One of the basic needs that we all have is the need to belong. In fact, we are designed in God to have that need fulfilled through meaningful relationship with Him and with one another. Without Him we will look for fulfilment from one another. The problem with that however, is that no person can ever be the source of our belonging. Not even the most 'functional' of families can be that source because to some extent we are all flawed human beings and we have a habit of passing forward our flaws.
Every person however is offered the opportunity to receive a different family connection through the a local church that has Christ as its cornerstone or foundation. The church is made up of people who have received Jesus. "...as many as received Him (Jesus) He gave the right to become children of God to those who believe in His name." (John 1:12) The church, His spiritual family will outlast our natural families. Belonging in Christ is in fact forever!
Belonging in Christ entitles the believer to an inheritance that includes total forgiveness of sins, no condemnation and the riches of His grace. It will also give a new identification as a member of His family. It will also provide a sense of inclusion. These are characteristics of new belonging. This new belonging is designed to be nurtured through local church connection. Believers are urged to "receive one another just as Christ received us..." (Rom.15:7) We learn to 'receive' one another in a relational context through a local church. We learn to grow together, not alone. We are exhorted to be 'joined together', 'built together', 'held together', 'heirs together' and even 'caught up together'. We are urged to honour the body of Christ.
The believer cannot say 'I want Jesus but I don't want His body' That's the same as saying 'I like the bridegroom but I have no time for the bride!' Jesus gave Himself for His bride. The church of Jesus Christ and Jesus Himself is inseparable. They are indivisible. New belonging happens when we see what Jesus sees about His church. The first revelation that Saul (later called Paul) had, was of the church. Jesus spoke to Him saying "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" Paul would become the greatest advocate of the church urging its members "to receive one another just as Christ received them" I pray that we will see the church of Jesus Christ the way heaven sees it and that we will among its greatest advocates.
This blog is based upon a message given by Ross Smith at The Vine church on 7th June 2015. The full message can be downloaded by podcast from www.thevine.org.au/teaching
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