Verse of the day

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Simplicity - the beauty of the new testament church

I was so delighted in my meditation today as I spent a few minutes considering the simplicity of how the Lord Jesus has instituted His church. A few things that crossed my mind, i'm sure its not exhaustive:
1. the simplicity of the meetings
When the church is gathered, the Holy Spirit is in charge. He decides who prays, who shares the gospel, who offers a hymn, who starts the meeting. So there is no additional burden on anyone to be anxious about having a specific role in the meeting. All who come with a spiritual heart can be used by the Spirit. We need not have complicated duty rosters, long meetings to plan meetings, etc... Simple.

2. The simplicity of the place of gathering
A gathering of the Lord's people can only be called such when the Lord Himself is present. And His presence has been promised "when two or three are gathered in His name". We don't need elaborate, multimillion dollar buildings, and earthly 'holy grounds' to meet at. All we need is a place to be together, and He is present with us. Our rooms, our homes, or some place where like-minded Christian can meet, is good enough for a church meeting. Simple.

3. The simplicity of providence.
We believe that the 'earth is the Lord's, and its fullness thereof". The Lord is fully able to provide for His church and to provide for its needs not just spiritually, but materially.

4. The simplicity of His government
The Lord has given us His Spirit to be within us. Since we are of One Spirit, and have One Lord, have one faith, been through the one baptism, and are of one God and Father of all, He is then able to lead us and use according to His good will.
Yes, the Lord has allowed that some be called elders, but that is not a magnification of an office, it is merely a magnification of a godly and spiritual work that all believer should aspire to do, but God has chosen some to be in a position to 'take care of His church'.
Our role, our duty, is to submit to His governance. Submitting to His infallible Word, for in them we have instructions for godly living within and without the church. No need for complex heirarchies, and global networks of administration. No need for 'confirmation' of believers and ordination of clergy and laity. Every church in every locality is self-sufficient because when the acknowledge the Lord Jesus as Head and their Great Shepherd, then they "shall not be in want." Simple.

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