Spiritual
The work of the church is “spiritual.” Just a quick
definition of this term helps us to understand its meaning for the
church in our work. The term according to Vine’s Expository Dictionary
of New Testament Words means “PNEUMATIKOS—always connotes the ideas of
invisibility and of power. It does not occur in the Septuagint nor in
the Gospels; it is in fact an after-Pentecost word.”
What are we saying when we say the work of the church is “spiritual” in
nature? Well, consider the opposite. What things are visible and
powerless? Gymnasiums? Food? Fancy buildings? Nice-looking suits on
well-dressed men? The newest fashions including make-up, jewelry and
clothing? All of these things are visible, yet powerless. They are
material in nature. If our idea of “church growth” or bringing people to
Christ consists in having a new gymnasium, new building, nice duds, or
the best food at the church cafe then our faith is in material things!
“God is a Spirit” (John 4:24). Thus, the key to spiritual worship is
allowing the invisible, powerful God to work on hearts and minds through
His Word as we draw closer to Him.