“I will build My church…” Jesus (Matthew 16:18)
“Church” = “Belonging to the Lord.”
What is the Church?
The Church is people who recognize they belong to Jesus, and they represent Him here on earth. The Church is an extension of Jesus and his ministry in this world.
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were not a people, but now you are the people of God; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” 1 Peter 2:9-10 NASB 95
- The calling of the Church
“And now you are living stones that are being used to build a spiritual house. You are also a group of holy priests, and with the help of Jesus Christ you will offer sacrifices that please God.” 1 Peter 2:5 CEV
- The priesthood of believers
“and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.” Revelation 1:5 NASB 95
2. The functioning of the church
- The Five purposes that guide the people of God
“All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42-47 NLT
We are pursuing
- To be a worshipping community
- To be a connecting community
- To be a serving community
- To be an impacting community
- To be a maturing community