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Identifying the Lord s Church

Identifying the Lord's Church. Matthew 16:18. Identifying the Lord's Church.

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Identifying the Lord s Church

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    3. Identifying the Lord’s Church

    4. Identifying the Lord’s Church When it comes to identifying the Lord’s church not everyone has the same attitude. Some want to be entertained Some are seeking answers to life’s questions Some are searching for truth Some are looking for handouts Having the right attitude is vital for that is the hinge upon which the door is opened to God’s message for them! Psalm 119:10; Matthew 6:33; 7:7-8 Psalm 119:10 – “With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments” Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 7:7 – “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.”Psalm 119:10 – “With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments” Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

    5. Identifying the Lord’s Church The right attitude includes: Submission to God’s divine plan Romans 8:7-8; 10:3; James 4:7 Denial of self and willingness to fully commit Matthew 16:24; Luke 9:23,57-62 Faith justified through active obedience James 1:20-26 When one has the right attitude in searching for the Lord’s church, then one will surely know when it has been found! Romans 8:7 – “For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God” Romans 10:3 – “For, being ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness.” James 4:7 – “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” Matthew 16:24 – “Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.’ Luke 9:23 – “And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:57-62 – READ James 1:20-26 - READRomans 8:7 – “For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God” Romans 10:3 – “For, being ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness.” James 4:7 – “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” Matthew 16:24 – “Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.’ Luke 9:23 – “And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:57-62 – READ James 1:20-26 - READ

    6. Identifying the Lord’s Church The word church in the N.T. comes from the Greek word ‘ekklesia’ which has the simple meaning of “a calling out of” and was used among the Greeks as a body of citizens ‘gathered’ to discuss the affairs of the state as seen in Acts 19:39. In the Septuagint it is used to designate the ‘gathering’ of Israel. In Acts 7:38 it is used of Israel and in Acts 19:32,41 of a riotous mob. Acts 19:39 – “But if you seek anything further, it shall be settled in the regular assembly.” Acts 7:38 – “This is the one who was in the congregation in the wilderness with the angel who spoke to him at Mt. Sinai, and with our fathers…” Acts 19:32 – “Now some cried out one thing, some another, for the assembly was in confusion, and most of them did not know why they had come together.” Acts 19:41 – “And when he had said these things, he dismissed the assembly.”Acts 19:39 – “But if you seek anything further, it shall be settled in the regular assembly.” Acts 7:38 – “This is the one who was in the congregation in the wilderness with the angel who spoke to him at Mt. Sinai, and with our fathers…” Acts 19:32 – “Now some cried out one thing, some another, for the assembly was in confusion, and most of them did not know why they had come together.” Acts 19:41 – “And when he had said these things, he dismissed the assembly.”

    7. Identifying the Lord’s Church 2 Uses in reference to N.T. Christians: The whole company of the redeemed throughout the present era, the company of which Christ said, “I will build my church” Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:23-24 A company or congregation consisting of professed believers Acts 20:17,28; Romans 16:1,5; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:5 Understanding the difference is vital and can be done when seen in its context. Matthew 16:18 – “…I will build my church…” Ephesians 1:22-23 – “And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which his body…” Ephesians 5:23 – “For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ…” Acts 20:17 – “Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him.” Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” Romans 16:1 – “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae” Romans 16:5 – “Greet also the church in their house” 1 Corinthians 1:2 – “To the church of God that is in Corinth…” 1 Thessalonians 1:1 – “To the church of the Thessalonians…” 1 Timothy 3:5 – “for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church”Matthew 16:18 – “…I will build my church…” Ephesians 1:22-23 – “And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which his body…” Ephesians 5:23 – “For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ…” Acts 20:17 – “Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him.” Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” Romans 16:1 – “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae” Romans 16:5 – “Greet also the church in their house” 1 Corinthians 1:2 – “To the church of God that is in Corinth…” 1 Thessalonians 1:1 – “To the church of the Thessalonians…” 1 Timothy 3:5 – “for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church”

    8. Identifying the Lord’s Church May it be understood that people might join or associate themselves with a local church in the sense of identifying with a local company of Christians but when it comes to joining the universal body of Christ it is God who does the joining. Acts 2:47; 9:26 Let us notice some other biblical terminology that describes the process of joining the church: Acts 2:47 – “And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 9:26 – “And when he [Paul] had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple.”Acts 2:47 – “And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 9:26 – “And when he [Paul] had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple.”

