For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Matthew 18:20 NIV
What do you think of when you hear the word “church”? The first thing that comes to mind might be a building where Christians meet. Or an event, typically on Sunday mornings. Or it might even be an institution like the Roman Catholic Church, the Southern Baptist Convention, or any other denominational or parachurch organization.
But none of those describe what the church, as described in the New Testament, really is. The word “church” comes from the Greek word “ekklēsia.” This word referred to an assembly of citizens called together for a purpose. And the New Testament writers used this word to refer to the assembly of believers in the Lord Jesus who had been called out of the world.
Where is the church? This verse answers that question. It is wherever Jesus’ followers gather together, even if only two or three. We are not just the church when we met in our buildings on Sunday morning. We are also the church when we meet in small groups for Bible study, share a meal, or walk together through the park.
It does not matter where we are or what we are doing. When we are gathered together, we are his church, and Jesus is there with us. Rejoice in his presence among us, and be thankful. Honor and worship him as Lord. And follow his lead. Even if it is only two or three of us.
