But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 1 Cor. 12:18
Divide and conquer has been a tried and proven military strategy throughout history. Jesus himself tells us a kingdom, a house, divided cannot stand. I believe one of the dangers we are facing within the body of Christ is isolation. Our greatest need outside of Jesus through these days will be the community we are set into. 1 Cor 12:18.
We read from Isaiah that the last days will hold great increase of darkness while the church shines with an ever greater glory. Two very opposing forces, both with immense power. Men loving darkness will continue to call evil good, and good evil, at the same time that the church continues to advance His Kingdom and overcome with Light.
I believe the battle in the days ahead will be intense enough that isolated individuals will fall prey to the overwhelming pressure of the days. The church of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ is a body of many parts fitly joined together. Hebrews issues a warning to not forsake the assembling of ourselves together as is the custom of some but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day drawing near..Hebrews 10: 25. The danger of isolation, of course, is the ability to be deceived. Jeremiah prophesied “You live in the midst of deception; in their deceit they refuse to acknowledge me," declares the LORD. They pile lie upon lie and utterly refuse to acknowledge me …”.Jeremiah 9:6.
We understand Satan’s greatest tool is deception. Jesus warns even the very elect about the potential of being deceived. I believe the isolation demanded within the covid crisis created a deception about online church attendance. Where there is no communication, there can be no communion. The church is the ekklesia, a called out ‘gathering.’ While we do not take exception to the many wonderful services offered via multi faceted social medium, we have moved too far away from Jesus’ intent of discipleship. The up close and personal involvement in another life that brings loving accountability and empowerment. Every member of the body of Christ is to be properly fitted. A broken bone is painful and the resetting and healing of such is as well. The discomfort caused by the lack of the freedom to move and use the part is also painful but absolutely necessary to the healing process. Hebrews again tell us that which is out of joint is to be healed rather than left lame. How many hurt christians are found isolated and alone feeding on a root of bitterness that has defiled them and others.
I’m’ sure you like me, have heard recent prophetic words regarding God’s work to rebuild community within His church. The build of small groups is not a new concept but one that the church is once again focusing on with intent and purpose. Why? Because within this construct we find true discipleship. The loving care and protection of oversight.
It is the community we fellowship in that will safeguard us in the days to come. How many scriptures warn us about false doctrine, deception and being led astray. Community is our safeguard, keeping us from the deception that is able to develop in one’s isolation.
Left alone, who is there to challenge your choices, your belief system, and encourage you to self-discipline unto growth in Him. You’ve heard the adage “ there is safety in numbers”,’ iron sharpens iron’ - all true within the context of community. (Of course this idea of true community is all about trust, isn’t it?)
The letter to the Hebrews encourages this community ~ we are not those who draw back and are destroyed… may it be so for each of us as we do our part to remain connected, growing and advancing His Kingdom.