    9. Identifying the Lord’s Church “being saved” – Acts 2:47; Ephesians 2:5 “being born again” – John 3:3 “became obedient to the faith” – Acts 6:7 “crucified the old self” – Romans 6:6 “put on Christ” – Galatians 3:27; Romans 13:14 “have received reconciliation” – Romans 5:11 “baptized into Christ” – Acts 2:38; Galatians 3:27 There are others but understand this – we are added to the church when we are saved.

    10. Identifying the Lord’s Church We are added to the church the same way that people were joined to the church in the New Testament revelation. Nothing has changed: The problem is the same – Romans 3:23 The consequences are the same – Romans 6:23 The remedy is the same – Romans 3:24-25 Since the problem, consequences and remedy is the same, the process of getting saved (being added to the church) must be the same as well! Romans 3:23 – “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” Romans 3:24-25 – “and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith.” Romans 3:23 – “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” Romans 3:24-25 – “and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith.”

    11. Identifying the Lord’s Church The Gospel must be preached and heard! Romans 1:16-17; 10:13-17 The Gospel must be accepted by faith! Hebrews 11:6; Galatians 2:16 True faith in Christ will produce an active response in obedience to God’s call! Confession, Repentance, Baptism (dying with Christ) & a life of faithful service to God! Acts 2:27-47; 5:14; 9:31; 11:26; 16:25-34; Romans 1:16-17 – “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.” Romans 10:13-17 – READ Hebrews 11:6 – “And without faith it is impossible to please him for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Galatians 2:16 – “yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.” Acts 2:27-47 – READ Acts 5:14 – “And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women.” Acts 9:31 – “So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.” Acts 11:26 – “…For a whole year they met with the church [Antioch] and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” Acts 16:25-34 - READ Romans 1:16-17 – “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.” Romans 10:13-17 – READ Hebrews 11:6 – “And without faith it is impossible to please him for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Galatians 2:16 – “yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.” Acts 2:27-47 – READ Acts 5:14 – “And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women.” Acts 9:31 – “So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.” Acts 11:26 – “…For a whole year they met with the church [Antioch] and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” Acts 16:25-34 - READ

    12. Identifying the Lord’s Church Prophecy: Where? – Jerusalem/Zion Isaiah 2:3; Zechariah 8:3; Acts 2:5 When? – The latter/last days Isaiah 2:2-4 (1 Tim. 3:15); Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:17-21 Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream – Daniel 2 & 7 Babylonian Empire (625 – 538 BC) Medo-Persian Empire (538 – 330 BC) Grecian Empire (330 – 168 BC) Roman Empire (168 BC – 476 AD) – Daniel 2:44 Jesus confirms (Mk. 1:14-15) & Roman rule (Lk. 20:22) Isaiah 2:3 – “For out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem” Zechariah 8:3 – “Thus says the Lord: I have returned to Zion and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem, and Jerusalem shall be called the faithful city, and the mountain of the Lord of hosts, the holy mountain.” Acts 2:5 – “Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven.” Isaiah 2:2-4 – READ (1 Timothy 3:15) – “you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of truth.” Joel 2:28-38; Acts 2:17-21 – READ Daniel 2:44 – “And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall the kingdom be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand forever.” Mark 1:14-15 – “Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Luke 20:22 – “Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?”Isaiah 2:3 – “For out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem” Zechariah 8:3 – “Thus says the Lord: I have returned to Zion and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem, and Jerusalem shall be called the faithful city, and the mountain of the Lord of hosts, the holy mountain.” Acts 2:5 – “Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven.” Isaiah 2:2-4 – READ (1 Timothy 3:15) – “you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of truth.” Joel 2:28-38; Acts 2:17-21 – READ Daniel 2:44 – “And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall the kingdom be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand forever.” Mark 1:14-15 – “Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Luke 20:22 – “Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?”

