20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
The church offers something increasingly rare in our fragmented society: genuine, diverse community. While you can find community in many places (clubs, organizations, interest groups) the church’s community is fundamentally different.
First, it’s eternal. The bonds we form with fellow believers aren’t limited to this life. We’re family forever.
Second, it’s diverse in the best possible way. The body of Christ brings together people of different ages, backgrounds, experiences, and life stages. We need the wisdom of those further along the journey and the passion of those just beginning. We need the perspective of different generations, the insights of varied experiences.
Yes, community can be messy. Families sometimes have conflict. The church isn’t immune to problems, disagreements, or hurt feelings. We’re still sinners, after all, learning to love one another imperfectly. But the benefits far outweigh the challenges. The problems are worth working through because what we gain in community is irreplaceable.
There’s something uniquely sweet about the community of believers. It transcends ordinary friendship because it’s rooted in something greater than common interests or life stages. It’s rooted in Christ himself, and through that connection, “an eternal weight of glory” is somehow being worked out in us.
Tony French
