Hope for the Church
Tim Keller | November 1, 2009
Overview
Too often people see the church as a hindrance to their spirituality rather than the necessary fuel for its growth. The Biblical church is called to be a community unlike any other, a place where people welcome the outsider, spur one another to good works, encourage one another in difficult times, and work to help all members grow in Christ.
Outline
Understanding Hebrews 10:19–25
We’re looking at the Christian community in this discussion and we find three important points about it: why it’s necessary, what it’s all about, and its hidden source of strength. Some people say they’re spiritual, but not religious, which means they may not see the value in church. But the three points we’ll see, might give those people a new perspective on the church. It helps us understand what kind of community we’re meant to be.
1. Why the Christian community is so important
Being part of a Christian community is like being one grape in a bunch. It’s not just about being close to other people. It involves sharing life together; eating, praying, learning, loving, confessing, and helping each other. On your own, you can’t change as much as you can when you’re accountable to others in a spiritual friendship. This community is important because it’s through this that we can experience God’s transforming power through Jesus.
2. The character of a Christian community
In a Christian community, we need to be intentional in communicating, holding each other accountable, and supporting each other, just like how Odysseus and the Sirens’ story shows us. We have to balance standing up for what’s right and showing love, which is a challenge in our individualistic society. Tony Campolo’s story about throwing a birthday party for a prostitute named Agnes, shows us how acts of love and kindness can make a difference in people’s lives.
3. The secret strength of a Christian community
Hebrews emphasizes the assurance of salvation, the confidence that comes from knowing Jesus’ sacrifice and God’s acceptance. This assurance frees us from fear of rejection, helping us to connect better with others. Knowing that God’s love never fails because of what Jesus did for us, not only changes how we relate with each other, but also makes our community attractive to others.
Related
