Dwelling in the House of the Lord

I just finished reading an article by Dallas Willard on Evangelism. I say article, it is really an interview with Willard that took place over several weeks and covered various topics. I found the following comments both interesting and insightful.

"The primary function of the church is not evangelism, but to be a place for the dwelling of God on earth. This requires that people grow and receive God and occupy their place with God. That would have a natural effect of evangelism. What we want is not just evangelism that makes converts. We want disciples...and if you are intent on making disciples and keep on that track, evangelism will take care of itself." He goes on to say, "Of course, understanding that evangelism is a natural function of a healthy Body doesn't preclude specific efforts. But the role of the community would be a primary factor in this. Many people will be drawn in without any special strategy but simply by the health of the people."

The Psalmist in Psalm 23 makes as his last statement, "I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Clearly this is his ultimate goal. It is life with his shepherd that prepares him for the present as well as, the final stage of life. It is all about learning to live in the kingdom of God. It is the Lord who provides for his every need. It is the Lord who give and sustains life. It is the Lord who protects, nurtures and nourishes him.

The health of the body is found in its connection to and dependence upon the Lord, who is both shepherd and Lord. We are now dwelling in the house of the Lord. But even more we are the house in which the Lord himself dwells. Which prompts the question of how ought we to live?

Dallas Willard comments upon living in the kingdom of God.

"God's intent was to have a kingdom in which we are significantly involved. That is the eternal as well as the temporal plan. Every human being, wherever they may be, is given the opportunity to enter into a companionship, a working relationship with God. The kingdom of God is what God is doing. And his plan was that he would be doing many things with us." "Churches that took seriously the kingdom of God would look a lot like training centers--training centers for life, a life interactive with God."

Do you see "a life interactive with God" in Psalm 23?
How do you view companionship and a working relationship with God?
What is God doing in His kingdom today?
What is he doing with you?
How can the church become a training center for life?

Just some things to think about along the way.

Bob