Church Family or Family Church?

Just had a conversation about churches with another person who cares deeply for churches. We talk often about things in the churches we serve. We share concerns and celebrations, obstacles and opportunities. It's good to talk with people who have similar passion, experience, and situation. The Bible says that one man sharpens another as iron sharpens iron.

We talked today about several things but this is on my mind right now. Is your church a church family or a family church? I guess that question might not be relevant if you attend a church with several hundreds of people. But if your church is several dozen or less it's a valid question.

We talk about fellowship and unity in the church. The idea is that Christians, especially those who are part of the same local church, are supposed to live in community with each other. Note that I did NOT say "in the community" but "in community." We are to share life together. The good and the bad. The ups and the downs. We are to encourage each other and help each other. We are to spur one another on to love and good deeds.

The church is to be a family who loves one another, cares about one another, helps one another, shares with one another, leads one another, works alongside one another.

Is that a good description of your church? Or does the term "church family" bring to mind a mafia family? With a boss or kingpin? With everyone else doing what one or a few say and afraid to oppose anything? With nothing passing a vote without their approval?

Even if most of the people are related to one another, the church ought not be that kind of family. The church has a dynamic different than any earthly organization or community or institution. Its leadership is different. Its relationships are different.

Churches should examine themselves to see if they are a church family or a family church. Don't be afraid to take a look. And don't be afraid to make changes to become the New Testament body of believers you ought to be.