Lección 33: La Iglesia y el Reino

¿Por qué estoy aquí? Yo estoy aquí para participar en el reinado de Jesucristo. Además de saber que Cristo permitirá un día vencer a sus enemigos, también sé que voy a tomar parte en su reino. Cristo establecerá un reino perfecto y eterno, y todos los creyentes era de la Iglesia reinarán con él en el mismo.

Antes de continuar, debemos aclarar la diferencia entre los dos reinos bíblicos: el reino de Dios es universal y su reino de la mediación. El reino universal es la soberanía absoluta de Dios sobre toda la creación. El reino de la mediación es su regla personal de los individuos específicos a través de un mediador (o representante). Este último reino comenzó en el Antiguo Testamento y es el objetivo final de la historia (ver Lección veintidós). Es en este reino que los creyentes que algún día reine la cooperación con Cristo su Rey.

[Un mediador es un intermediario o representante. Un reino de la mediación es una tierra, el reino político en el que Dios gobierna a través de un mediador. Universal, el reino de Dios es el hecho de que las reglas de Dios sobre el universo.]

El reino de la mediación que se conoce por varios nombres, como "el reino de los cielos", "el reino de Dios," o simplemente "el reino". En general, el contexto determina cuál de los dos reinos (universal o mediadora), el autor ha en mente. En esta lección, el "reino" se refiere al reino de la mediación.

[La Biblia de Referencia Schofield hace una distinción entre el reino de Dios y el reino de los cielos, pero los dos son sinónimos y se usan indistintamente. La mayoría de los dispensacionalistas no hacen ninguna distinción entre los dos.]

No hay que confundir el reino de la salvación o la iglesia. Aunque la gente suele usar estas palabras de manera intercambiable, el reino es una idea distinta.

[Es decir, "Joe ha entrado en el reino", que significa "Joe se salvó." Hay un par de pasajes que enseñan que uno entra en el reino, en cierto sentido en el momento de la salvación. Sin embargo, veremos que lo mejor es mantener el reino y la salvación de las ideas por separado. El reino será una realidad física. La iglesia no cumple con todas las promesas del reino.]

Esta lección explorará la naturaleza de los reino de la mediación, su historia, y la relación de la Iglesia a él.

[Recuerde que cuando utilizamos la palabra "reino" en esta lección, estamos hablando de los reino de la mediación, no la soberanía universal de Dios o la salvación.]

I. La naturaleza del Reino

La Biblia indica que el reino de Dios incluye tres elementos: (1) un gobernante elegido por Dios-, (2) el reino de los sujetos a ser gobernados, y (3) el acto de la reina. Menos que los tres están presentes, no hay reino. David lo confirma cuando dice:

Sin embargo, el Señor, el Dios de Israel, me eligió de toda mi familia a ser rey sobre Israel para siempre. Él escogió a Judá como líder, y desde la casa de Judá escogió a mi familia, y de los hijos de mi padre que estaba satisfecho de hacerme rey sobre todo Israel. De todos mis hijos-y el Señor me ha dado muchos-que ha elegido a mi hijo Salomón para sentarse en el trono del reino de Jehová sobre Israel. 1 Crónicas 28:4 5

El profeta Daniel también hizo hincapié en estos tres elementos, cuando escribió de futuro reinado del Mesías:

En mi visión en la noche me miró, y he aquí uno semejante al Hijo del hombre, que viene con las nubes del cielo. Se acercó al venerable Anciano y fue llevado a su presencia. Él fue dado dominio, gloria y reino, para todos los pueblos, naciones y lenguas le sirvieran. Su dominio es dominio eterno, que nunca pasará, y su reino uno que no será jamás destruido. Daniel 7:13 14

[De acuerdo con esta definición, es Jesucristo, que hoy gobiernan en su reino? No. Algunos podrían decir que Él es la decisión de la iglesia a la cabeza, o que él gobierna los corazones de los creyentes, pero esto no está en consonancia con la idea del reino de Jesús y enseñó a los apóstoles. Ellos enseñaron un reino literal, terrenal, no una invisible y espiritual.]

II. La Historia del Reino de Dios

A lo largo de la Biblia, Dios ha establecido reiteradamente a través de representantes humanos. Los siguientes son algunos de los hombres que Dios ha utilizado o se utilizan de esta manera.

A. Moisés

Este es el mismo Moisés, a quien habían rechazado con estas palabras: "¿Quién te hizo gobernante y juez?" Él fue enviado para ser gobernante y libertador por el mismo Dios, por medio del ángel que se le apareció en el monte. Hechos 7:35

Moisés era el representante de Dios. Dios gobernó a Israel a través de él.

B. Saúl y David

Y Samuel tomó el cuerno de aceite y ungió [David] en presencia de sus hermanos, y desde ese día el Espíritu de Jehová vino sobre David. Samuel se fue a Ramá. Pero el Espíritu de Jehová se apartó de Saúl, y un espíritu malo de parte de Jehová lo atormentaba. 1 Samuel 16:13 14

Saúl era el rey el representante de Dios. Sin embargo, a causa de su desobediencia, Dios le quitó su derecho a gobernar (1 Samuel 15:23) y la unción especial del Espíritu que iban con él, la "unción teocrático". [Revise la idea teocrática de la unción.] En este punto, hay que señalar dos hechos: (1) En el momento en que el teocrático unción fue dada a David, que fue tomado de Saúl (David temía correr la misma suerte más adelante en la vida, según el Salmo 51:11.). (2) Dios comenzó una dinastía de David a través del cual Él gobernaría a su pueblo. A partir de entonces, cada rey sobre el reino de Dios tenía que ser del linaje de David.

C. Solomon

[Dios] dijo [a David]: "Tu hijo Salomón es el que se edificará mi casa y mis atrios; porque lo he escogido para que sea mi hijo, y yo le seré por padre. Yo confirmaré su reino para siempre si es firme en el cumplimiento de mis mandamientos y leyes, como se está haciendo en este momento. "1 Crónicas 28:6 7

D. Cristo

Como se mencionó anteriormente, todos los reyes de mediador desde que David tuvo que ser descendiente de David. Esto incluyó a Cristo (Isaías 11, Mateo 1 y Lucas 3).

1. El reino de Cristo fue predicha.

Debido a la rebelión de Israel, Dios temporalmente terminó su disposición reino con la nación. [Esto ocurrió en el año 586 aC con la cautividad de Babilonia.] Sin embargo, desde ese momento anunciado por los profetas que Dios algún día restaurar su reino de manera eterna.

El antiguo dominio será restaurado a ti, la realeza se llega a la hija de Jerusalén. Miqueas 4:8

Él reinará en el trono de David y sobre su reino, disponiéndolo y confirmándolo en juicio y en justicia desde ahora y para siempre. Isaías 9:7

[Tenga en cuenta que la misma clase de reino que David tenía que ser restaurado. Era el reino de David una espiritual? No, era literal, terrenal, etc Por lo tanto será de Cristo.]

2. El reino de Cristo se ofreció.

Tanto Cristo como Juan el Bautista predicaba un mensaje del reino. Cristo vino a la tierra como el Rey prometido, el Mesías. Sin embargo, los Judios rechazaron su oferta y brutalmente asesinado.

