Some more thoughts on church

Just another thought on churches or denomination. Although i have said that the most important factor is to be faithful to God no matter which church one goes to, i think it is also important to realise that God has placed us in a certain church for a reason. I guess, for me personally, this can be compared to being in a family. Each family has its own uniqueness and each member of the family has his or her own role to play in the building up of the family. In one sense, sometimes, from a distant 'other family' can seem attractive and charming. But, if you have been long enough in a particular church or denomination you will find its has both strength and weakness. Someone said that there is no such thing as a perfect church. Even if you find one, don't go to it because you will cause it to become imperfect.

The important lesson is for us to realise that Church does matter to God; it is the Body of Christ. Whatever we say or do to the church would ultimately involve God....because the Church is precious and significant in the eyes of God.

In Eugene Peterson's book, 'The Contemplative Pastor', Peterson writes about the importance of being part of the body and bringing the changes from within. Often times our tendency is to step out the community and criticise it. This might seem easier to do but it does not help the Body to accept changes (this was a revelation to me). If real transformation is to happen in a community we must get involve and be part of it. We must seek to influence others in the way that is pleasing and honouring to God. This is what i believe Peterson meant by being talking about being 'subversive'.