Me and My House- Jesus Image

Pastor Michael

5 minute read

 

I always love when I get to visit Create Church.

I’m lucky to pastor a community of believers at Jesus Image in Orlando, but I want everyone to know that I consider Pastor Ryan and Ellie dear friends. It’s a blessing to share this word with you, my extended family. Today, I want to talk to you about something that’s at the core of our faith journey together: belonging to our church through thick and thin.

So, let’s get real and dive into what I feel are imperative reasons why this bond of belonging isn’t just a nice-to-have but an absolute must-have. The early church had it. Those early believers in the Book of Acts, they knew how important it was. The reason so many of us today see this kind of intentional fellowship as optional is because the church today is rife with a sense of individualism that corrupts what Jesus intended for the church.

The Incredible Power of Unity

Acts 2:42-47 tells a powerful story I hope you don’t forget easily. The early believers were all in – studying, praying, breaking bread, and just being there for each other.

Now, here’s the deal. When you’re united as a church family, something beautiful happens. We grow together, we learn together, and we lift each other up in times of need. Together, we shine a light so bright that others can’t help but be drawn to the love of Christ we share.

The Beauty of Community Support

In Acts 4:32-35 we see that the early believers were all heart – they shared what they had, and no one was left in the lurch. Even through conflict, they set aside resources for the most needy.

Being part of our church means we’re part of more than just a support network. We are in a spiritual body. And I want to point out that the leader of this body is worth double honor. That’s one of the reasons I ask you to pray for your leader, Pastor Ryan. The enemy has a target on his back and wants nothing more than to strip him of his community and support.

The Opportunity of Perseverance

Now, Acts 8:1-4 tells a story of hardship. Persecution scattered the early church like autumn leaves in the wind. Despite these hard times, they didn’t give up. They kept on spreading the Word, no matter what.

You see, belonging to our church isn’t all positives. There’s no such thing as a perfect church. Because as soon as you show up, it’s no longer perfect. People can be messy. We’ll face challenges; that’s a given. Our perseverance is a testament to God’s faithfulness, because when we pull through on the other side, we recognize that it wasn’t by our own strength.

Belonging to our church isn’t just a checkbox on our spiritual to-do list. It’s a calling, a divine appointment. In unity, we find strength. In your community, you find support. And in your perseverance, you find purpose.

So, as your friend from Florida, I’m encouraging you to hold tight to this incredible bond of belonging. We’re living out the essence of the early church every day. Remain devoted, united, and mission-driven.