Come to Jesus, or come to church?
This is very short, but it struck me again today while reading a blog, just how far we've gotten off track with church "marketing" and the like. While many churches are out “building their brand”, and zealously marketing their church, God tells us that we should be joining the Holy Spirit in His work…
“The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.” Rev 22.17
The Spirit and the bride are supposed to be on the same page, saying and doing the same thing! And what is it we’re to be doing? Pointing to Jesus; giving the invitation to come to HIM.
It's really not about us at all! This is supposed to be all about Jesus. The Spirit's supreme work is to glorify Jesus, to make Him known. The Spirit doesn't glorify Himself or the church. When everything's as it should be, the church's supreme goal is also to glorify Jesus.
This isn't just an admonition for mega churches, or churches engaged in slick marketing campaigns. This word comes from the scripture to EVERY church. My wife and I are a part of a very small home fellowship, but how often we've been led of the Holy Spirit to get our focus back on Jesus, and off ourselves! It's so easy to get caught up in us! If we can lose our focus just in the course of our gatherings, how much more does it apply to the whole notion of "marketing the church"?
The scriptures are very clear...
“”For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.” 2 Corinthians 4:5
The Spirit never markets Himself, He points to Jesus! The church should be doing the same.