St John's Church, Hipswell

St John the Evangelist’s Church, in the North Yorkshire village of Hipswell, is not terribly interesting. Largely nineteenth century and rather plain, it is simple and not unpleasant. The village it serves is associated with the great John Wycliffe, which may account for its dedication. Sadly, it was locked when we called, but, alas, it would still have been had we called one Sunday morning. A sign stuck to the front door explained that the church was closed on account of a ‘dispute’ with ‘Positive Energy’. I presume this refers to a utility company rather than the New Age concept of invisible power emanating from crystals or Buddha statues.

Churches need power, just like ordinary Christians. That power is not electrical (though it does prove useful) and neither is it found in charismatic leaders or special programmes from HQ. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 5:4 of the church being ‘gathered together… with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ…’

It is Christ’s power which sustains and enables, and no company, government or individual can overrule it or cut it off.

...but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 1 Corinthians 1:24, NKJV