Juan el Bautista predicaba:

"Arrepentíos, porque el reino de los cielos está cerca." - Mateo 3:2

Cristo también proclamó:

"Arrepentíos, porque el reino de los cielos está cerca." Mateo 4:17 (Ver también Mateo 04:23 y Lucas 11:19 20).

Los discípulos dijeron a predicar:

"El reino de los cielos está cerca." Mateo 10:07

Nota: La oferta del reino de Israel era una oferta genuina. Sin embargo, el plan de Dios incluye el rechazo de Israel y la muerte de Cristo. Por lo tanto, Cristo vino a la tierra por dos razones: Primero, Él vino a ofrecer el reino de los Judios. En segundo lugar, Él vino a hacer que la participación en el reino futuro posible. Al permitir a sí mismo como crucificado, siempre y cuando el camino de la salvación, para que los hombres pudieran conocerlo como rey.

[Existe cierto debate respecto a lo que habría sucedido si los Judios aceptado a Jesús como su Mesías. Algunos dicen que el milenio han empezado allí. Es un punto discutible, porque Israel no aceptó a Jesús como su Mesías en este momento.]

3. El reino de Cristo se pospuso.

El reino de Dios ha sido pospuesta. No está en existencia hoy. Después de su resurrección, Cristo dio a sus discípulos más instrucciones acerca de su reino venidero (Hechos 1:3). Los discípulos se supuso que inmediatamente restaurar el reino de Israel y comenzó a reinar. Sin embargo, Cristo enseña lo contrario.

Por eso, cuando estaban reunidos le preguntaron: "Señor, ¿es ahora cuando vas a restablecer el reino a Israel" Y les dijo: "No os toca a vosotros saber los tiempos o las sazones que el Padre puso en su propia autoridad. "Hechos 1:6 7

[Este es un buen texto que muestra que los discípulos estaban esperando un reino literal, terrenal. Si el reino era uno espiritual (es decir, la salvación), no se han hecho esta pregunta, porque el reino hubiera estado en vigor.]

4. El reino de Cristo será un día establecido.

En su segunda venida, Cristo establecerá su reino terrenal. Será un reino literal y físico centrado en Jerusalén.

El trono de Dios y del Cordero estará en la ciudad, y sus siervos le servirán. Apocalipsis 22:3 (ver también Isaías 9:7, Daniel 7:13 14 y Lucas 33 1:31.)

III. La Iglesia y el Reino

Reino de la mediación de Dios, en realidad consta de tres etapas: la teocracia del Antiguo Testamento, el reino del milenio, y el reino eterno. Como se mencionó en la lección treinta y dos, la tribulación culminará con la segunda venida de Cristo. En ese momento, Cristo destruiré sus enemigos, de manera temporal atar a Satanás, y establecerá su reino milenario ("milenio" significa 1.000 años). Después del Milenio, Satanás será liberado de sus ataduras temporales, dirigir una rebelión final, sufrir la derrota, y ser condenados al castigo eterno (Apocalipsis 20:1 10). Entonces Dios juzgará a los incrédulos de todas las edades en el Juicio del Gran Trono Blanco (Apocalipsis 20:11 15), destruir los cielos y la tierra y crear otros nuevos (2 Pedro 3:10 13 y Apocalipsis 21:1), y establecer su reino eterno (Apocalipsis 21:2 ss).

A. creyentes era de la Iglesia son ciudadanos del reino.

El cual nos ha librado de la potestad de las tinieblas y nos trasladó al reino de su amado Hijo. Colosenses 1:13

Nuestra ciudadanía está en los cielos. Filipenses 3:20

Hay que interpretar estos versículos en términos de "posicional" la verdad. La verdad posicional describe lo que el creyente posee, pero no la experiencia. Por lo tanto, a pesar de que aún vivimos en este mundo oscurecido por el pecado, y el reino de Cristo no ha sido establecido, somos libres del poder del pecado y son los ciudadanos del reino de Cristo posicionalmente.

B. creyentes era de la Iglesia va a reinar en el reino.

Al que venza, le daré que se siente conmigo en mi trono, como también yo vencí y me senté con mi Padre en su trono. Apocalipsis 3:21 (ver también Apocalipsis 20:6).

En este versículo, Cristo está hablando a los creyentes era de la iglesia. La palabra "vencedores" se refiere a aquellos que han vencido a Satanás por la fe en Cristo (1 Juan 5:4 5). Por lo tanto, todos los creyentes era de la iglesia, será parte de la familia real. Vamos a co reinar con Cristo en el reino eterno.

[Esto es cierto sólo de los santos era de la iglesia. Creyentes del Antiguo Testamento no tendrá parte en el milenio.]

Aprender a Vivir

1. Los ensayos de la vida son numerosos. Puestos de trabajo, la familia, el ministerio y la enfermedad con frecuencia causa dificultades. ¿Cómo podría el material aprendido en esta lección afectar la manera en uno se ocupa de las pruebas de la vida?

Se nos debe ayudar a hacer frente a los mejores / perseverar a través de ellos, sabiendo lo que nos espera al final (Rom 8:18, Hebreos 11:10, 13-16, 24-26). Sabemos que hay más vida que esta vida. Todo en la historia y en el universo está llegando a su fin predeterminado. Nuestras pruebas desempeñar su papel en el plan de Dios para la historia. Sabemos que el fin de la historia. Estamos en el equipo ganador. Nuestras pruebas son realmente temporales. Tenemos una eternidad para estar libre de ellas y para disfrutar de la verdadera felicidad.

2. ¿Cómo puede el conocimiento de estos hechos afectan la forma en una vista del poco tiempo en el que vive en esta tierra?

Es relativamente insignificante en comparación con la eternidad. Nuestro destino eterno, sin embargo, se determina en esta vida. Un gran momento de alegría que está reservado para nosotros. Además, no es necesario "ir para el gusto", ahora, como si esto fuera todo lo que hay. Podemos diferir / aplazar algunas de las cosas placenteras hasta más tarde. Tenemos que vivir en la luz de la eternidad.

Introducción al destino de la Iglesia

¿Por qué estoy aquí? Yo estoy aquí para participar en el reinado de Jesucristo.

En las lecciones a través de veintidós veinticuatro, nos enteramos de que el propósito de la iglesia es glorificar a Dios mediante el ministerio de su Palabra. En las lecciones Veinticinco a través de treinta y uno, nos enteramos de que los objetivos de la iglesia son la edificación, evangelismo y expansión y que cada uno de estos tres se puede lograr mediante la aplicación de diversas actividades. Entre ellas se encuentran la educación, la adoración, compañerismo, evangelismo personal y corporativa, y la expansión física y organizativa.

En esta última sección sobre eclesiología (la doctrina de la iglesia), vamos a discutir el destino de la iglesia. ¿Por qué estoy aquí? Yo estoy aquí para participar en el reinado de Jesucristo. Como creyente que vive en esta dispensación, sé que estoy en el "equipo ganador". No voy a enfrentar el juicio de Dios durante la Tribulación. En su lugar, con impaciencia puede aspirar a ser una parte del triunfo de Cristo sobre sus enemigos y reinar con Él por toda la eternidad.

