GPS-Beautiful Church

05 / Sunday Read Rev 21:1-7 / Eph 5:27 (ICB) / Rev 19:6-8 (ICB)

Overview: Revelation describes the Church as like a beautiful bride of Christ. So, what actually makes it beautiful…and does it need an ongoing makeover routine to maintain its appearance?

06 / Mon – Whose church?  |  Read Matthew 16:18

The Greek word ekklesia is translated as church in the New Testament. Originally, it was a secular word and referred to a group of Greek citizens who were called out or assembled to attend to the social-political concerns of their city. Jesus used this same word to describe those he was calling out to follow him, stating clearly that this was his church and he was the one building it. When did he call you out to join? How have you seen Jesus building his ekklesia in your lifetime?  

07 / Tue – A beautiful building  |  Read Ephesians 2:19-22 / 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

Has anyone ever asked what church you go to? They probably mean the brick-and-mortar building you attend on Sundays. For the people in the early church of Acts, there were no impressive stained glass windows or tall spires. They met in small home groups. But, as Paul told them, they were becoming God’s building. What is its foundation and cornerstone? In what way does this analogy impact the way you view ‘your’ church? How are you becoming God’s dwelling place?

08 / Wed – A beautiful body  |  Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-27

What are some insights you gained from reading this description? If Jesus’ church were actually a body, what part do you think you would be? And how do you relate to other ‘parts’ of the body as described here? Have you ever seen someone who wants to be a neck so they make the head nod yes or shake it to say no? What a futile effort. The body only works properly when all direction comes from the top down and its various parts function the way they were intended. How do you stay connected to Jesus and the other parts of His body? 

09 / Thu – A beautiful example   |  Read Ephesians 5:21-30

You may not be married, but you know those who are, so you can see why Paul is using this example to help us better understand the relationship between Christ and His church. It is a beautiful thing when you see this lived out in real life. You are a part of His church. Can you see how He thinks of you and what He has done for you? Can you understand the importance of submitting to Him even when you don’t understand why in the moment? He has your best in mind. You can trust Him.

10 / Fri – A beautiful family  |  Read 1 Timothy 5:1-2 / Hebrews 13:1 / 1 John 4:19-21

Not every earthly family is beautiful, but God’s family is. Your family of origin may be complicated. You don’t always feel loved and accepted, but this (spiritual) family is different. Here you will find brothers and sisters and fathers and mothers who love you, care for you, support, encourage, and forgive you. Will there be problems? Of course. But Christ gives specific ways to resolve them. If you are feeling disconnected, ask the Lord to facilitate connections within His family. He will. These are the folks you will get to live with forever. And up there, it will all be perfect.

11 / Sat – A beautiful church  |  Read Ephesians 3:20-21 / Psalm 9:1 / Psalm 115:1

Of course, you know that God is able to do more than you can ask or imagine, in your own life and in His church. But why? It shows the watching world that God is real. He is at work changing people and situations in ways that point any observers to His power and glory (v21). You don’t have to be perfect. Who can relate to that? But it demonstrates His redemptive power – in you and in your branch of His church. Will you be honest and let this hope shine through you to others?