Monthly Doctrinal Series -- Ecclesiology
I. THE MYSTERY OF THE CHURCH
The way we employ the term “church” generally perpetuates a misconception of her true nature.
First, we imply that the church is a building.
Second, we imply that the church is an activity that takes place on Sunday that we watch or participate in.
A. A Mystery
Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness - the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Col 1:24-27
B. A Body
The church is mystery in that it describes a people which never existed before. It is a new body. It is not just Gentiles added, or a "new and improved Israel". It is a new group of people.
C. An organism not an organization
Organization is where the parts are externally or mechanically joined together with no necessary vital union.
An organism is a complex living creature made up of a number of essential and mutually dependent parts, all of which partake of one common life.
The church is a dynamic organism which draws its life from Christ the Head and exists through His sustaining power and the interrelation of the various members.
D. The Terms
1. The English word
Our English word "church" comes from the Greek term "kuriakos". It is an adjective meaning, "the Lord's". This Greek term is used only twice in the New Testament. I Cor 11:20; Rev 1:10
The English dictionary gives 13 different meanings for the word. Culture equates the word mostly with a building. The building must have a particular architecture to "look like a church."
2. The Greek word
The Greek term most often used to refer to the church is the word "ekklessia". It is a compound word from "ek" and "kaleo" which together mean "to call out" or the noun form, "called out ones." Common Greeks used the word in reference to an assembly of people. The emphasis is on the people, not a building.
In the New Testament, the word takes on a richer dimension in that it refers to the people themselves, the called out ones, whether they are assembled or not. They are the "ecclesia".
A sign for a particular building should not read "Chico Alliance Church" but rather "Chico Alliance Church meets here."
The word church can refer to the entire group of individuals who have been placed by the Spirit into the body of Christ through faith in Christ or may be used in reference to a number of groups in a particular city like the church at Corinth which was made up of several house gatherings or the term may refer to one particular local assembly of Christians at a particular location.
Very simply, the Church is an assembly or group of individuals comprising one living body vitally connected to and empowered by the Head Christ Jesus both individually and corporately.
II. THE MAKING OF THE CHURCH
To answer the question, "When did the Church begin?" we must apply some Biblical logic.
1. The Church could not have existed before Christ's death for it is built on Christ's finished work. Acts 20:28; Rom 3:24-27
2. The Church could not have existed until after the resurrection because its power and life depended on the resurrection. Eph 1:18-20.
3. The Church could not have existed until the Ascension for that is where Christ was given headship. Eph 1:20-23.
4. The Church could not have existed until Pentecost because that is where the Holy Spirit through His Baptism placed individuals into the body of Christ.
For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body - whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free - and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 1Co 12:13
In Acts 1:5, the Church is yet future. In Acts 11, the Church is past.
The conclusion from these facts is that the Church officially came into existence on the Day of Pentecost with the coming and indwelling of the Holy Spirit in individuals linking them to Jesus.
III. THE MASTER OF THE CHURCH
And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way. Eph 1:22-23
He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. Col 1:18
It is clear from these verses that Christ Himself is the Head of the Church which is called His body similar to our head being the master and controller of our own body.
A. Christ is the architect and builder.
And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. Mat 16:18
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Eph 2:19-22
B. Christ Himself is the cornerstone Eph 2:21
C. Christ is the Head Col 1:17-18
D. Christ gave gifts to men and provided gifted men Eph 4
E. Christ sent the Holy Spirit Acts 1 & 2
F. Christ died and rose for the Church His bride Eph 5
IV. MAKE-UP or NATURE OF THE CHURCH
Under this title, we will discuss briefly the character or nature of the Church. No one word, phrase or picture can fully illustrate just what God intended the Church to be. Therefore, God used many figures and pictures in His word to try to visualize for us the specifics concerning the nature church. These figures focus on three basic aspects of the church.
• Responsibility or function of the Church
• Relationship of the Church to God, itself, the world
• Character and limitations of the Church
Different figures emphasize different aspects even though sometimes a figure can provide insight into all three of the above aspects.
