Today I want to talk about something real today—the church. It’s a topic that stirs up all sorts of feelings and opinions because, well, the church isn’t perfect. It wasn’t perfect in Jesus’ time, and it’s not perfect today. But you know what? That’s okay, because despite its imperfections, the church is God’s chosen instrument to spread His love and truth to the world.

Think about it. Jesus Himself attended synagogue regularly. He engaged with religious leaders who often fell short of God’s standards. He didn’t avoid the imperfect aspects of religious practice; instead, He used these opportunities to teach, correct, and ultimately fulfill God’s plan of redemption.

Have you ever searched for the perfect church? Maybe you’ve hopped from one congregation to another, seeking flawless worship, faultless preaching, and flawless fellowship. But here’s the truth: there’s no perfect church on earth. If you find one, as soon as you join, imperfections will surface. That’s because the church is made up of imperfect people—people like you and me, striving to follow Christ but stumbling along the way.

If you’ve stepped away from church because of its imperfections, it’s time to reconsider. The apostle Paul, in **Ephesians 4:16 (NIV)**, describes the church as a body, “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” Every part of the body—the church—plays a crucial role, imperfections and all, in building up God’s kingdom.

Here’s the challenge: Will you commit to being part of the imperfect church, knowing that through it, God’s kingdom is advanced? It’s not just about attending services; it’s about getting involved, serving, and growing alongside your church family. **Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)** urges us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

One of the primary purposes of the church is to evangelize—to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world. This mission isn’t confined to foreign lands; it’s needed right where you are, in your community, your workplace, your neighborhood. When you commit to the imperfect church, you commit to being a part of this mission. **Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)** commands us, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

Let’s shift our perspective. Instead of focusing on what we don’t like about the church, let’s ask ourselves a crucial question: Will my actions, my attitudes, and my decisions lead people closer to Jesus? Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV) advises us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

Jesus showed us the ultimate example of sacrifice. He gave up His life so that we could have eternal life. **Mark 10:45 (NIV)** reminds us, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” As His followers, we’re called to sacrifice our own desires and comforts for the sake of others, especially when it comes to spreading the gospel.

So, dear friend, if you’ve been sitting on the sidelines because of the church’s imperfections, it’s time to get back in the game. Commit to being part of a community where God’s love is shared, lives are transformed, and His kingdom is advanced. Let’s embrace the imperfect church, knowing that through our commitment and service, God can use us to make a significant impact for His glory. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about faithfully following Jesus and fulfilling His mission on earth.