Lección 32: La Iglesia y la Tribulación

¿Qué va a pasar en el futuro, y ¿qué papel juega la iglesia en ella? La Biblia habla de un período de siete años que involucró a juicio sin precedentes. Será un momento en que un hombre, el poder de Satanás, se levantará para el control de los recursos políticos, religiosos y militares de todo el mundo. Será un tiempo cuando Dios desata su ira sobre la tierra y sus habitantes. Este período se llama la Gran Tribulación. En esta lección, vamos a aprender lo que la tribulación será como y cuando se llevará a cabo.

I. La naturaleza de la tribulación

El período de la Tribulación será un tiempo de juicio en todo el mundo que durará siete años. Se iniciará con la ruptura de la primera de las siete sellos del juicio (ver cuadro abajo), tras el rapto de la iglesia y terminará con la segunda venida de Cristo, momento en el que Él finalmente destruirá a sus enemigos en la batalla de Armagedón y establecer Su reino.

A. La Tribulación implicará la continua liberación de la ira de Dios.

Desde el comienzo del juicio el primer sello en Apocalipsis 6 y el derramamiento de la sentencia plato por última vez en Apocalipsis 16 (que concluirá la Tribulación), Dios estará derramando su ira. La sucesión de los juicios de la Tribulación se puede visualizar de la siguiente manera:

Algunos creen que sólo la segunda mitad de la Tribulación implicará la ira de Dios [Esta es la llamada a mediados de la tribulación de posición.]. Sin embargo, los dos primeros sellos, que comenzará la Gran Tribulación, demuestran claramente que el período se caracteriza por el derramamiento de la ira de Dios.

Vi cuando el Cordero abrió el primero de los siete sellos. Entonces oí a uno de los cuatro seres vivientes decir como con voz de trueno: "¡Ven!" Miré, y he aquí un caballo blanco! El que lo montaba tenía un arco, y le fue dada una corona, y salió como un conquistador empeñados en la conquista. Cuando el Cordero abrió el segundo sello. . . salió otro caballo, un fuego una roja. El que lo montaba le fue dado poder de quitar la paz de la tierra y que se matasen unos a otros. Apocalipsis 6:1 4

B. La Tribulación implica el protagonismo de un líder clave satánica - el Anticristo.

Durante la Tribulación, Satanás dará poder del Anticristo, el Falso Profeta, y la iglesia apóstata. De estos tres, el Anticristo será la figura principal con los otros dos son bajo su control. El anticristo (1 Juan 2:22) también se conoce como el rey de Babilonia (Isaías 14:4), el príncipe malvado (Ezequiel 21:25), el cuerno pequeño (Daniel 7:8), el hombre de pecado ( 2 Tesalonicenses 2:3), y la bestia (Apocalipsis 11:7).

1. Habilidades del Anticristo

El Anticristo se superan todos los líderes de otro ser humano y así atraer a un público universal.

a. Va a ser un político capaz (Daniel 8:23-25).

b. Va a ser un genio militar (Apocalipsis 13:4).

c. Será considerado digno de adoración (Apocalipsis 13:4, 8).

2. La carrera del Anticristo

El Anticristo aparecerá inicialmente como un líder político poco conocido, un "cuerno pequeño" (Daniel 7:8). Sin embargo, en poco tiempo se convertirá en mayor dictador del mundo. Los puntos culminantes de su carrera son los siguientes:

a. La Tribulación comenzará cuando se hace un tratado con Israel, lo que le permite reconstruir el templo y renovar el culto sacrificial (Daniel 9:27).

b. En el punto medio de la Tribulación (después de 3 1 / 2 años), que se romperá el pacto con Israel, el culto de la demanda sí mismo (Daniel 9:27 y 2 Tesalonicenses 2:04), matar a dos testigos del Señor (Apocalipsis 11:01 14 ), comienzan a perseguir activamente a Israel (Apocalipsis 12:1 6), y destruir a la iglesia apóstata, que ya no necesita (Apocalipsis 17:16).

c. Al final de la Tribulación, Cristo volverá, destruir a sus enemigos, y echó el Anticristo y el falso profeta en el lago de fuego (Apocalipsis 19:11 21).

C. La Tribulación se traducirá en la salvación de muchas personas.

Aunque Dios castigará a los habitantes de la tierra mediante el envío de catástrofes devastadoras y al permitir que el Anticristo y sus fuerzas para hacer su peor momento, su castigo será una manera de contribuir muchos Judios y gentiles a sí mismo (Zacarías 13:01 y Apocalipsis 7:09 17) .

II. El tiempo de la tribulación

A. La Tribulación tendrá lugar después del arrebatamiento de la iglesia.

Evangélicos [Muchos están de acuerdo con todo lo que hemos dicho hasta este punto. El momento exacto de la tribulación es un punto de debate. Recientemente, el "pre-ira" teoría del rapto ha ganado popularidad. Esta teoría sugiere que los cristianos pasan por la primera parte de la tribulación, ante Dios comienza derramar su ira (por lo tanto "pre-ira"). Creemos que esta posición es un error.]

La iglesia experimentará ninguna parte de la Tribulación, ya que serán arrebatados ("raptados") justo antes de ella. Según la Escritura, Cristo vendrá desde el cielo y "ponerse al día" tanto a los creyentes la iglesia muertos y los vivos era para encontrarse con Él en las nubes. A continuación, les llevará al cielo, donde permanecerán durante la Tribulación.

Porque el Señor mismo descenderá del cielo con voz de mando, con voz de arcángel y con trompeta de Dios, y los muertos en Cristo resucitarán primero. Después de eso, nosotros, los que hayamos quedado, seremos arrebatados juntamente con ellos en las nubes para recibir al Señor en el aire. Y así estaremos siempre con el Señor. 1 Tesalonicenses 4:16 17

[Los muertos "en Cristo" se refiere a los santos era de la iglesia-no, creyentes del Antiguo Testamento. Para ser "en Cristo" se va a guardar.

La palabra "éxtasis" es usado en ninguna parte de la Biblia. Se trata de la traducción al latín de "ponerse al día."]

Una serie de pasajes implica que el rapto tendrá lugar antes de la tribulación. Los pasajes a continuación claramente que los creyentes no estarán sujetos a la ira de Dios. Desde la tribulación implica el derramamiento de la ira de Dios, los creyentes no irá a través de él.

Y esperar a su Hijo desde el cielo al cual resucitó de entre los muertos a Jesús, quien nos libra de la ira venidera. 1 Tesalonicenses 1:10

Porque Dios no nos ha puesto para ira, sino para alcanzar salvación por medio de nuestro Señor Jesucristo. 1 Tesalonicenses 5:9

Nota: El contexto de 1 Tesalonicenses 5:01 11 se habla de los últimos tiempos. Por lo tanto, la ira se hace referencia no es el infierno, sino que la ira que tendrá lugar durante la tribulación.

