The Relevance of Church (part two)

A couple of days ago, I wrote part one of this "series" (that is a joke) and I have really struggled as to how to proceed with part two.  I literally feel like I could write forever about how critical of a role the church played in my growth as a Christian, as a man, and as a human being...  The truth is, I think it would be a pretty boring read.   It feels a bit too much like I am trying to enter into a debate that really isn't being debated...   The bottom line (for me) is this:  I have been given so much of my life through the church, and an attack on the church feels a bit like an attack on me.   Now I am not blind, I am not stupid, and I don't think I am ignorant (but would anyone really know if they were ignorant, and if they KNEW... they wouldn't really be ignorant.)  Anyway, I came to Paris to be a part of a church, to bring the things that have been sown into my life by the people of Destiny Church and the various ministries I follow, and sow them back into a budding community.   That is how much I believe in this stuff.

Now let me be CRYSTAL CLEAR.   The true source of life-change is God, the true source of security, community and relationship is God as well.   HOWEVER, those things can all be cultivated, nurtured, encouraged, and supported through the local church.   This is ultimately the piece of the equation that I feel the anti-church arguments are missing.   The church can serve as the testing grounds, the workout facilities and the practice teams through which we can safely stretch into the new creatures and creations we are constantly being challenged to be.  It can serve as the avenue through which we connect into the original lives that God is calling us to live.

I can already hear the people arguing against me, that there are countless churches that don't do this, or that aren't doing this.   Bravo, you're right...  But my church (Destiny) did, and C3Paris does too, and I would like to think that I have just as much of a part in this as anyone.   How, or in what way you are being stretched in your church depends on how, or in what way you are giving or investing into the church.  Does your circumstance dictate your blessing, growth potential, or relationship with God...  ?

Anyway, I am opening the door to about a billion different things and arguments, and really clearly debating none of them.  I can only tell you this...   I needed the church.  God brought me to Destiny, and the match could not have been more divine.   I just hope and pray that I can be a part of that same connection for someone else. 

Comments

[Destiny Church]

The police brought me to church (most know this). I was seventeen and in a world of hurt and was "given" an opportunity to get part of my life back through community service. Embarrassed and overwhelmed, an awesome group of people gave me a second chance at a local church. The police brought be to church, the love I was shown brought me back, God got a hold of me there, and the chance to see God do the same to others is what it's all about for me at our church. You're awesome Mocha - wow do we miss you!

Pastor Mike, Renae, and your Destiny Family

[Jess G]

Hey Mocha...I second Pastor Mike's comment....we miss you! I just wanted to let you know I've read both parts of this mini-series a couple of times now, and I think it is perfectly stated. I appreciate your insight!

[iman]

mocha...simply put, your view of the church and it's importance is very insightful.
thank you for putting into words the emotions and ruminations that i have been processing regarding this topic.
great job bro!
luv ya.