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Timothy OladipoSaturday, January 24, 2015
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BUILDING THE UNCOMMON CHURCH

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The uncommon church is for me much more than a clever one liner or catchy title for an article!

hen referring to or describing something as 'uncommon' I deem it equally appropriate to tag it as being 'unique'. According to the Wordbook dictionary, the word 'uncommon' is indeed used to describe something that is specific or exclusive - that is - something highly unusual or rare, but not the single instance.

One may posses a unique anointing to do that which others cannot, such as a unique ability in raising funds ( this 'anointing' is well sought after today!) or a unique teaching ability. It may even be a distinctly unrivalled intellect. 'Unique' can equally be used to mean: alone, unequaled, beyond comparison, unparalleled or even the single one of a kind.

Throughout my years in the pastoral office I have been fortunate to have read many books and write ups; as well as being subject to copious messages and teachings on this self same topic: the 'uncommon church.' I have however noted that the focal point of several of these 'messages' erroneously major on building a church with a large membership. Not that there is anything wrong with building a church with an extensive membership. It is actually to the delight of God and His followers to see heaven populated, and souls delivered from the snares of the devil. Notwithstanding, I still perceive a dire dose of ignorance amongst the Body of Christ, in relation to the true 'meaning of the 'uncommon church.' I am sure I am not alone in my thoughts either!

About 10 years ago; I was sitting in the church office when my post for the day was delivered. Amongst the letters was an invitation from a church inviting me to a seminar entitled 'How to build an Uncommon Church.' The accompanying bullet points on the intricate flyer screamed at me, stating what was on offer at the seminar, one of the topics was: 'Breaking the Barrier of the 200 Membership.' I smiled and thought that this was not for me, in a humorous way because our local church had not even reached the 100 membership mark as at then (not that we have even now).

As I was contemplating on how I had failed to qualify for this seminar, I heard the Lord say to me: 'Do you know what I categorise as an uncommon church?' Before I gathered my thoughts to respond, He progressed by saying that 'an uncommon church is a Spiritual, Holy, Righteous church, a church that adheres to My(God) mandate here on earth, and teaches My uncompromised and undiluted gospel. That My son, is an uncommon church!'

God then asked me this: 'have you ever considered why in 'some' churches with larger memberships and eloquent preachers, the lives of those that worship in such places do not reflect my glory? And why there is more of a sinful stench than transformation in such places?' He said 'because My Holy Spirit is non-existent in their midst, they have used their human knowledge and worldly strategies to pull people together.' God further told me that it is His responsibility to build His church, but because they have built the church on a human rock for themselves, they cannot oppose the gates of hell!(See Matthew 16:18.)

I must say I have learnt never to be discouraged by church leaders who gauge your qualification for association with them, by the size of the congregation you pastor! I remember a while back at a huge pastor's conference in London. I was standing with a group of pastors discussing the awesomely taught session that we had just received. Introductions amongst this small group were exchanged and the ominous topic of our church's membership was raised. I watched with amusement the body language of my new 'friends' and the sudden formation of cliques between those with larger numbers of members, and the dismissive brushing aside of those of us who had not yet reached the 'qualifying numbers!' The exchange of business cards between those that felt they had 'arrived' took place, and as this went on I heard the Lord say to me "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom." Luke 12:32

Beloved, please be aware that the coming of the Lord is closer than ever. I beseech you to identify with what He has called you to do, and ask for His grace to function in that unique office. The more you want to replicate what others have done or are doing, the further you will move from God's mandate for your life.

Mind you, you should be led by God to emulate and cultivate spiritual excellence where you can, this too is scriptural, Paul reminded the church in Corinth as he said "follow me as I follow the example of Christ" 1Cor 11:1. Do not try to figure out how to build God's church, it is not for you to build but Him! Many are trying anything that works to make things happen. People want to be relevant by bringing in all sorts of spirits to share their pulpits and hence endangering the lives of souls God gave to them to watch over!

You carry a unique - unusual anointing! Stay in your calling! God saw your limitations before He called you; do not make your election cheap by chasing after people that have lost their relationship with God. As for me, I would rather have a church with less people who are blessed and heaven focused than to have a flock of people whose souls have been lied to and whose wounds are slightly dressed. (Jeremiah 6:13-15)

The Lord told me in August 2010 that there are more 'messed up' and lost souls in the church than outside of it. And we cannot continue to win souls into an already polluted gathering otherwise it will be as one adding a new wine to an old wine skin, whereby both will be marred! There is so much more for us to do in the Kingdom. Kingdom messages are not meant to condemn people, conversely neither are they to keep them comfortable in their filth!

I pray this will bless you my fellow ministers of the gospel to remain committed to the flocks in your care. Remember if any man shall die in their sin in your flock without you preaching the Word that will renew and transform their soul, their blood will be required of you!

Ezekiel 3:20 "Again, when a righteous man turns from his righteousness and does evil, and I put a stumbling block before him, he will die. Since you did not warn him, he will die for his sin. The righteous things he did will not be remembered, and I will hold you accountable for his blood.

Remain strong and envisioned.

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