NOT A BUSINESS OR ORGANIZATION
In a business or organization, the usual bottom line is profit. If someone does not function satisfactorily, we replace them with someone who can. If leadership does not function, leadership is replaced. In the body of Christ we cannot replace what God has placed without losing effectiveness. We cannot afford to remove dysfunctional body parts without sacrificing effectiveness. Our job must be to heal the ailing part and restore it to its proper function. In the body of Christ, we must be committed to equipping not eliminating body parts. In this sense the Church must be business-like (have order) but it is not a business. The church is a living organism with Christ as the Head.
NOT A GAS STATION
The Church is not a place to go to get fueled up and serviced and then drive out again simply by paying someone else. There is no thought of involvement or effectiveness. In a gas station I compare prices and service and go wherever I perceive will best suit my needs.
NOT A HOSPITAL
This is a figure often used in reference to the Church that can, if it becomes the central focus, be dangerous.
A hospital is not generally a friendly or desired place to visit unless I am sick or a special day.
When I do go, there is high expectation for someone to "fix" what is wrong with me and supply MY needs.
The only perceived obligation is to pay the bill, and even then I trust the Insurance Company to cover the high personal cost. The church is a family, a training center that can and should provide general health care and even intensive care but that care has an end that the one who finds healing becomes a health facilitator to others because there is an established personal relationship between the members.
NOT A RESTAURANT
You choose a restaurant by its appeal to your appetite and its service. If you like the food and were pleased with the service, you return. If not, you search for another restaurant. You have no expectations regarding the other people in the restaurant. You have no expectation of preparing the food. You have no intention of any involvement in the general running of the business or sense of obligation to help clean up. Your only focus is your servicing in exchange for money and if the service is especially impressive you may tip the server.
Any similarities to people’s attitudes toward “church”? The figures employed by God in His word clearly spell out just how the church was designed to function, its character and relationships.
A. The church is the "Body of Christ"
1. Description of the figure
The Bible employs this term more than any other to illustrate the relationship of the church to Christ and the church to the church.
And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way. Eph 1:23
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 1Co 12:27
God intends for us to examine the relationships that exist within the human body and draw insights into relationships and function in the church.
2. Implications of the figure
a) Relationship to Christ
? He is the HEAD
As mentioned before, Christ is the head of the body. It is Christ who directs the Church. The body can only function properly through its connection to the head. When something goes haywire with the connectors to the brain, the body ceases to function properly. So it is true for the Church. Christ decides purpose, method, timing, placement of gifted individuals. He gifts as He wills through the Spirit. Scripture is clear that proper functioning comes when we are "filled with the knowledge of His will with all spiritual wisdom and understanding." It is a very clear picture. The body simply cannot exist without a head.
As the body of Christ, we are His hands and feet. We are the means that the Sovereign God has chosen to carry out His purposes on this earth. It is imperative to keep all the connections to the head in working order. We must not allow any of the nerves to become pinched or any messages from the head to go unheeded or there is dysfunction that takes place that effects the entire body.
? He is the SAVIOR and source of life
For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Eph 5:23
The church is made up of a group of people who were dead. They could not function in the spiritual realm of things. They were without any vital relationship with God. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we have been
When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Col 3:4
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Gal 2:20
The people of God must continually remind ourselves that the power to function comes from the Head. We must continually seek our life from Him alone. It does not come from the things and pleasures of this world or from power but only through vital relationship with the Head. We cannot live without Christ. We have no life in ourselves. Yet through Christ we can do all things.
? He is the source of GROWTH
Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. He has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow. Col 2:18-19
And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Eph 2:22
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Eph 4:16
After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church - for we are members of his body. Eph 5:30
There is no doubt concerning the part that Christ plays not only in the life, but the continued growth of the Church. Paul diminishes any credit for growth credited to him or Apollos in I Cor 3:5-8. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. 1Co 3:6
b) Inter-relationship of the body members
? Unity
The body is a unity as established and empowered by the Lord.
