Building the Church vs. Building the Church

The church building in Malhati fell down as a result of a cyclone that passed through in April. (Above is a picture of the building at its inauguration, which I attended.) Today the pastor, Emmanuel, came to visit me to tell me of their plight. They need 20,000 Indian Rupees (about $425) to rebuild their church building.

It was a great opportunity to talk about building the church. We talked about the fact that it is God's church, and that He promised to build His church (Matthew 16:18). Of course His church isn't the building (although, He owns that too according to Psalm 24:1), but the people.

We talked about the fact that so many of the churches in this region have financial difficulties and how that is a result of people not giving, which is a sign of lack of faith. We read Exodus 35:20-29 and 36:4-7, where the people gave willingly and in such abundance that they had to be commanded to stop giving. We read Luke 21:1-4, where the widow gave her last pennies. We read 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, where from poverty and affliction they overflowed with joy in their generous giving. We talked about how it takes a miracle for people to give out of their lack. It's like water coming from a rock. Yet, it's possible with God.

Emmanuel left committed to pray for a miracle. He's praying that God would show him if there's any areas in his life where he can be more faithful and a better steward. He's praying that the 19 families that make up the church would be built up - growing in their faith and that they will give. He's going to share the stories we looked at together and ask them how they can apply them in their lives. He's praying for God to build His church and for God to provide to build His church building.

I'm praying that God would do as He promised and build His church, the people who are living stones (1 Peter 2:5). As they grow in their faith, I'm praying that their building would be repaired as well. Will you pray with me?