Rachel Mellema

Dear Friend,

First, let me acknowledge the hurt and disillusionment you've felt. It’s clear that your heart longs for authenticity, truth, and a church community that genuinely reflects Christ. I've been there too. Those longings are good and God-given, and I believe they’re a sign of His Spirit drawing you.

However, your experience, while painful, is not unique. From the early church onward, God's people have struggled with inconsistency, hypocrisy, and division. Even Paul had to confront Peter about his behaviour (Galatians 2:11-14). But what’s important to remember is this: the failures of people—pastors, church members, or even entire denominations—do not change the faithfulness of Christ or the truth of His Word.

1. Your Faith Should Rest on Christ, Not the Church's Imperfections

John MacArthur often says, “The church is the only institution Jesus promised to build and bless.” While the church is filled with sinners, Christ is not. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Separating from the body of believers because of human failures is like cutting off a branch from the vine—it may feel safer, but over time, it withers and dies (John 15:5). We need one another for encouragement, accountability, and growth.

2. Don't Let Others' Sins Keep You From God's Grace

Charles Spurgeon once said, “If I had never joined a church till I had found one that was perfect, I should never have joined one at all; and the moment I did join it, if I had found one, I should have spoiled it.” The church is not a museum for saints but a hospital for sinners, as they often say. We’re all in need of grace, and while hypocrisy can be discouraging, it’s not an excuse to abandon God’s design for our growth in community.

3. Seek the Truth, Not Just What "Feels Right"

Tim Keller often emphasised that faith is not about finding a community or teaching that perfectly aligns with our preferences but one that aligns with the truth of the gospel. Feelings can lead us astray, but the Word of God stands firm forever (Isaiah 40:8). Test everything by Scripture. Hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

4. Deconstruction Without Reconstruction Leads to Ruin

Faith grows through challenge and submission to God's Word, not isolation. Deconstruction can be healthy if it leads to rebuilding on the solid foundation of Christ, but separation from the body of believers can lead to spiritual stagnation and drift (Hebrews 10:25).

5. Jesus Invites You Back

The heart of Christ is not to condemn but to invite you back into His arms. He doesn’t ask you to be perfect before you come; He asks you to come so He can perfect you. He is the good shepherd who goes after the one who strays (Luke 15:3-7).

My Challenge to You Rather than waiting for a church to feel right, consider pursuing Christ with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength (Mark 12:30). Find a Bible-believing church that teaches the gospel faithfully, even if it’s imperfect. Get involved and be part of the solution—help that church reflect Christ more authentically.

As Christians, we each have a unique role in representing Christ to the world. Some of us feel called to openly share scripture and encouragement online, hoping it might plant a seed for someone scrolling by. Others feel that quietly living out their faith speaks volumes, trusting that God moves hearts in His time. “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).

And both are so valid. The Bible reminds us that the Holy Spirit is the true agent of transformation—“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13)—yet God often uses many ways to reach hearts, even something as simple as a post. People might stumble upon a message right when they need it, receiving a gentle nudge to explore faith in a new way.

But here's the key—our heart’s intention. Whether we post or remain silent, the aim is to reflect Jesus authentically and lovingly. It's not about proving a point but being open to how God might work through us, big or small, visible or unseen.

Let’s ask ourselves, is there enough evidence in how we live that we’re followers of Christ? Jesus encouraged us, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Our lives should show that we’re changed—not by loudness but by love, grace, and truth.