Historical Posts
Pillar of Truth – The Church
The church is the pillar of truth!
“These things I write to you, though I hope to come to you shortly; but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:14-15).
Many churches have abandoned long held beliefs regarding both doctrine and morality. The Bible is no longer viewed as the inspired, authoritative, all-sufficient, inerrant word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17), the pillar of truth and foundation of fatih. And, if the Bible is rejected, then there is no basis for objective truth. Morality then becomes a matter of personal preference.
Churches that have embraced this philosophy no longer believe that Jesus Christ is the only way to God (John 14:6). They now deny such fundamental biblical doctrines as the virgin birth, the deity of Jesus, and His resurrection. For many He was at best a good man. There are many ways to God, they argue, and He is but one of them.
In the realm of morality little is considered inherently evil. We are told to be nonjudgmental and abandon the pillar of truth. We must tolerate different points of view, and be critical of no one. Tolerance is defined as acceptance, and the only sin is that of intolerance. In the quest to incorporate everyone and alienate no one, sin has been airbrushed away. Anyone who argues otherwise is judgmental, intolerant, homophobic, pharisaic, and unchristian. But that’s a lie!
The church must be the pillar and support of truth. This involves doctrinal truth (such things as the inspiration of the Bible, the deity of Christ, His virgin birth, His resurrection, etc.) and moral truth (His call for holiness, righteousness, and godliness). When churches compromise on doctrinal issues it is not long until they give ground on moral matters as well. Compromise has been the name of the game for way too long!
The church ought to be the conscience of society. Christians are called to take a stand for truth and right. We must not conform to the world, but rather strive to bring the world to Christ (Romans 12:1-2). Any church which abandons the truth (doctrinal or moral) cannot be Christ’s church. The church is the pillar of truth!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
Ephesians 05:23-33 – Why I Love The Church – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Ephesians 5:23-33 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Introduction to Why I Love The Church
1. There are many people who are cynical when they speak of the church
2. They see the church as a cold, sterile, formal institution
3. However, some people see the church as I do: Something to love
4. I grant the human side of the church remains in a constant state of renovation and repair, but that’s really no reason not to love it
5. Allow me to share with you four reasons why I love the church
Why I Love The Church
I. I Love the Church Because Jesus Loves It
A. My greatest aim in life is to be a Christian
1. I’ll never be perfect
2. But I hope and pray I look more like him today at 73 than when I was 23 years old
B. Jesus loved the church – Ephesians 5:25
II. I Love the Church Because the Church Is Family
A. Members of the church are called sons of God – Galatians 3:26
1. Fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters – 1 Timothy 5:1-2
B. Because we’re family, we have support
C. We don’t have to go through life alone
1. Matthew 12:46-50
2. Mark 10:28-30
III. I Love the Church Because Of Its Impact on the World
A. Don’t we all lament the state of the world?
B. Just think what this world would be like without the influence of the church!
C. Matthew 5:13-16
D. The church is a moral voice and a conscience in our society
IV. I Love the Church Because It Is the Saved
A. Jesus Saves, not the church; but it is the church that Jesus saves!
B. Ephesians 5:25-30; Acts 2:47, 20:28
C. If I’m not a part of the church, then no matter what else I may accomplish in life, it’s all been for nothing – Matt 16:24-26
Conclusion to Why I Love The Church
1. The greatest gift you could ever give the Lord is to love the church of Jesus Christ supremely
2. The greatest gift you could ever give to your spouse is to love the church of Jesus Christ supremely
3. The greatest gift you could ever give to your children is to love the church of Jesus Christ supremely
4. The greatest gift you could ever give your neighbors and friends is to love the church of Jesus Christ supremely
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
Threats to the Family
The Demise of Home and Family
The children of a prominent family decided to give their father a book of the family’s history for a birthday present. They commissioned a professional biographer to do the work, carefully warning him of the family’s “black sheep” problem: Uncle George had been executed in the electric chair for murder. The biographer assured the children he could handle that situation. He would record complete truthfulness and without any embarrassment to their father. He later wrote: “Uncle George occupied a chair of applied electronics at an important government institution. He was attached to his position by the strongest of ties and his death came as a real shock.”
It has been said that there is a skeleton in every closet, and a black sheep in every family. Just so you know, I’m not interested in uncovering either. But, I do want to address a real problem and that is the demise of homes and families.
Who could dispute the fact that homes are under attack in this nation?
Families are facing real threats, and we ignore them at our peril. The church is not immune. Whatever is in the world will creep into the church!
A recent Pew Study revealed that 38% of births in the U.S. in 2006 were to unwed mothers. In 1960 it was 5%. That same study found that nearly ½ of those in their 30’s and 40’s in 2005 had lived with a partner outside of marriage.
Not only are divorce and immorality rampant, but there is a concerted effort underway in this nation to redefine marriage. A few states now allow same sex marriages. Behind the scenes efforts have been underway for some time to make it the law of the land.
Marriage is under assault, but the words of Jesus still ring true: “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together let not man separate” (Matthew 19:4-6).
Motherhood is devalued. But the reality is that the greatest fulfillment in life will never come from the nine-to-five world of the women’s libbers! A woman’s greatest influence is in the home and family (Proverbs 31:10-31). The world has gotten it wrong!
Fathers are assailed. The media generally presents men (fathers) as bungling idiots routinely rescued from the brink of disaster by a strong woman (think Ray Romano, Tim Taylor, Homer Simpson). The Bible challenges men to lead the family and home. Fathers must be active in child care and training, and make a positive impact on home and family (Ephesians 5:25-6:4).
Return To A Biblical Family Framework
Family and the home will not only survive, but thrive when we adhere to Biblical principles for marriage and the family. We invite disaster when those principles are ignored. The church must be the voice of reason (1 Timothy 3:15). We must rise to the challenge! The threats to the family are real, but they are not insurmountable if we will only return to a Biblical framework for home and family.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
What is Happening to The Lord’s Church?
Declining? What is Happening to The Lord’s Church?
