Live a miracle

For a movement that has been written off, the church is a remarkably durable force. Two thousand years of history is longer than any ruling dynasty, any nation-state and any political ideology. And the movement continues despite constant rumours of its imminent demise. The church's talent for outlasting its detractors results from its ability to adapt. There is no single description or definition that covers every fellowship, meeting, denomination, organisation or alliance that comprises the church because change is built into the nature of God's "called out" community.

Do I surprise you by naming as an asset a characteristic that is generally viewed as a disadvantage? The church is criticised for being divided, for having multiple denominations and sects and for lacking consistency. But this is not a political party or a campaign group where success depends on consolidated effort. Effort is not consistent with the nature of the true church. The church is born of grace and love rather than human endeavour, which proceeds from law.

The church looks for inspiration to Jesus of Nazareth and worships him as Son of God. But Jesus said very little about the church. Three or four brief comments comprise his entire contribution to the doctrine of the church and one of them is among the more controversial texts in the gospels.

• The church is a gathering of believers in Jesus' name. Not necessarily a large assembly but larger than just husband and wife
• The church has leaders whose decisions are subject to the endorsement of the rest of the group (who are thereby credited with the ability to make wise judgements)
• The church is built upon a strong foundation, which is either Peter himself or Peter's confession of Christ, depending which view you subscribe to
• The church is united in love
  

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