Since the Jesus explosion in the Gospels and Acts, the church in history has done much good. Often a civilizing factor in many decades and centuries, she has stepped up to present Her King to many. Like all human institutions, however, she has often been co-opted by her own opportunistic leaders. Wherever any historical opportunity or success exists, mankind often thinks he or she can manage things better than the Holy Spirit. And so, instead of speaking accurately for God, we often convolute the meaning of King, Kingdom, and Church. This is why the credibility of so-called “holy ones” of the church can be compromised, and why testimony to the King may suffer.
So – She experiences Her successes and failures – as do all human groupings and institutions, and will be held to the Word of God concerning Her dedication to truth and effectiveness of mission – as will all human institutions. From God’s Word we have concluded that the Spirit’s unfolding power and protection for Jesus followers is King first, then, Kingdom, then church.
So, to discover the principles and power of the Kingdom Church, we must turn to the King of the earth to understand what it means to honor and follow God. Everyone has his or her idea of what church is and what it should look like. We will do it this way. We will do it better. We will build the church. Consider however:
She is a spiritual house being prepared for Heaven, called out of darkness into God’s Light. If we do not shine the Light, where will people find their way?
“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.” – Ephesians 2:19-22
She is to be the Pillar and Support of the Truth. In what ways does our Kingdom community bring foundations to truth?
“…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.” – 1 Timothy 3:15
The Church is the Bride of Jesus. We are being washed whiter than snow, and will be presented to Him spotless.
“Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready.” – Revelation 19:7
√ In order to understand the Kingdom Church, we must consult the words and teachings of our King. Remember, He is the One Who is building His Church (Matthew 16:18)!
√ The church is only as effective as Her connection to Her King. Kingdom Christ followers always place connection with Jesus first.
√ Church is not merely a place we GO, it is Who we are.
And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth.” – Revelation 5:9,10
First King, then Kingdom, then Church – this belongs to all of us!
Dave and Burnadette