Por cuanto has guardado la palabra de mi paciencia, yo también te guardaré de la hora de la prueba que ha de venir sobre el mundo entero, para probar a los moradores de la tierra. Apocalipsis 3:10

Dos cosas hay que señalar acerca de esta promesa a la Iglesia de Filadelfia:

1. Se aplica a todas las iglesias del Nuevo Testamento.

El que tiene oído, oiga lo que el Espíritu dice a las iglesias. Apocalipsis 3:13

2. Que promete que todas las iglesias se evitará la Tribulación.

Las palabras griegas traducidas "le impiden" en Apocalipsis 3:10 indicar la acción de separación de una era de la iglesia, los santos de la tribulación no, la protección continua de los creyentes durante la Tribulación.

B. La Tribulación tendrá lugar antes del regreso de Cristo a la tierra para establecer Su reino.

El reino de Cristo será el momento en que Cristo personalmente reina como el rey y toda la creación se somete a su gobierno. Esto ocurrirá inmediatamente después de la tribulación.

Se levantará nación contra nación y reino contra reino. Habrá grandes terremotos, hambres y pestilencias en varios lugares, y habrá terror y grandes señales del cielo. Pues este es el tiempo del castigo en cumplimiento de todo lo que se ha escrito. ¡Qué terrible será en aquellos días para las mujeres embarazadas y madres lactantes! Habrá gran calamidad en la tierra, e ira contra este pueblo. Entonces habrá señales en el sol, la luna y las estrellas. En la tierra, las naciones estarán angustiadas y perplejas por el bramido y la agitación del mar. Los hombres quedarán sin aliento por el terror, temerosos por lo que sobrevendrán al mundo habitado, porque los cuerpos celestes serán sacudidos. Aún así, cuando veáis que sucede esto, usted sabe que el reino de Dios está cerca. Lucas 21:10, 11 22 23, 25-26, 31

La Tribulación culminará con la segunda venida de Cristo a la tierra con todos los santos de la iglesia era para destruir a sus enemigos.

Entonces vi el cielo abierto, y he aquí un caballo blanco, que lo montaba se llamaba Fiel y Verdadero. Y con justicia juzga y pelea. Los ejércitos del cielo le seguían en caballos blancos y vestidos de lino fino, blanco y limpio. Entonces vi a la bestia y los reyes de la tierra y sus ejércitos, reunidos para guerrear contra el que montaba el caballo y contra su ejército. Pero la bestia fue apresada, y con ella el falso profeta que había hecho las señales milagrosas en su nombre. . . . Los dos fueron arrojados vivos al lago de fuego y azufre. El resto de ellos fueron muertos con la espada que salía de la boca del que montaba el caballo, y todas las aves se saciaron de las carnes. Apocalipsis 19:11, 14, 19-21

[No confundir con el rapto de la Segunda Venida. Son dos acontecimientos distintos separados por siete años. ]

A continuación se muestra una línea de tiempo (desarrollado por Rolland McCune, THD), indicando algunos de los más importantes eventos del tiempo del fin.

Recapitulación y revisión

En esta lección, hemos aprendido:

1. La tribulación es el futuro, de siete años durante los cuales se desata la ira de Dios, el Anticristo sube al poder, y las multitudes se salvan.

2. La Tribulación tendrá lugar después del arrebatamiento de la iglesia y antes del establecimiento del reino de Cristo en su segunda venida.

Aprender a Vivir

1. Mientras que en una librería cristiana local, se observa un nuevo libro sobre la profecía bíblica. Después de comprarlo, llevarlo a casa y comienza a leerla. El autor afirma que el Rapto ocurrirá en algún momento alrededor de la mitad de la Tribulación, porque la primera mitad de la tribulación no implica la ira de Dios. ¿Por qué esta posición equivocada?

Todos los de la tribulación implica el derramamiento de la ira de Dios, no sólo la segunda mitad. La segunda mitad será más grave, sin embargo (a veces llamada "la gran tribulación" en la Escritura). Puesto que los creyentes se mantienen de esta ira, que pasará por ninguna parte de la tribulación.

2. Un amigo cristiano de ustedes está preocupado de que pasará por la tribulación. ¿Qué puede decirle a aliviar su ansiedad?

Dios ha prometido que los creyentes no pasará por la tribulación (1 Tesalonicenses 1:10, 05:09 y Apocalipsis 3:10).

Lección 31: Administración y Expansión de la Iglesia

Ministerio de crecimiento o expansión, se lleva a cabo en las iglesias locales participar en la edificación y el evangelismo. Este crecimiento requiere la gestión de los recursos físicos y humanos de la iglesia. Otra palabra para la gestión de dicha ". Mayordomía" En esta lección, vamos a examinar:

1. La fundación de la mayordomía

2. El perfil de un administrador

3. Un ejemplo de responsabilidad

4. La importancia de la gestión

I. La Fundación de la Mayordomía

La administración se basa en dos principios fundamentales:

A. Dios es el Creador y Dueño de todas las cosas.

Puesto que Dios creó el universo, Él es el dueño y todo en él. Esto no sólo es cierto de las rocas, árboles y animales, sino también de los seres humanos.

The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters. Psalm 24:1 2

B. Mankind does not truly own anything.

When people speak of their “possessions,” they are really speaking inaccurately. Everything that a person “owns” will be left behind for someone else. All that a person “possesses” has been loaned to him by God.

Para que te hace diferente de cualquier otra persona? ¿Qué tienes que no hayas recibido? Y si lo recibiste, ¿por qué presumes como si no? 1 Corinthians 4:7

II. The Profile of a Steward

A. A steward is given a trust (responsibility) by another.

Stewards were common in biblical times. A steward was expected to oversee the affairs of someone else. The word “steward” literally means “one who

manages a household .” A stewardship is that which has been entrusted to the care of a manager. A good synonym for stewardship is administration . The New Testament often compares believers with stewards. God has given believers tasks to accomplish and the resources needed to accomplish them. Christ illustrated this truth in many parables.

Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? Luke 12:42

B. Un mayordomo es para la administración (supervisar) la confianza.

Los creyentes deben utilizar todos los recursos confiados a ellos por Dios para llevar a cabo sus tareas asignadas.

Será bueno para aquel siervo a quien el amo halle haciendo así cuando regrese. Te digo la verdad, se lo puso a cargo de todas sus posesiones. Lucas 12:43 44

[En otras palabras, los creyentes han de gestionar / administrar / supervisar todo lo que Dios les ha confiado. Por ejemplo, Joseph.]

C. Un mayordomo es responsable de los resultados de su tarea.

Viene un tiempo [en el tribunal de Cristo] cuando Dios le pedirá cuenta de cómo sus asuntos se han gestionado. Esta contabilidad se basa en el principio siguiente: cuanto mayor es el privilegio, mayor es la responsabilidad.

A todo el que se haya dado mucho, mucho se le demandará, y desde el que se le ha confiado mucho, mucho más que preguntar. Lucas 12:48

D. Los recursos del mayordomo

Muchos creyentes piensan incorrectamente que se debe dar a Dios una parte de sus recursos. Sin embargo, la administración real se basa en la comprensión de que todo lo que uno tiene es de Dios.

1. Los creyentes son los administradores de su tiempo.

¿Cómo utilizamos nuestro tiempo es un reflejo de nuestras prioridades. Cada segundo de cada día debe usarse con cuidado.

