The Incomplete Church in the 21st Century

By James Katende – As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, it’s clear that the church is facing numerous challenges. Despite its best efforts, the church often falls short of its full potential, leaving many feeling disconnected and unfulfilled. But what does God have to say about this?

In Revelation 2:4-5, Jesus Christ says, “But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first.” Here, Jesus is speaking to the church, urging it to return to its first love and to repent of its shortcomings.

The Holy Spirit, too, has something to say about the incomplete church. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, we read, “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.” The Holy Spirit is reminding us that we are all part of the same body, with different gifts and roles to play.

God is calling the church to be more than just a gathering of people. He is calling us to be a community of believers who are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live out our faith in a way that transforms the world around us. As Jesus says in Matthew 28:18-20, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”

The incomplete church of the 21st century can be transformed into a vibrant, Spirit-filled community that makes a real difference in the world. But it will require us to listen to God’s voice, to repent of our shortcomings, and to seek the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

As we strive to become the church that God is calling us to be, let us remember the words of 2 Corinthians 3:5-6, “Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant.” May we be a church that is empowered by God, transformed by the Holy Spirit, and committed to living out our faith in a way that honours Jesus Christ.