Today there is a shaking in American and the Church because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Most unprecedented is the impact on the Church, gatherings have been outlawed, free association and assembly has been severely restricted. Panic is imminent, not so much in regard to the Church, but among the public in general. What is the outcome for the church in America? Initially, gatherings of believers were held in houses. In three hundred AD, under Constantine, churches began gathering in cathedrals and became focused primarily on teaching by a central leader, with some worship. The Bible does not mandate a particular format, though it does warn against certain abuses and includes much guidance. Today, there are many mega churches, with elaborate slick productions, contemporary music/entertainment, appealing speakers, and free coffee designed to compete with a worldly presentation.

The essence of the Church is the presence of God. Yeshua said, “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18: 19-20). Faith arising, agreeing prayer, Holy Spirit revelation of God’s word and communion should be the hallmark of the believers gathering. The true body of Messiah will not be abandoned by God, but those who have wandered off into worldly ways, means, and pursuits will be disciplined by hardship.

The congregation of believers should be full of Holy Spirit focus, leadership, and response. (1 Cor. 12: 7, 11). Many of today’s leadership is about men who are self-focused, self-promoting, and weak in faith that God will do what He says, and are quick to rely on human resources and actions. The pulpit is full of the politicians and entertainers seeking to please the largest audience. The church needs humble men with experience in walking by faith, in step with Yeshua, and moving in the power of the Holy Spirit’s leading. (1 Cor. 14: 26). They will not promote themselves, but Yeshua. They will not divide believers against one another in various camps or denominations. They will stir up faith, kindle a house of prayer, and worship in spirit and truth just as God seeks. (John 4: 23-24). Much of the American Church is built upon the sand of human striving and it will fall apart, but the part that is built upon the rock of Yeshua Messiah will stand firm. God will not abandon His people.

Who cares about the Church? Only God and Yeshua to whom He is betrothed. The Bride if Christ will be made ready. ” ‘Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.’ (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God’s holy people.)” (Revelation 19: 7-8). Hold fast to faith in Yeshua, Messiah. Surrender and submit to the Holy Spirit. Seek God with all your mind, soul, and strength. Put no confidence in human reasoning and effort. Put all your faith and confidence in Yeshua, the author and perfecter of our faith.