    13. Identifying the Lord’s Church After Spirit Came Upon the Apostles Mark 9:1 – “with power” Acts 1:8 – “when the Holy Spirit” Acts 2:1-4 – “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit…” Word Preached Among All Nations Isaiah 2:2-3 – “and all the nations shall flow to it” Luke 24:46-47 – “to all nations” Acts 2:7-11 – “in our own tongues” Colossians 1:23 – “proclaimed in all creation” Mark 9:1 – “And he said to them, ‘Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 2:1-4 – READ! Luke 24:46-47 – “and said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem” Acts 2:7-11 – READ Colossians 1:23 – “if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.”Mark 9:1 – “And he said to them, ‘Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 2:1-4 – READ! Luke 24:46-47 – “and said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem” Acts 2:7-11 – READ Colossians 1:23 – “if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.”

    14. Identifying the Lord’s Church Let’s Compare: Catholic - 606 A.D. in Rome, Italy Lutheran – 1520 in Germany Episcopalian/Anglican – 1534 in England Presbyterian – 1536 in Switzerland Baptist – 1607 in Holland Methodist – 1739 in Germany Mormon – 1830 in Fayette, NY Adventist – 1830 in Massachusetts Christian Science – 1866 in Boston, MA

    15. Identifying the Lord’s Church Christian: 33 A.D. in Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:2-4) In the last days (Joel 2:28-32) During the lifetime of some disciples (Mark 9:1) During Roman rule (Daniel 2:44; Luke 20:22) After H.S. came upon apostles (Acts 1:8; 2:1-5) When word was preached to all nations Isaiah 2:3; Lk. 24:46-47; Acts 2:7-11; Colossians 1:23 The Lord’s church is the kingdom that has its origin rooted in Biblical history and accuracy.

    16. Identifying the Lord’s Church Builder/Architect Matthew 16:18 – “I will build my church” Psalm 127:1 – “Unless the Lord builds the house” 1 Timothy 3:15 – His house is the church As the builder, Jesus has the rights over His house Foundation/Chief Cornerstone Isaiah 28:16/1 Peter 2:4-8 – “a sure foundation” 1 Corinthians 3:11 – “For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ” Ephesians 2:19-22 – “the cornerstone” Psalm 127:1 – “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain…” 1 Timothy 3:15 – “you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of truth” Isaiah 28:16 – “therefore thus says the Lord God, ‘Behold I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation…” 1 Peter 2:4-8 – READ Ephesians 2:19-22 – READ Psalm 127:1 – “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain…” 1 Timothy 3:15 – “you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of truth” Isaiah 28:16 – “therefore thus says the Lord God, ‘Behold I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation…” 1 Peter 2:4-8 – READ Ephesians 2:19-22 – READ

    17. Identifying the Lord’s Church The Head Colossians 1:18 – “he is the head” Ephesians 4:15 – “into him who is the head” The Savior Ephesians 5:23 – “is himself its Savior” The Bridegroom Ephesians 5:25-29 – “Christ loved the church” John 3:29 – “the bridegroom has the bride” The Deliverer 1 Corinthians 15:24-28 Colossians 1:18 – “And he is the head of the body, the church…” Ephesians 4:15 – “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.” Ephesians 5:23 – “For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior” Ephesians 5:25 – “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body.” John 3:29 – “The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete.” 1 Corinthians 15:24-28 - READColossians 1:18 – “And he is the head of the body, the church…” Ephesians 4:15 – “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.” Ephesians 5:23 – “For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior” Ephesians 5:25 – “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body.” John 3:29 – “The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete.” 1 Corinthians 15:24-28 - READ

