42 Every believer was faithfully devoted to following the teachings of the apostles. Their hearts were mutually linked to one another, sharing communion and coming together regularly for prayer. 47 They were continually filled with praises to God, enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord kept adding to their number daily those who were coming to life.  

Acts 2:42, 47 Passion Translation

What is the church for you today?

The church is more than a building, more than just an organisation. The church is meant to be a family where we are bound together as a community of sons and daughters—regardless of our social, ethic and economic differences. 

Since Jesus has broken down all barriers and brought us together in Himself, we become the embodiment and expression of His love to each other and everyone. As we grow more and more in the likeness of His image, we will reflect the truth of who Christ is to one another in all we say and do. 

Luke tells us that the church consists of people who are in relationship with each other and with God. It is about sharing life together and building deep friendships. It never exists just for itself but as a beacon of God's love inviting all who are lost, far away from God, and want to return home. In this sense, we do not live only for ourselves, but to be Christ's hands and feet of righteousness. We are called to confound the world with the godly message of forgiveness and reconciliation.

Sometimes there are believers who don't feel like they belong to a church.

Maybe that's you right now, but it doesn't have to be. 

A majority of people leave church because of an offence. And most offences come from a misperception of what happened and/or an unwillingness to clear it up. As a consequence, they leave their call and community rather than sorting out their feelings, extending themselves further into reconciliation, and receiving grace and forgiveness. 

In the Bible, the early church had a robust understanding of community through loving and intentional relationships. This included investing time, resources and having a sincere and willing heart for each other's lives and well-being. Isn’t that a wonderful thing? Likewise, we need to discover and practice community with each other, because we are called to love each other and called to serve together through our friendships.

Being part of a church community is about unlearning selfishness and individualism and also learning to love selflessly. It is not just a skill but a way of life—because of who we are and whose we are in Christ.