The Church – As God Designed Her

Posted on November 4, 2011 by Mark
© Mark Bordeaux

9/11 Charleston Steeple - © Mark Bordeaux

The Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, being so much more than an organization or a denomination, is a living organism indwelt by the Spirit of God and is called to enjoy a relationship with God and represent Him before the world.  Because of her profound nature and purpose God has provided numerous images of His Church in the pages of Holy Scripture so that His people may fulfill their role and be a reflection of His glory before the world.

Some would suggest that there are as many as 96 images of the Church in the New Testament.[i]  I can identify seven main images; God’s Vineyard, God’s Field, The Bride of Christ, The Body of Christ, Flock of God, Family of God, and God’s Building or The Temple of God.  While no single image can completely describe this mystery (Eph. 3:6, 5:32; Col. 1:26-27) known as the Church, taken together, they provide a wonderful, multifaceted, multidimensional description of the incredible relationship and responsibility entrusted to those known as the people of God.  In the weeks to come I will explore these seven images of the Church and their application to church growth.

Are you a part of The Church? Those who are His disciples, His followers – those who have experienced the new birth (John 3) are all a part of His Church in the sense that they are a part of the group of all believers of all time. To become a child of God, experience the new birth and become a part of His universal church one must turn to Christ and place their faith in Him as their Savior and Master.

Next, if you have a real and personal relationship with God through the Lord Jesus Christ, are you a member of a church? Are you a part of a local group of bible-believing Christ followers? And if so, are you doing your part, fulfilling your calling and responsibility, to help build up the church (Eph. 4:15-16)?

The church of the Lord Jesus Christ is central to the plan of God. Can you imagine…God wants us to have a part in His Plan!

© Mark Bordeaux

[i] Images of the Church in the New Testament: The New Testament Library (New Testament Library) by Paul S Minear  Westmnster 2004.  (http://www.powells.com/biblio/1-0664227791-0)

Posted in Colossians, Doctrine, Ephesians, God's Will, John, The Church | Tagged , | 167 Comments

Let’s Go!

Posted on November 1, 2011 by Mark
All text for the image

Upstate Meadow © Mark Bordeaux, Jr.

It’s easier to go down a hill than up it but the view is much better at the top. – Henry Ward Beecher

For those who are willing to climb with Him, Christ offers an intimacy that those who choose to remain in the valley will never know. Perhaps you are ready for a challenge. Maybe you are tired of the old scenery. It could be that you have heard stories from other “climbers” and long to climb with Jesus as well. Whatever God is using to cultivate your appetite for the adventure of “climbing” with Him I want to encourage you to get started today.

A documentary called, “Everest – Beyond the Limit” introduces viewers to people who have accepted the challenge to “reach the top.” What many may not realize is that the success of the climb is in large part dependent upon timing. Guides choose the right season, check the weather, and stick to a strict schedule. Your desire to “climb” with Christ came from Him. You must drop what you are doing and follow Him. Your “season” may not come when it is convenient. If we want to be one of Jesus’ “climbing partners” we must be ready to move when He says, “Go!” We cannot stay where we are and consider ourselves followers.

Also, we cannot climb alone. There are times when we need to be alone, but climbing Mt. Everest is not one of them. Neither should we attempt to face the challenges of following Christ without other “climbers.”

Those who are willing to undergo the effort and yes, even the risk, to climb with Christ find a view that changes their entire perspective on life. Remember, the view is worth the climb!

                           “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do                             amazing things among you.”   Joshua 3:5

© Mark Bordeaux

Posted in Challenge, Joshua, Personal Growth | Tagged , , | 39 Comments

Are You Ready to Climb?

Posted on October 26, 2011 by Mark

Quiet Times

Thank you for visiting my blog – Climbing Higher! I am excited about offering regular insight and inspiration that is both encouraging and practical. I hope you’ll be a regular subscriber to Climbing Higher and that we’ll learn and laugh together as we grow.

I am grateful to my friend Brad Dickerson and his company for their guidance and assistance with this blog as well as my soon-to-be-launched ministry website for Life Worth Living Ministries.

Please let me hear from you! I’d love to know what subjects you would like me to write about as well as issues/questions you would have me to address.

My heart’s desire is to be continually growing in life through my personal relationship with Christ so that I may better honor Him and encourage others. Thank you for your prayers – we’re almost ready to go!

Jesus is Wonderful. You are loved.

Mark

Posted in Challenge, Encouragement | Tagged , , , , | 74 Comments