    18. Identifying the Lord’s Church What can we conclude? The relationship of man with his creator, destroyed in the Garden, is now restored. Christ’s mediation and purpose is now fulfilled! We wait and hold fast until the Bridegroom returns to deliver His kingdom to the Father. 1 Timothy 6:14-15 Only members of the Lord’s church are given assurance – all others are warned of wrath. Christ and his body are inseparably connected – what is available in Christ cannot be gained outside the church. 1 Timothy 6:14-15 – “to keep the commandment unstained and free from reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which he will display at the proper time – he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords..’1 Timothy 6:14-15 – “to keep the commandment unstained and free from reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which he will display at the proper time – he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords..’

    19. Identifying the Lord’s Church The Body of Christ The Lord’s church is set forth as a spiritual body. 1 Cor. 12:12-28; Eph. 2:15-16; 4:4; Col. 1:18 One cannot be at peace with his God unless he is in the body of Christ – the church! The Temple The Lord’s church is God’s New Testament temple. God is worshipped as He meets His people there: Exodus 25:8; 1 Cor. 3:16-17; Eph. 2:19-22; 1 Pet. 2:4-5 NT worship is about attitude and substance: John 4:24; Romans 12:1-2 1 Corinthians 12:12-28 – READ Ephesians 2:15-16 – “by abolishing the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility” Ephesians 4:4 – “there is one body and one spirit” Colossians 1:18 – “And he is the head of the body, the church..” Exodus 25:8 – “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.” 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 - READ Ephesians 2:19-22 – READ 1 Peter 2:4-5 – “As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” John 4:24 – “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth” Romans 12:1-2 - READ1 Corinthians 12:12-28 – READ Ephesians 2:15-16 – “by abolishing the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility” Ephesians 4:4 – “there is one body and one spirit” Colossians 1:18 – “And he is the head of the body, the church..” Exodus 25:8 – “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.” 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 - READ Ephesians 2:19-22 – READ 1 Peter 2:4-5 – “As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” John 4:24 – “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth” Romans 12:1-2 - READ

    20. Identifying the Lord’s Church A Vineyard Jesus compared His kingdom to a vineyard. Matthew 20:1 – “For the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard.” What do you do in a vineyard? – WORK! Matthew 21:28 – “go and work in the vineyard today” Labor now…Rest later! 1 Corinthians 15:28 Isaiah 5:1-2 – Dug, Cleared, Planted, Built, Hewed ”so he expected it to yield good grapes” (NKJV) Matthew 21:28 – “What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 – “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” Isaiah 5:2 – “Let me sing for my beloved my love song concerning his vineyard: My beloved had a vineyard on a very fertile hill. He dug it and cleared it of stones, and planted it with choice vines; he built a watchtower in the midst of it, and hewed out a wine vat in it; and he looked for it to yield grapes, but it yielded wild grapes” Matthew 21:28 – “What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 – “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” Isaiah 5:2 – “Let me sing for my beloved my love song concerning his vineyard: My beloved had a vineyard on a very fertile hill. He dug it and cleared it of stones, and planted it with choice vines; he built a watchtower in the midst of it, and hewed out a wine vat in it; and he looked for it to yield grapes, but it yielded wild grapes”

