I recently had a conversation with a friend who was praying to see if God wanted them to start a church in their city. My immediate response?
God’s answer is…“Yes.”
There are two points that need to be made here: One, there’s no need to ask God if He wants you to start a church. He does. Secondly, we need to adjust our paradigm of “church.”
Photo Credit:SilentShot
Don’t Ask. Just Do it.
God doesn’t need you to ask. You don’t need an answer. We should be building The Church everywhere we go.
Our family should be a church.
Our circle of friends should be a church.
The coffee shop or pub where we hang out should be a church.
So yes, we should start a church… in our home, so that it is inviting to non-Christians and Christians alike, where the conversation flows easily and the food is flavorful. Where people can share their pains in a safe atmosphere, and where people can learn about an abundant, excellent life. Where you rejoice in the victories, and offer a shoulder in the failures.
Where people are taught, led, stretched, encouraged, fed, loved, disciplined, hugged, and inspired. And everyone has a role and a gift.
God will never say no to that. Trust me.
Start thinking outside of the box.
So, maybe we need to change our paradigm when we say “church.” Do you mean an sound and video system, interlocking cushiony chairs, a paid staff with offices, and a children’s program? Okay, then you might want to pray about that. In about 5 years.
I’d love to know what you think… Are there situations where God would ever say no to this prayer? Or do you think a church needs a separate building and a paid staff to function?