Lately, I’ve been reading several articles and blogs on the declining state of the churches of Christ. Certainly, there is no denying that the statistical evidence shows that the total number of members of the Lord’s church in the United States of America has been declining steadily (by about one half of one percent per year) since the 1990’s. Towns that once had thriving congregations now have no church at all. Right here, in Hopkins County, the city of Dawson Springs once had a church that was capable of supporting a preacher, but now has no church of Christ, at all. This sort of thing is happening all over the country. What’s happening to the Lord’s Church?
Based on my own observations, it seems to me that there are many factors that are contributing to the numerical decline in the ranks of the Lord’s Church. For one thing, our society, as a whole, has changed its attitude toward religion in general. More and more Americans identify themselves as atheist or agnostic. Some have been made suspicious of religion by the high-profile scandals that have come to light, in recent years. Many have become so caught-up in materialism that they simply do not care about religion, as they once did. Take for example, the horrific events of September 11, 2001. On the Sunday following that tragic Tuesday, churches all over the country were braced for a massive influx of people who had not been coming regularly, but the numbers show that, while some churches saw an increase in attendance, many did not. In contrast with previous events, like the Cuban missile crisis in the early 1960s, the “bump” in church attendance was hardly noticeable and completely unsustained.
While there are none who would deny that our culture has changed, there are many who place the blame for declining membership in the Lord’s Church rests squarely on the shoulders of the church itself. They claim that the Lord’s Church has been slow to respond to the changing times, and that we must make some substantive changes of our own to keep up. The problem is that some are proposing changes that are counter to the Biblical model, which we are supposed to defend and uphold (Jude 3).
Some are arguing that the Lord’s Church should have open fellowship with denominational churches, which the Bible warns us not to do (Ephesians 5:11). Some say that we should open up leadership roles for women in the church, which the Bible again warns us not to do (1 Timothy 2:9-15). Some recommend that we should not insist upon a capella singing in worship services of the Lord’s Church, which the Bible insists upon (Ephesians 5:19). Some assert that we should stop talking so much about the essentiality of baptism in salvation, as does the Word of God (Mark 16:16). In fact, many are insisting that we place far too much emphasis upon the Bible, and that we need to stop quoting it so much, if we are going to connect with future generations. What do you think the Bible has to say about that (Colossians 3:17)?
Of course, the Lord’s Church can and should make changes that will help in the accomplishment of its mission. We need to learn how to use new technology to advance the cause of Christ. We need to avail ourselves of every opportunity we have to share the gospel with lost souls. We need to be more active in advocating what is right and opposing what is wrong. There are certain things that we, as the Lord’s Church, do have the liberty to change. But there are some things that we cannot and must not change. It is important for us to know the difference (Romans 14:23).
It seems to me that one of the biggest contributing factors to the decline in membership in the churches of Christ, the Lord’s Church, is that the church is no longer on the offensive when it comes to evangelism. When every member of the Lord’s Church learns to take the initiative, invite people to come to worship and study with them, talk to them about the fundamentals of faith, and show them the way that leads from Earth to Heaven, then our numbers may increase. For too long, we have focused our attention upon how to keep ourselves entertained, rather than how we may save lost souls. Salvation is the issue. If we will keep ourselves focused on lost souls, then we will spend more time in the Word of God, and we will remember and not forget the fundamentals of faith, because we will be teaching them to others.
What is happening to the Lord’s Church is nothing new (John 6:66-68). What we do about it may well determine what will become of the church in the future.
Content by Russell Kline
Return to the Home Page
An Army of One
Even when Christians just act on their own, being an army of one, they can accomplish great things.
In the New Testament, the Lord’s church is said to be many things. In the book of Ephesians alone, it is called, the bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:23), the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23), the family of God (Ephesians 3:15), the manifold wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10), and the army of God (Ephesians 6:12). The concept of the Lord’s church as a spiritual army is found throughout the New Testament (2 Timothy 2:3). While we may not fight literal battles, with physical weapons, we are fighting in a spiritual struggle every day of our lives (2 Corinthians 10:4). What is at stake in this struggle is our immortal souls, and the souls of everyone else around us (Mark 8:36-37). Our enemy is powerful, and vastly outnumbers us (Ephesians 6:12). This may cause some to wonder, “What can one Christian do, against an enemy so powerful and so numerous?” How strong is an army of one?
Frankly, there is a great deal that one Christian can do to make a big difference in the spiritual war that rages all around us. The Devil wants us to think that the situation is hopeless, and that we can‘t possibly prevail against his forces, but that is a lie! The Scriptures assure us that, if we will persevere in faithfulness to God, we are “more then conquerors,” in the good fight of faith (Romans 8:37). Don’t let the Devil scare you into thinking that you are powerless and incapable of making a difference. A Christian is never truly an army of one because God is with us.
Take up the 52-week challenge. It’s not too late to start. Resolve now to invite at least one soul to come to church with you in every week of this year. You don’t have to be particularly smart, or savvy or persuasive to take up this challenge, but you just might make a huge difference in someone’s life. Chances are that you will come into contact with people that other Christians won’t. Those folks need you to make the effort to invite them to “come and see” what the church of Christ is all about. Sure, most of the people you talk to won’t come to church, but if one does, then you will have accomplished something truly great for the cause of Christ (Mark 8:36-37), just by acting as an army of one.
Go on a one-Christian door-to-door campaign. Act as an army of one for God. Take home about 25 or so gospel tracts. Take home an equal number of copies of The Paper Pulpit. Go for a walk in your neighborhood on a sunny afternoon and knock on our neighbor’s doors. If they are not at home, leave them a copy of the literature you brought with you. If they are at home, invite them to come to church with you and leave them a copy of the literature you brought with you. It’s just that simple! Before you know it, you will have completed a one-Christian door-to-door campaign, once again acting as an army of one. If you are feeling particularly daring, you might even ask your neighbor to study the Bible with you!
Go on a $25.00 shopping spree. This challenge is very simple. First, identify someone you know – maybe a member of the church; maybe not – who is struggling, financially. Take $25.00 of your own money, and go shopping for groceries for them. Just buy things like milk, bread, eggs, meat, etc. and then deliver them. You may deliver them in person, or you may remain anonymous, but be sure to give the glory to God (Matthew 6:1-4), acting as an army of one on His behalf. In today’s economy, $25.00 is not really very much money, but it can make a world of difference to someone in need.