    21. Identifying the Lord’s Church A Kingdom The Lord’s church is governmentally set up as a kingdom – John 3:5; 18:36; Heb. 12:28; Col. 1:13 A monarchy with one King as ultimate Ruler and source of Authority! – Matt. 28:18; 1 Tim. 6:11-16 It requires citizenship that is spiritual – Romans 6:4; 1 Peter 1:23 A Household The church as a household teaches us how to relate to one another as a family. Eph. 4:6; 2 Cor. 6:16-18; Rom. 8:16-17; 16:1; Gal. 3:26-28; James 2:15 John 3:5 – “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” John 18:36 – “Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.’” Hebrews 12:28 – “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe” Colossians 1:13 – “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son.” Matthew 28:18 – “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” 1 Timothy 6:11-16 – READ Romans 6:4 – “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” 1 Peter 1:23 – “since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God.” Ephesians 4:6 – “one God and Father of all…” 2 Corinthians 6:16-18 – READ Romans 8:16-17 – READ Romans 16:1 – “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae..” Galatians 3:26-28 - READ James 2:15 – “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food…” John 3:5 – “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” John 18:36 – “Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.’” Hebrews 12:28 – “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe” Colossians 1:13 – “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son.” Matthew 28:18 – “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” 1 Timothy 6:11-16 – READ Romans 6:4 – “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” 1 Peter 1:23 – “since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God.” Ephesians 4:6 – “one God and Father of all…” 2 Corinthians 6:16-18 – READ Romans 8:16-17 – READ Romans 16:1 – “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae..” Galatians 3:26-28 - READ James 2:15 – “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food…”

    22. Identifying the Lord’s Church A Bride The church as a bride teaches us faithfulness. Ephesians 5:25-27 When we are unfaithful to God we commit spiritual adultery! Jeremiah 3:6-8; 2 Corinthians 11:1-3; Hebrews 6:4-6 A Flock/Sheepfold Jesus compared His kingdom to that of a sheepfold – John 10:1-16 He is the Chief Shepherd! John 10:14; Hebrews 13:20; 1 Peter 5:4 Rejoice when lost sheep are found! – Luke 15:4-7 Ephesians 5:25-27 – READ Jeremiah 3:6-8 – READ Hebrews 6:4-6 – “For it is impossible to restore again to repentance those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they then fall away, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt.” John 10:1-16 – READ Hebrews 13:20 – “Now may the God of peace who brought again the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant…” 1 Peter 5:4 – “And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” Luke 15:4-7 - READ Ephesians 5:25-27 – READ Jeremiah 3:6-8 – READ Hebrews 6:4-6 – “For it is impossible to restore again to repentance those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they then fall away, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt.” John 10:1-16 – READ Hebrews 13:20 – “Now may the God of peace who brought again the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant…” 1 Peter 5:4 – “And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” Luke 15:4-7 - READ

    23. Identifying the Lord’s Church Summary The Body of Christ – working together in unity Temple – attitude and substance of worship Vineyard – place of work and labor Kingdom – authority, rule, and honor of the King Household – relationships with one another Bride – faithful expectations Flock of sheep – protected by the Shepherd How wonderful it is to enjoy the benefits of being in the church of our Lord!

    24. Identifying the Lord’s Church Because we are interested in following the revealed biblical pattern, we should be interested in describing the church in a biblically accurate fashion. Various names are employed to refer to the Lord’s church throughout our New Testament. “churches of Christ” – Romans 16:16 “church(es) of God” – 1 Corinthians 1:2; 10:32; 11:22,16; 15:9; Acts 20:28; Galatians 1:13 “church of the (location)” – Col. 4:16; 1/2 Thes. 1:1 Romans 16:16 – “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.” 1 Corinthians 1:2 – “To the church of God that is in Corinth…” 1 Corinthians 10:31-32 – “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to the Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God…” 1 Corinthians 11:16 – “If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God.” 1 Corinthians 11:22 – “What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing?…” 1 Corinthians 15:9 – “For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” Galatians 1:13 – “For you have heard of my former lif in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it.” Colossians 4:16 – “And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans…” 1/2 Thessalonians 1:1 – “church of the Thessalonians” Romans 16:16 – “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.” 1 Corinthians 1:2 – “To the church of God that is in Corinth…” 1 Corinthians 10:31-32 – “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to the Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God…” 1 Corinthians 11:16 – “If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God.” 1 Corinthians 11:22 – “What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing?…” 1 Corinthians 15:9 – “For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” Galatians 1:13 – “For you have heard of my former lif in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it.” Colossians 4:16 – “And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans…” 1/2 Thessalonians 1:1 – “church of the Thessalonians”

