We are continually inspired by the ways God is working through the lives of people in local churches to transform communities. Recently, Bryan Elliott and Michael Pierce had the privilege of meeting with First Love Church and Life Connection Church in Calgary, Alberta engaging with their eldership teams. These gatherings were rich with revelation, hope, and a deep sense of purpose.
As Bryan and Michael spent time with these congregations, a clear theme emerged: true transformation in a city begins with the people of a local church. Elders and leaders are uniquely positioned to minister to their congregations, guiding them to become spiritually equipped and empowered. In intimate small-group settings, they witnessed firsthand how these leaders desired to understand their roles in shaping a vibrant, kingdom-focused community.
It was in this context that a question arose—one that would set the tone for the discussions to come:
Understanding the Kingdom of God
Our get togethers began with a powerful question: What does Jesus’ prayer, “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” mean to you? Grounded in John 5:19, this discussion led to profound reflections on the church's role in the transition from the church age into the Kingdom age.
This transition does not mean the church fades away. Rather, it signifies the church stepping into its God-given authority within the kingdom realm. Undoubtedly identifying as the Lord’s ekklesia in these days will allow us to move beyond our present thoughts on what church is or is not.
The Greek word ekklesia is translated as "church" in the Bible. It is made up of the prefix ek or ex, which means "out of" or "from," and the root word kaleo, which means "to call". In the Bible, ekklesia refers to the community of Christians and their spiritual mission as God's people. In ancient Greece, Ekklesia was the assembly of citizens in a city-state during the Golden Age of ancient Greece. The Athenian Ecclesia was already functioning around 621 BC.
When we recognize the full intent of the Greek root word of ekklesia, the New Testament Church, we recognize the community of Christian believers is also the assembly of citizens (authoritative assembly or body) in a city-state set in place to reconcile God’s desire in Matthew 6:10; “your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”.
As we sat reflecting and considering on the biblical role of reconciling all things to God, a common longing emerged: to see the manifestation of God’s kingdom in action—not just through strong teaching but by engaging the entire body in ministry of God’s Kingdom.
The discussion quite naturally led to an even deeper challenge: how will the church live out this mandate and call of authority practically, not just within its walls but in every sphere of life? It is becoming clearer, veils are falling from our sight, this calling extends to every believer, pointing to the profound responsibility Paul describes in his message referring to reconciliation.
Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)
The Call to Be Ministers of Reconciliation
The Apostle Paul’s words resonate deeply in Father God’s mission. As he urges in Scripture, we are all called to be ministers of reconciliation. This ministry is not reserved for those on a platform but extends to every believer in every sphere of life.
Believers who gathered on those days expressed their desire to see their congregations embrace this calling, moving beyond passive participation to active engagement in the ministry of the saints. This shift requires each individual to view their life as a mission field, living out the principles of reconciliation and kingdom authority daily.
Looking Ahead
Remembering those collective times together, is a powerful reminder that the work of the kingdom requires all of us. As Christ For Your City partners with churches like First Love, Life Connection and Christian Life Assembly, we are reminded of the importance of raising the next generation of disciples to live out the Kingdom Reality.
We are grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside congregations and are greatly encouraged to watch how God continues to move through their communities.
Let us all carry the mantle of reconciliation and authority, transforming not only ourselves, but our churches and our cities and communities for His glory.