Body Without Organs

But can the emphasis on ecclesial embodiment be actualised virtually? Can we be the body online? Doesn't this disembodied form of communication vitiate the corporeal metaphor? Surely not. Paul himself comments that, although absent in body he is with others “in spirit” (2 Co. 5.3; Col. 5.3). If this is more than a pious sentiment, it must refer to some metaphysical connection, a reality of fellowship across physical distance

The Temple is a Body. The Spirit is a Bone.

 

Examples abound of what practices we are to inhabit when church ‘meets’ – teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, prayer (Acs. 2.42) or providing openings for contributing hymn, instruction, revelation, tongue or interpretation (1 Co. 14.26). But exactly how (liturgy), or where (location), these are to be practised is left open: indeed both temple and home are mentioned (Acs. 2.46); and the temple not commanded, but convenient, for Jewish Messiah-followers to gather; since it is not the ritual elements of temple worship which are practised, but the specific community-forming practises of the messianic community, a sub-culture which would ultimately include gentiles. 

Non-Building-Centred Church

 

KCBC has gone back online for church services. This is not in response to any government dictum. Indeed, they have officially allowed corporate worship, of all religions, to continue. But, due to increasing infections, it seems the responsible reaction to cancel physical services, to defeat the virus, as well as protecting our own attenders.

Electro-Ecclesial Experiments

 

Our leaders met recently and decided to keep our church building closed for services,  until at least 15th February, in line with the government lockdown. Churches are allowed to meet, but following recommendations from the Baptist Union, it seems right to move online for two reasons: to protect our attenders & to protect society by not spreading the virus.

Many are disappointed by this. We have different opinions. So we must remain united and sensitive to each other; respecting each other’s viewpoints, attributing integrity to each other, as we each seek to be faithful to our God.

Shot Gun Wedding – Covid Marriage

 

Although a bit different from the shotgun wedding, with the bride’s father hovering with his loaded weapon, to make sure the reluctant groom marries his pregnant daughter, there has been pressure for people to get married during the pandemic. Like wartime weddings, where people were in a rush, because they didn’t know what would happen, or where they’d be, Covid weddings are similarly different.

Decision and Design

 I had to make a decision, which disappointed many – cancelling physical services in our building. It was more difficult, because we are actually allowed to meet, by the government. The question is whether this is wise, in view of the rising infection rates, from the new strain of Covid. The government itself is being criticised for not taking responsibility. Naturally, noone likes to limit people’s freedoms, and shut things down. But, leaving restrictive measures until the last minute, makes it harder for people to plan. Part of leadership’s task is to make tough decisions; and, although not at PM level, this is also the Pastor’s role.