Church: Definition

"All the believers devoted themselves to the apostle's teaching, and to the fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper) and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity - all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved" -Acts 2:42-47.

Simple. Community (church) grows the right way when we simply meet in one place, in one accord with Christ, not for the purpose to grow in numbers; not to meet your lifelong partner; not to listen to awesome music; not to gain self-knowledge; and I'll be bold enough to say not even to try and feel God or seek signs and wonders. We meet for the purpose of Jesus. We don't meet for what we can gain. We only gain truth by giving up our lives in complete surrender to Christ, who has given us the Spirit of Truth. Let us meet because of what Jesus has done. Let us meet for the purpose of Love; the love that surpasses our knowledge. God's love.

Lord, raise up an army of believers, a remnant, who will devote themselves to seeking truth and love through relationships, and day by day fellowship in breaking of bread, sharing of meals, prayer, and worship. Let us be in one accord with each other and with Christ Jesus, with humility, forgiveness, and love. May we obey Your commandments, and keep Your Word as a Good Shepherd leads His sheep. May we always remember who You are; Your steadfastness, Your faithfulness, Your mercy and grace, so that in times of trial and tribulation, we may endure not with our own strength, but by Your love. Your joy is our strength. Take us deeper into Your love which is truth. Teach us, Holy Spirit, how to completely surrender and seek to do Your will so that we are always in humility, abiding in You and You in us. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Fulfill Your Word, Your prophecy. Thanks be to You, our God and Savior. Amen!