These are all things that I have done at various times in my life. I can readily say that they are both simple and gratifying. Knowing that, because of you, someone’s soul has been saved, or someone’s life has been made just a little better, is the most amazing feeling in the whole world! When just one Christian makes the time and effort necessary to have an impact on someone else’s life, the potential for the accomplishment of something good is astounding. You can make all the difference in the eternal destiny of a lost soul – and you don’t have to make any grand gestures or monumental efforts. The main thing is that you just have to get out there into the world and do something!
When Christians act on their own, just being an army of one, they can accomplish great things. But, when Christians act together, they can accomplish even more! What if every member of the church invited someone to come to church with them, every week? What if every Christian was willing to go door-to-door for Christ? What if all of us did something to help our neighbors in need?
Content by Russell Kline
Return to the Home Page
The True Church
It is possible and desireable to have one true church. Jesus died to purchase it.
Any student of the Bible knows that the New Testament speaks of only one church, the true church. In Matthew 16:18, following Peter’s confession of the divinity of Christ, Jesus promised: “I will build my church.” The emphasis is on the fact that Jesus promised to build his church, not churches. The apostle Paul wrote: “There is one body” (Ephesians 4:4). The body and the church are one and the same (Colossians 1:18). If there is one body, there can only be one church. There is no mention of present day denominationalism in the New Testament. Denominationalism is non-biblical and anti-scriptural. Jesus’ prayer for his disciples was that they would all be one (John 17:21).
Conditions in the religious world today portray anything but a united church. Those who profess to follow Christ are divided into hundreds of factions. For one seeking to find the church of the Bible, it is an exceedingly difficult task. Each denomination believes that it is the true church, but that all other churches are acceptable, too! How can that be? It is generally argued that the various denominations comprise the visible church, and that the invisible church consists of the true believers from all denominations. Is that the case? The Bible says nothing about the visible and the invisible church!
We believe that it is possible to have one true church. We believe that it is desirable to have one true church. We believe that Jesus died to purchase one true church. It is not our purpose to condemn denominationalism, but it is our desire to preach the truth! We do not seek to sit in judgment of others, but we do want to teach what the Bible says about Christianity. Paul pleaded with the church at Corinth that they all speak the same things, and that there be no divisions among them, but that they be perfectly joined together in the same mind and judgment (1 Corinthians 1:10). Why should it be any different today?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
What Are You Looking For?
What are you looking for in a church?
It is not at all uncommon to hear someone speak of “church shopping.” By that, they mean that they are looking for a church which satisfies their needs, fulfills their desires, and provides what they want. Usually, but not always, they are looking for an entertaining worship experience, an active program providing day care, organized activities for the kids, and some social opportunities for themselves. All of which are well and good in a fraternal or social club, but is that really what the church is all about? What are you looking for that is meaningful?
The value of the worship experience is not determined by how it makes us feel, but how it pleases God. Worship is unacceptable when it offers people what they want, but does not give to God what He demands. Jesus condemned those who drew near to God with their lips while their hearts were far from Him. Their worship was vain because they taught as doctrine the commandments of men (Matthew 15:9). That kind of worship is more interested in what people want than what God has commanded. It is unacceptable, no matter how good it may make a person feel or match what they were looking for.
The attitude among many churches today is a reflection of attitudes in the political arena. Politicians are notorious for taking polls to determine positions. Sime preachers are often no different. Find out what the people want and give it to them. After all, the name of the game is seeing who can have the largest attendance, the biggest budget, attract the masses. Didn’t Paul have something to say about all of that? Seems to me he did (2 Timothy 4:1-5).
Think more about what you should be looking for. Acceptable worship must be directed toward the right object (GOD), done in the right spirit, and governed by God’s word (John 4:24). Personal preferences are irrelevant when it comes to determining what should or should not be done in worship. Ours is not a search for the church of our choice, but for the church of Christ’s choice. He has clearly spelled out in His word what the church is to be, how the church is to worship, and how Christians are to live. Those decisions have all been made for us. We must decide whether or not we will listen to Him and be looking for the things that matter to Him.
If you are looking for a church intent on pleasing God, not men, we would like to hear from you.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
Christ and His Church
One cannot accept Christ and reject His church, or accept the church and reject Jesus. The two are inseparable.
“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it” (Ephesians 5:25).
It is impossible to separate Christ from his church. Without Christ there would be no church, and without the church Christ’s mission would have been incomplete. It must be clearly understood that one cannot accept Christ and reject his church, or accept the church and reject Jesus. The two are inseparable.
His relationship to the church is set forth in Scripture. The purpose of his coming was to build the church (Matthew 16:18). His love for the church moved him to give himself for her (Ephesians 5:25) His blood was shed to purchase her (Acts 20:28). And, he is her head today (Colossians 1:18).
What is the church? It is not a building, a social club, or a political action committee. It is God’s spiritual family (1 Timothy 3:15). In relationship to its government it is called a kingdom. In regard to its organization it is called a body. In respect to its relationship to the world it is called the church, meaning the “called out.”
The church consists of saved men and women. The Lord adds the saved to the church (Acts 2:47). How, then, does one become a part of the church? According to the Bible, the only real authority on the subject, citizenship in the kingdom comes through the new birth (John 3:3,5,7). Membership in the body comes by baptism into it (1 Corinthians 12:13). And, one is added to the church by the Lord upon the basis of faith, repentance, and baptism (Acts 2:37-47).
Is it possible to accept Jesus, but reject his church? No! Can one be saved outside of the church? No! All of the saved are in Christ’s church today (Acts 2:47;4:12). Hear God’s word, believe it, and obey it. The Lord will add you to his church and you will be a Christian, nothing more, nothing less (Acts 11:26).
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
Does it Matter?
Truly, does it matter? It depends what it is!
Teddy Roosevelt is said to have told the following story about two men who were talking politics. One asked the other, ”Why are you a Republican?” The response came back, “Because my father was a Republican, and my grandfather before him.” “Well, that’s not a very good reason,” his companion retorted. “If your father had been a horse thief, and your grandfather had been a robber, what would that have made you?” “I guess I’d been a Democrat,” he replied.