Tenga mucho cuidado, entonces, cómo se vive no como necios sino como sabios, aprovechando al máximo cada momento oportuno, porque los días son malos. Efesios 5:15 16

[Obviamente, esto no significa que no podemos pasar tiempo descansar, relajarse y simplemente perdiendo el tiempo. Pero sí quiere decir que somos responsables de cómo gastan el momento. No debemos limitarnos a "residuos" grandes porciones de tiempo sin hacer nada provechoso, por ejemplo, ver vídeos 3-4, jugando juegos de video, "vegetando", etc son de "redimir el tiempo".]

2. Los creyentes son administradores de sus talentos.

Cada creyente tiene habilidades que Dios quiere usar para lograr sus propósitos. Dios espera que todos los creyentes a usar sus talentos para mejorar el ministerio de su iglesia local.

Tenemos dones diferentes, según la gracia que nos ha dado. Si el don de alguien es el de profecía, que lo use en proporción con su fe. Si se trata de servicio, en servir; o el que enseña, en la enseñanza, si bien es alentador, que los anime; si se trata de contribuir a las necesidades de los demás, que dé con generosidad; el que preside, que dirija con diligencia, el que hace misericordia, con alegría. Romanos 12:6 8

Cada uno debe usar el don que ha recibido para servir a otros, como buenos administradores de la gracia de Dios en sus diversas formas. 1 Pedro 4:10

[¿Cómo Dios ha "conectado", ¿verdad? ¿Dónde están sus talentos, habilidades, dones? Aquí es donde Dios quiere que servir en la iglesia.]

3. Los creyentes son los guardianes de sus tesoros.

El Nuevo Testamento hace hincapié en la correcta utilización de los bienes por los creyentes. Muchos pasajes de advertir sobre su uso inapropiado.

Pero la piedad acompañada de contentamiento es una gran ganancia. Porque nada hemos traído al mundo y nada podemos llevarnos de él. Pero si tenemos comida y abrigo, estemos contentos con esto. Las personas que quieren enriquecerse caen en tentación y lazo, y en muchas codicias necias y dañosas, que hunden a los hombres en destrucción y perdición. Por el amor al dinero es raíz de toda clase de mal. Algunas personas, ávido de dinero, se extraviaron de la fe y fueron traspasados ​​de muchos dolores. 1 Timoteo 6:06 10

James 5:01 6 identifica varios de los pecados relacionados con el amor al dinero:

a. Colocar nuestra confianza en lo que es temporal (5:01 3)

b. Acumular riqueza en vez de usarlo para bien (5:03)

c. Usando medios deshonestos para ganar riqueza (5:4)

d. Vivir en el lujo (05:05)

e. La práctica de auto indulgencia (5:5)

[Tenga en cuenta que un hotel de lujo, auto-indulgente estilo de vida está mal para el cristiano. ¿Por qué crees que decimos esto? Porque desde la perspectiva de Dios, hay usos más importantes de dinero que el lujo y confort. La parte difícil es determinar el nivel de vida adecuado. La mayoría de las personas a aumentar su nivel a medida que aumenta sus ingresos (si lo hace). En su lugar, se debe determinar lo que necesita y utilizar el extra para apoyar los diversos ministerios, programas, instituciones benéficas, etc Pocos lo hacen realmente.]

4. Los creyentes son los guardianes de un mensaje.

Pablo consideró que el mensaje que él predicó a su máxima responsabilidad.

Me he convertido en siervo [la Iglesia] por la comisión de Dios me dio para presentar a ustedes la palabra de Dios en su plenitud. Colosenses 1:25

2 Timoteo 2:1 2 indica que la administración de este fideicomiso es la tarea de cada generación de creyentes.

III. Un ejemplo de responsabilidad

Uno de los requisitos de Dios para los mayordomos de esta dispensación es el apoyo de la iglesia local. En 1 Corintios 16:1 4 y 2 Corintios 8 y 9, Pablo habla de una ofrenda que se están adoptando para paliar el hambre de las iglesias en Palestina. Estos pasajes nos dan instrucciones importantes en razón de dar.

A. El tiempo de dar

Las ofrendas fueron a recoger el domingo.

En el primer día de cada semana, cada uno de vosotros ponga aparte algo de dinero de acuerdo con sus ingresos. 1 Corintios 16:2

La importancia de este hecho es doble: Primero dinero, entregado por el ministerio iba a ser canalizada a través de la iglesia local, que se reunían los domingos. En segundo lugar, desde que dio a que se debía hacer, mientras que la iglesia se reunieron, debe ser visto como parte de la adoración.

B. El lugar de dar

Como se señaló anteriormente, las ofertas iban a ser llevados a la iglesia local, que fue responsable de la administración de los fondos. Fue iglesias locales que lograron los fondos recaudados por Pablo. Pablo hizo grandes esfuerzos para asegurar el uso racional de los fondos, tanto en la realidad y en la percepción. En otras palabras, Pablo tuvo la precaución de trabajar bajo la autoridad de las iglesias locales para evitar la percepción o acusación de mal uso de los fondos.

And we are sending along with [Titus] the brother who is praised by all the churches for his service to the gospel. What is more, he was chosen by the churches to accompany us as we carry the offering, which we administer in order to honor the Lord himself and to show our eagerness to help. We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men. 2 Corinthians 8:18 21

[Be very cautious about supporting parachurch organizations. Strictly speaking, they are not biblically based (God's program is the church, not the parachurch), and they may not use the money they receive wisely, as evidenced by the recent TV evangelist scandals.]

C. The attitude of giving

1. Stewardship giving is voluntary .

New Testament giving is not a matter of law . Rather, it flows from a heart which recognizes that all that we have and are belongs to God.

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion. 2 Corinthians 9:7

[Interesting note: The Greek word for "cheerful" comes from the root "hilarion," as in "hilarious." ]

2. Stewardship giving is a privilege .

Paul originally did not ask the churches in Macedonia to give to the offering for the Palestinian churches because he knew that the Macedonians were extremely poor. However, when they heard of the need, they pleaded with Paul to be included. Even though in great need themselves, they considered giving to be a privilege.

And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. 2 Corinthians 8:1-4

3. Stewardship giving should be done cheerfully .

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

D. The amount of giving

1. Stewards should give according to their income .

God wants believers to worship Him with the wealth and talents that they currently possess, no matter how great or small. The widow with her small copper coins (Mark 12:41 44) is a prime example of giving that pleases the Lord.

On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income. 1 Corinthians 16:2

For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have. 2 Corinthians 8:12

2. Stewards should give as much as possible .

The New Testament does not teach that a specific percentage of one's income is to be given to the Lord. The Old Testament tithe (ten percent) can only serve as a starting point. The sacrificial Macedonians are once again an excellent example:

For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. 2 Corinthians 8:3

[Actually, the Law required that OT believers give considerably more than just 10% (they were required to give almost 25%). Besides what was required, they gave their sacrifices and often free-will offerings too. Nevertheless, 10% is a good place for the believer to start. One should give at least that much.]

