The Church

Purpose:

Encourage the seeker that each will not be left to fend for one’s self after baptism. Instead, Jesus baptizes us into the body, the church (1 Corinthians 12:12-13) to be joined by a team of like-minded disciples in our devotion to Him. These brothers and sisters are meant to be a continual source of encouragement in our walk with Christ. Even more good news!

Scriptures:

  • Acts 2:40-47 - The first 3,000 converts joined together in devotion to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. A beautiful view of the early church. How would such a church be received today?
  • 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Spirit baptizes us into the body of Jesus, his church. The church consists of distinct yet unified parts, just like a human body. God, Himself, has arranged it this way. We are the church; each of us must actively look for the distinct yet unified ways we are to support this body. How will you help build up the body of Christ?
  • Ephesians 4:1-16 - Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the church requires humility, patience, gentleness, and selflessness. We maintain unity on the essentials of doctrine – one Lord, one faith, one baptism. God provides specific offices within the church in order to prepare us for works of service which build up the body.
  • Hebrews 10:22-25 - After being washed in baptism, we need the continual exhortations of brothers and sisters to stay the course. Prepare in advance how you will spur on fellow Christians in the fellowship. Also prepare to receive biblical input that will result in greater love and good deeds. Why is missing meetings of the body described as a bad habit? Why and when do we meet?
  • Hebrews 3:12-14 - We each have the charge and the responsibility to see to it that no one has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from God. Daily encouragement helps everyone stand firm until the end.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:7 - God loves a cheerful giver. Our giving supports the body as we reach out to a world in need of Jesus.

    • Additional Scriptures:

    1 John 1:5-10
    Ephesians 2:19-20
    Romans 12:4-8
    John 17:20-26
    Colossians 1:18
    Colossians 2:18-19
    John 13:34-35