Christ and His Church: Getting the Order Right

When you hear the word "church," what comes to mind? A building? A group of people you’ve grown up around? A denomination? A social group with a religious focus? For many, the church is familiar. But in that familiarity, something vital can be lost—namely, what the church is, who established it, and why that matters deeply.

Let’s begin with a foundational truth:  Jesus Christ—not man—founded the church.

In Matthew 16:18, Jesus said to Peter, “...on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.” That claim matters. He didn’t say, “I’ll inspire others to build a church,” or “You go ahead and build something for Me.” He said, “I will build My church.”

That means the church doesn’t belong to a preacher, a movement, a modern ideology, or even a faithful group of people—it belongs to Jesus. It exists for Him, through Him, and because of Him. It is the result of His sacrificial death and victorious resurrection.

And that’s why this conversation matters.

Because over time—even with sincere hearts—we can start talking and thinking about the church as if it were ours to shape, name, or redefine. But when we add to or take away from what Christ established, we are no longer “continuing in the apostles’ doctrine” (Acts 2:42)—we’ve stepped outside of it.

That’s not just a doctrinal problem. That’s a relational one. Because the church isn’t a human structure—it’s the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22–23). To step away from what Jesus built is to step away from Him.

A Word About Names

There’s an important caution here, even in how we refer to ourselves. The Bible says the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch (Acts 11:26). That name means something:  it points to Christ as our center and identity.

When we start putting things before or after that name—like “Baptist Christian,” “Catholic Christian,” or even “Church of Christ Christian”—we may be unintentionally saying something that changes or even divides what was never meant to be split.

Language like this can create categories Jesus never made. It risks turning a living relationship with the Savior into a label for a religious party. We must be cautious, not because we’re trying to win arguments, but because we want to stay true to Christ.

The Church Isn’t Ours to Modify

Imagine someone giving you a priceless heirloom—a handmade, beautiful piece of craftsmanship—and saying, “This is yours to keep, but please don’t change it. It’s exactly as it should be.” Now imagine someone sanding it down, painting it, adding logos and decorations. Is it still the same piece?

That’s what can happen when we start shaping the church around our preferences. Jesus has already defined what the church is:

• It is His body (Colossians 1:18)

• It is made up of the saved (Acts 2:47)

• It worships in spirit and truth (John 4:24)

• It exists to glorify Christ, not itself (Ephesians 3:21)

If we add to it—new names, new doctrines, new organizational structures—then we’re not “adjusting” the church. We’re stepping into something separate from what Jesus established. That’s serious.

Unity Through Submission

The goal here isn’t to elevate “our group” or put others down. It’s to lift Christ up and return to the simplicity and beauty of what He built.

The early church didn’t have marketing strategies, denominational branches, or voting conferences. They had Christ. They had the gospel. They had the Scriptures. And that was enough.

Our unity is found not in wearing the same label, but in submitting to the same Lord. In following His pattern, not our preferences. In calling ourselves Christians—not because it Is tradition, but because it declares that we belong to Jesus.

So What Should We Do?

We examine everything by the standard of God’s Word. We ask:

• Are we following Christ as He leads the church—or are we following a tradition?

• Are we wearing His name alone—or one we’ve created?

• Are we part of His body—or have we built something else?

The good news is this:  Jesus still calls people to Himself. And those who come to Him in obedient faith—believing, repenting, confessing, and being baptized—are added to His church (Acts 2:38–47). Not by a committee, not by vote, but by the Lord Himself.

That’s the church we want to be part of. That’s the church that will last.

And that’s the one that still belongs to Christ.

When Obedience Is Hard - And Why It's Worthy It

Let’s be honest:  obedience is not always easy. Most of us, if we’re being real, can recall moments when we knew exactly what God wanted from us — and yet, something in us pushed back. Maybe we were tired. Maybe it was inconvenient. Maybe we were afraid of what others would think. Or maybe, we just didn’t want to do it.

