He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. Colossians 1: 17-18
I don’t know about you, but when I don’t feel well, sick with a cold or flu, I can’t think about anything else. In contrast, when I’m feeling well, I hardly ever think about my health. Isn’t that the irony when it comes to the human body? Problems dominate our thinking, while we take good health for granted.
Jesus says the church is like the human body, and God’s desire is for a healthy church. So, if we want to build or maintain a healthy church, what should we be looking for?
- Rock Solid Foundation. Anyone in construction knows—if the foundation is not right, the building will not stand. Christ is the foundation of the church, the rock. Jesus is Christianity. Christianity is Jesus.
- Leaders who Lead. A healthy church has spiritual leaders who constantly seek Christ—constantly point people to Him.
- A healthy church supports its leaders. Those involved in the ministry look to their leaders for support in their walk with Christ, trusting and submitting to their leadership.
- Just as each part of the body has unique strengths and roles, each member of the church has unique gifts. A healthy church sees each member of the body using those gifts, whether it be teaching, serving, or leading a group of high school guys.
- Mission Minded. Healthy churches send people out. They are focused on the main mission given by Christ –to go and make disciples of all nations.
- A healthy church is united. Christ centered churches that are focused on their global mission will always experience incredible unity.
- Accept Discipline. Church discipline is not about being mean, harsh, judgmental. Church discipline is about love. It’s a tough love, but the whole motive is love. And the whole reason is for restoration.
So, what’s the diagnosis – How healthy is your church? Start today by praying for your church and its leaders. Don’t stop there - join in and participate. Find ways to use your unique skills and be a PART of your church.
