With the outbreak of the COVID-19, hundreds of churches have had to gather in a different way to fellowship. It has become a trendy discussion for Christians. I’ve heard several say the church is just a building. They rationalize this by declaring that the church is in your heart. So, gathering on Zoom or by conference calls is now the new norm. Many enjoy this because they don’t have to dress up for service; as if doing so had posed a problem.
As I was studying 1 Kings Chapter 6, I was awe-struck by how King Solomon built the temple. God had spoken to his father, David, in 2 Samuel 7:12-13; 2 Chronicles 2:4 that he would do this. He carried every detail out with meticulous care. With his choice of wood, the shape of the windows, the walls of the house, even the length and width, he did everything in the spirit of excellence. The glory and splendor of this glorious place of worship were spectacular. It was majestic! This was not a mere building; it was the house of God. Solomon declared it was a place for God to dwell in forever. (1 Kings 8:13). And though not even the earth or any dwelling can contain the Lord, the church remains a place where He said His Presence is there. (1 Kings 8:27-28).
God spoke to the King and assured Him he heard his prayer and plea that you have made before me; I am consecrating this house which you have built and placing my name there forever; my eyes and heart will always be there. (1 Kings 9:3, CJB). It’s the place to come and worship the Lord because He’s worthy of all glory, honor, and praise. So, for anybody to declare the church as just a building, I beg to differ. What does that say about your relationship with God?
Is a hospital just a building? With this virus growing in cases, would you put your loved ones in just a building? Is the school merely a building? Is virtual learning supplying a better means to educate your children? What about a mall? Is your home or the apartment you live in just a building? If your home is destroyed by fire or a flood, will you say it’s just a building? Would you not be upset? Well, Beloved, since when did coming to church become something so unimportant that you regard it as just a building? It’s where we come and join with other like-minded people to worship God in spirit and truth. (John 4:24).
The House of God is where we evangelize, edify, set forth many ministries such as outreach, Bible Study, Sunday School, and other related services. It is a place for the unbeliever, those wandering in the wilderness, the hopeless, anyone battling with depression, and everybody in need of healing and deliverance. (Ephesians 4:11-15). Anybody who’s troubled knows they can run to the house of God and found refuge, comfort, and strength. How many mothers have left their babies at the church because they know their child stands a better chance of finding a family who can care for them?
It’s where we display God’s love and His mercy overflows. So, we seek to make a difference in the world by sharing the loving gospel of Christ. The church is where we gather to have an encounter with the true and living God. It’s where we can shout aloud to the Rock of our Salvation and not worry about somebody knocking on the door and complaining. (Psalms 95:1).
The Lord's house is a sacred place, and you stand on holy grounds. (Exodus 3:5; Joshua 5:15). It draws people to the presence of God because He said His name is there. (1 Kings 8:29). The church is our refuge and strength, the body of believers. And though we can yet come together online, nothing compares to a heartwarming church service. When you understand how significant church is, you’ll never think of it as just a building again.
I pray the musical selection, Church, Take me Back stirs your heart.
Question for Reflection
How has not attending a worship service in the church affected you?
Can you help me encourage someone today? Please comment, share, and hit that heart to show your support. Thank you kindly.
RESOURCE LOUNGE: Books are a great gift to have to help you relax.
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