Within the body of Christ there is "essential" unity between all believers because we share our common life in Christ according to Eph 4:4-6. The Bible also encourages an "experiential" unity that must exist between believers because of a common love for Christ and thus a love for the other members of His body. We are commanded to demonstrate all diligence to preserve this unity in the bond of peace. This kind of unity is developed through body building which comes about through common faith and common knowledge of the Head. It is similar to eye/hand coordination. The eye and the hand are both united by reason of functioning as part of the same body, but they must learn to cooperate through practice and the coordination from the Head.
Scripture issues several “one another” commands related to our unity throughout the New Testament.
? Love one another. Don't take from one another.
? Receive one another. Don't reject one another or judge one another.
? Greet one another. Don't avoid one another.
? Be kind to one another. Don't bite and devour one another.
? Be hospitable to one another. Don't isolate from one another.
? Forbear with one another. Don't murmur against one another.
? Forgive one another. Don't go to court against one another.
? Be at peace with one another. Don't provoke one another or challenge one another.
? Speak truth in love with one another. Don't lie to one another.
It is the modeling of unity and love for one another that demonstrates the supernatural power of Christ.
? Diversity
The body functions and grows by the individual worth and working of each member as assigned by the Lord.
Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. If the foot should say, "Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body," it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. And if the ear should say, "Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body," it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? 1Co 12:12-19
Within the body of Christ there is diversity. That simply means that even though we are one body, we are made up of many members which carry out different functions. Each part has a unique individual responsibility and function to carry out within the body. This part is a matter of gifting by the Lord Himself. Some function as hands, others feet, others eyes, others emotional systems, others as the skeletal system, some as mouths and so on. Some serve a specific local function (thumb); others have a more universal function (blood stream, nerves). Each has its distinctive place. Trouble often erupts in the body when we don't understand diversity. God places the members to balance and cooperate, not rule and compete.
The principle of Diversity requires specific actions within the body.
? Build up one another. Don't tear down or defile the temple.
? Speak to one another. The truth in love; through Psalm, Hymns, Spiritual songs
? Teach one another.
? Exhort One another.
? Admonish one another.
? Mutuality
Each part of the body is mutually dependent on the other as designed and directed by the Lord.
As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 1Co 12:20-27
Whether we like it or not, we are designed to be INTERDEPENDENT. We are all part of the same body. We are designed to work together to serve the whole. Every part of the physical body has a function to the whole. No part is self serving. Each part somehow supports another. When one part ceases to function, the whole feels the effects. We simply cannot survive and function effectively when all of the members of the body are not properly functioning in the body. Sickness and disease so painfully demonstrates what can happen to the whole when one little part ceases to function. If the pituitary gland does not do its job, there are disastrous effects on the rest of the body. We must be in the business of body health care and healing.
Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. "Make level paths for your feet," so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son.
There are also some related "one another" commands to mutuality.
? Bear one another's burdens. Don't turn away.
? Stimulate one another to love and good deeds.
? Submit to one another in the fear of Christ
? Serve one another.
? Have the same care for one another. Don't think more highly.
c) External relations
There are some real lessons to be learned from the body concerning warfare and relationship to "foreign" bodies. The body is designed with a system that fights foreign matter that threatens the health of the body. When that immune system fails to function, the results are disastrous, even deadly.
B. The Church is a BUILDING or TEMPLE of God
We mentioned earlier that the church was not a building. By that we meant that the church is not a physical structure, but God uses the concept of a building to provide insight into the function and character and relationships of the Church.
For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. 1Co 3:9
1. The Composition – foundation and cornerstone
The foundation upon which the building is fashioned consists of Christ and the Apostles and Prophets.
For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1Co 3:11
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. Eph 2:20
The cornerstone, that solid stone which gave direction and "squareness" to the entire building is Christ Himself.
The foundation of the church is the teaching of the Scriptures handed down through the apostles and prophets.
