Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. –Hebrews 13:1 NIV
When you think of “church,” what comes to mind? A building? A religious organization? Nelson’s Bible Dictionary defines it as “A local assembly of believers as well as the redeemed of all the ages who follow Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Church refers to all who follow Christ, without respect to locality or time. It will not be complete until after the judgment, and the assembly of all the redeemed in one place will become a reality only after the return of Christ.”
The Church isn’t a building. It’s God’s people that make up the body of Christ—His Church. Whether you belong to a small local church or a large one makes no difference to God. He loves all believers. Whether believers gather in a magnificent building, in a room at the YMCA, or in a prison cell, it doesn’t matter. God loves all of His people regardless of where they worship.
Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34 NIV). Look beyond your own church walls as you consider your brothers and sisters in Christ. Remember, Jesus loves all people, no matter which church they attend.
Thank God for blessing you with your church—the people with whom you worship with regularly.
Ask the Lord to show you ways to encourage believers both inside and outside of your church walls.