Chosen - ICA Hong KongSample

The Called Out Ones The New Testament word for church is ekklesia, which means the called out ones. It describes the community of God’s people. The covenantal phrase “I will be their God and they will be my people” encapsulates this. We, his called out ones, are the church of God. The church is thus not a physical building, not just a place we go on Sundays. The Israelites had sinned against the Lord, they were living a life of disobedience. They were using the temple ceremonies to cover up their sins, in fact their hearts were far from God. Their worship, prayers and sacrifices mean very little to God and He was displeased. Let us take heed, if we see the church only as a physical building, we easily fall into the trap of being a Sunday Christian and our worship would become ritualistic and religious. We are by His grace, the called out ones, called to live a life of purpose, a life that obeys and worships Him; that responds to Him by faith; that is led by the Spirit; that practices kindness, justice and righteousness. Let our lives reflect His glory so we, the church can truly represent Christ on earth. Prayer: Father, we thank you for your beloved son, Jesus. It is by Your grace we’re saved. We are yours. You have called us to live a life of purpose and for Your glory, help us to live a life that is worthy of your calling. In Jesus name, Amen.