We challenge the growing tendency to criticize the Church and instead call for a deeper look at our own hearts. We discuss God’s design for His bride, the purpose of gathering, and why motives matter. Our prayer is that the body of Christ will shift from tearing each other down to encouraging each other as God advances His kingdom on earth.

QUESTIONS:

1. Do you approach the Church with a critical spirit or a heart to support what God is doing?
2. What might be driving your preferences or frustrations with the Church—control, hurt, or something deeper?
3. How can you actively contribute to strengthening and encouraging your local church?

READ MORE:

• God’s love and purpose for the Church in Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 5:25
• The call to unity and building up the body in Ephesians 4:11–13; 1 Thessalonians 5:11
• Guarding against a critical or divisive spirit in Philippians 2:3–4; Titus 3:9–11
• The importance of gathering together in Hebrews 10:24–25; Acts 2:42
• Serving and contributing within the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12:12–27; 1 Peter 4:10
• God examining the heart and motives in 1 Samuel 16:7; 1 Corinthians 13:1–3