Although Christianity appears to be in rapid decline in the Western world, it is about to break out with fresh power that will radically transform those who experience it. How?
The biblical example of ekklesia was established by Jesus Christ when He said in the Greek New Testament; “I will build My ekklesia.” (Ekklesia is the name of the city-council in ancient Greek city-states, but it is usually mistranslated as church — see more at this link). The New Testament ekklesia pattern reveals 8 keys from the past that will lead Christianity to a powerful future.
- God’s blended family. Ekklesias were not built around race, color, class, or socioeconomic position. They contained people from “every kindred and every tribe.” Jesus tore down the “wall of partition” that divides people.
- Hierarchy-free equality. Jesus commanded His disciples to avoid setting up a hierarchy so that they could function as loving brothers and sisters rather than as an organization or institution.
- Full participation in worship gatherings. The New Testament tells us that when we meet together as a Christ-followers, everybody present has something to share.
- Priesthood of the believer. There is no concept of clergy and laity in the New Testament. Instead all Christ followers are called to be real ministers, not just spectators.
- Surrender to the literal leadership, direction, and control of the Spirit. Worship meetings were not programmed and/or controlled by men, but were under the direct direction of the Holy Spirit.
- Openness, honesty, and humility toward one another. Jesus demonstrated and encouraged brokenness and servanthood. The early Christ-followers did too.
- Conviction that leads to true character. Jesus said: “Go and sin no more.” Early Christians were trained to confess their sins to one another and to live pure and holy lives.
- Actual demonstrations of the presence and power of the living, risen Jesus. The first Christians didn’t just preach about Jesus, they made room for Him and allowed the living Jesus to demonstrate His presence during their meetings and in their individual lives.
It’s time to embrace the ekklesia keys! Experience these 8 keys in action in Nashville, Tennessee at The Salvation Army Berry Street, 225 Berry St., 37207 on Sunday mornings at 10:45. Also learn more about them in the book Beyond Church: An Invitation To Experience The Lost Word Of The Bible–Ekklesia.
