Love God, Hate The Church?

Some persons say that they love God, but hate the church. I understand what they are saying. They are usually speaking of a particular Christian denomination or formal (liturgical or organized) worship service.

Jesus certainly did not die to establish a denomination. He died to establish HIS called-out people, his church. As believers, we first belong to Christ. Then, we have the option of joining a particular denomination or not. Regardless, we are all added to Christ’s body when we receive the “birth from above”. One cannot claim to be a Christian and likewise hate the body of Christ, the church of Christ. Christ would not look favorably upon someone who hated his bride. Besides, it would actually be a form of self-hatred.

As members of Christ’s church, we meet regularly with other local believers. We eagerly desire the company of our spiritual brothers and sisters. We prepare to participate weekly in collective worship, for mutual edification. To do so, does not require an edifice with a denominational name. It merely requires regular assemblies where truth-speaking is given preference, God is given praise, and all members receive encouragement.

If this isn’t happening where you presently assemble, consider hosting your own meeting next Sunday in your home, or after hours at a local coffee shop. It matters not to God WHERE you assemble. It matters to God THAT you assemble regularly to worship.