The Bible describes the church as the Bride of Christ. That should get our attention. Knowing that God has so designated it should make a big difference in the way we view it. I don’t know any real man who would intentionally abuse his wife, or any woman, nor sit back and allow others to do so. Nor do I believe for a second that Christ ignores our mistreatment of His Bride– the church. You hurt my wife and you hurt me–and I’m liable to hurt you. You hurt the Lord’s church and He will hurt you. Paul made it clear to the Corinthians that some had died prematurely because of their attitude toward the church. Yeah–whether you believe it or not He is that kind of God! He chastises His own when they refuse to repent.(Heb.12:6-13).
The church is the only institution on earth established by Christ and the only one authorized by Him to carry out His commission. She has been bought by His blood and belongs to Him. She is indwelt by His Spirit, loved by the Father, and precious in His sight. Mistreat her and you have mistreated Him. You have offended the Father, grieved the Holy Spirit, and endangered yourself. Yet, sadly many people ignore her, neglect her, criticize her, and abuse her. Do you really think that this escapes His attention or that they will escape His vengeance?
Here’s something you might need to consider. Perhaps the most common way in which people disrespect the Bride of Christ is to treat her as though she isn’t needed– not important enough to get their attention, respect or support. That wouldn’t be you would it? Remember this–You cannot be in fellowship with Christ if you have no desire to fellowship with His church. You need the church and the church needs you. Every member is an important part of the body and needs to function in harmony with the whole. There are a lot of church members doing nothing, but there is no church member with nothing to do. So, what are you doing? Think about it! – HDS
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
