For as the body is one and has many parts, and all the parts of that body, though many, are one body – so also is Christ. – 1 Corinthians 12:12 (HCSB)
We at Seminary Baptist Church are involved in a multi-generational bible study experience on Wednesday nights this summer. The topic of study is ekklesia: We are the Body. I have been thrilled to see all ages involved together in this time of study. It has given us once again a unique snapshot of what the church really should look like as we all work together as ONE.
I was reminded of a song written by Mark Hall from just a few years back that asked some challenging questions of those of us who are part of the body of Christ. You may remember the song, “If We Are The Body. The chorus asks:
But if we are the body, Why aren't His arms reaching?
Why aren't His hands healing? Why aren't His words teaching?
And if we are the body, Why aren't His feet going?
Why is His love not showing them there is a way, There is a way? -Mark Hall
These questions certainly cause us to stop and evaluate what we are doing as members of the body of Christ individually and collectively. I am reminded of what Paul penned in 1 Corinthian 12:12-31 concerning the importance of the individual members carrying out their function so that the body can function properly as one body although it consist of many members. These words could well have been addressed to Seminary Baptist Church, or any other church for that matter.
The problem with many of our churches today is that we are striving to function as the body of Christ, yet we find ourselves unable to function well because all members are not doing their part. (ie. arms not reaching, hands not healing, feet not going, etc.) My prayer is that each of us would perform our tasks well as a member of the body of Christ so that the body of Christ can function well in these last days.
In Christ,
Brother Tim