Individual stones are the believers added to the Church through the ages. We are the individual "worked stones" which make up the superstructure.
2. The Construction
We are individually laid upon the foundation by Christ. We are expertly placed in relation to one another; "fitted", specially selected and placed. We are growing quantitatively according to his design. The agents of construction are Christ, the apostles and individual believers.
By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you? 1Co 3:16
In light of these things, we must 1) Be true to the foundational truths, the once for all faith left to us by Christ and His apostles; 2)Stop fighting the place God has put each individual 3)plan for and participate in the growth of the church.
3. The Character or use
a) We are a HOLY TEMPLE
in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit. Ephesians 2:21-22
The word used for "temple" is the Greek word used in relation to the "Inner Sanctuary" part of the temple; the Holy of Holies. It was considered the dwelling place of God. This figure draws upon a picture already established in the Old Testament Temple figure.
1. It was a place where God met with His people.
2. It was where God revealed His will to His people.
3. It was where God received sacrifices and services from the people.
4. It was where God chose to manifest the glory of His presence.
We are individually temples of God. It is within us that He chooses to meet with us, manifest His will, receive the sacrifices of praise and display His glory amid the gloom of this earth. Corporately we come together in one place and thus multiply the individual effect many fold. We should be turning back flips every time we come together in anticipation of the manifested Glory of God displayed through His people.
The truth concerning our bodies as temples calls for two things.
1. Clear separation (purity)
2. Continual sanitation (cleansing).
b) We are a Living Building
In contrast to earthly buildings, the Church is a living building made up of living stones.
As you come to him, the living Stone - rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him - you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 1Pe 2:4-5
We are to be living examples of life in the Spirit. We are to be living and continual displays of God's love, forgiveness, purity, peace, joy, longsuffering, faithfulness etc.
C. The Church is a FAMILY
The Bible portrays the family as a tightly bound unit consisting of a father through whom God directs and communicates; a mother designed to complement and complete the father; and children who are the fruit of the unity and love of the father and mother designed to continue the mission established with the father and mother on this earth.
1. Relationships in the Family
a) Father to Children
Christ is presented in Hebrews as a faithful father in His house. As the Father of the family, Christ provides our needs, protects, provides an example, exhorts, corrects, cares and teaches. He is the Head of the Family to provide direction.
b) Children to Father
As children in the family our basic responsibility is to love the father demonstrated to be genuine by our obedience.
c) Children to children
Children are to love one another. That love is demonstrated by attention to at least four principles of family life.
1. Family relationships require special care and communication.
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Gal 6:10
2. Family relationships require respectful response.
Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity. 1Ti 5:2
3. We must be aware of differing levels of maturity in the family.
There are babies(1Cor3:1-3;1Pet2:1-3); Little Children; Young Men; Fathers (1John 2:12-14)
4. Love for the family is NOT an option but a requirement.
If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother. 1Jo 4:20-21
2. Character of the family
A child often draws significance from his family connections or in some cases shame. God has through Christ arranged for our adoption into His glorious family. That sonship provides all the significance we should ever need. We are Children of God. John puts it this way, "Behold what manner of love the Father has given unto us that we should be called the sons of God. Hallelujah!!!
3. Function
The church as God's family functions in two ways.
1. The family is a support structure that provides training and encouragement and discipleship in the ways of our heavenly Father.
2. We, as God's household, are the pillar and support of His truth here on this earth. We are the living examples of the ways of God to a blind world.
If I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 1Ti 3:15
We by our conduct are to be a living illustration of a real family. We must be careful not to present a distorted picture by our life.
D. The Church is a PRIESTHOOD
1. Relationship implications
We are representatives of God. This figure centers more on function than relationship. But the priest was God's representative to act on behalf of men to God.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1Pe 2:9
2. Character implication
We are described as a "holy", set apart, sanctified, chosen, royal priesthood. We are priests by calling.
