S3-29 THE DISCIPLINED CHURCH

It is in the controlled environment of the Body of Christ that overcomers are developed. Therefore, the church must meet the standards of God—not the standards of men. The Apostle John wrote concerning his vision: "And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein." (Revelation 11:1) The reed represents a measurement given by God. The temple represents the church. God will measure our message and our worship. (See: Matthew 7:21) Measuring the altar symbolizes the quality of sacrifices offered to God. (See Malachi 1:6-8) And finally, we, the children of God, are measured. (See Matthew 25:18-30)