is not worthy of Me." - Matt. 10:37-38 (AMP)You are my brother/sister in Christ, without regard to 'race,' culture, or background. And we'll eventually live together for eternity with God, carrying out whatever sovereign assignment He has given us.
When Christians understand the unity we have spiritually, morally, and how our lives are connected forever, we can operate as a loving Church family.
Every Church family should have a Church home, a place to meet, fellowship, and worship regularly.
Where you're familiar with the teaching style, involved with the congregation, spiritually blossoming, and you feel at 'home' there.
However, it is not uncommon to venture away from your home Church for a while or find a new one. Sometimes we physically move away or spiritually outgrow the environment, but don't let any circumstances stop you from finding a new place to call home.
Why do I need a Church family?
It's a beautiful thing to be surrounded by like-minded individuals who are there to help you, lift you up in prayer, and have a mutual love for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
It is in this spiritual community that we exercise our spiritual gifts, find encouragement to follow God's will, and learn how to interpret scripture properly. - Dr. Charles Stanley
Here are a few more good reasons why you'll need a Church family.
We Help Each Other Grow
"to equip the saints for the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God's Son, growing into maturity with a stature measured by Christ's fullness." - Eph. 4:12-13 (CSB)
We Are Stronger Together
"Again, truly I tell you, if two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them." - Matt. 18:19-20 (CSB)
We Love and Encourage One Another
"And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching." - Hebrews 10:24-25 (CSB)
We Unite In Praise and Worship
"Let the word of Christ dwell richly among you, in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts." - Colossians 3:16 (CSB)
Granted, with any large family or mixture of personalities, there will be challenges, conflicts, and obligations. However, our involvement in the Church is valuable, and more importantly, it's the desire of our Lord.
How do I find a Church home?
Christians can worship God at any time or place on earth. Yet, it's vital that we come together on common ground as God intended. Notice the many options available today!
Every Church home is unique in its own way. Offering various degrees of opportunities and studies, different missions and ministries, multiple locations, and personal relatability.
How do I find the right Church for me?
There are essential qualities a good Church home needs before you decide to join them.
"...We will not be influenced by every new teaching [carried along by every wind of (false) teaching] we hear from people who are trying to fool [trick] us. They make plans [scheme] and try any kind of trick to fool people into following the wrong path [error; false teaching]."
- Eph. 4:14 (EXB)
Unfortunately, many people today are on Satan's team, and their mission is to cause havoc in the Church.
Beware of fake Pastors, corrupt churches, and false biblical teachings.
Of course, knowledge is power, so recognizing the warning signs will save you from much trouble.
3 Best Qualities in a Church Home
True Biblical Doctrine
Are they teaching directly from scripture?
Are you growing in your relationship with God there?
Fruitful Environment
Do the leaders care about their member's development?
Are leaders/members held accountable to God's standards?
Community Outreach
Does the Church preach the gospel to the unsaved?
Does the Church help the widow, orphans, or the poor?
If you answered 'YES' to all the questions above, I do believe you're in a great Church home.
If you answered 'NO' to one or more questions, I would suggest praying for guidance to a new Church home that's well-pleasing to God.
How can I help other believers?
Ministering to other believers will come naturally as you mature and pursue God's heart.
One easy way to help is by using our spiritual gifts to edify the Church and not for selfish desires.
"Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." - Phil. 2:4 (ESV)God can use you in many ways if you only allow Him. Your Christian walk is always on display at home, school, work, different businesses, and at Church.
Christianity is a 24/7 lifestyle, not a once a week activity.
Choosing to follow Christ has a domino effect on everyone in your vicinity, including strangers.
Your daily attitude can negatively or positively impact those who are curious about Christianity, so don't take your influence lightly.
Leading by example is what it means to be the light in a dark world, guiding lost souls to Christ.
Scriptures:
"Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." - Matthew 5:16 (NASB)
Songs:
"I will go where you go I will stay where you stay Oh-oh
'Cause I don't wanna go if you're not going before me..."
'Let Love Lead' by Terrian
"It's better to be lowly along with the oppressed
Whatever's in our hearts, our lives will reflect
Help us to be planted in you, Lord..."
Sermons:
Maximizing Your Potential Part 1 (25 mins)
Maximizing Your Potential Part 2 (25 mins)
You know what your salvation does for you. But what’s it doing for the kingdom? Dr. Tony Evans shows us how the Lord has packed each of us with potential, but it’s up to us to unpack it and put it to work...
Enjoying your new life with Christ is exciting; next, we'll discover how to let go of your old one in [Step 13] Letting Go.
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