You may find that story amusing, but, then again, if you are a Democrat, you may not. I’m not a political person, to party affiliation I can say, “does it matter?”. Come election time, I’m more concerned with a person’s principles than his party. But, I must admit, for many party affiliation is all that matters. Those who take their politics seriously would argue that there are real philosophical differences between the parties. To them, it does matter!
What kind of car do you drive? Do you own a Ford, Chrysler, or a General Motors product? To show you how strongly we feel, our family has one of each. But, I know folks who wouldn’t own anything but Fords. Others favor Chryslers. Still others drive only General Motors automobiles. Some will only own imports. To them, it does matter!
What’s your favorite soft drink? Is it Coke? Pepsi? The Un-Cola? Or, are you a Pepper? People have preferences. To them, it does matter!
If you haven’t gotten the point yet, people have strong feelings about a lot of things. Yet, when asked about religion, they will often respond, “I don’t think it matters what church you belong to. After all, one is as good as another!” The car you drive, the soft drink you prefer, the party you identify with matters. But to religion many people just say, “does it matter?” The truth is, nothing matters more.
Those who say it doesn’t matter have never read the Bible. When it comes to Christianity there is Christ’s church, and then there are all the impostors. Come Judgment Day, the only thing that will matter is whether or not we were members of His church. Does it matter? It matters!
In the New Testament there is only one church (Ephesians 4:4; Colossians 1:18). All of the saved are added to it (Acts 2:47). Heaven is the destiny of the church (John 14:1-3). It does matter.
Join the party you like. Drive the car you prefer. Drink the soda you enjoy most. But, when it comes to the church, make it the church of Christ’s choice, not yours. It does matter!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
Three Facts About The Church
People need the facts to make an informed decision!
More and more, I am discovering that folks know less and less about the church. They are ignorant of the facts of what the church is, what the church does, and where the church is going. Perhaps we can offer some insights into these areas.
Fact One: The church is not brick and mortar.
The church may have a meeting house, but to refer to that meeting house as the church leaves a false impression. The church is alive. Peter said that it was a “spiritual house” made up of “living stones” (1 Peter 2:4-5). The people are the church. The church is God’s spiritual family.
Fact Two: The business of the church is that of perpetuating the message of Jesus Christ.
Jesus commanded His disciples to “go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). It was not our Lord’s desire to have His name carved in marble, but to have his message imprinted upon the hearts of men. He did not desire that ornate cathedrals be built in His honor, or great wealth be amassed in His name. He asked only that His message of hope and salvation be shared with every man. That was, and still is, the mission of His church.
Fact Three: Our Lord did not expect His disciples to remain on this earth forever.
He, and those who followed Him, offered a solemn warning concerning the fate of this world. It will not stand forever, but the church will. It is an eternal kingdom (Hebrews 12:28). Someday “the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up” (2 Peter 3:10), but the church will know no end (John 14:1-3).
Now that you know the facts, are you a part of Christ’s church? Have you been baptized into Christ? Make a decision based on the facts.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
Woman’s Role in the Church
The apostle Paul wrote: “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church” (1 Corinthians 14:34,35). To Timothy he wrote: “Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence” (1 Timothy 2:11,12).
From the advent of Christianity it was the practice for men to lead in the assembly. Women’s roles were limited in the public assembly. They were prohibited from preaching, teaching and assuming other leadership roles when men were present. In recent years this practice has been called into question, and people have gone to great lengths to discredit the apostle and what the Scriptures say regarding this issue.
Some argue that Paul was a woman hater. They conclude that his remarks merely express his personal prejudice, and are not binding on the church. Such an attitude undermines the authority of the entire Bible. Using this approach, anything one finds personally objectionable can be ignored. This is how many people approach the word of God.
Others argue that the limitations placed on the woman’s role were cultural. They claim that although these limitations were enforced in Paul’s day, they are no longer binding on the church. There is nothing in the Bible which suggests that this is the case.
Paul also wrote: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). This passage is sometimes used to justify the practice of women preachers. The apostle does not set aside previous legislation in this text. He simply underscores the equality which exists in the church regardless of ethnic, social, or gender differences. God loves us equally. This does not, however, negate the fact that he has established different roles for us!
Radical feminists and liberal theologians would like to discard the Biblical prohibitions regarding a woman’s role in public worship. In many churches they have been successful. But, we are committed to respecting what the Bible teaches whether it is socially acceptable or not.
Women are not inferior to men, and men are not superior to women. But, God has ordained different roles for us, and we must respect them if we respect Him.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
Non-Denominational Christianity
We are very accustomed to choices.
A casual stroll down the aisles of a local supermarket will quickly illustrate this point. I am amazed at the variety of options available when it comes to something as simple as pork and beans, potato chips, or peas.
In just a few weeks many of you will begin planning for this year’s garden. Again, choices abound. What kind of corn will you plant? What kind of tomatoes will you set out? What kind of beans? The choices seem almost endless. And, everyone has his/her favorites!
Looked at automobiles lately? There are so many makes and models. They come in a multiplicity of colors and with all kinds of options. There are so many choices to make, but that’s the way we like it.
We have become so accustomed to variety that we have incorporated the concept into religion.
Almost daily we encounter the message: “Worship with the church of your choice this Sunday!” This idea is at the heart of denominationalism. But, the concept is completely foreign to the New Testament.
It is not the church of our choice, but the church of Christ’s choice that we should seek.
The apostle Paul rebuked the Christians at Corinth for failing to understand this. The church was in turmoil because of the denominational spirit which had developed. He pleaded with them not to divide, but to unite (1 Corinthians 1:10).
We would do well to listen to the Lord’s prayer.
He cried out to the Father, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:20-21). That’s our prayer as well.
Let’s abandon all denominational ties and unite in Jesus Christ.
How can that be wrong?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
John 17:20-21 Causes of Denominationalism – audio
Old - G E L N D J J R 1S 2S 1K 2K 1C 2C E N E J P P E S I J L E D H J A O J M N H Z H Z MNew - M M L J A R 1C 2C G E P C 1Th 2Th 1T 2T T P H J 1P 2P 1J 2J 3J J R - Topical - All - Archive
Text: John 17:20-21.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Introduction
1. “Denominate” – to name.