3. Function implications
a) Service of Sacrifice
The priest was to offer sacrifices on behalf of men to God. As God's present day priest, the once for all sacrifice has been offered in Jesus Christ. However, we are required to offer different kind of sacrifices.
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Rom 12:1
Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that confess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Heb 13:15-16
As priest we give ourselves, our praise, our service to others as well-pleasing sacrifices to God.
b) Service of Witness
We are here to function as proclaimers of God's glory.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1Pe 2:9
We are His ambassadors.
We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 2Co 5:20
c) Service of Intercession
We are here as fellow intercessors. Even though Christ intercedes before the Father on a continual basis, we too as "underpriests" are called to intercede for one another.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. Eph 6:18
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 1Ti 2:2
If anyone sees his brother commit a sin that does not lead to death, he should pray and God will give him life. 1Jo 5:16a
E. The Church is a Bride
The foundational passage that develops this figure is Ephesians 5:23-32.
1. Relationships
a) Groom to Bride
The Groom is represented in this passage as having two responsibilities in the relationship. 1)Sacrificial love; 2) sanctifying (cleansing) grace.
b) Bride to Groom
The bride is to submit herself to the groom in response to his love.
c) To Each Other
There is established a "one flesh" relationship. There is oneness that calls for mutual submission to the needs of the other. Even though there is still individual personalities, there is a mystery of oneness established and hopefully developing in the relationship.
d) To others
The undeniable implication is fidelity and exclusive permanence in the relationship. The couple enters into a brand new identity that should not be broken. Finding satisfaction outside the relationship is wrong.
2. Function
The function of marriage is given in Genesis and from a spiritual standpoint emphasized in Romans 7.
Marriage is for Companionship, completion and fruit.
So, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God. Rom 7:4
3. Character – Purity, Glory, Fidelity
F. The Church is a BRANCH of a grape vine
This picture, found in John 15, centers on relationship and function.
1. Relationship - unbroken connection
2. Function – bear fruit
• Jesus claimed to be the true vine, the one true source for fruit bearing.
• The believer must remain connected to the vine in order to bear fruit.
• The Father does the work necessary to the branches to bring about much fruit
• The ultimate purpose of our life is to produce lasting fruit.
• Failure to abide (be connected to the vine) results in purging from the vineyard as a dried up worthless branch that refuses to be connected to the vine.
The function draws out of the relationship. Christ is the Vine. We are the branches. As such we are completely dependent upon the branch for life, for the ability to bear fruit. The fruit is not our own but produces according to the nature of the root. As long as we remain connected to the root we will through nourishment and pruning bear fruit, more fruit and much fruit. It was the Father's reason for choosing us that we bear fruit and so demonstrate ourselves to be His disciples.
G. The Church is an ARMY
1. Relationships
a) Commander to Soldiers
The commander gives direction and orders, training, equipment, continual support and the strategy for victory.
b) Soldier to Commander
The soldier commits to absolute obedience (1 Pet 5), endures hardship, sacrifices personal comforts and agenda (1Tim 2:3-4)
2. Function
Our job is to fight for the Kingdom of God, not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers, and all of Satan's forces in the heavenlies.
V. MANIFESTATION OF THE CHURCH
A. Universal Church
All believers are part of Christ's body placed into the body by the Holy Spirit according to 1Cor 12:12. Every genuine, born again, Christian makes up the Church of Christ on this earth. This body is not defined by denominational or organizational considerations. The universal church consists of all Christians past, present and future.
B. Local Church
The universal church gathers and organizes on a local level for the sake of connection and implementation of its mission. This may be a particular gathering of believers or several groups of believers (Church at Ephesus, Churches of God in Judea). Groups of local churches may Biblically unite and organize around a common goal. The Bible indicates that there was local control of these groups yet universal cooperation with one another. A local “ekklesia” is not defined by its place of meeting but by its connection to Christ. The Bible does provide some protective guidelines for the growth and health of a local group of Christians.
C. MEMBERSHIP IN THE CHURCH
1. Requirements
There is a three stage process of full membership.