IV. The Importance of Stewardship

Stewardship is important for at least two reasons:

A. Stewardship brings glory to God.

1. Stewardship is an act of faithfulness .

Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. 1 Corinthians 4:2

2. Stewardship is an expression of Christ likeness .

Paul urged the Corinthians to give liberally in order to imitate the supreme act of giving, the self-sacrifice of Christ.

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9

B. Stewardship accomplishes the work of the ministry.

God has determined to accomplish His will in this dispensation by entrusting His work to believers. Apart from the commitment of God's people to be faithful stewards, the work of the ministry cannot take place.

1. Stewardship of time and talents provides human resources for the ministry.

Believers must be willing to dedicate their lives to the work of the ministry. This is one of the many reasons why God has saved us.

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Efesios 2:10

2. Stewardship of treasures provides physical resources for the ministry.

The New Testament gives specific directions concerning the use of the financial resources of the church. They should be used:

a. To meet the needs of pastors and their families

Don't you know that those who work in the temple get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar? In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel. 1 Corinthians 9:13 14

[The Bible also says that those who labor in the Word are worthy of "double honor," very likely a reference to their pay.]

b. To meet the needs of missionaries

For even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. Philippians 4:16 18

c. To meet the needs of others , especially other believers

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Gálatas 6:10

Recapitulación y revisión

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. Stewardship is based upon the fact that God is the Creator and Owner of all things.

2. A steward is one who is responsible to manage a trust given by another. Believers are responsible to properly manage the time, talents, treasures, and message they have been given by God.

3. Believers should voluntarily and cheerfully give as much as they are able to their local church each Sunday.

4. Stewardship brings glory to God and accomplishes the work of the ministry.

Aprender a Vivir

1. A man in your church has a job that pays extremely well. He can easily afford to drive a Mercedes and live in a $1,000,000 home. Would it be right for him to have such a car and home? ¿Por qué o por qué no?

No, él no tiene por qué ellos, que son un lujo. Como cristianos no podemos vivir en el lujo elegante. En su lugar, debe proporcionar por lo que necesitamos y luego por las necesidades del ministerio y de las necesidades de otros.

2. Una iglesia en la ciudad hace un gran negocio en el número de misioneros que apoya. El personal pastoral, sin embargo, está luchando para ganarse la vida y las instalaciones de la iglesia están en desesperada necesidad de reparación. Sin embargo, la iglesia sigue asumiendo nuevos misioneros. ¿Qué responsabilidades tiene las escrituras de esta iglesia por alto?

su responsabilidad de satisfacer las necesidades de sus pastores y para su construcción presentable, y sólo después de cumplir estas obligaciones debe considerar la adopción de esta iglesia de más misioneros. Tal vez si lo hizo, el pastor que trabajar más duro o más, y mejores instalaciones ayudará a la iglesia a crecer, por lo que la iglesia podría apoyar a los misioneros aún más. Un programa de la misión sólida se basa en una iglesia de hogar sólido.

Lesson 30: Structure and Expansion of the Church

So far, we have learned that the first two objectives of the church are the edification of the saved and the evangelization of the lost. Whereas edification produces evangelism, evangelism requires expansion .

The following lessons do not use the word “expansion” to describe numerical growth; that is accomplished through evangelism. Expansion refers to the development of new ministries within the church and the organization needed to carry them out. Sunday Schools, junior churches, choirs, Vacation Bible Schools, and youth groups are examples of ministries which may be started to meet congregational needs. Although not found in Scripture, these ministries are legitimate in that they help local churches accomplish the objectives of edification and evangelism.

[We must strive to make sure that everything we are doing fits into the overall purpose and goals of the church. Whatever doesn't fit should be eliminated. Also, there's a difference between extra-biblical things and unbiblical things. Eg, Sunday school is extra-biblical, ie, there is no direct biblical support for it. Infant baptism is unbiblical, ie, it goes against the Bible.]

We can learn several principles of expansion from the early church:

1. Expansion requires fidelity . [loyalty, faithfulness]

2. Expansion requires planning .

3. Expansion requires creativity .

4. Expansion requires cooperation .

5. Expansion requires accountability .

I. Expansion Requires Fidelity.

The early church expanded in a way that was true to the Word of God.

A. The early church was true to the commands of the Word of God.

When the church began on the Day of Pentecost, there were no New Testament Scriptures in existence to govern their ministry. The early believers sought to consistently apply the teachings of Christ concerning the church. Then, as God provided more revelation through the apostles, they faithfully applied those truths as well.

1. They proclaimed a God given message .

The early church understood that a pure message was essential. The truths of Scripture, with the person and work of Christ as the focal point, was the message of the early church. Deviation from this was not tolerated.

But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned! Galatians 1:8

2. They practiced God given methods .

Some methods used by the early church are universal , that is, they apply to all churches of every era. These methods are standard, not only because the early church practiced them (in the book of Acts), but also because they are commanded in the Epistles . For example, the church is to authoritatively proclaim the truth (2 Timothy 4:2), organize converts into local assemblies (see Lesson Twenty Nine), and discipline its members (1 Corinthians 5).

[It is sometimes difficult to tell whether a certain practice was universal or temporary. A passage may be descriptive or normative. For example, we say that tongues was a temporary sign-gift. Others claim speaking in tongues was normal and that the church should do it today.]

B. The early church was true to the principles of the Word of God.

There were times when the early church encountered situations that were not directly addressed in Scripture. If there was no specific command concerning a particular issue, they dealt with it in a manner consistent with the truth that they already knew. For example, a controversy arose in Acts 6 concerning the care of widows. The apostles had no biblical instructions concerning this issue at that time. Thus, they began with what they did know (their own responsibilities) and devised a plan which was true to Scripture and met the need at hand.

[This is exactly how many ministries start: someone senses a need and fills it by applying biblical principles.]

II. Expansion Requires Planning.

Lesson Twenty Four pointed out that the organizational expansion of the early church did not just happen. Rather, it was the result of careful planning. For example, a controversy arose in Acts 15 concerning saved Gentiles. The problem had to do with the inclusion of Gentiles into the church along with Jews. Should the Gentiles be required to obey the Law of Moses? Did they have to be circumcised? After much debate, the issue was resolved, and a letter was written to the Gentile churches explaining the resolution.

Another example is found in Acts 16:6-10, where Paul's plans to go to Asia and Bithynia were changed by the Holy Spirit. Paul apparently had a planned itinerary for each of his missionary journeys.

A church properly expands as a result of careful planning, not haphazardly.

[Unless you're involved in planning an event, you probably don't realize how much work goes into it. Even a morning service is planned out for ahead of time. The point is that we should plan and organize, not "do ministry" haphazardly.]

III. Expansion Requires Creativity.

The ministry of a church must respond to changes in society . In other words, a church must apply the unchanging Word of God to an ever changing culture. This means that as new needs and issues arise, local churches need to respond with relevant and timely applications of eternal truth. Such creative expansion prepares the way for further edification and evangelism, as the following two examples show.

[Principles stay the same; methods may change. Evangelism is a universal command. How we do it may vary depending on time, place, culture, etc. This is why we should not be method-oriented.]