2. “Denomination” – a name or designation, especially one serving to classify a set of things. A recognized autonomous branch of the Christian church.
3. There are about 20-30 major denominations in existence today.
4. Among those major groupings, there are countless sub-divisions.
5. For example: Read list of Baptist Subdivision in the United States.
6. That God is displeased with this situation is beyond doubt.
7. How did we get to this current state of affairs?
8. Some would look back to the Reformation movement of the 1500’s with Martin Luther as the start of Denominationalism.
9. While it is true that most of the modern denominations had their origins in the Reformation; it is also true that the underlying causes of denominationalism were present long before even the establishment of the church.
Body
I. Jesus’ Disciples. Mark 9:33-38.
A. Even before the church was established there were certain “red flags” that warned of division to come.
B. Jesus’ disciples were concerned with who would be the greatest among them.
C. Pride is one of the major causes of denominationalism.
D. There always have been and always will be people who desire to have a following.
1. Paul warned the Ephesian elders of this. Acts 20:29-30.
2. Diotrephes is another example. 3 John 9.
E. Also we see in Mark 9:33-38, that the disciples demonstrated an elitist attitude.
1. There was a man casting out demons in the name of Jesus.
2. Thus, he was a true follower of Jesus or else he would not be able to do such.
3. Yet the disciples forbade him because he was not part of their little group.
4. This is much like the attitude that Diotrephes demonstrated.
5. This type of divisive attitude is also one of the causes of denominationalism.
F. Jesus’ answer?
1. Don’t seek to be great.
2. Seek to be a servant.
3. Greatness in the kingdom of Christ comes from serving others!
II. The church at Corinth. 1 Corinthians 1:11-12.
A. Spiritual immaturity is another cause of denominationalism.
B. Just like there will always be certain men who want to have followers, there will always be people who are more interested in the preacher than what is being preached.
C. Sometimes these people will denominate them selves even when their leader does not desire it.
For example, Martin Luther said, “I pray you leave my name alone and not to call yourselves Lutherans, but Christians. Who is Luther? My doctrine is not mine: I have not been crucified for any one…How does it then benefit me, a miserable bag of dust and ashes, to give my name to the children of Christ? Cease, my dear friends, to cling to these party names and distinctions; away with all of them; and let us call ourselves only Christians, after Him from whom our doctrine comes.”
1. I disagree with Luther on a lot of things but he had it exactly right in this statement!
2. Yet, his followers still call themselves Lutherans.
D. What were Paul’s instructions?
1. 1 Corinthians 1:10.
2. 1 Corinthians 1:13.
3. 1 Corinthians 3:3-4.
III. The Pharisees.
A. Mark 7:1-9.
1. The Pharisees had no respect for the authority of the Scriptures.
2. They had placed the traditions of men above the Scriptures. (v.9)
3. Jesus says that those who do this are far from God. (v.6)
4. Furthermore, He says that their worship is vain. (v.7)
B. The Bible alone will make Christians only.
1. We don’t read of Methodists, Lutherans, Baptists, Episcopalians, etc… in the Bible.
2. These names and different doctrines are the result of man’s lack of respect for the authority of the Scriptures.
3. Sometimes it is not a lack of respect for Biblical authority but is rather an incorrect view of it.
a) Some feel that anything not expressly forbidden by Scripture is authorized.
b) Time and time again we are shown that God’s silence does not authorize.
(1) Leviticus 10:1-2.
(2) 2 Samuel 7:1-7.
IV. The Galatians.
A. Galatians 1:6-9.
1. The Galatians were allowing their selves to be led astray by certain people who were perverting the Gospel of Christ.
2. Paul marveled (was amazed) that they were turning away so soon.
3. The Galatians, evidently, were either ignorant of the truth or simply didn’t care that the truth was being perverted.
a) How could they not know the truth? Weren’t they Christians?
b) The answer is yes, but even Christians, if they do not continue to study and grow, can forget the very fundamental truths upon which their salvation was built.
c) Hebrews 5:12.
d) Hence the reason Peter felt the need to constantly remind the brethren of basic, fundamental truths. 2 Peter 1:12-15.
B. Lack of knowledge, will all too often, lead to denominationalism.
1. Hosea 4:6.
2. It amazes me how many people do not even know the basic tenets of their denomination.
a) I have yet to meet a member of any denomination who tells me that they believe a little baby is born sinful.
b) But a common tenet of most denominations is the doctrine of Original Sin which teaches that very thing!
3. Many have never taken the time to find out what their church teaches much less what the Bible teaches on a given topic.
4. 1 John 4:1.
Conclusion
1. Denominationalism is wrong.
2. However, denominationalism is just a symptom of deeper problems which have been a constant danger to man.
a. Pride and an elitist attitude.
b. Spiritual Immaturity.
c. No respect for Biblical authority or a perverted view of such.
d. Ignorance of the truth and apathy.
3. All of these things will lead to religious division.
4. What is the answer?
5. Repent and go back to the authority – The Bible!
Delivered on: January 15, 2012. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
Return to the Home Page
1 Corinthians 12:12-13 The Singularity of the Church
Old - G E L N D J J R 1S 2S 1K 2K 1C 2C E N E J P P E S I J L E D H J A O J M N H Z H Z MNew - M M L J A R 1C 2C G E P C 1Th 2Th 1T 2T T P H J 1P 2P 1J 2J 3J J R - Topical - All - Archive
Text: 1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Ephesians 1:21-23
Introduction
- In our English speaking society, the word church hasn’t been adequately defined or used correctly. Many use the word incorrectly. For example, according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the #1 definition for church, is “a building for public and especially Christian worship.” However, if you study the word church/assembly in its’ original Greek (Ekklesia) ek = “out of” and klesis = “a calling.” The church are people that have been called out of this world to be added to Christ’s body for deliverance of their sins – 1 Peter 2:9. [The called – Romans 8:28; 1 Corinthians 1:1-2].
