Crossweave Church

Normally, when you use the word change, you think ‘forward’ as in improving your situation by doing something that is new and fresh.  But what I’d like to propose in this matter of having a more meaningful church experience, is that you think backward.  Instead of thinking of some innovative method never tried before, go all the way back to the beginning—how things were meant to be.

Notice how I said “meant to be” and not “used to be”.  It’s easy to simply go back to a time and place where everything felt good.  It is meaningful because of the wonderful memories and experiences attached to it but not necessarily where God wants you to be.  One author describes the original Christian church idea as a “new-yet-ancient system”.  Congregations were small and met in homes.  Even the 3,000 that were added in a day (probably even more with women and children) very likely formed house churches in their neighborhoods.  The key is “small”.  Churches were small and intimate.  Today, you will find many successful Christian churches thriving because of a small group or family cell program taken very seriously and working well.  Even the mega-churches will tell you that.  They’re getting it…somewhat.  

But what about going all the way—to ‘de-church’ or ‘un-institutionalize’ so to speak and change backward?  For practical reasons, this is almost impossible.  God will still continue to use the current state of things (more on that topic next week).  For now, one thing I would suggest is that you actively participate in a weekly small group or family cell group in church to experience something deeper besides just attending a church service.  Or, if there’s one in your neighborhood, join a house church.  You just might find that change you’re looking for by changing backward.