Recently, my wife and I have been discussing how wonderful it is to know other Christians, who are truly living their faith and serving the Lord.
Today, many people are not oriented that way, but being part of the community of faith is a refreshing blessing.
At our church, people refer to each other as our church family. We try to be there for each other. We care about each other, and we deeply pray for each other. As a spiritual discipline, we try to live in a community of faith. We do not do faith alone, we learn from each other. Colossians 1:7-8.
In 1 Timothy 3:15, the apostle Paul describes the nature of the church.
“15 but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.”
Not only are families and children and grandchildren taught high moral and spiritual values in church, we hope that they acquire a deep reverence for God and God’s values as represented in scripture.
In this passage, Paul describes the church.
Paul writes that the church is “the household of God.” We are the family of God. Since we are part of God’s household, we must act accordingly.
Paul also emphasizes that the church is special. He describes the church as “the church of the living God.” We worship God in love and service as the body of Christ. Each member of the body has a function in the church to serve others. God is alive and is moving in the life of the church and in the lives of His people.
Then Paul writes that the church is “the pillar and support of the truth.” The church has to have the strength to hold up the truth of God.
We are then back to the question of what is truth. That is an issue that has been debated throughout the ages and is still debated. The word of God answers that question. In John 17:17 Jesus prays for His followers: “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.” So scripture is truth. Many have abandoned biblical standards in their lives and the primacy of God’s values in their families. Now our country is paying a huge price. But King Solomon advised against altering the Word of God to suit our cultural tastes.
“Every word of God is tested;
He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.
6 Do not add to His words
Or He will reprove you,..” Proverbs 30:5-6
Consider seeking out Christian friends, Christian worship services, Christian activities and missions. Get to know those people who are active in ministry or missions and participate with them. You will then be living in the Community of Faith, and the depth of your life will be enriched beyond measure.
Dr. Roger Holl is pastor of Sterling Grace Community Church. Sunday worship services are at 10:30 a.m. at the Sterling Senior Center.