1. Belief (John 1:12) This is the only entrance requirement and is the foundation for the other two stages. The issue revolves around the true nature of belief. It, at least, is more than mere intellectual assent according to James. Even the demons believe in that sense.
2. Placement into the body of Christ by the Spirit (1 Cor 12:12)
3. Public confession through water Baptism
2. Responsibility
Jesus outlined expected responsibility of His followers. Deny self, take up the cross of sacrifice, and follow Christ. Beyond this there is the responsibility to love one another and keep His commandments.
3. Privileges
We are heirs of eternal life, God promises discipline, training, a future and a secure eternal home.
VI. THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH
Considering the mission of the church at its absolute irreducible minimum we would agree with the great statement of Church doctrine from years past it is to, "Glorify God and enjoy Him forever." Detailing that just a bit, we glorify God by loving Him and loving people. Jesus himself said that all of the law and the prophetic revelation could be summed up in, “Love the Lord your God with everything you are and your neighbor as yourself." That has been called the Great Commandment. We are called to be His agents of restoration of righteousness. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. He also outlined a mission for this age to Reach and teach people in every part of the world.
A. Continually cultivate dynamic relationship with Christ
B. Passionately Pursue meaningful connection with the body of Christ
C. Resolutely resist evil and restore righteousness
D. Reach and teach the world for Christ
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
Matthew 28:19-20
When we experience personal CPR we will find a new desire for eternal CPR
1. Cultivate intentional relationships with the lost
2. Plant the seed of God’s truth by both life and lip.
3. Reap the harvest leading to greater fruitfulness.
VII. THE MANAGEMENT OF THE CHURCH
A. Leadership
Several designations are used in reference to the leadership of the local church. There are basically four terms used in the New Testament: Elder, Pastor (Shepherd), Bishop (overseer), and Deacon. Upon examination of the use of these terms in their context and the establishment of the early church there does not appear to be any real dictated form of government for the early church. We see much more description than prescription concerning government of the church. It is apparent that two distinct offices emerge. Elder, bishop and pastor appear to relate to various functions of the same office whereas deacon because it is detailed in the same passage as qualifications for elders, appears to be a distinct office. Every occurrence of the term except one appears in the plural form. The one exception is when listing the qualifications of an individual elder. In Acts 20:17 Paul called the elders from the church at Ephesus. James says we are to call the elders of the church. Titus was instructed to appoint elders in every city. This is not absolutely conclusive. We realize that this could be alluding to single elders from several house congregations or Titus could have been instructed to appoint elders over several churches in the city. It is, in my opinion however, more likely that there was more than one elder managing the various churches.
B. Followship
What is the responsibility of the local congregation in relation to the leadership. The Bible details their responsibility clearly.
God has established authority on earth for our good. They are His representatives. Authority is established to provide protection, praise, punishment, preparation. God has established government, teachers, parents, spiritual leaders to provide for these things and we have a responsibility to respond in a godly manner.
1. Come under their authority
Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. Heb 13:17
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men. Tit 3:1-2
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Rom 13:1
2. Imitate their faith
Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Heb 13:7
3. Honor their commitment
a) Honor them with financial support
The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, "Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain," and "The worker deserves his wages." 1Ti 5:17-18
b) Don't be quick to bring accusation
Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning. 1Ti 5:19-20
c) Respect and appreciate their labor
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 1Th 5:12-13
4. Pray for their effectiveness
Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way. Heb 13:18
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 1Ti 2:2
VIII. THE METHOD OF THE CHURCH
How the church is to accomplish its mission is well outlined in Ephesians 4. In that wonderful chapter God outlines his strategy for the growth of the Church. Basically he has established unity through Jesus Christ and gifted individuals who he gives to individual churches to equip the saints to do the work of the ministry with the goal of an experiential unity of faith and knowledge of Christ which produces a maturity and a building-up in love though a speaking of the truth in love until we all attain to the goal of Christlikeness.
