Over the past century, at least, we have been all into membership. "How many members do you have?" "Who is 'in' your church (as opposed to those who are out)?'" "We want to grow our church by attracting new members!" Is this model Biblical?
If we look at the Acts Church, we find the expression of the Gospel story and the following of God's Spirit causing God to "add to their numbers." The events that lead to these statements are not planned revivals, Gospel sings or even what we would call a worship service. They (the events) seem to happen organically out of the presence of God's Spirit mixed with contrite people who have more questions than answers. The manifestation of God's Spirit happens ... seemingly because God wants to appear and act.
Over the past 6 months I have increasingly seen people, congregations and what we would call 'churches' become bewildered, at a loss for what to do and in a state where there are many more questions than answers. And (this is not expected at all) the groups of believers that are seeming to thrive are those that allow God to pour into them, expectantly allowing God to lead them. They are far from an attitude of seeking members. Instead, they are having to become "The Church" rather than go "to church." I wonder if God is "making disciples" that "are added to the Church daily."
Last observation (and this one is a little scary) ... maybe God is exerting Himself as He breaks out of the little box we have put him in. And as I am watching this unfold all around, I 1) want you to see and perceive it, 2) want to share this amazing story, 3) want to proclaim a truth that is true today and has been true since we were placed in Eden ... GOD HAPPENS! God happens in spite of us, but God REALLY happens when open, contrite, receptive, humble and expectant people say what the ancient Church said ... Maranatha ... "Come Lord!"
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