The Church Is The Hope Of The Community

The church is the hope of our community. Perhaps you’ve heard me say it, and wondered where in scripture I pull that statement from. Or, you’ve wrestled with how that statement can actually be true. After all isn’t Jesus the hope of the world?

Yes, Jesus is the light and hope of humanity, but He has chosen to shine that light through us—His church. He shines brightly and gives hope to all who find Him, but without the church that hope is hidden.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus shared the following about those that would follow after Him:

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 

Jesus made three powerful statements about those who follow Him:

#1 They are light bearers.

Jesus is the light that brings forth life. All who find that light become reflections of His light. We re-present Him to the world around us. You and I were created to shine!

#2 They cannot hide.

I saw something in this statement this week I have never seen before. I will share it with you this weekend. Until then, meditate on this statement, “they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” Ask yourself what Jesus is directing each of us to do here.  It’s a powerful perspective shift!

#3 They glorify God. 

When we embrace our role as light bearers we, in turn, direct those in darkness back towards the light and bring glory to our heavenly Father.  

A recent Barna survey showed a 71% favorability for Jesus with millennials but a 46% favorability for local churches. This tells us that this generation is wide open to encounters and a relationship with Jesus but they don’t see how the church is necessary in helping them find that.  

My friend, the church is missing on the mission of being the light! This is why this month and 30 journey of “Compelled By Love” is so important. We are recapturing the heartbeat of God. I trust you’ve been following along in the daily devotionals and praying for your ten.

We continue the journey on Sunday.  I look forward to seeing you.

Immeasurably More, 

Pastor