Briefly, that is the strategy. The detail can be found all through Scripture especially in the "one another" passages referred to earlier. God builds his church on love. The exercise of the gifting of individuals in the body under the control of God's love produces growth. Those gifts are reduced to a two category minimum in I Peter.
Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1Pe 4:11
IX. THE MEMORIALS OF THE CHURCH
A. Baptism
1. Why do we baptize people?
a) We baptize people because God prescribed baptism. Mat 28
b) We baptize people because the early church practiced baptism.
2. What does baptism mean?
a) The meaning of the Word
The word itself from the Greek work "baptizo" means "to dip". It was a word used in connection to dying cloth. It was a term used to convey identification and association with a person, group or object.
b) TWO ASPECTS OF BAPTISM
There are two aspects of Christian Baptism.
FIRST, the actual or real performed spiritually by the Holy Spirit.
SECOND, the ceremonial or ritual performed publicly by a minister of Christ.
(1) THE ACTUAL OR REAL ASPECT OF BAPTISM
For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body - whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free - and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 1Co 12:13
When one receives Jesus Christ as Savior and indicates a desire to follow and identify with Christ, the Holy Spirit implements the action in the spiritual realm. This identification with Christ is the basis for our rebirth. At that moment we are so identified with Jesus Christ that all that was accomplished by Him and through Him becomes true of us. He is the head of the body, we are the parts of the body. What is true of the head becomes true of us. We become benefactors of both the death and resurrection of Christ.
(2) THE CEREMONIAL/RITUAL ASPECT OF BAPTISM
Ceremonial water baptism is a public testimony and illustration which on the one hand symbolizes identification of the individual with the person and work of Christ and on the other hand signifies that individual's identification with the people and message of God in His body the Church. In short, the ceremonial aspect of baptism is to demonstrate to others that you have identified with the Lord Jesus Christ and His body.
It is to our commitment to Christ as the wedding ceremony is to our marriage commitment (public declaration of a personal relationship and commitment).
WHAT WATER BAPTISM DOES NOT DO
Water baptism does not save. Water baptism is not a means of special grace other than the reward for obedience. Water baptism does not wash away sin. Water baptism does not join us to any earthly organization. Water baptism is only an outward indication and illustration of an inward identification with Christ and His body.
B. The Lord's Supper -- The Divine Dinner
The Lord's Supper has been called many things over the years; Eucharist, Breaking bread, Lord's Table, Lord's supper, communion. No matter the label, there are some serious considerations that must not be over-looked in relation to this crucial memorial of the church.
1. Significance
The Lord's Supper finds a rich heritage in another memorial established by God with his people Israel. Memorials are an encouragement to remember a significant person or event. We are self-centered individuals and often need visuals to aid our remembrance and force us to take a little time to reflect on the true meaning and reality of life. The Passover was one such memorial. It was to remember the great deliverance from the death angel when it passed by every home which applied the blood of the sacrificial lamb to the doorway. It became a most sacred yearly observance celebrated meaningfully by Jesus with his disciples. On the eve of the fulfillment of this Old Testament picture, Christ brought new significance to an old ritual. He transferred the meaning from the lamb to Himself, the lamb of God, come to take away the sins of the world, to deliver from him who had power over death, that is the devil, once for all who believe on his name.
In celebrating the Passover there was remembrance, there was mutual identification, there was recognition of the need for blood to deal with sin. That night, Jesus took the same symbols used for hundreds of years and illustrated their true meaning in his own body and blood about to be given and shed for them.
