The purpose of the church is rooted deeply in the example set by the early church in the book of Acts. As believers, both individually and collectively, we are called to be witnesses for Jesus Christ and to reach the lost with the message of salvation. This foundational purpose must always be at the forefront of our efforts.
The Reality of Accountability
Scripture is explicit that everyone will one day stand before God to account for their actions. II Corinthians 5:10 states, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” This reminder should prompt us to evaluate our commitment to sharing the Gospel.
Empowered for a Purpose
God has equipped us for this task. Acts 1:8 declares, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” The early church understood this mandate, reaching out tirelessly and spreading the message of Christ despite challenges and opposition.
The Great Commission
Christ’s command in Matthew 28:18-20 provides a clear directive for the church: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” This passage underscores the continuous responsibility to evangelize and disciple.
The Church as a Soulwinning Station
The church is more than a gathering place for believers; it is a soulwinning station, equipped to share hope with a lost and dying world. The culture of soulwinning that defined the independent Baptist church of yesterday must be continually reignited today. As Romans 10:1 reminds us, “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.” The apostle Paul’s passion for the salvation of others serves as an example of the zeal we should embody.
A Call to Action
The mission is clear: we must stay committed to reaching souls. Our priority must remain to share the Gospel boldly and compassionately, ensuring that we fulfill our God-given role as witnesses. Let us keep pushing that reset button, realigning our focus to spread the message of salvation and bring glory to God.
While we should stay after souls in our own personal lives, let us be the ones in the church that, through our hunger to see people saved, motivate our fellow church family members to take up the call to reach our “Jerusalems” for Christ!
From the editors at IndependentBaptist.com