If that’s ever been you, take a deep breath — you’re not alone. In fact, you’re in good company. Jesus Himself walked that same road. Hebrews 5:7–8 gives us a stunning glimpse into the heart of Jesus:  “...who, in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears... was heard because of His godly fear, though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered.”

Just stop and think about that . . .  Jesus — the Son of God — learned obedience through suffering. Not because He was sinful, but because He was fully human. He understands the difficulty of obeying when it costs you something. That’s not just theological truth — that’s deeply comforting.

So what do we do when obedience feels hard? When it’s inconvenient, confusing, or even painful?

Let’s take a look at some of those moments — and discover why obedience, though difficult, is always worth it.

1. Obedience Is Hard When I’m Not “In the Mood”

There are days when we simply don’t feel like doing what’s right. Our emotions scream louder than our convictions. But God’s Word reminds us that faithfulness isn’t about feelings — it’s about devotion.

Paul told Timothy to be ready “in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). That means when it’s easy and when it’s hard, when we feel inspired and when we feel empty.

Love for God means showing up, even when we’re weary. As Mark 12:30 says: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” Real love doesn’t wait for perfect conditions. It moves. It acts. It obeys. And often — maybe you’ve felt this too — when we choose to obey first, our emotions catch up. There’s peace on the other side of obedience.

2. Obedience Is Hard When It’s Not Convenient

With our world built on speed, comfort, and ease, obedience can feel like an interruption.

Felix, in Acts 24:25, listened to Paul talk about righteousness and judgment — but said, “Come back at a more convenient time.” That “better time” never came.

Convenience is a seductive idol. It whispers, “Later… when life slows down.” But Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33). That doesn’t mean squeezing God into our leftovers — it means reordering our priorities entirely. Sometimes obedience disrupts your day. It pulls you off schedule. But that’s okay — the most important spiritual moments in our lives rarely come with a warning or fit neatly into a calendar slot.

3. Obedience Is Hard When I Don’t Understand

We like to know why. We want clarity, explanation, and logic before we take the next step. But faith isn’t built on full understanding — it’s built on trust.

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. (Isaiah 55:8)

Noah didn’t understand why he needed to build a boat in the middle of dry land. Abraham didn’t know where he was going when God told him to leave everything behind. And Jesus — in Gethsemane — cried out for another way. But still He said, “Not My will, but Yours be done.” (Matthew 26:39)

Obedience, especially when we don’t understand, is one of the deepest expressions of faith.

4. Obedience Is Hard When I’d Rather Do Something Else

Let’s be honest:  sometimes our desires just don’t align with God’s will. Our preferences get in the way. Proverbs 14:12 warns us:  “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”

Naaman almost missed his healing because he didn’t like how God instructed him to be cleansed (2 Kings 5). His pride got in the way. And that’s often our struggle too — we want to obey, our way. But Jesus didn’t go to the cross because it was His preference. He went because it was obedience. He trusted that His Father’s way was best.

5. Obedience Is Hard When I Might Look Foolish

Sometimes we shrink back from obedience because we’re afraid of what people will think. What if they mock us? What if we lose respect? What if we seem weird or extreme? Even some of the Jewish leaders believed in Jesus, but wouldn’t confess Him. Why? “...because they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” (John 12:43)

That’s a powerful warning. When we let the fear of people outweigh our fear of God, we miss the chance to live courageously. 

Yes, standing for truth in a world of compromise might be awkward — even embarrassing. But it’s also beautiful. And Jesus said, “Whoever is ashamed of Me... of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed.” (Mark 8:38)

That’s not a threat — it’s a wake-up call to courage. Because true obedience isn’t ashamed to follow Christ, even when it’s unpopular.

So… What Do We Do When Obedience Is Hard?

We remember what’s at stake. We remember Who we’re following. Obedience might stretch us, cost us, and challenge us. But it also changes us. It shapes our hearts, grows our faith, and draws us closer to Christ.

Paul described the Christian life as a race — one that requires discipline, effort, and endurance (1 Corinthians 9:24–27). He didn’t run aimlessly. He trained with purpose — because he knew the prize was worth it.

