Introduction
Many people in many communities have heard about the churches of Christ. Some preliminary observations: While members of the church of Christ realize their own personal weaknesses and shortcomings, they believe in the all-sufficiency and perfection of God’s plan for the church. Members of the church of Christ believe that the whole structure of Christianity rests upon the divinity of Christ and His resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:14 – “And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith…
The New Testament
Only the New Testament serves as a rule of faith and practice We believe to subscribe to any creed other than the New Testament, to refuse to obey any New Testament command, or to follow any practice not sustained by the New Testament, would be adding to or taking away from the teachings of God. Galatians 1:6-9 – “I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel. Which…
Lord’s Church
Establishment of the Lord’s Church Members of the church of Christ contend that the church was established on the first Pentecost following the resurrection of Christ . . . in 30 A.D. . . . in the city of Jerusalem. The prophet Isaiah said in Isaiah 2:2-3 – “Now it shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the LORD’S house shall be established on the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and…
Name of the Church
The term “church of Christ” is not used as a denominational appellation. It is simply a descriptive term indicating the fact that the church is the possession of Christ. This is not an exclusive term to designate the church, because the New Testament also refers to the church as: These are all terms which show possession . . . they point to the Lord as owner of the church.
Organization of the Lord’s church
The church of Christ has no earthly headquarters and no universal organization. We believe that the organizational pattern of the church is divine in origin. Jesus Christ is recognized as the supreme ruler over the church. Colossians 1:18 – “And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.” No fallible man serves as earthly head over the church. The sole unit of organization…
Worship in the Lord’s church
In John 4:24 we read: “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” From this passage, we learn three things. Our worship must be directed to the right object . . . God. It must be prompted by the right spirit. It must be according to the truth. We walk by faith in matters of religion. 2 Corinthians 5:7 – “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” Faith comes by hearing God’s Word. Romans 10:17 – “So then faith…
God’s Plan for Man’s Salvation
Members of the church of Christ believe certain steps must be taken in obedience to the commands of the New Testament. We believe that these steps bring about salvation and, at the same time, make one a member of the church. These steps are four in number: Faith . . . Believe Faith and belief are derived from the same Greek word. Faith results from hearing the Word of God. Romans 10:17 – “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by…
Conclusion
Illustration of a blueprint. A blueprint followed will produce what was drawn. A blueprint followed in ten communities will produce the same structure in all ten communities. The Bible is our blueprint for producing the church of the first century. We cherish the hope that this study may aid your search for the truth. We hope that you will be possessed with love for God and a determination to be obedient to the commands of His holy Word. Matthew 11:28-30 –…