I trust this message finds you in good spirits and health. Today, I want to delve into a concept integral to our faith - the inherent strength of The Church of Jesus Christ and the apparent weakness that can sometimes be seen, which stems not from the Church itself, but from the struggles of its members.
The strength of The Church of Jesus Christ is rooted in its divine foundation. Matthew 16:18 records Christ saying to Peter, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it."
This verse establishes the Church's foundation on the teachings of Jesus Christ and assures us of its perpetual strength and resilience, impossible even by the powers of darkness.
However, the Church comprises individual members who are human beings. In his letter to the Romans, Paul describes humanity's inherent condition well.
Romans 3:23 states, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."
Our human nature is susceptible to weaknesses, temptations, and mistakes. As members of the Church, we bring these human imperfections into our collective worship and community.
Yet, we must remember that these personal weaknesses don't reflect the strength of the Church itself. Instead, they emphasize the need for the Church, for it is through the Church that we are offered forgiveness, support, and the means to overcome our weaknesses. The Church of Jesus Christ is the body of Christ, as illustrated in 1 Corinthians 12:27, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it."
Even though individual members may falter, this does not weaken the Church. Instead, it calls upon the Church's collective strength to uplift those struggling, drawing upon the power of Christ Himself.
Remember the beautiful words in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, where Paul speaks of his weaknesses, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
These verses remind us that our individual weaknesses can, paradoxically, become points of strength. In recognizing and admitting these weaknesses, we invite Christ's grace into our lives. His power is made perfect in our weakness.
So, when we see or experience weakness, remember - it's not a reflection of the Church's strength but an opportunity to lean more fully on Christ's unfailing power and support one another in love and humility.
In Christ's love,
Terry
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