- In 1 Corinthians 12:12-13, God describes the body of Jesus, the church of Christ as being one on four occasions in these two verses. Therefore, within the body of Christ (Church) there is unity, there is oneness, among the members of the one body – Ephesians 4:1-6. In 1 Corinthians 1:10, Paul pleads with the brethren with the church at Corinth to be of one mind. [Demoninations are not members of the body of Christ] – Matthew 15:13-14].
- The singularity of the church means, it’s the only one, you have no other choices, if you want to be saved from the penalty of sin, you must be baptized in Christ – Acts 4:12.
There is Only One Builder, One Purchaser, One Head of The Church
- In Matthew 16:13-19, we learn Jesus told Peter I will build my church. Jesus is the builder of His church. Jesus laid the foundation of His church – 1 Corinthians 3:11. “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it…” Psalm 127:1. Therefore, you must make sure the builder of the church you belong to is Jesus Christ.
- Jesus built the church, but He also purchased the church with the blood He shed on the cross to take away our sins of the world. In Acts 20:28, Paul urges the Ephesian elders to feed the flock of God which He purchased with His own blood. You must understand Jesus paid the mortgage of His church (Your sins), He paid the redemptive price which was His precious blood that has the power to save you – 1 Peter 1:18-19; Revelation 1:5-6.
- In Ephesians 1:21-23, the Bible teaches God has put Jesus Christ to be head over all things to the church. In Colossians 1:18, Jesus is described as the head of the body, the church. In Ephesians 5:23, God teaches us the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church.
There is Only One Way, One Truth and One Church That Will Save You
- In John 14:6, Jesus clearly states that I am the way, the truth, and the life, and no one can get to the Father except by me. Interestingly many are refusing to be added to the body of Christ, because the way of salvation is a narrow way – Matthew 7:13-14. Don’t follow your own way because it will lead to your destruction – Proverbs 14:12.
- There is only one truth. It is the Word of God – John 17:17. In John 1:17, we learn grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. The truth brings us the message of salvation in Jesus and His church.
- If you want to be delivered from the consequences of sin, you only have one choice, Jesus and His Church. Just like in the days of Noah, the people had one way of salvation, and that was the one ark Noah built that saved his family. Today the ark of salvation is the one church Jesus built. Why not answer God’s call to become on of His saints?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Christ and the Church – Ephesians 5:22-32
Text: Ephesians 5:22-32
There is one church, which is the same as one body (Ephesians 5:22)
Christ is the head of that one body, His church (Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 1:22,23; 4:4-6).
Christ loved the church and gave Himself for it (Ephesians 5:25)
His blood that was shed on the cross purchased His church (Acts 20:28).
The church is sanctified and cleansed by washing of water by the word (Ephesians 5:26)
Baptism is done in water (Acts 8:26-39; 2:36-42; 22:16; Romans 6:4; John 3:23).
Jesus told Nicodemus one must be born of water and the Spirit in order to enter the kingdom of heaven (John 3:5).
Jesus gave Peter keys to the kingdom (Matthew 16:19), the same as the body or church. Later, Peter unlocked the kingdom by preaching the gospel at Pentecost (Acts 2). About 3,000 souls were baptized that day, and the Lord added them to His church (Acts 2:38; Matthew 16:16-18).
The church is presented glorious, and without spot, wrinkle, or any such thing (Ephesians 5:27)
It is done this way through the blood of Christ! Through shedding of His blood, we have the remission of sins (Hebrews 9:22; 10:22). As the church is also holy, we must be holy for God is holy (Ephesians 1:4; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Colossians 1:22-23).
• The Lord nourishes and cherishes His church (Ephesians 5:29)
• Christians are members of His body (Ephesians 5:30; Romans 12:4-5)
• Paul claims it to be a great mystery, but speaks concerning Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:32)
• Have you been baptized and allowed God to add you to the Church (Acts 2:47)?
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
The Church is Like…
Our task is to practice and preach truth
God’s family is called a kingdom in relationship to its government (Colossians 1:13), a body in relationship to it’s organization (Colossians 1:18), and a church in relationship to the world (Colossians 1:18). His spiritual family is to be the “pillar and support of truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). As subjects of the King, we are here to do His bidding. As members of His body we have a job to do, a role to fill. As part of the church, we find ourselves in the world, but the world is not to be in us. Our task is to practice and preach truth throughout the world by means of works and words. But, I’m not sure everyone understands this mission.
Yet, people act like it is a country club
The church ought to be more like a hospital than a country club. Yet, people act like it is a country club, not a hospital for the soul. We should see the church for what we can give rather than what we can get. Worship should prepare us for a week of work for Christ, not entertain us for an hour. The emphasis should be service and not serve us!
A service station would be more appropriate
An appropriate modern analogy for the church may be the old fashioned service stations many of us remember as children. Our parents went there on a regular basis to refuel their cars. Not only did they fill the tank, but they checked the oil, cleaned the windshield, and checked the air in the tires. If there were mechanical problems, they took care of them. It truly was a service station. We left prepared for the road ahead.
This seems a good (not perfect), analogy for our worship assemblies. In a sense, our time together fills our tank, checks for problems, cleans our windshield (so that we see clearly), and gets us ready for the road ahead (life). Hospitals address our physical needs while the church focuses on our spiritual condition.
Not to be entertained…
We do not come to be entertained, but to exalt the Savior, to be educated in the gospel, to be equipped for service in the Lord’s army, to be excited about our task of taking His message to the world, and to have are defects (sins) exposed so they can be corrected. We can’t address a problem if we are unaware that it exists.
Food, fun, and fellowship are fine, but they are not and never have been the emphasis of the faithful. They all have their place, but let’s make sure they are never substituted for the real purpose of our assemblies or the reason for membership in His family.
