Has church given up on the idea of people “meeting together” and personally “encouraging one another”, in exchange for people “passively sitting through a formal meeting”? “Not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” –Hebrews 10:25. Does church keep Jesus on lockdown–shut away in programs and formality?

When ordinary people are allowed to freely soar in the Spirit and to interactively adore the risen Jesus, church goes beyond being a chore, for it turns into something more–the Greek New Testament concept of ekklesia. “Hearts unfold like flowers” when everyday Christ-followers are allowed to freely share from their heart as they are prompted by the Spirit. “Christ in you” can’t come out if you don’t open up your heart and let Him be seen.

Wisdom is in many, not just in one. “You can all prophesy.” -1 Corinthians 14:31. Winkie Pratney put it this way: “Christian gatherings that are always dominated by one person cannot be directed by the Spirit.” (Perhaps we need to go beyond church as usual: http://amzn.to/2gB4ERL.) Let’s transcend church as usual & let Jesus Himself lead us. Let the risen Jesus burn in your heart like a fire! When Christ is burning in a group of believers, there’s no need for human control.

Without a blazing inner fire,
Christianity becomes a
Powerless outward form.

How’s the Christ-fire inside of you?
1) Blazing red hot;
2) Lukewarm;
3) Flickering
4) Smoldering
5) Cold ashes;
6) Never had one;
“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” –2 Corinthians 13:5