Church: Learning and Applying History
Church: Learning and Applying History
Romans chapter 12
During the 1700’s, after returning to England from a disastrous mission trip in America, John Wesley had a significant religious experience that John would later describe, as feeling his “heart strangely warmed.” The following years profoundly changed Wesley who started a movement known as the Methodist Church. What changed? The Wesleys learned how to be relevant to the needs of the community around them.
John Wesley left the church building and took to the streets and fields. He provided down-to-earth messages that touched the hearts of everyone. Worship and music was compelling and life-changing. They formed small groups called societies that answered questions, provided answers, offered encouragement and hope during difficult times.
Wesley frequently used questions to challenge himself and others. Am I consciously or unconsciously creating the impression that I'm better than I really am? Do I laugh at the mistakes of others, reveling in their errors and misfortunes? Do I insist on having my own way? Is there a tendency for me to put others down so that I'll be thought of more highly? Do I pass on to others what is told to me in confidence? Am I thoughtful in expressing "thanks" to people for what they've done? Am I a slave to dress, friends, work or habits? Am I self-conscious, self-pitying or self-justifying?
Acting better than I really am. Reveling in the errors and misfortunes of others. Insisting on having my own way. Putting down others. Addicted to work or habits. Being self-conscious or self-justifying. Could those same questions guide us today? We will come up short, but the questions challenge us to do better. We can improve. Strengthening our relationship with God provides help and encouragement. That is what being a church should be about today.
As Paul reminded in Romans: “Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection. Never be lazy but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.” (12:9-13)
Being relevant is something every church must battle. If we want to be relevant as followers of Christ, we would be wise to consider questions, John used to challenge himself: Did the Bible live in me yesterday? Did I disobey God in anything yesterday? Did I insist on doing something about which my conscience was uneasy? Did I handle discouragement well or did I have to be coddled? Am I enjoying prayer? When did I last speak to someone about Christ? Is there anyone whom I fear, dislike, disown, criticize or hold resentment toward? If so, what am I doing about it? Is Christ real to me?
I believe the church is the best place to find yourself and your place with God. Remember my reasons you should attend: Your life will change and grow as you deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ. You and your church will stand for something. You are placed on earth for a purpose. Carrying out that purpose of reaching others and impacting our community is our mission. This was true during the days of John Wesley and it’s just as true today.
If you enjoyed this devotion, check out my book, A Daily Dose of Godly Encouragement, on Amazon!