There are lost and hurting people all around us
We need to bring those who are lost and hurting to the Great Physician where their wounds can be healed and their hearts mended. The church offers people real solutions for their problems. It provides hope to the hopeless. It offers help to the hurting. It gives direction to the lost. It takes care of the sick, or at least it’s supposed to!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
Return to the Home Page
Daniel 02:01-49 The Kingdom that Shall Never be Destroyed
Old - G E L N D J J R 1S 2S 1K 2K 1C 2C E N E J P P E S I J L E D H J A O J M N H Z H Z MNew - M M L J A R 1C 2C G E P C 1Th 2Th 1T 2T T P H J 1P 2P 1J 2J 3J J R - Topical - All - Archive
Text: Daniel 2:1-49
Introduction
1. In Daniel chapter 2, we read about Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and Daniel’s interpretation…
a. Nebuchadnezzar challenges his magicians, sorcerers, et al, to tell him both the dream and its interpretation, and they are unable – Daniel 2:1-13
b. God reveals the secret of the dream to Daniel in a night vision – Daniel 2:14-23
c. Daniel approaches the king and explains that God has made known to him both the dream and its interpretation – Daniel 2:24-30
d. Daniel then tells the dream, and gives the interpretation of it, to the amazement of Nebuchadnezzar – Daniel 2:31-49 (read)
1) The king had seen a great image
a) With head of gold
b) With chest and arms of silver
c) With belly and thighs of bronze
d) With legs of iron, and feet mixed with iron and clay
2) The great image was destroyed by a small stone made without hands
a) The image representing the rise and fall of four world empires
b) The stone representing a kingdom that God would set up
3) The king praises God, and exalts Daniel along with his three friends
2. There are certainly two key thoughts expressed in this chapter…
a. God is a revealer of secrets – Daniel 2:19, 22, 28-29, 47
b. God can make know the future and bring it pass – Daniel 2:28-29, 21
3. But of particular interest to us ought to be the “kingdom” in verse 44…
a. Which the God of heaven Himself shall set up
b. Which shall never be destroyed, but consume other kingdoms and stand forever
4. Several questions naturally come to mind concerning this “kingdom”…
a. When would God set it up?
b. Has it been set up as foretold?
c. If it has, and if it shall never be destroyed…
1) Where is it now?
2) What is the future of this kingdom?
3) Can we be a part of this indestructible kingdom?
Body
I. THE PREPARATION FOR THE INDESTRUCTIBLE KINGDOM
A. “IN THE DAYS OF THESE KINGS…” (Daniel 2:44)
1. Daniel describes the image as depicting four kingdoms which shall rise and fall
2. The first one is definitely Babylon – Daniel 2:37-38
3. With Babylon as the starting point, world history confirms that the next three kingdoms would be:
a. The Medo-Persian empire, represented by the chest and arms of silver
b. The Grecian empire, represented by the belly and thighs of bronze
c. The Roman empire, represented by the legs of iron, with feet mixed with iron and clay
4. Thus one could look for the establishment of the “indestructible kingdom” in the days of the Roman empire
B. WHEN “THE TIME IS FULFILLED”…
1. Notice what John the Baptist began preaching during the days of the Roman Empire (“the kingdom of heaven is at hand”) – Matthew 3:1-2
2. Jesus proclaimed this also, adding “the time is fulfilled” – Mark 1:14-15
a. What “time” was fulfilled?
b. The time described by Daniel!
II. THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE INDESTRUCTIBLE KINGDOM
A. DURING JESUS’ EARTHLY MINISTRY, IT WAS “AT HAND”…
1. This is what both John and Jesus proclaimed – Matthew 3:1-2; Mark 1:14-15
2. Yet after Jesus’ death, there were those who were still waiting for the kingdom – Joseph of Arimathea, Luke 23:50-51
B. BUT FOLLOWING THE ASCENSION OF JESUS…
1. He is far above all principality, power, might, dominion – Ephesians 1:20-21
2. All has been made subject to Him – 1 Peter 3:22
3. He is ruler over the kings of the earth – Revelation 1:5
4. He rules the nations with a rod of iron – Revelation 2:26-27
5. He truly has all authority in heaven and on earth! – cf. Matthew 28:18
C. THIS SUPPORTS WHAT IS REVEALED LATER IN DANIEL…
1. Consider Daniel 7:13-14
a. Where one like the Son of Man approaches the Ancient of Days (God)
b. And is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom which shall not be destroyed
2. Compare this with Acts 1:9
a. Daniel describes the ascension from a heavenly perspective
b. Whereas Luke describes it from an earthly perspective!
3. It is clear, then, that the King (Jesus) has received a kingdom, that the indestructible kingdom was set up when He returned to heaven! But one might naturally ask: Where is it now?
III. THE NATURE OF THE INDESTRUCTIBLE KINGDOM
A. THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT THIS KINGDOM…
1. It was described by Daniel as a “stone cut…without hands which became a great mountain and filled the whole earth” – Daniel 2:34-35
a. “without hands” suggests it is not your ordinary kingdom
b. Also, it would start small and then grow larger
2. Compare this with what Jesus taught about the nature of His kingdom
a. His kingdom is not of this world – John 18:36; cf. Romans 14:17
b. It would start small, and grow to encompass the earth – Matthew 13:31-33
3. Thus this “indestructible kingdom” would start small, and would be spiritual in nature
B. THIS KINGDOM THEREFORE INVOLVES THOSE IN THE CHURCH…
1. The Christians at Colosse were in the kingdom – Colossians 1:12-13
2. Those at Thessalonica likewise – 1 Thessalonians 2:12
3. Along with the seven churches in Asia – Revelation 1:6,9
4. Indeed, all Christians receive their part in this “indestructible kingdom” – Hebrews 12:28
a. Including us gathered here this day!
b. Fulfilling the statement that this kingdom would fill the whole earth!
c. For here we are, on the other side of the planet from Jerusalem, yet citizens of this kingdom foretold in Daniel!
d. Whoever is willing to “repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15) can be a part of the kingdom Jesus established when He sat down at the right hand of God following His ascension to heaven.
