What is the purpose of the church? My answer to this question has changed a number of times in my journey with Jesus. I'd rather not go over some of the answers I have given in the past, some were OK, some were just ridiculous. The answer, I believe, starts with acknowledging the church is the body of Christ.
If the church is the body of Christ, the church should reflect Christ. So who is Jesus Christ? He is first and foremost the Son of the Father. Who, then is the Father? He is God. Further understanding points out that God is Father, Son and Spirit. So if the church is the body of Christ, who is part of the Triune God, it stands to reason the church should reflect God.
Who, or what, then is God? God is love.
Would you not agree that if the church is the body of Jesus, who is part of the Triune God, who is love, the church should be known for it's love? This is exactly what Jesus said, "Then they will know you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." Love for whom? For one another - in the body first, and also outside the body.
Paul said to do good to all, especially to the household of faith.
This makes sense. If we want to reflect who God is, and God is Papa/Father, Son and Spirit God who are in a love relationship with love that is overflowing, should the church not reflect this love relationship that is overflowing? It reminds me of what we read in Acts 3 about the early church. They devoted themselves to that relationship of love - fellowshipping, sharing meals, praying together, selling their stuff so they could share with those less fortunate. And their love for each other showed others that they were true disciples, and others wanted to be part of this community that was known for their love for each other. And God added to their number daily.
Wow!
Why has it taken me so long to see that the main purpose of the church is to reflect the love of the Father, Son and Spirit? When a church community is filled with love that overflows, that overflowing becomes a blessing to the community outside the church doors who want to be part of something so alive, and vibrant, and exciting, and fulfilling, and encouraging. God starts to move in their hearts as they begin to see the value of relationship and the value of being a disciple of Christ. And then the church grows - because God adds to the number daily.
May we reflect God's love amongst ourselves so powerfully that it brings glory to God and shines as a beacon of hope to the world. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this.
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