COMMENTARY

Don Atkin

FORM AND SUBSTANCE

We just returned from visiting a huge congregation where we attended the second of three morning services. It was alive with the experiential presence of God. We were refreshed and edified as we added our voices to the multitudes. There was a full orchestra and a 100+ choir plus several special musical presentations, including a men’s octet. Everyone and everything expressed excellence and honored God. The word ministry, eloquently delivered with much passion and anointing, focused upon everyone being a soul-winner. The altar call lasted quite some time as the Holy Spirit brooded over the assembly, and Deep called unto deep.

So many of our relating ministries are more "kingdom focused" than "soul focused," and are building relationally, in contrast to building institutionally. Many are house churches. I believe in our focus and our building strategies. But, God is also "showing up" in local expressions of His church with other forms. Also, we cannot dismiss the priority of discipling the ethnos, which begins with the preaching of the gospel.

I am excited about the house church movement, but also concerned that authentic spiritual government and accountability be in place. We have a kingdom mandate that lifts us way beyond good fellowship with like-minded folks.

Perhaps it’s not "either/or," but rather "both/and." Perhaps there still is a place for grand assemblies along with the more personal ministry within small groups.

I have a vision of the church in each geo-political sphere gathering for the up-building that can be derived from massive assemblies filled with giftedness and excellence, and also assembling in smaller accountability groups in homes, offices, etc. It is in this latter setting that our spiritual lives and callings can be developed, and we may be equipped for works of service.

I envision all of this happening under the loving Lordship of Jesus Christ, expressed through the fivefold ministry and local elders. No denominations. No separations. One body possessing the gates of each city or region as the earth is filled with God’s government and glory.

In the meantime, let’s not be distracted by our prejudices and preference about form. Let’s appreciate the substance where it (He) is found.