Who Owns the Church?

Over the years I have heard so many different opinions on this question. I think when people really think about it, they would say, “God”, but in general, we tend to think of it as our church. How we see the church, in many ways, will determine how we worship. Is replacing the carpet for our enjoyment and pride or is it a desire to keep God’s house in good shape? If it is for us, and not to glorify God, we might want to consider if it really is a good use of the finances entrusted to us. When we put our offerings in the Offering plate, do we think of it as a means of paying for gas, electric, and salaries or is it honestly an offering to God from our hearts to be used to further the gospel message? If it is God’s house, then every time we enter, we must understand that we are guests. We are there to enjoy the intimacy with God and should honor God with humble and surrendered hearts. Would you walk into someone else’s house and track mud or leave your candy wrappers all over the place? If it is God’s house, are we cleaning up after ourselves to leave the place better than we found it. I don’t want this to be seen as legalistic bullying. I am not even trying to tell you what you have to do? I just think if we realize we are taking care of God’s house, we might treat it with more respect than if it is our building that we pay for with our offerings. I’m just asking that people consider their heart and their motives, even as they enter the house of the Lord. I respect those that have been called to oversee the church and the ministry, but if it ever came to a choice between following God or the desires of man, I would try to gently explain why I couldn’t follow the rules of man. Lastly, if it is God’s house, then when we arrive, it is first of all, to see Him, not to catch up with our neighbor. There should be a desire to honor God with how we dress, how we act, and how we listen and worship. Even when churches are making their budgets, do we consult God? By this I mean, have we spent time praying for wisdom to know what God wants to accomplish through His church this year? Our budget should match what God is directing us to do and not just what we think we can do. God is not short of financial and spiritual support. How can I enter God’s house with an attitude or worship and service? Father, help us to understand the importance of worship and to recognize your rightful place in our hearts and life. Amen