The church Jesus envisions is not static or lifeless—it is vibrant, growing, and flourishing.
A flourishing church is a community rooted in Christ, transformed by the Holy Spirit, functioning as His Body, and bearing fruit for His glory. It is a place where believers thrive in their faith and contribute to God’s mission in the world. But what does this look like in practice, and how can individual Christians play a role in building such a church? Let’s explore the flourishing church and provide actionable steps for believers to live out this vision.
1. Rooted in Christ: The Foundation of Flourishing
A flourishing church begins with Jesus as its foundation. He is the cornerstone upon which everything else is built (Ephesians 2:20). Without Him, all efforts are futile. However, being rooted in Christ goes beyond outward rituals; it is about living a life wholly dependent on Him.
Reflect on Jesus’ words: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing” (John 15:5). A flourishing church starts with individuals abiding in Christ.
Action Steps for Believers
- Assess Your Foundation: Ask yourself, “Is Jesus truly the centre of my life?” Reflect on areas where other priorities may have taken His place.
- Deepen Your Relationship with Christ: Spend intentional time in prayer, Scripture reading, and worship—not as a checklist but as a way to know Him more deeply.
- Embrace Faith in Action: Let your trust in Jesus shape your daily decisions. Whether big or small, act in ways that demonstrate your reliance on Him.
2. Transformed by the Spirit: The Formation of Flourishing
Transformation is at the heart of a flourishing church. It is not about superficial changes but about being renewed from the inside out by the Holy Spirit (Romans 12:2). This transformation shapes how believers think, act, and interact with others.
Consider Paul’s encouragement to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Transformation begins when we align our thoughts with God’s will.
Action Steps for Believers:
- Pursue Spiritual Growth: Commit to practices that renew your mind, such as meditating on Scripture or journaling about God’s work in your life.
- Surrender to God’s Pruning: Be open to God revealing areas that need change—whether attitudes, habits, or relationships—and respond with humility and repentance.
- Engage in Discipleship: Join or lead a small group where mutual accountability and encouragement foster growth in Christlikeness.
3. Functioning as One Body: The Unity of Flourishing
A flourishing church functions as the Body of Christ—diverse yet unified under His headship (1 Corinthians 12:12–27). Each member has unique gifts and roles that contribute to the whole.
Paul reminds us that “to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). Every believer has something valuable to offer.
Action Steps for Believers:
- Discover Your Gifts: Prayerfully identify how God has uniquely equipped you to serve His church. Take steps to use those gifts actively.
- Foster Unity: Build relationships marked by love, humility, and forgiveness. Seek reconciliation where there is division.
- Serve Sacrificially: Look for ways to meet needs within your church community—whether through teaching, hospitality, administration, or simply being present for others.
4. Bearing Fruit: The Evidence of Flourishing
The evidence of a flourishing church is seen in its fruit—inwardly through Christlike character and outwardly through Spirit-led actions (Galatians 5:22–23). This fruit glorifies God and blesses others.
Jesus said, “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples” (John 15:8). Bearing fruit is not optional; it is central to following Him.
Action Steps for Believers:
- Cultivate Christlike Character: Allow the Holy Spirit to develop qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness in your life.
- Invest in Relationships: Build godly relationships marked by encouragement, accountability, and mutual growth.
- Engage in Service: Take practical steps to care for others, whether by feeding the hungry, mentoring younger believers, or supporting those in need.
5. Flourishing Through Mission: Expanding God’s Kingdom
A flourishing church does not exist for itself but for God’s mission. It seeks to bring His light into dark places and His hope into broken lives (Matthew 28:19–20).
Jesus commissioned His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). A flourishing church lives out this calling with passion and purpose.
Action Steps for Believers:
- Be Missional Daily: See your workplace, neighbourhood, or school as a mission field. Share Christ through words and actions.
- Follow the Spirit’s Leading: Be open to where God might send you locally or globally to share His love.
- Support Kingdom Work: Partner with missionaries or ministries through prayer, financial support, or volunteering.
Living Out the Vision
The flourishing church is not just an ideal but a reality we are called to pursue together. It begins with individuals committed to abiding in Christ, being transformed by His Spirit, functioning as part of His Body, bearing fruit for His glory, and participating in His mission.
As you reflect on this vision:
- This week, pray about how you can contribute personally.
- Identify one specific action step from each section that you can apply immediately.
- Share this vision with others in your sphere of influence and encourage them to join you in building a flourishing church.
When each believer takes responsibility for their role in God’s plan—abiding in Christ and empowered by His Spirit—the church will flourish abundantly for His glory. Together, we can become the vibrant Body of Christ that He desires—a beacon of hope and love to a watching world!
For His Name's Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
