How can we apply the inclusivity of Isaiah 66:21 in our church community? Setting the Scene • In Isaiah 66 the Lord looks ahead to a day when worshipers “from all the nations” (v. 20) stream to Jerusalem. • Verse 21 declares: “And I will also select some of them as priests and Levites,” says the LORD. • Under the old covenant, priestly service was limited to descendants of Aaron and Levi (Exodus 28:1; Numbers 3:10). Here, God promises to draw qualified servants from every people group. Timeless Principles of Inclusivity • God Himself initiates inclusion—He “selects.” • Spiritual service is rooted in grace, not ethnicity, pedigree, or social standing. • All redeemed people share one status: “a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). • Unity in Christ demolishes dividing walls: “He Himself is our peace… making the two one” (Ephesians 2:14–16). Practical Steps for Our Church Community • Welcome believers of every background into meaningful fellowship—greeters, small groups, hospitality teams. • Invite diverse voices to read Scripture, lead worship, or share testimonies, affirming that gifting, not heritage, determines service (1 Corinthians 12:4–7). • Offer discipleship pathways—classes, mentoring, leadership training—open to all members so anyone God calls can grow toward eldership, deaconship, or other roles (2 Timothy 2:2). • Review ministry teams to ensure no unspoken cultural preferences are closing doors. • Celebrate Gospel-centered diversity days: shared meals, mission spotlights, bilingual worship segments, reflecting Revelation 7:9. • Partner with congregations of differing ethnic makeups for joint outreaches; model heavenly unity to the neighborhood. Guardrails for Faithful Application • Maintain biblical qualifications for leadership (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1). Inclusivity never excuses compromise on character or doctrine. • Hold fast to sound teaching (2 Timothy 1:13–14) while embracing every redeemed sinner the Lord brings. • Keep Christ central; diversity is a fruit of the Gospel, not an end in itself (Colossians 1:18). Encouraging Examples from Scripture • Acts 13:1 lists prophets and teachers from Africa, Asia, and the Mediterranean serving side-by-side. • Acts 11:19–26 shows a multi-ethnic Antioch church becoming a missionary hub. • Galatians 3:28 affirms our equal standing “in Christ Jesus.” Closing Charge • Because God foretold a priesthood drawn from “all the nations,” let every congregation joyfully mirror that promise now—opening doors, equipping saints, and displaying the unifying power of the risen Christ to a watching world. |
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