by Demi Prentiss

Being the church – it takes more than “being nice” or preaching salvation or converting the heathen. “Being the church” means “being the Body of Christ.” A transformative agent in the world. One of a community of followers in the Way of Jesus.

Few of us are capable of doing that 24/7. With God’s help, it becomes possible when do what we’re commissioned to do: be disciples. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) gives the orders:

+ “Go” – into the world, not just to church

+ “Disciple” – be one, rather than “make” them

+ “Baptise” – as a sign of being born into a new life, not into membership

+ “Teach” – “at all times,” as St. Francis recommended, adding, “When necessary, use words.”

Jesus isn’t interested in our delivering a product, he’s asking us to be transformed into a new way of being – walking the Way of Jesus. For support, we draw on resources that have been part of the Christian life for millennia – prayer, study, worship, fellowship with other believers. Some of those things are provided in our church communities; all of them are accessible at all times, and in all places.

Let’s go be the church. Let’s change the world.