What is the purpose of church? Why do we even bother? The music has changed, the people aren’t what they used to be, it is just not the same! The preacher is too young or too old; he doesn’t know what he is doing or he tries to control everything! There is nothing there for me or for my age group of for my children, etc.
These are some of the complaints we hear (or use) when discussing church. Maybe you have used one or two of them yourself. So, what is the problem with stating the “problem” with church? Each of these complaints make church into something that is designed for us – for me. Each of the statements above may be true for you, but each of them is based on YOU being the focus of church. May I share a little secret with you? Church is not about you! No, it is not about me, either, even as pastor. It is solely about Him. Paul writes “unto Him be glory,” not unto me or you.
Why do I go to church? Because it is where I find Him among HIs people. Why do I go to church? Because it is where I can lift His name above all other names with others who are lifting Him up as well. Why do I go to church? Because it is where He says that He will be glorified (Ephesians 3:21). The church is where I go because He says He will be glorified in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations.
What about you? Where will you be this weekend and what will you be doing? There will be those who will stay at home, but declare they are just as much a Christian as everyone else. There will be those who go to church, but only for what the get out of it, not for Him to be glorified in it. A right attitude and understanding of worship requires me to forget about me and focus on Him.
Pray that God will be glorified in and through your church this weekend. Then, go and make it happen.
robbielgibson 