The Role of the Church
| I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God's grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all the Lord's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Ephesians3:7-11) |
When Paul wrote these words, he was in prison, yet his heart overflowed with purpose and vision. He saw the Church not as an institution or a building, but as the living body through which God reveals His grace to the world. Though he called himself "less than the least of all the Lord's people," Paul knew that God's grace was enough to empower him to share the good news with all nations.
Paul's declaration that "through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known" reminds us of our sacred calling in every generation and place. The Church is God's chosen instrument to display His wisdom, mercy, and justice in a world that desperately needs them.
In our southern and central African context - across South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and the DRC - this calling remains urgent. Our nations carry both beauty and brokenness: vibrant faith and community life alongside poverty, corruption, and division. Many long for hope, truth, and compassion in the face of hardship. In such times, the Church cannot remain silent or still. To be faithful is to embody God's wisdom in tangible ways: through reconciliation where there is mistrust, generosity where there is need, and courage where there is fear.
Each time a congregation or believer feeds the hungry, mentors the young, prays with the suffering, or speaks for peace and justice, God's grace becomes visible. The Church becomes a living sign that Christ's reconciling love is stronger than despair.
Our strength does not come from wealth, numbers, or influence, but from grace. We are co-workers with God in His mission of renewal. Through the Church - ordinary people empowered by extraordinary grace - God continues to reveal His love, His justice, and His hope to all creation.
May we, the Church across Africa, live out this calling with humility and courage. May our worship, witness, and service shine as a testimony that God's wisdom is still at work: healing divisions, lifting burdens, and transforming lives. And may those who see us also see in us the manifold wisdom of God revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
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Melanie Cook, loves coffee, her family and Jesus, but not in that order. Serving as minister at St Columba's Presbyterian Church, Parkview, JHB. She is also the Moderator-Elect of the General Assembly.
