image by christingasner via 123rf
Probably for the rest of our lives we’ll be recalling how we coped with this coronavirus pandemic. This slice of history will be entrenched in our minds—for better or worst. The theories as to why this virus invaded the world—will be discussed, debated, and analyzed for quite some time. Hopefully, we will have learned many lessons that generations to come will benefit from; for example, how we typically “do” church.
The fact that many church buildings are closed right now leaves me wondering: Why? I really think there’s a deeper spiritual reason other than stopping the spread of this disease. As a matter of fact, this whole pandemic can be interpreted spiritually.
God’s church is not a building.
Now that many church doors are closed, soon it will become apparently clear for those who didn’t already know—the church is not a structure made of bricks and mortar, but rather each individual believer is the church; the body of Christ. And we as believers, must view it as such.
Lord, what are you saying to Your church?
Here’s my take on it: Yes, the Word of God tells us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together (see Hebrews 10:25). But many are deceived into thinking going to a church building is all that is needed to live a Christian life. All their praying is done there; all their Bible reading is done there, all praise and worship done there, too. Going to church is only a small portion of being a Christian. In some cases, going to church served as a crutch; now the crutch has been removed. Can you walk, now?
Religion without God!
Okay, I’m going to take a big BOLD step of faith and say, (not talking about all churches) God was not pleased with how things were going. In some churches, He had been replaced by larger-than-life egos, fighting over who offended whom, why did he do that; why her, not me? Petty bickering!
We know all the correct religious words and phrases; though, lacking the power of the Holy Spirit. What was sacred, has been replaced by the world’s practices and values. God is calling His church back to Holiness.
Cut—Time Out!
Generally speaking, the local churches have slowly drifted away from teaching and practicing holiness. We, as believers will have to answer for that. Therefore, this time out—is a period for us to reexamine our priorities.
A friend of mine correlated this virus to the flood in Noah’s day; he said this was our modern-day flood. (Read Genesis 6-9.) If this person is correct, then just being a member of a local church isn’t going to be enough to fight this battle.
We must take advantage of this time out in order to get ready for what’s in store down the line. I’m not saying this to frighten anyone; there’s no reason to fear for those in Christ. (See 2 Timothy 1:7.) However, this is not a cakewalk; this is serious. This is spiritual warfare!
Ways to prepare
Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye doubled-minded (James 4:8).
We can prepare by getting to know God personally for ourselves—not as a casual acquaintance through someone else. We must repent and turn from our wicked ways. (See 2 Chronicles 7:14.) Spend quality time in meditation before Him. Let the Spirit examine our hearts; show us the error of our ways. We must get into His Word, and allow the Word to govern our lives.
Read Ephesians 6:10-18; make sure you are dressed for battle. Do some scriptural research, use the Internet if you like; cross reference various commentaries, ask the Holy Spirit for understanding. Whatever, spiritual level you’re on, you can always go higher.
The pews are empty!
Yes, the pews are empty—for now. But if we each do our part to draw closer to God, when the church doors reopen—church will not be as usual. We will have matured spiritually. Believers should be excited; I’m excited because the power of the Holy Spirit is going to work through us like never before. We were evicted; but we’re coming back on FIRE!
© 2020
See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.