I often find myself very frustrated with the current state of the Church. In many ways I feel like its become more of a social gathering instead of a fellowship of believers who passionately desire to follow after Christ and carry His gospel to the ends of the earth. I get frustrated at the lack of love for people that I often see. I become angered at the legalism that so often surfaces within the body of believers. In light of all of this, I was powerfully reminded this weekend that my frustration (and sometimes anger…and sometimes bitterness) does absolutely nothing to further the cause or change any perceptions. It is only out of my love for the Church (which is based in my love for Christ) that may allow me to be a witness and carry the love of Christ to all that I may come into contact with. Derek Webb said it so powerfully in the words to “The Church” which is written from the perspective of Christ. May these words touch you the way that they have touched me.
The Church by Derek Webb
I have come with one purpose
to capture for myself a bride
by my life she is lovely
by my death she’s justified
i have always been her husband
though many lovers she has known
so with water i will wash her
and by my word alone
so when you hear the sound of the water
you will know you’re not alone
(chorus)
’cause i haven’t come for only you
but for my people to pursue
you cannot care for me with no regard for her
if you love me you will love the church
i have long pursued her
as a harlot and a whore
but she will feast upon me
she will drink and thirst no more
so when you taste my flesh and my blood
you will know you’re not alone
(chorus)
there is none that can replace her
though there are many who will try
and though some may be her bridesmaids
they can never be my bride