    25. Identifying the Lord’s Church “church of the living God” – 1 Timothy 3:15 “household of God” – 1 Tim. 3:15; Eph. 2:19 “body of Christ” – Ephesians 4:12 “the church in (location)” – Rev. 2:1,8,12,18; 3:1,7,14 As a people who claim to do “bible things in bible ways” we should expect nothing less than to give ourselves a name that is biblically sound! Contrary to common assumption, we are not restricted to “church of Christ” as the name by which we must be called! 1 Timothy 3:15 – “if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of truth.” Ephesians 2:19 – “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God” Ephesians 4:12 – “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” Revelation 2:1,8,12,18; 3:1,7,14 – “church in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea” 1 Timothy 3:15 – “if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of truth.” Ephesians 2:19 – “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God” Ephesians 4:12 – “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” Revelation 2:1,8,12,18; 3:1,7,14 – “church in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea”

    26. Identifying the Lord’s Church

    27. Identifying the Lord’s Church Isaiah 56:5: “I will give in my house and within my walls a monument and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off.” Isaiah 62:2: “The nations shall see your righteousness, and all the kings your glory, and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give.” A true seeker in identifying the Lord’s church will want to find a church that honors God by wearing a divinely revealed name!

    28. Identifying the Lord’s Church “Disciples” Acts 6:1; 9:19; 9:26; 11:26; 19:1 “Believers” Act 5:14; 19:18; 1 Cor. 14:22; 1 Thes. 1:7; 2:13 “Christians” Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16 “Saints” Acts 9:13; Romans 8:27; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 14:33; Ephesians 4:12 Acts 6:1 – “Now in these days the disciples were increasing in number…” Acts 9:19 – “…For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus” Acts 9:26 – “And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe he was a disciple.” Acts 11:26 – “And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” Acts 19:1 – “There he found some disciples” Acts 5:14 – “And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women” Acts 19:18 – “Also many of those who were now believers came, confessing and divulging their practices” 1 Corinthians 14:22 – “Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers…” 1 Thessalonians 1:7 – “so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia” 1 Thessalonians 2:13 – “And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.” Acts 26:28 – “And Agrippa said to Paul, ‘In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian’” 1 Peter 4:16 – “Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.” Acts 9:13 – “But Ananias answered, ‘Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem.” Romans 8:27 – “And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:2 – “To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours..” 1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints” Ephesians 4:12 – “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” Acts 6:1 – “Now in these days the disciples were increasing in number…” Acts 9:19 – “…For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus” Acts 9:26 – “And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe he was a disciple.” Acts 11:26 – “And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” Acts 19:1 – “There he found some disciples” Acts 5:14 – “And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women” Acts 19:18 – “Also many of those who were now believers came, confessing and divulging their practices” 1 Corinthians 14:22 – “Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers…” 1 Thessalonians 1:7 – “so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia” 1 Thessalonians 2:13 – “And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.” Acts 26:28 – “And Agrippa said to Paul, ‘In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian’” 1 Peter 4:16 – “Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.” Acts 9:13 – “But Ananias answered, ‘Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem.” Romans 8:27 – “And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:2 – “To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours..” 1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints” Ephesians 4:12 – “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.”

    29. Identifying the Lord’s Church No organization can successfully exist without a head of any kind. The Lord’s church has Christ as its head! Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 1:22-23 Too often, man becomes exalted. In promoting humility, Christ deals with this problem directly. Matthew 23:8-12 The idea of entitling men with names such as “Father”, “Reverend”, etc. is not a biblical concept. Colossians 1:18 – “And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.” Ephesians 1:22-23 – “And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.” Matthew 23:8-12 - READColossians 1:18 – “And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.” Ephesians 1:22-23 – “And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.” Matthew 23:8-12 - READ

