Each time I hear someone speak of the Church—the Body of Christ—my spirit stirs with excitement. This sacred community, rooted in faith and fellowship, is not defined by walls or steeples but by the hearts and lives of believers. The Church is a living, breathing testament to the love and grace of Christ, a collective of saints called to reflect Him in our homes, neighborhoods, and beyond.
In the New Testament, the Greek word *ecclesia* translates to “church,” a term that never referred to a physical building but rather to a gathering of believers. The early Church exemplified this beautifully. They met daily in temple courts, broke bread in their homes, and shared meals with glad and sincere hearts. Acts 2:46 and 5:42 paint a vivid picture of a community that not only worshiped together but lived life in shared purpose and love. Their unity extended to their possessions, as described in Acts 4:32: “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.” This was not merely a congregation; it was a family bound by faith.
Does that not sound like the essence of community? A group of individuals united by a common bond, sharing life’s burdens and joys? The Church was never meant to be confined to Sunday services or confined spaces. As Graham Cooke poignantly stated in his message, “The Church Has Left the Building,” we are called to engage the world beyond the walls of tradition and routine. He challenges us with this question: Is Church just a place you go, or is it who you are?
In today’s fragmented and chaotic world, the Church has an even greater calling. We are to embody God’s love and grace, to reflect His kindness and compassion to a generation in need of healing. As Philippians 2:2 urges, we are to be “like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” This call to unity is repeated throughout Scripture, a reminder of our shared mission and identity.
The concept of being “like-minded” isn’t about uniformity but about shared purpose and mutual care. Romans 15:5 says, “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.” Similarly, 1 Peter 3:8 exhorts us: “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” These passages invite us into a deeper reflection on how we relate to one another within the Body of Christ. Are we unified in love and spirit? Do we share one mind in our pursuit of Christ?
Paul’s words in Philippians 2:20 about Timothy’s genuine concern for the Church’s welfare remind us of the kind of mindset we are to nurture. Timothy modeled selflessness and shared his heart for the Church. Likewise, we are called to live in peace with one another, reflecting Christ in our relationships and attitudes. This is not an easy task, but Scripture promises that when we do, the God of love and peace will be with us.
Believers, we are the Church. Not the building, not the programs, but the people. As Romans 12:5 and 1 Corinthians 12:12 remind us, we are one body with many members, united by our faith in Christ. Each of us brings unique gifts, perspectives, and “flavors,” yet we are all part of His Body, called to reflect His love wherever we go.
To be the Church is to live the life of Jesus on display. In our homes, in our local communities, in our nations, we are to carry His light and truth. Like the Apostle Paul, we are to count all worldly things as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ and making Him known. This is our calling—to be His hands and feet, unified in purpose, sharing His love and grace with a world in need.
Let us not put confidence in the flesh or grow weary in our mission. Instead, let us embrace our identity as the Church, embracing the unity, love, and calling that Christ has given us. Together, we can reflect His glory and bring His healing to the world.
Blessings to you, Saints. We are the Church, and we are called to shine.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 