And Jesus? He showed us the ultimate picture of obedience. “…who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross…” (Hebrews 12:2). He endured — and He was exalted.

Obedience is rarely easy. But it always leads to joy, as Proverbs 13:15 says, “The way of the unfaithful is hard.”

Jesus invites us into something better: “Come to Me… and I will give you rest… For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28–30)

Obedience may be hard in the moment. But it leads to peace, purpose, and life.

So when it’s hard… obey anyway. – When you’re tired… obey anyway. – When it doesn’t make sense… obey anyway.

Because God is faithful. And He never asks you to walk where He hasn’t already gone.

Obedience may be costly — but it is always, always worth it.

Guilty but Free: Christ Our Advocate

Imagine this:  you've been arrested and indicted for a very serious crime. The prosecution has done its homework. They’ve gathered the evidence, lined up the witnesses, reviewed every moment leading up to the crime. There’s no escape—they’ve got you dead to rights.

So now, you are called into court to stand trial. The judge enters the room, and everyone rises. The jury sits down, ready to hear testimony. The air is thick with tension. You know the facts. You know what you’ve done. And worst of all—you know you’re guilty.

As the hearing begins, the judge turns to the defense. He doesn’t want to hear from you—he wants to hear from your attorney—your advocate.

There’s a saying in the legal world:  “A man who represents himself has a fool for a client.” The truth is, none of us are equipped to plead our own case when the stakes are life and death. And spiritually speaking, the stakes are even higher.

Our Spiritual Trial

In many ways, this courtroom drama mirrors our spiritual reality. The Bible tells us plainly:  "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).

No one is innocent. We've all broken the law—not the laws of man, but the holy and perfect law of God. And the penalty? "The wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23).

It’s not just physical death, but spiritual separation from God. If God is the righteous Judge—and He is—then we’re all standing trial in a courtroom where we deserve the maximum sentence.

The Advocate We All Desperately Need

But here's the incredible news:  We don’t have to represent ourselves. In fact, we have the best Advocate imaginable—Jesus Christ.

"But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ the righteous one" (1 John 2:1).

Jesus is our spiritual defense attorney, our representative. And He’s not just any advocate—He’s the Son of the Judge Himself. Imagine walking into a courtroom where your defense lawyer is not only perfectly righteous, wise, and persuasive—but is also the beloved Son of the One presiding.

He doesn’t stand up and try to make excuses for your sin. He doesn’t twist the truth or bargain for a reduced sentence. No—He does something far greater.

He says, “Yes, this one is guilty. But I have already paid the price.”

"He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness" (1 Peter 2:24).

"God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Jesus not only pleads our case—He takes on our punishment. He offers His perfect record in exchange for our broken one. This is not a legal loophole. This is mercy. This is love beyond comprehension.

A New Kind of Life

So what does this mean for us?

It means freedom. Not freedom to go back to our old life, but freedom to live a new one. Freedom to live not for ourselves, but for the One who saved us.

"He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again" (2 Corinthians 5:15).

When you realize the magnitude of your guilt, and then realize the even greater depths of Christ’s mercy, something changes in your heart. Gratitude turns into devotion. Fear turns into love. And self-seeking turns into Christ-seeking.

You no longer serve God out of guilt or obligation, but out of overwhelming gratitude and awe. Our desire becomes His desire. Our purpose becomes His purpose. We live not to earn His love—but because of His love.

Living with Confidence

And here’s one of the most comforting truths of all:  your Advocate never stops defending you.

"Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us" (Romans 8:34).

Even now, Christ is seated at the right hand of the Father, speaking on your behalf. He sees your weakness, your struggle, your failures—and still He pleads, "This one belongs to Me."

He is not ashamed of you. He is not tired of defending you. He stands as your eternal representative, your faithful friend, your Savior and King.

The Final Verdict

One day, we will all stand before God’s throne. If we are in Christ, we will not stand alone. And when the Judge asks, “What is your plea?” we will remain silent, for our Advocate will speak for us.

