Do Church or Be Church

The Church in the book of Acts was a living, breathing organism. It was a way of life, a movement that attracted thousands of people almost daily. It was exciting to be a part of what God was doing in and through His followers. This seems so far removed from the Church in America in 2011. Instead of a living, breathing organism, we've become a brick and mortar organization and institution of rules, programs, tight schedules and committees.

Acts 2:42-47 describes what daily Church life was like and it's no surprise that it grew into critical mass. When you compare the first Church and our latest version of Church in 2011, if we are honest with ourselves, we have to admit that there is no resemblance. If we break it down into its basic form and function, the difference becomes all too obvious.

Then: They devoted themselves to the apostle's teaching (study scripture, the Word of God)
Now: We devote ourselves to our jobs, to the pursuit of money, luxury, keeping up with the Joneses, sports, music, technology, Hollywood. We just don't have time to study scripture, let alone devote ourselves to it.
Then: They were devoted to fellowship, breaking of bread (sharing a meal together and prayer.)
Now: We have become a fast food society in our quest for prosperity. Texting has taken the place of meaningful fellowship; prayer has become a 911 call to God.

I don't know if Jesus would recognize the Church of 2011. I wonder if Churches care if Jesus shows up or not... and would they recognize Him either.Would they chase Him away? I am not a Church basher. I love the Church. We are the bride of Christ. Parts of her are not healthy though, and we must be part of the cure. Are you tired of doing Church? Are you willing to step up and BE the Church; the body, the hands and feet of Jesus? If the Church of America is the body of Christ, then Jesus is paralized from the neck down. In our quest to change, let's encourage the body to be what Christ called us to be.

Love the Church through this illness. Be the Church to the world.