The distribution of the letter explaining the decisions of the Jerusalem Council had the following effect:

As they traveled from town to town, they delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey. So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers. Acts 16:4 5

The selection of the first deacons in Acts 6 had the same effect:

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. Acts 6:7

[The problem here is determining how and if culture/society should change how we do things. Some churches adapt their services totally to the popular culture. They include rock or country music, skits, humor, short, needs-centered messages, etc. As separatists, we want to speak to modern man without advocating what we see as sinful elements of culture.]

IV. Expansion Requires Cooperation.

Churches often make the mistake of isolating themselves, even from other congregations of like faith and practice. Isolationism is detrimental to the body of Christ. Pastors and their congregations need the encouragement and assistance of like minded churches.

The Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 is a good example of cooperation between local assemblies. Several congregations were represented at the Council. Together, they discussed various options and decided on a biblical solution to the problem.

Churches of like faith and practice can and should cooperate in a variety of ways, such as:

A. Missions support

B. Educational institutions

C. Ordination councils [explain what an ordination is all about.]

D. Church planting

Many opportunities exist for cooperative efforts. Such cooperation is especially beneficial when churches work together on projects that are beyond their individual means.

[For example, churches may cooperate for evangelistic meetings or service projects. But these churches would be of similar faith and practice. We are against ecumenism, which is the cooperation of churches not of like faith and/or practice.]

V. Expansion Requires Accountability.

Accountability is a crucial aspect of biblical ministry and functions on two levels:

A. Accountability within the local church

As mentioned previously, expansion adds to the administrative structure of a local church. Leaders within that structure (such as Sunday School teachers, youth leaders, etc.) are accountable to the local church.

1. Leaders are accountable for what they teach .

If a leader willfully begins teaching something that is contrary to the church's published doctrinal statement, he should immediately be asked to resign.

2. Leaders are accountable for what they do .

If a leader willfully begins doing something that is contrary to the church's published standards of conduct for leadership, he should immediately be asked to resign.

[Most churches have a higher set of standards for leaders.]

B. Accountability between local churches

Accountability is a valuable benefit of cooperation between churches. Every ministry occasionally needs to have its weaknesses identified and priorities clarified through interaction with other churches.

Note: Because every church is independent, accountability between churches is voluntary .

[Often such accountability takes the form of an association or fellowship organization. These often become more of a liability than a benefit. Part of the problem with various parachurch organizations is that they have no or little accountability outside the organization. This is one reason we insist that ministry should be done under the auspices of a church.]

Aprender a Vivir

1. A friend of yours comes to a youth activity and afterwards comments, “Why do you have youth activities? You can't find them in the Bible.” How should you respond?

True, you can't find youth activities in the Bible. Other things not mentioned in the Bible: Sunday schools, carpet, electricity, light bulbs, pianos, pulpits, auditoriums, etc. Though extrabiblical, they are acceptable because they help youth ministries accomplish the objectives of the church. Thus, something is not wrong just because the Bible doesn't mention it.

2. After visiting a church for a few Sundays with your family, you realize that the pastor has very little knowledge of the Bible and cannot adequately communicate what he does know. There is little doubt that this man does not belong in the ministry. Who was responsible for placing this man in the pastorate?

The man himself; one or several local churches; perhaps a mentor, teacher, parent, etc.

How could this error have been avoided?

the convening of an ordination council to examine his fitness for the ministry

Lesson 29: The Church and Corporate Mission

We learned in Lesson Twenty Eight that the second objective of the local church is evangelism. The Great Commission describes this objective as “disciple making.” [“Make disciples” is the main verb in the great commission.] Evangelism takes place on two levels: personal witness and corporate mission . These should not be viewed as separate activities, for the former [personal] is necessary to accomplish the latter [corporate] .

Corporate mission is evangelism pursued through the united efforts of the members of a local church, using their combined resources.

[So when we talk about "corporate mission," we mean evangelism that a congregation as a unit pursues.]

In this lesson, we will examine:

1. The goal of corporate mission

2. The extent of corporate mission

3. The priority of corporate mission

I. The Goal of Corporate Mission

The corporate mission of a local church includes the work of personal witness, but it includes such witness into a larger goal or “bigger picture.”

A. The corporate mission of the church is to reproduce congregations .

Whereas personal witness seeks to produce converts , corporate mission seeks to produce congregations by organizing such converts into local churches. The bulk of the New Testament (from Acts to Jude) deals primarily with the starting and strengthening of local churches.

Paul's first two missionary journeys resulted in the reproduction of churches.

1. Paul's first missionary journey

During Paul's first missionary journey (Acts 13 14), he and Barnabas followed a clear plan: after being commissioned by their home church in Antioch of Syria, they established a new church in Antioch of Pisidia, from which they evangelized neighboring cities, establishing other churches.

[This is the same pattern we desire to see in mission work today. A primary mission of the church is to establish more churches. Lots of churches support many different "mission" works: hospitals, schools, food services, etc. But the primary mission work should be starting more churches.]

2. Paul's second missionary journey

Paul followed the same pattern during his next missionary journey (Acts 15:36-18:22).

On this occasion, Paul established the “mother church” in Ephesus, which commissioned Epaphras (Colossians 1:7) to establish churches in these other cities.

In both of these cases, Paul or a fellow worker communicated the gospel , organized congregations , taught them doctrine , helped them appoint pastors , and checked back on their progress . The end result was always an independent local church.

[This is the same pattern which should be followed by modern missionaries. A true missionary is a church-planter.]

B. The corporate mission of the church is to reproduce in kind .

1. Churches should reproduce doctrinally .

Even a casual reading of Paul's epistles reveals that he was determined to see sound doctrine established in the churches he started. To Timothy, Paul's representative in the Church at Ephesus, he declared:

What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you. – 2 Timothy 1:13-14

[If we sent out some people to start another church, we would want it to teach the same doctrine that we believe.]

2. Churches should reproduce philosophically .

Paul was not only concerned about reproducing a doctrinal system in the churches that he established, but also about making sure those churches followed his application of doctrine.

Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 1 Timothy 3:14 15

[Even in churches that share the same doctrine, there may be much difference in philosophy of ministry. We would plant a church that goes about its business in the same way we do and emphasizes the same things we do. The same doctrine doesn't always result in the same philosophy.]

II. The Extent of Corporate Mission

The corporate mission of the church should be marked by extension . Christ's last recorded message before His Ascension was:

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Hechos 1:8

[By "extension" we mean that the church is responsible to extend the message of the gospel and the ministry of the church to the local community, to neighboring communities, and world-wide.]

This can be visualized:

The principle of extension means that:

A. Corporate mission takes place within the community.

When most people hear the word “missions,” they usually think of ministry that takes place on foreign soil. The corporate mission of the church, however, includes the reproduction of congregations in one's own community, provided the community is large enough to sustain multiple congregations.

[It's very likely that within Jerusalem and other cities in the times of the apostles, there were many "house" churches which met in peoples' homes. Thus, there were probably many such churches in large cities. Churches should support "home" missions within their own communities.]

