A NEWSLETTER FOR THE MEMBERS OF THE GREENWOOD CHURCH OF CHRIST

VOLUME 1 NO. 52                                        February 13, 2005

“It's My Church!”

BY STEVE NIEMEIER

About the time that you think that you have heard it all, something comes up and hits you in the face.  While I am sure that there are many things that have not crossed my ears as of yet, this one “takes the cake” for now!

In a discussion the other day it was mentioned that a man made the statement of “It's my church and I will do what I want to do!”  It is hard to believe that there are individuals who actually believe that the “church” is theirs.  Maybe it is because they have been there since the start of that congregation or someone in their family has.  Maybe it is because they want the pre-eminence of which we are warned about in 3rd John 9.  Whatever the reason is they believe that the “church” is theirs they need to fall on their knees and repent.  James 4:10 teaches us that we are to humble ourselves before the Lord.

There are individuals who believe that they are more righteous than others and become “arrogant, self-righteous sinners” as a result of their foolishness (James 3:16).  No doubt this attitude will result in division within the local congregation.  When any individual tries to “push their agenda” instead of humbling themselves to the Lord, problems will arise.  Those who are willing to stand for the truth with the proper attitude will fight this irreverence.

Many local congregations have been split over personal opinions and self-seeking individuals.  Humility is a trait that is missing in many today and yet is a trait that is necessary to be in a position to receive mercy on the Day of Judgment.  Why is it so hard for some to understand this?

James 3:13 states, “Who is wise and understanding among you?  Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.”  We are to know God's word and be able to rightly divide His word (II Timothy 2:15).  If we would do this we would understand the dangers of self-seeking and not humbling ourselves before the Lord.  Also, we would understand the meaning of Ephesians 5:15-21 where Paul in writing to the Ephesians states we are to walk with wisdom, redeeming the time understanding what the will of the Lord is.  In so doing we are to give thanks always to the Lord and SUBMIT TO ONE ANOTHER IN THE FEAR OF GOD!

Jesus stated in Matthew 16:18 “...on this rock I will build my church...”  He has all the right to call it His church because He purchased it with His blood.  Where does anyone get the authority to even state that a local congregation is “my church?”

Brethren it is time that some of us got off of our elevated egos and fell to our humble knees praying to God seeking forgiveness and present ourselves to our brethren we have wronged with a repentant heart.  Time does not erase sin and neither does miles.  Heaven will only hold those that can get along in humility with one another and before the Lord!