And the verdict?  

“Not guilty.”

Not because we were innocent, but because Jesus took our guilt.

Not because we were strong, but because He was.

Not because we earned it, but because He gave it.

And in that moment, we’ll realize why we lived for Him… why we gave up our own will for His… and why we were never ashamed to follow the One who saved us.

"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" (2 Corinthians 9:15)

Let this truth fill you with hope, courage, and gratitude. You are represented by the very Son of God. You are loved, forgiven, and free. So live—not for yourself—but for the One who gave everything for you.

The Consumer Mindset in Church

We live in a consumer-driven culture. Whether you’re shopping for shoes, a phone, or even deciding where to eat, we are constantly presented with choices designed to cater to our preferences. 

A recent example from my own life:  I spent an entire week researching the perfect deck box. I visited Walmart, Fresno Ag, Home Depot, and scoured Amazon—comparing sizes, materials, reviews—wanting to make the right choice. It made sense; I was the customer. I had a need, and I was determined to find the product that fit my criteria.

This kind of decision-making defines much of how we live. Our culture says:  “Find what suits you best. Customize it. Choose what makes you happiest.” And that works fine—until we bring that consumer mindset into the church.

More and more people today approach church like they would a restaurant, gym, or streaming service:  “Does it meet my needs? Do I like the worship style? Is it convenient for my schedule?” If expectations aren’t met, they move on. But is this how God intended us to relate to the church?

God’s Design:  The Church is a Community, Not a Commodity

The Bible gives us a very different picture of what the church is supposed to be. It’s not a product to consume—it’s a people to belong to. When we treat the church like a product, we miss the deep, relational, God-designed reality of what it is meant to be. The Bible offers several beautiful metaphors:

The Church is a Family

In Galatians 6:10 and Ephesians 2:19, Paul reminds us that we are members of God's household. Like any family, being part of the church involves commitment, loyalty, and love—not preference or convenience. You don’t leave a family dinner just because you don’t like what’s being served. Families stick together, support each other, and sacrifice for one another. We are not just attendees—we are adopted sons and daughters of God, part of a spiritual family.

The Church is a Body

In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul describes the church as a body with many parts. Each believer plays a unique and essential role. When we disengage because something isn’t our preference, we hurt the whole body. The eye can’t say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” Every part matters, even those behind the scenes. Church isn’t about passively watching—it’s about actively participating. Consumerism says, “I’ll attend if it benefits me.” The Bible says, “You belong—and the whole body suffers without you.”

The Church is a Temple

According to Ephesians 2:20-22 and 1 Peter 2:4-5, the church is a spiritual temple where God dwells. Each of us is a “living stone” being built into something sacred. The church is not just about individual experience—it’s about what we are building together in Christ. It’s not a performance for our enjoyment—it’s a house of worship for God’s glory.

The Dangers of Consumer Christianity

When we allow the consumer mindset to shape how we engage with the church, real damage can be done—to our own spiritual growth, to the community of believers, and to our witness to the world.

Self-Centered Focus

2 Timothy 4:3-4 warns about people seeking out teachers who will say what their “itching ears want to hear.” Instead of being shaped by truth, consumer Christians seek comfort and affirmation. But true worship isn’t about entertainment—it’s about transformation.

Shallow Commitment

Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us to meet together, spur one another on, and grow in love and good deeds. Consumer Christianity resists this. It promotes church-hopping and disengagement when things get tough. Real growth, however, happens in committed relationships over time.

Choosing a Church Biblically

Instead of choosing a church based on comfort and style, Scripture challenges us to ask:

• Is God’s Word faithfully preached? (2 Timothy 4:2)
• Is Christ the center of worship? (John 4:23-24)
• Is there authentic community and discipleship? (Acts 2:42-47)
• Are there opportunities to serve and grow? (1 Peter 4:10)
• Is the church living out God’s mission? (Matthew 28:19-20)

These are the criteria that should guide our involvement—not whether the coffee is good or the music matches our playlist.

