We’re having a lectureship at the Doniphan Church of Christ this week, where my husband Steve preaches. And while, I’m pretty prejudiced when it comes to bragging about our preacher – it’s been nice to sit beside him this week and listen to others. We’ve had outstanding sermons, but the one thing that I’ve thought about over and over was something said in the closing prayer on Sunday. In honor of our lectureship starting, we had our Sunday morning worship service, potluck, and then our evening service at 1:00 pm. (aka – PEP Sunday (Preach, Eat, Preach). We had such a huge crowd stay for the potluck, that even after putting up extra tables and chairs, I caught some eating, while standing in the kitchen. Then, when it was time to start the afternoon service, so much visiting was going on, it took a few moments to get everyone’s attention to get started. It was a day of worship, praise, fellowship, and as was mentioned in the closing prayer – a day of “familyship.”
Isn’t that a wonderful description of the church? The church is described as the “body of Christ,” (Colossians 1:18), the “Bride,” (Revelation 21:2), and the “Light.” (Matthew 5:14). Peter said, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people (one that belongs exclusively to God). (I Peter 2:9a) While I love the concept that we are His sheep, and He is our Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20), there is something about the church being called the “household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10) Being part of the family of God allows that our “hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love.” (Colossians 2:2) It means that we can “confess our faults, one to another, and pray one for another.” (James 5:16) We come together to sing praises, partake of the Lord’s Supper, and study His Word. Jesus explained the evangelistic outreach possibilities when He said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” (John 13:34-35) Can others tell that you are following Christ?
Yes, the love that we show towards each other, and the way we serve one another is what makes the church enjoy “familyship!” God Bless, Courtney
Having a church family is one of the best benefits of being a Christian, I think. We have one godly man that always thanks God for “those of life precious faith”. Isn’t that wonderful!!