Beyond the Building: Rediscovering True Community

 

Beyond the Building: Rediscovering True Community

The modern North American Church (NAC) has achieved remarkable feats of organization and reach. But have we lost sight of the essence of community that defined the early church?

The New Testament Church (NTC) wasn't built on grand buildings or complex programs. It thrived in homes and communal spaces, a network of believers bound by shared faith and radica
l love. This organic growth continued until around 330 AD, when Constantine's influence began to reshape the church.

From Community to Control

Constantine, driven by power and influence, leveraged Christianity for his own ends. What began as a movement of genuine community in Acts became a tool for control and profit. Sound familiar?

But what did that early community look like? I got a glimpse during a trip to Israel in 2019. Our visit to Magdala, Mary Magdalene's hometown, was unexpectedly profound.

Walking through the preserved ruins, I could picture daily life: a tight-knit community with shared resources, a central synagogue, and a sense of collective purpose. It was a tangible representation of Acts 2:42-46, where believers shared life, broke bread together, and devoted themselves to teaching and fellowship.

The "Why" Behind the "What"

The difference between communities like Magdala and our modern understanding lies in the "why." Early Christian communities weren't driven by personal gain, but by a desire to glorify God and spread the Gospel. Their love and sacrifice were truly revolutionary, and remain so today.

Jesus' teachings in Matthew 5:21-48 exemplify this radical approach to community. He challenged conventional thinking, demanding a level of love and forgiveness that transcended mere tolerance.

Redefining "Neighbor"

Today, we often hear church leaders talk about "community," but it often refers to those within the walls of their organization. As Christians, our community extends far beyond.

Jesus, in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37), redefined "neighbor" as anyone in need, regardless of their background. Our community isn't limited to our church, but encompasses our neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools.

Roland Muller reminds us that our community is "where we work, play, and send our kids to gain an education." The early church understood this. They saw themselves as the living, breathing body of Christ, infiltrating every aspect of society (Romans 12:4-5, Ephesians 3:6, 4:16, 5:23-30, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, Colossians 1:18, 3:14-16).

Beyond the Institution


The church isn't a building, lo
cation, or institution. It's the people – the body of Christ – living out their faith in tangible ways.

We need to shift our focus from building institutions to building genuine community. This means:

  • Looking beyond our church walls: Actively engaging with our local communities and serving
    those in need.
  • Prioritizing relationships: Building deep, meaningful connections with fellow believers and those outside the church.
  • Living out our faith in everyday life: Showing love, compassion, and forgiveness in our workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods.
  • Focusing on the "why": Remembering that our ultimate purpose is to glorify God and share the Gospel.

Let's rediscover the radical, transformative power of true community, the kind that extends beyond the building and into every corner of our lives.


Learn more at www.theexchangemin.com

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