The word ekklesia is a Greek word that means “assembly” or “called out.” The church is more than an event to attend, or a place to go on a Sunday morning. It is not for easing your guilt of being distant from the Lord, it is not a building, and it is certainly not a social gathering. The church is a people; the body of believers who have been called out of darkness into God’s marvelous light (1 Pet.2:9). The church is the body of Christ (1 Cor.12:27).
Sadly, this topic is not often emphasized in today’s church, which is why many believers are staying away under the assumption that “it’s not that deep.” But an understanding of what it truly means to be part of the ekklesia changes how we live. It influeces our faith and plays a major part in the growth of the believers’ community. It is that deep
The church is a place of power and communion with like-minded believers. Just like a sheep that strays too far from its flock becomes vulnerable to predators, a believer isolated from the body is at greater risk of falling prey to the enemy. We stay stronger in the faith when we meet regularly with those who share our belief (Heb. 10:24-25, Pro. 27:17).
Almost everyone experiences moments of doubt—wondering if Jesus is truly the way or if God even exists. Without guidance, faith can weaken. But in corporate fellowship, testimonies, worship, and the Word of God reignite our faith. The brotherly love we experience in such gatherings remind us of the very love of God (Jhn. 13:34-35).
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another
Proverbs 27:17 NIV
There are also seasons when we knowingly or unknowingly drift from God or struggle in our walk. In corporate fellowship, God can use another believer to guide, correct, or encourage us back onto the right path (Gal. 6:1-2). You make yourself harder to reach when you isolate yourself.
The growth of the church depends on every believer. Think about the very first Christian revival, when thousands of souls were being saved daily (Acts 2:41, 47). Imagine if there had been no church for God to add them to. Imagine if everyone had chosen to “know God” on their own, in isolation. How long would it have been before many drifted back into the world?
But because there was a strong community of believers, these new converts found a place to belong, grow, and strengthen their faith (Acts 2:42). Yes, discipleship, evangelism, and prayer are vital to the growth of the kingdom. But just as important is the gathering of believers. The church provides structure, accountability, encouragement, and discipleship. Without it, revival flames would quickly die out.
Some may say, “But the church is full of hypocrites and deceitful people. I’d rather serve God on my own.” While such resolutions may feel valid, they are not God’s design. There are some cases where the scripture makes certain things option, telling us to apply wisdom or use our Spirit-guided conscience. But on this matter, Scripture makes it clear: “Do not forsake the assembling of yourselves together” (Heb. 10:25). If fellowship were optional, God would not command it. He knows that we need one another to thrive spiritually.
So how do we deal with hypocrisy or coldness in the church? First, understand that hypocrisy should never coexist with true Christianity. It is unfortunate that such things have crept into some congregations, but that does not define the body of Christ as a whole. There are still assemblies where the love of Christ abounds and believers live in truth. Instead of giving up on the Ekklesia as whole, pray and ask God to lead you to such fellowships where your faith can grow (Jam. 1:5). Don’t let a negative experience in one place become the standard by which you judge all churches. What nourishes one person may not be your cup of tea, but through prayer, God can guide your steps to where you belong.
The ekklesia is also a glimpse of eternity. In heaven, there will be an even greater gathering of believers from every tribe, tongue, and nation, worshiping before God’s throne (Rev. 7:9). Our fellowship on earth is a rehearsal for what is to come in eternity.
The church was established by Jesus Himself (Matt.16:18), for the strengthening and building up of believers (Eph. 4:11–13). Do not forsake it. The ekklesia is never complete without you.
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