Religious structure

9 If the whole body were a heart, where would the blood go? If the whole body were a hand, how would it see? This is why it is written "the body is not made up of one part but of many"1 Corinthians 12:14, and again, "there are different kinds of gifts"1 Corinthians 12:4-6. How foolish, then, to build a church around the idea of a pastor, some elders, and a few lay small group leaders! Where are the church planters, the watchmen, the evangelists, the teachers, the mothers, the technicians, the generous, the hospitable, the merciful, and the many others?

Instead of a powerhouse, the church has become weak, shuffling around on the ground, bleeding out from gaping wounds. This stance has pushed most of the strong out to start their own parachurch ministries, entrenching the weakness. Reverse this by allowing them to work in close proximity with you–allowing them to teach and serve your flock, and giving them the opportunity to notice and raise up future workers.

A Body

You have this going for you: you do not believe in a sacred-secular divide. Everything is sacred! Jesus is Lord over all, not just Sunday services! Now put it into practice. Note those passionate about evangelism and help them to take people out and witness. Look for those studious in the Word and test their discernment. They may be watchmen who will help guard the flock for danger, and test and approve what are good practices to do, and what truths to hold onto. Notice the mothers who are good at teaching children the faith and make sure they have opportunities to mentor others, in the faith and not. Make sure you bring your technicians to the table so they know how to contribute to the vision God has given you.

Most of these activities will be at different times: focus no longer on your Sunday services! Encourage the whole Body, not just the heart! Empower the whole Body, not just the hands! As it is, most of the Body is suffering, so all suffer with it.

Relational anti-institutionalism

Some have departed and rejected all structure and institution. They ought to be heard and coaxed gently back in, after your own repentance and refresh. Many are strong leaders in their own right, allowing them to carry on a semblance of church, typically in house churches. However much a renewed focus on relationships and a rethink on communal activities is needed, a complete rejection of structure is out of order. Everyone will do what is right in their own eyes. Accountability is out the window. Being vulnerable, the Devil has already picked people off and they have departed from the faith.

If I do all these things, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is long-suffering, love is considerate. It does not run from difficult issues, it does not pridefully assert. It does not put others down, it does not keep a record of errors. Love delights in the truth and hopes in the Lord. Carry this attitude as you become the Body that you are.