Introduction
In the book of Hebrews, it is written, “For he looked forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God.” (Hebrews 11:10 ESV)
This passage highlights the divine role of God as the ultimate designer and builder. As believers, we have the privilege of partnering with Jesus to build His Church. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of being builders with Jesus and the key aspects of His design for His Church.
The Building Designed by God
The Church, envisioned by Jesus Himself, is the building we are called to construct. Jesus said, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18)
It is important to recognize that the Church is not merely a physical structure but a living organism. It is a community of believers, a dwelling place for God, and a spiritual temple where the Holy Spirit dwells. (Ephesians 2:19-22)
The Need for Buildership
While leadership within the Church is crucial, we must also emphasise the importance of buildership. Buildership entails actively engaging in the work of constructing the Church according to God’s design. It goes beyond envisioning and planning; it involves taking tangible steps to make Jesus’ vision a reality.
Building Impacting, Growing, and Prevailing Churches
The type of churches we desire to build reflects the heart of God. We long for churches that are impacting, growing, enduring, and prevailing. These churches are not just buildings or gatherings; they are communities of disciples who are wholeheartedly following Jesus. They are life-giving, empowering, Christ-centered, and culture-transforming. Our desire for such churches raises an important question: Why are there so few churches like the ones we want to build?
The Need for a Move of the Holy Spirit
One reason why the Church may fall short of our desired vision is the need for a move of the Holy Spirit. Throughout history, we have witnessed powerful revivals and awakenings orchestrated by God’s Spirit. However, these moves of God are often experienced but not sustained. We cannot rely solely on conferences, events, or gatherings to sustain revival;
it is the Church, empowered and filled with the Holy Spirit, that is designed to sustain and experience revival.
Exactly the reason we must build the Church.
The Role of Builders
To become the kind of churches we long to see, we must embrace our role as builders. We cannot deviate from God’s plan or abdicate the work of building. As builders, we must interpret and execute God’s architectural design with precision. Our aim is not to build something resembling His plan but to build exactly according to His plan. This requires attention to detail and a commitment to align every aspect of church life with God’s blueprint.
Three Aspects of God’s Design
God’s design for His Church encompasses three important aspects:
1. A Community Proclaiming the Full Gospel
The Church is called to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to the world. We are commissioned to go and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Our proclamation of the gospel should encompass the restoration of relationship with God, self, others, and the world. We are to declare Jesus as Lord and King, inviting others into a vibrant relationship with Him. (Mark 16:15-17)
2. A Community of Disciples Making Disciples
Building disciple-making churches is essential for fulfilling the Great Commission. Our goal is not to create cultural Christians but to cultivate fully devoted followers of Jesus. This requires intentional discipleship, where people are equipped to follow Jesus wholeheartedly and engage themselves in the mission of making disciples. (Matthew 28:18-20)
3. A Community of Spirit-Filled and Spirit-Empowered People
The Church is meant to be a community filled with the Holy Spirit. We are called to be clothed with power from on high and to be witnesses of Jesus in our Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. The power of the Holy Spirit enables us to live out our identity as the Church and empowers us to impact the world around us. (Luke 24:49, Acts 1:8)
I love what Gordon Fee called the church in his book, Paul, spirit, and the people of God
“The church is a community of the spirit.”
Conclusion
As builders with Jesus of His Church, we have a divine calling and a sacred responsibility. Let us embrace God’s design and work diligently to build churches that reflect His heart and purposes. We must not deviate from His plan but faithfully follow His blueprint. Through our partnership with Jesus and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, we can see the Church impact nations, transform cultures, and bring glory to God. May we be builders who work the plan and fulfill the mission entrusted to us.
Paul Benger 