Every Member Engaged - Pastor Dave Klassen
The call to “be the church” is not just about attending a service or belonging to a group, but about living out an active, engaged faith as part of Christ’s body. Every believer, upon surrendering to Jesus, is not only welcomed into the universal and local church but is also called to participate, to serve, and to use the unique gifts God has given. Too often, church is seen as a spectator event, but Scripture paints a different picture: each member is vital, each gift is necessary, and the health and growth of the church depend on everyone’s engagement.
God has given a variety of gifts and roles within the church, as seen in Ephesians 4, Romans 12, and 1 Corinthians 12. Some are called to leadership—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—whose role is to equip others for service and maturity. But the gifts go far beyond leadership: prophecy, service, teaching, encouragement, giving, administration, mercy, wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, and more. Each of these is a manifestation of the Spirit, given for the common good, and no gift is more valuable than another. The church is like a body, where every part, no matter how small, is essential.
Engagement in the church is often hindered by personal barriers—introversion, selfishness, pride, or fear of failure. Yet, God’s call is to step beyond these, trusting that He has a purpose and a place for each one. Sometimes, the very thing we resist is what God wants to use most powerfully in us. The early church grew not through elaborate strategies, but through prayer, surrender, and a willingness to say “yes” to God’s leading.
To be the church is to move from passive attendance to active participation. It means discovering and using your gifts, serving others, and allowing God to work through you for the good of the whole body and the world. The invitation is simple but profound: don’t just go to church—be the church. Say yes to God’s call, however small the step may seem, and trust that your obedience will build up the body of Christ and shine His light in the community.