    30. Identifying the Lord’s Church The bible teaches that individual churches are to be self-governing under the leadership of qualified men – elders, pastors, bishops. Although different terms are used, the work is the same – shepherding the flock of God. Acts 20:17-18, 28; 1 Peter 5:2; Ephesians 4:11-12 From all biblical indications, the “eldership” was to be filled by more than one person: Acts 11:30; 14:23; 15:2,4,6; 20:17; 20:28; 21:18; Philippians 1:1; 1 Tim. 5:17; Titus 1:5; James 5:14 Acts 20:17-18 – “Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him. And when they came to him, he said to them: Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” 1 Peter 5:2 – “shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight” Ephesians 4:11-12 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” Acts 11:30 – “sending it to the elders” Acts 14:23 – “and when they had appointed elders for them in every church” Acts 15:2,4,6 – “apostles and elders” Acts 20:17 – “called the elders of the church” Acts 20:28 – “the Holy Spirit has made you overseers” Acts 21:18 – “all the elders were present” Philippians 1:1 – “with the overseers and deacons” 1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well” Titus 1:5 – “appoint elders in every town as I directed you” James 5:14 – “elders of the church” Acts 20:17-18 – “Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him. And when they came to him, he said to them: Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” 1 Peter 5:2 – “shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight” Ephesians 4:11-12 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” Acts 11:30 – “sending it to the elders” Acts 14:23 – “and when they had appointed elders for them in every church” Acts 15:2,4,6 – “apostles and elders” Acts 20:17 – “called the elders of the church” Acts 20:28 – “the Holy Spirit has made you overseers” Acts 21:18 – “all the elders were present” Philippians 1:1 – “with the overseers and deacons” 1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well” Titus 1:5 – “appoint elders in every town as I directed you” James 5:14 – “elders of the church”

    31. Identifying the Lord’s Church The elder is guided by the word: Acts 20:32; Titus 1:9 The elder is to exercise oversight: 1 Peter 5:2 The elder is to be an example: 1 Peter 5:3 The elder is to watch the souls under his charge: Hebrews 13:17 Acts 20:32 – “And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” Titus 1:9 – “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” 1 Peter 5:2 – “shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight” 1 Peter 5:3 - “not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock” Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account…” Acts 20:32 – “And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” Titus 1:9 – “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” 1 Peter 5:2 – “shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight” 1 Peter 5:3 - “not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock” Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account…”

    32. Identifying the Lord’s Church The elder should visit the homes of the sick and pray over them: James 5:14 The flock should respect/esteem the elders: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 The flock should obey and submit to the elders: Hebrews 13:17 The flock should honor the elders: 1 Timothy 5:17 James 5:14 – “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord” 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 – “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work…” Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account…” 1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” James 5:14 – “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord” 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 – “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work…” Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account…” 1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.”

    33. Identifying the Lord’s Church Deacons serve at attendants (diakoneo) or servants in meeting the needs of the local church. Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:13 Although not an ‘office’ of the local church, many local churches support evangelists to have the word of God preached to them. Ephesians 4:11-12; 2 Timothy 4:2-5 Every church must have members Philippians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 12:18 Philippians 1:1 – “To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons” 1 Timothy 3:13 – “For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus” Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry…” 2 Timothy 4:2-5 – READ 1 Corinthians 12:18 – “But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them as he chose”Philippians 1:1 – “To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons” 1 Timothy 3:13 – “For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus” Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry…” 2 Timothy 4:2-5 – READ 1 Corinthians 12:18 – “But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them as he chose”

    34. Identifying the Lord’s Church Members of the church must: “care for one another” 1 Corinthians 12:25 “stir up one another to love and good works…encouraging one another” Hebrews 10:24-25 “visit orphans and widows in their affliction” James 1:27 Ephesians 4:7-16 provides a good summary of how we ought to work together. 1 Corinthians 12:25 – “that there may be no division in the body but that the members may have the same care for one another.” Hebrews 10:24-25 – READ James 1:27 – “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” Ephesians 4:7-16 - READ1 Corinthians 12:25 – “that there may be no division in the body but that the members may have the same care for one another.” Hebrews 10:24-25 – READ James 1:27 – “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” Ephesians 4:7-16 - READ

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