“You are the body of the Anointed One, and each of you is a unique and vital part of it.”
1 Corinthians 12:27 TPT
On every continent, in every nation stands a people who are the blood-bought, Spirit-filled, faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. They are the set- apart ones who no longer call this place their home. They are the sent ones that carry within them the message of hope to the lost. They are the body of Christ with Jesus’ full assurance and authority backing them up. Jesus declared the gates of Hell will not prevail against the church. (Matthew 16:18)
THE BODY OF CHRIST
In Ephesians 4:11-16 and 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 Paul speaks of the church as the Body of Christ. This explanation gives us a greater understanding of how we are to live the Christian life together.
CONNECTED AS ONE, BUILT UP AND MADE PERFECT IN LOVE
“For his “body” has been formed in his image and is closely joined together and constantly connected as one. And every member has been given divine gifts to contribute to the growth of all; and as these gifts operate effectively throughout the whole body, we are built up and made perfect in love.”
Ephesians 4:16 TPT
Biblical discussion of godly living is almost always set in the context of growing together, in community, as God’s people. For Christians today, and for the last 2,000 years, God has established the local church as the vehicle for that community. I have to admit it’s not always easy. Living community minded, as the Body of Christ requires both giving and receiving. It’s being willing to be seen as you are and willing to be challenged to grow up toward maturity. It’s being willing to step out in faith knowing you may miss it. It’s being willing to give of your life to someone who may not be able to give anything in return. However hard it may be it’s full of great joys and wonderful promises and most importantly it’s necessary! We are the church- the ones who are called! The world groans for the Sons and Daughters to arise in maturity and it’s accomplished as we take our place in the body. All are needed! It’s in the giving and receiving of love we are built up. This is what Jesus said would distinguish us from the world- by the love we have for one another!
QUESTIONS:
1. How have you received from the church? Has their been a specific relationship that has most impacted you? How has your life benefited?
2. What’s the most impactful memory of a time you have given of yourself to the church (a person or ministry)?
3. Do you feel a nudge from the Lord in giving to someone or something specific? How can we pray for you?
