Sunday Recap- 11/20/11

It’s popular, even among Christians, to knock the church a bit.  It certainly has its own reputation of historical injustices and modern embarrassments. But there’s always the danger of creating an overly critical and cynical attitude toward the church that isn’t healthy, nor accurate.  Here are three ideas in an attempt to properly perceive and receive The Church as she is.  

1.  Jesus Loves The Church

He refers to The Church as his bride and passionately pursues her despite her sin and even rejection of him

2.  The Church is this world’s best chance at Justice and Restoration

The Church has historically honored the value of human beings through it’s treatment of the poor, the needy and abused.  Rather than God snapping his fingers and restoring our world, he has commissioned his church to the restorers of this world.

3.  The Church is a living thing that transcends all expectations and agendas

When operating fluidly within culture and among people, The Church can often cause the mess of people to rise to the top, which gives attention to the things that people genuinely face every day, and may be pointed to Jesus

The Church is weird and lovely, holy and human, at the same time.  And despite her appearance or mistakes, Jesus has sent her into the world to restore it as the Kingdom coming to earth, and will someday restore her to himself and receive her as a glorious bride.

Scripture we read 
Ezekiel 16 
Matt 25:31-46 
Acts 2:42-47

References

“Always a Woman” by Billy Joel

Dialogue from the film “Gladiator” between Maximus and Aurilius about Rome

Worship Set
Here is Love- Matt Redman
Let it Shine- All Sons & Daughters
All the Poor and Powerless- All Sons & Daughters
Shine Your Light on Us- Robbie Seay

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