2. Purpose
There are at least 5 issues related to the celebration of the Lord's Supper drawn from the instructions given by Paul in I Corinthians 11. For sake of remembrance they can be remembered by F.A.T.H.E.R.
a) Fellowship
The Lord's Supper has to do with mutual identification of a group of people committed to the same Lord. It is a time of unity and togetherness. These issues are clear from the need to consider one another and wait for one another. In the celebration of the Lord's Supper there is the element of identification with Christ and with the people of Christ.
b) Anticipation
There is in the instructions of Jesus and anticipation of his return. "Do this until I come." Even though there was the gloom of His impending death, Jesus still offered the hope of His glorious return when we shall fully realize the significance of what He did and will join the heavenly chorus in "worthy is the Lamb that was slain."
c) Testing
Paul makes clear that before participating in the Lord's Table there must be an examination of the heart. To publicly proclaim by participation in the Lord's Table that we are identifying with Christ and committed to Him and his people and then to have a different attitude in my heart or a wrong attitude toward another member of the body is a bold hypocrisy equal to the sin of Ananias and Sapphira who wanted the distinction of sacrificial commitment without the actual sacrifice.
Paul reveals that due to an unworthy participation in the Lord's Table some were weak, some were sick, and some had even died. Therefore, it is essential to examine the heart before participation in the celebration of the Lord's Table.
d) Health and Healing
Implied in the celebration of the Lord's Table is that Christ provided through His sacrifice for the healing of the body, the deliverance from the afflictions of "Egypt". Thus the communion celebration includes a consideration of sin that might be causing illness and the sacrifice that makes healing a definite possibility.
e) Exclamation
Participation in the Lord's Table is a public declaration of my identification. Christ said that by remembering this celebration you, "proclaim the Lord's death till He comes." It is a time for testimony and praise of the amazing grace of our wonderful Savior. A time to reaffirm my allegiance to Him before others.
f) Remembrance
Finally, and primarily, the Lord's Supper is a memorial, a remembrance of what He did on our behalf. Time spent in reflection on the suffering, trials, the suffering, crucifixion and death of Christ is paramount.
3. Procedure
There is no set procedure given. The one specific command Paul gave the Corinthians was to "wait" for one another and consider the feelings and needs of the body.
4. Frequency
Again, no frequency is prescribed. By description it appears that the early church celebrated every week or at least quite often. The only thing Jesus said was, "as often as you drink". Our practice is to make it a part of the first Sunday of every month and at least once a quarter focus the entire service around the celebration of the Lord's Table.
5. Duration
Jesus gave instructions to participate in this celebration "until He returns."
X. THE MERGING OF THE CHURCH
In this section we consider the place of the church in the overall plan of God. Does the church take the place of any future plans for Israel? Is the church to claim all the covenant promises made to the nation Israel? I believe that Scripture makes a distinction. In his overall plan there is still a history and a definite plan for the nation Israel and the Jews. Those promises of restoration in the prophets and a land and seed and blessing and millennium are to come about at His return and will find fulfillment in the Millennial kingdom period.
XI. THE MARRIAGE OF THE CHURCH
The church is the precious and holy bride of Christ being prepared for her wedding day. The church is in the betrothal period awaiting the return of the groom to claim His bride, celebrate the marriage feast and then return to show off his bride in all her glory. What a glorious hope we have. We long for the day that Christ is revealed and we will be revealed with Him in glory. Not only we but Romans reveals that all creation groans in anticipation and longing for the revealing of the sons of God.
XII. THE MALFUNCTION OF THE CHURCH
Many today cry for a return to the glory of a real New Testament church. We forget that even that early church was riddled with troubles of all kinds. Much of Paul's correspondence was to address some of those problems. We find that when the church takes her eyes off the author and perfecter of faith and puts it on a person or itself, there is trouble.
The letters to the seven churches presents a great overview of the kinds of trouble that has and will come in churches and the remedy for treating those maladies. He, also however, commends those things that are vital to the health of a church. He commends hard labor, doctrinal purity, perseverance, love, faith service, growth. He condemns fading first love, worldly entanglements and loss of distinctiveness, allowing the fleshly drives to run rampant callous indifference to the need for Christ.
The remedy for these problems is pretty much the same throughout. REPENT, return to pure devotion to Me. Come to me, I stand at the door wanting intimate fellowship. Open the door. Find your life in me and I will draw near to you.
