4. Generously make a tangible difference in the community
We love the church inside the walls, but we live for church outside the walls.
What we experience in the body of Christ in worship is powerful, encouraging and transformational. But that’s only the beginning, the ultimate and intended purpose is to carry that into the community.
It would be selfish for us as Christians to keep that blessing for ourselves. A spirit of generosity requires us to share that blessing with others.
- How do you do that?
- How does your church do that?
- How do you serve others, including others that may never likely attend your church?
Every community surrounding a local church presents incredible opportunities to meet needs.
The primary goal of the local church is not to get people to come sit with us for an hour on Sunday, but to take that hour as fuel to serve others in the communities where we live and work. It’s about changing lives.
5. Diligently invest in the maturity and growth of the body of believers
Jesus developed His disciples, and we must follow His example. Maturity doesn’t happen on its own. It’s not automatic.
We know this to be true because of those we’re acquainted with who are mature in years but not in faith, decision-making or behavior.
The interesting question is who is responsible?
Certainly, every adult is responsible for him or herself, but as Scripture is clear about discipleship and developing leaders, we therefore carry a part of that responsibility as well.
Diligence is an important word because helping people grow is not a fast process. And sometimes we can grow and then unravel a bit, that’s not uncommon. Therefore, patience is also key, and I’m so grateful God is patient with us. Another incredible example.
How’s your church doing in the process of helping people grow? What is your part?
6. Authentically enhance the joy and beauty of daily life
Hospitality is a word that carries an uplifting tone, and has a positive feel to it. But that’s only because of all the unseen and heavy lifting that comes with actually making it happen.
Genuine hospitality is a gift to anyone who encounters it. It causes us to feel welcomed, accepted, and valued. It sometimes even makes us feel special. This is a spiritual gift all churches can offer.
We’ve all been in a restaurant where there was hospitality, but it wasn’t authentic. Those who offered it were merely going through the motions, and certainly not from the heart.
While it’s nice to have someone bring you a cup of coffee, a cup of coffee with a smile and a kind word can change someone’s day.
The church has the opportunity to add joy and beauty to the lives of so many people in profoundly ways, but they are not easy ways, certainly not easy to practice consistently.
How’s the hospitality in your church?
This article originally appeared on DanReiland.com and is reposted here by permission.