IV. THE FUTURE OF THIS INDESTRUCTIBLE KINGDOM
A. IT WILL LAST FOREVER…
1. As Daniel told Nebuchadnezzar – Daniel 2:44
a. “which shall never be destroyed”
b. “it shall stand forever”
2. As the writer to the Hebrews stated: “a kingdom which cannot be shaken” – He 12:28
3. As the angel Gabriel spoke to Mary: “of His kingdom there will be no end” – Lk 1:31-33
B. AT CHRIST’S COMING, IT WILL BE DELIVERED TO THE FATHER…
1. As taught by Paul to the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 15:23-26
a. When Christ comes, He shall deliver the kingdom to God the Father, having put an end to all rule, authority and power
b. Until then, Christ shall reign until all enemies are placed under His feet, the last enemy being death
2. As Jesus taught in the parable of the tares – Matthew 13:40-43
a. At the end of the age, His angels will gather out of the kingdom those that offend and practice lawlessness
b. Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father
Conclusion
1. And so this kingdom…
a. Foretold by Daniel, proclaimed by John the Baptist and Jesus Himself
b. Was begun in the days of the Roman empire, with Christ as its king and His disciples as its citizens
2. It is an indestructible kingdom…
a. That continues on, ever growing
b. With the hope of a glorious future in eternity
3. But let us not forget the last question raised in our introduction: Can we be a part of this indestructible kingdom?
a. Yes! For Jesus and His apostles tell us how
1) We must be born again of water and the Spirit – John 3:5; cf. Titus 3:5
2) An allusion to baptism, commanded of penitent believers – Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38
b. But beware, some in the kingdom may one day be cast out!
1) As Jesus warned in the parable of the tares – Matthew 13:41-43
2) Telling us later of the necessity of an enduring faith – Revelation 2:10
4.Therefore, once we have been obedient to the gospel (cf. Romans 6:17-18) we must remain diligent in our faith, if we wish to experience the futur e glories of…”The Kingdom Which Shall Never Be Destroyed!”
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
Church Discipline – Part 1 – 1 Corinthians 10:1-12
Old - G E L N D J J R 1S 2S 1K 2K 1C 2C E N E J P P E S I J L E D H J A O J M N H Z H Z MNew - M M L J A R 1C 2C G E P C 1Th 2Th 1T 2T T P H J 1P 2P 1J 2J 3J J R - Topical - All - Archive
Part 1 – Part 2 – Part 3 – Part 4 – Part 5
Text: 1 Corinthians 10:1-12
Introduction
1. God declared the city of Jericho was to be devoted to him – Joshua 6:17-19
2. Tell the story of Achan’s sin
1) Sin was not known to leaders but innocent men died – Joshua 7:1-9
2) Quite praying and began disciplining – Joshua 7:10-12
3) Proof of guilt was established before all before discipline began – Joshua 7:13-23
4) After discipline, God was with them Joshua 7:24-8:1
3. It is true that sinners will always be in the church, but God says that we should be able discern them – 2 Thessalonians 3:6
Body
I. What is church discipline?
A. Define terms
1. Church: The body of called out believers over whom Christ is the head and that accept the Bible as His Word.
2. Discipline:
(a) training which molds, corrects, strengthens;
(b) Punishment, chastisement;
(c) to train in self control
B. There are two kinds of discipline
1. Preventive discipline
1) Ephesians 6:4
2) Romans 13:1-2
3) Galatians 5:19-21
4) 1 Timothy 4:1-6
2. Corrective discipline
1) Children
2) Government
3) Hebrews 12:9-11
4) 2 Thessalonians 3:6
II. The need for corrective discipline
A. The home
1) Proverbs 13:24
2) Proverbs 19:18
3) Proverbs 23:13-14
4) Hebrews 12:7
B. The government
1) Romans 13:1-4
C. The church
1) 2 Thessalonians 3:6
III. God’s rule in the past
A. Patriarchal Age
1. Adam and Eve
1) instructed – Genesis 2:15-17
2) punished – Genesis 3:23-24
1) instructed – Genesis 19:17
2) punished – Genesis 19:26
B. Mosaic Age
1. Achan
1) instructed – Joshua 7:17-18
2) punished – Joshua 7:20ff
2.Moses
1) instructed – Numbers 20:8
2) punished – Numbers 20:9-12
3. Young Prophet
1) instructed – I Kings 13:7-10
2) punished – I Kings 13:21-24
IV. Does God require corrective discipline today?
A. All sufficiency of the Word of God
1. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
2. 2 Peter 1:3-4
B. Is discipline a command?
1. 1 Corinthians 5:12 – Romans 16:17-18
2. John 12:48 – Titus 3:10-11
3. Matthew 18:15-17 – 2 Thessalonians 3:6
Conclusion
1. Positive – H B R C B live an obedient life
2. Corrective – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9
`
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
Order in the Church – 1 Corinthians 14:40
Text: 1 Corinthians 14:40
Introduction
When Paul was writing to the church at Corinth, he addressed some problems concerning their worship to God. He told them, “let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). A world without order would lead to chaos. There would be much confusion as no one would know what to do.
An Orderly Creation
God created the world in an orderly fashion (Genesis 1:1-27). Hence, He is not the author of confusion, but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). We must worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24), and if we all do that there will be order and not confusion.
Order in Worship
One specific problem the church at Corinth had was the way in which they observed the Lord’s Supper. Paul reminded them of how Jesus used it to remind them of His body and blood (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). When they partook of it, they were to examine themselves and remember the sacrifice Christ made; yet, some took this for a common meal. They were being worldly in this, as Paul said they should not do. After addressing this problem, Paul said he would “set the rest in order” when he came (1 Corinthians 11:27-34).
An Orderly Account
3. The Bible is written in an orderly fashion. It is divided into two testaments (old and new) that takes us from God creating the world to His law given through Moses, speaking through the prophets, birth and life of Christ, history of the church, guide to living the faithful Christian life, and then to things that would shortly come to pass according to Revelation. Luke tells Theophilus he was writing an orderly account to set in order things that happened to Christ (Luke 1:1-4).
An Orderly Work
4. Paul had an important job for Titus. He left him in Crete to “set in order things that were lacking” (Titus 1:5). One can only wonder what was missing in the church there, and what problem may have needed to be corrected.
Order in our Lives
Is anything out of order in your life? Have you obeyed the gospel by being baptized for the remission of your sins (Acts 2:38)? If so, are you living faithfully as you should (Revelation 2:10)?
Is there anything you need to set in order with God, yourself, or with anyone else?
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page