Diversity and Complexity in the Church

Pastor Randy Booth

If we could visit churches throughout history, in their various geographic locations and cultural contexts, we would find, on the one hand, that we were uncomfortable with the oddities that surrounded us—the people, the buildings, the music, and the worship. On the other hand, we would also be struck by the incredible unity—a thread of commonality found among all the people of God, in all times and in all places—a sort of conspiracy. We would find much we disagreed with, much we agreed with, and much we simply didn’t understand.

 The same would be true if we visited other Christian churches in our own community. This is not to say that our differences are unimportant, nor do I wish to suggest that we should ignore these differences. I am simply asserting that Christendom is incredibly diverse and complex. Moreover, individual Christians are diverse and complex.

Yet, we must confess, that in spite of the incredible diversity and complexity, the Church of Jesus Christ has been directed by Him to accomplish all His holy will throughout the ages. Grace Covenant Church of Nacogdoches, Texas is a tiny part of the ocean of God’s kingdom that covers the earth as the waters cover the sea. We must remember that we are part of God’s covenant people, and therefore, we are an important part of His Kingdom. But we must also be humbled by the fact that we are but a tiny part of that Kingdom.

 I believe we should apply God’s words from Acts 18:9-10: “Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, ‘Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.’ And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.” Perhaps we, like Elijah, should be reminded by God, “I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him” (1 Kings 19:18).

[Diversity]