Three-Headed Crickets
In the organic world, whether crickets or churches, DNA is the internal code that maintains the integrity of each multiplied unit. In crickets, it is DNA that encodes each cell with its proper process and place in the body. The cricket is correctly reproduced only if its DNA is correctly reproduced. Otherwise you end up with a cricket that has three heads. Likewise, in the expansion of the kingdom of God, it is the DNA that maintains the strength, vitality and reproductivity of every cell in the body of Christ. The cricket's DNA is exactly the same in every single cell of its body. In the same way, it is important that the whole DNA of the kingdom be found in every cell of Christ’s body - the Church. Understanding this concept is all well and good, but it demands that we ask the question: what is the DNA of the Church?
I have come to understand the DNA of the church to be simplified to three things:
Truth: Truth comes from God. It is the revelation of God to man. It is best seen in the person of Jesus and the Scriptures.
Relationships: Man was never created to be alone. We are social creatures and have a natural and intrinsic need for relationships. Our relational orientation is a reflection of the image of God in us. God is Himself relational and exists in a community—Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Apostolic Mission: An apostle is one who is sent as a representative with a message. We are here for a purpose. We have been given a prime directive to fulfill—to make disciples of all the nations.
Jesus emphasizes these concepts again and again throughout the Bible. He said that the greatest commandment of all is to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength.” This is the truth instilled in us. He said that the second greatest commandment is to “love your neighbor as yourself.” This demonstrates the importance of relationships. Finally, he told us, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…” This is our apostolic mission.
Wouldn't it be great if this DNA were to magically reproduce in each of us as we enter the body of Christ? If that were the case, we wouldn’t have to worry - we would automatically be effective for Jesus in everything we did. Instead, we have to work at it. I believe we will have to work harder than ever to make sure the DNA is in every cell of the church. It is our responsibility - our mission and purpose - to make sure that this DNA is reproduced in us at every level…unless we want to end up with the spiritual version of a three-headed cricket. Let’s be intentional in seeking God's truth, proactive in forming meaningful relationships, and aggressive at carrying Jesus to others. Only then can we be fully functional as the body of Christ.