Church, What’s the Point? (Acts 1:6-8)
We gather together out of our need. This small band of believers had spent three years working with and following Jesus, and in verse 6 they are gathered together again, directionless, hopeless, and confused. I’m sure they had many questions. Did I waste the last three years? What am I to do now? They needed encouragement and direction, so they gathered together.
Gathering, or assembly, is the root meaning of ekklēsia, the word for church used in scripture. In my search for the purpose and relevancy of church, the study of Acts provides insight into its beginning. How did it work in its infancy? What can or do we do today in keeping with its original function? The usage of the word ‘church’ changed to include a local gathering of believers, as well as a term for all believers everywhere. I understand church to be a gathering of believers brought together by a common need. It could be a lunchtime prayer group at work, a support/recovery group, or soup kitchen as long as those gathering are believers. Jesus said in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.”[1] What a great promise! As we gather together, because it is our need to do so, Jesus promises to gather with us. This is churching.
Another aspect of churching is training. As they gathered, they asked questions, sought directions and understanding. Because they didn’t comprehend their purpose or the kingdom of God, Jesus taught them and gave them a focus on their role. When we hear the words of God, we are trained and taught about our purpose and God’s kingdom plan.
The disciples demonstrated the ability to question God. We should have no fear in asking when we are seeking him. However, God reserves the responsibility to help us understand and function in our specific purpose, and teach us not to worry over other stuff. Much like a child needs to trust the knowledge of a parent saying, “Don’t put that paperclip in the electrical outlet.” God gives the knowledge we need to follow him and grow, and cautions us to trust him in the things we don’t need to know. In Genesis 3:5, Eve sought forbidden knowledge—being like God, knowing good and evil. Because of that, we suffer today. We may ask questions of God, but not question his authority. We must trust him in all things.
In verse 8, we have our purpose. It is to be testifiers or influencers, empowered by the immersion, the covering of the Holy Spirit, telling people everywhere about Jesus. I’ve heard it said, “Power equals influence and influence equals power.” We have a great amount of influence over those around us. Simply smiling often causes others to smile back. When God’s presence smothers us, comes upon us, we have a powerful influence for God and his kingdom. Living out our purpose makes us a powerful positive influence that starts at home and reaches far. We may never know for certain how many we influence.
If you’re a believer, will you share how you creatively church, seek encouragement and training?
Do you have an experience to share of trusting God and his authority while asking questions of him?
Considering our impact this past year, what are some practical ways to personally increase our influence?
[1]Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible : New Living Translation., “Text Edition”–Spine., 2nd ed. (Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004), Mt 18:20.