Moving from Consumer to Contributor

So how do we make the shift?

• Examine your mindset (2 Corinthians 13:5) — Are you expecting to be served, or are you ready to serve?
• Discover and use your spiritual gifts (1 Peter 4:10) — God has equipped you for a role in His church.
• Invest in the mission (James 2:17) — Don’t just sit—serve.
• Commit to consistency (Galatians 6:9) — Don’t give up when it’s hard.
• Build relationships (Hebrews 10:24-25) — Church is about people, not just programs.

Conclusion

Let’s go back to where we started: Imagine if we treated our marriages, friendships, or families like we treat consumer goods—switching them out when they no longer “suit” us. We would never grow. We would never experience real love. That’s not how relationships work—and it’s not how the church works either.

The church is not a service to critique; it’s a spiritual family to love. It’s not a product to enjoy—it’s a body to serve. It’s not a building—it’s the temple of the living God, built from our lives, joined together for His glory.

So, let’s stop asking, “What do I get?” and start asking, “What can I give?” Let’s be contributors—not consumers—because when the church functions as God intended, it becomes one of the most beautiful, powerful, life-giving communities on earth.

The Five Principles of Discipleship: A Journey of Growth, Service, and Dependence on God

Discipleship is at the heart of the Christian life, calling believers to follow Jesus, grow in faith, and help others do the same. In Colossians 1:28-29, the Apostle Paul lays out five key principles of discipleship: proclaiming Jesus, teaching and warning with wisdom, aiming for spiritual maturity, embracing the cost of discipleship, and relying on God's power. These principles guide us in our journey as disciple-makers and strengthen our walk with Christ.

1. Proclaiming Jesus: The Foundation of Discipleship

The first and most important aspect of discipleship is proclaiming Jesus. Paul writes, “Him we proclaim” (Colossians 1:28), emphasizing that our message is not about ourselves but about Christ. As 2 Corinthians 4:5 reminds us, “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord.” True discipleship centers on making Jesus known—whether to unbelievers or fellow believers—so that all may experience His love, power, and truth.

2. Teaching and Warning with Wisdom

Discipleship involves both teaching and warning. Paul states that we are to teach “with all wisdom” while also warning against errors (Colossians 1:28). Teaching involves grounding others in Scripture, equipping them to discern truth from falsehood (2 Timothy 3:16-17). At the same time, warning is necessary when believers stray from the path of righteousness (Proverbs 27:6). Speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) ensures that disciples grow in their faith while being corrected with grace.

3. The Goal: Spiritual Maturity in Christ

The ultimate aim of discipleship is to “present everyone mature in Christ” (Colossians 1:28). It is not just about conversion but transformation—helping believers become more like Jesus. Maturity involves deepening faith, strengthening character, and cultivating a life of service (Ephesians 4:13). This process takes patience, perseverance, and encouragement, as growth in Christ is a lifelong journey.

4. The Cost of Discipleship

Paul acknowledges the toil and struggle of discipleship (Colossians 1:29). Jesus Himself warned of the cost, saying, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). Discipleship requires sacrifice, selflessness, and perseverance, even when it is difficult. Yet, despite the hardships, the reward is eternal—helping others grow in Christ and advancing God’s kingdom.

5. Relying on God's Power    

Though discipleship is challenging, we do not do it alone. Paul makes it clear that he labors with the strength God provides (Colossians 1:29). Jesus affirms this truth in John 15:5: “Apart from me, you can do nothing.” Our ability to disciple others does not come from our own strength but from God's power working within us. When we rely on Him, He enables us to bear fruit in His kingdom.

Conclusion

Discipleship is both a privilege and a responsibility. It requires proclaiming Jesus, teaching and warning with wisdom, striving for spiritual maturity, embracing sacrifice, and depending on God's strength. Though it is not always easy, it is a calling that transforms lives and spreads the gospel. By following these five principles, we faithfully fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) and participate in God's work of shaping His people into the image of Christ.