Many people distance themselves from Christianity not because they reject Jesus, but because they are hurt by the church. Whether due to leadership that wounds, a congregation that judges, or a system that feels unfair, disappointment with the church is a reality that often happens and it is painful.
However, the church is not Christ. The church is the body of Christ, yes, but this body still consists of imperfect humans. Just as in 1 Corinthians 12:27, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” The body can be weak, can fall, and can even cause others to stumble. But the Head of this body remains perfect; He is Christ.
Being disappointed with the church does not have to make us distance ourselves from Jesus. In fact, Jesus Himself was once angry at the religious system of His time. In Matthew 21:12-13, He overturned the tables of the money changers in the temple because the house of God had been made a den of robbers. Jesus knew what it felt like to be disappointed with the “house of worship,” but that did not stop Him from loving His people.
When we are hurt by the church, do not rush to run away from faith. Run to Jesus. He understands a broken heart. Psalm 34:19 says, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” We may be sad, disappointed, even angry. But do not let that hurt distance us from the true Source of Love.
Perhaps right now you are at that point—hurt, doubtful, and wondering, “What is the use of the church?” But remember, Christ’s love does not change. Do not let human mistakes blind you to the beauty of God’s love. God is still working through His church, even though it is imperfect.
Jesus calls us to keep loving, even when the church fails to love us properly. To still love Christ does not mean to close our eyes to the wounds, but to choose to keep walking with Him amidst those wounds.