Reproduction of congregations tends to promote service . The early church multiplied via many small house churches due to the lack of facilities large enough to house all of the believers in a particular community. Although larger facilities are available today, it may be wise to limit the size of a church in order to promote service. As a church grows, it may reach the point where it starts producing

spectators rather than servants . At that point, a new congregation should be started to provide more opportunities for service among its members.

[Studies have shown that no matter how big a church gets, a maximum of about 150-200 people are actively involved in the ministry of the church. Thus, once the church gets far above that number, people become more spectators than involved in service. Some feel that 300-400 is as large as a church should get before spinning off another church.]

B. Corporate mission takes place beyond the community.

The church that was established in Jerusalem was expected to minister beyond its own community. Its goal was to reproduce itself worldwide . Whenever Paul started a church and strengthened it to the point where it could function on its own, he left to start churches in other areas.

Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our area of activity among you will greatly expand, so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you. 2 Corinthians 10:15 16

[Church planting is God's plan for reaching the world. Part of the problem with many evangelistic efforts is that they win converts but do not channel them into good churches, or any churches. The biblical pattern is winning someone to Christ and seeing them baptized and added to the membership of a church.]

III. The Priority of Corporate Mission

A. Corporate mission should be a priority for the congregation .

The Great Commission was given to the church. This is seen from the fact that Acts 1:8 links the Great Commission to the Day of Pentecost, the birth of the church.

1. Corporate mission is not an option for the local church.

“Make disciples” (Matthew 28:19) is a command, not a suggestion. Reproduction of churches is the primary way in which a local church obeys this command. Therefore, there should never be a missionless church or a churchless mission.

2. Corporate mission cannot be separated from the other objectives of the Great Commission.

Evangelistic outreach should not be a local church's only concern. The objectives of the Great Commission are interrelated. Their relationship is seen in the following diagram:

B. Corporate mission should be a priority for the individual believer .

Because the Great Commission was given to local churches and the New Testament expects all believers to minister through local churches, the corporate mission of the church should be a priority in the life of every believer. When individuals become Christians, they are not to be independent in their outreach. They are part of a community of believers whose goal is to reproduce congregations.

Recapitulación y revisión

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. The goal of corporate mission is to reproduce congregations similar in doctrine and philosophy.

2. The extent of corporate mission includes the reproducing of congregations both within and beyond one's community.

3. Corporate mission should be a priority for the congregation as a whole and for the individual believer.

Aprender a Vivir

1. Many worthy and needy causes receive money from churches: hospitals, schools, famine relief, etc. Should a local church support any of these causes? ¿Por qué o por qué no?

normally not; because they usually are not trying to accomplish the same objectives as the local church. If one can win souls and channel them into churches or start churches thru these means, then OK. In some countries, the above means are the only ways available to have any gospel influence at all. But none of these are ends in themselves. Obviously, a church can support whatever it deems worthy of support. But Biblically speaking, those ministries whose primary goal is evangelizing the lost and starting churches are central.

The church is not commissioned to feed the hungry, educate the ignorant, or cure the ill. It is commissioned to preach the gospel and start churches.

Under what circumstances could such causes be worthy of local church support?

if they are accomplishing the objectives of the local church and are submissive to the leadership of the church

2. A comment frequently made from the pulpit is that there are enough churches here in America and that we must, therefore, spend all our missions money on foreign missions. Is this a valid comment? ¿Por qué o por qué no?

no; Corporate mission starts at home (ie, within one's own community). Home missions is legit. Also, who says there are enough churches in America? There are many communities without a solid church. Further, more American churches means more missions support.

3. A rapidly-growing church in your area has decided to build a multi-million dollar addition to their current facility in order to make room for more people. What might be a better option, and why?

to start a sister church in the area with several families who now attend the big church; to give more opportunities for service and it extends the ministry of the big church.

Lesson 28: The Church and Personal Witness

As we've learned, the primary objective of the local church is the edification of believers. The second objective of the local church is evangelism . Evangelism takes place on two levels: personal witness and corporate mission. This lesson deals with personal witness.

[Personal witness is what you do on your own when at home, school, work, etc. Corporate witness is what the church does as a group, like visitation or evangelistic services. ]

Evangelism is the effort to see people saved , baptized , and become active members of a local church. Evangelism should be a natural result of edification. The more a believer is edified, the more effective he should be in his personal witness.

[Note the extended definition of evangelism. It's not just winning people to Christ or getting a profession of faith from someone. ]

In this lesson, we will examine:

1. The role of the local church in personal witness

2. The method of personal witness

3. The message of personal witness

4. The results of personal witness

[A very good book on personal evangelism is Tell the Truth by Will Metzger. ]

I. The Role of the Local Church in Personal Witness

Many people view evangelism as a personal activity that has no connection to the local church. The Bible, however, indicates that all ministry in this dispensation is inseparable from the local church.

[This dispensation is the church age. "Para-church" organizations are those that are not part of the ministry of a particular local church. They attempt to minister either to all Christians or to a group of churches. Eg colleges. Because the church is God's organization for this age, all ministry should be done in conjunction with/under the auspices of a church or group of churches.]

A. The local church is the source of personal witness.

1. The local church has been given the authority to witness.

Just prior to His Ascension, Christ indicated that the authority to evangelize would be given when the baptism of the Holy Spirit took place.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses. Hechos 1:8

This occurred on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2), the day upon which the church was established.

2. The local church provides the witnesses .

The local church is the training ground for evangelism (Acts 2:46-47). Those who are saved join a local church, where they learn to become effective witnesses.

B. The local church is the means of personal witness.

An individual's personal witness is enhanced by the preparation and support provided by his local church.

1. The local church provides specialized training .

Witnessing is a learned activity . It is the educational ministry of the local church which prepares believers to witness more effectively.

It was [Christ] who gave some to be . . . pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service. Efesios 4:11 12

2. The local church provides personal accountability .

Personal witness involves communicating the truth of the gospel with one's words (doctrine) and actions (lifestyle). The local church has been given the responsibility to assure that its members remain pure in both of these areas so that their personal witness will accurately and genuinely communicate the gospel (Matthew 18:15-17 and 1 Corinthians 5).

3. The local church provides encouragement .

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching Hebrews 10:24 25

Church members should encourage one another to tell others about Christ.

4. The local church provides strength through prayer .

Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. 2 Thessalonians 3:1

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. – Colossians 4:2-4

Church members should pray for each other's personal witness and that those to whom they witness get saved.

C. The local church is the end of personal witness.

Personal witness which only produces professions of faith is incomplete. The Great Commission calls for evangelism which not only produces converts, but which also sees them baptized and united in membership with a local church.

Los que recibieron su palabra fueron bautizados, y cerca de tres mil fueron añadidos a su número ese día. – Acts 2:41

[Evangelism does not end when a person makes a profession of faith. Ie getting saved does not end the evangelism process. ]

II. The Method of Personal Witness

A. Personal witness should be relational .

By this we mean that personal evangelism should focus on building relationships prior to presenting the gospel. An unbeliever is much more likely to seriously think about the gospel if it is explained by a friend he knows and trusts than by a stranger.

[The vast majority of those who visit a church or eventually get saved do so because they have a friend who talked to them. Thus it is important to work within the web/network of friends we have. ]

1. Personal witness should be accompanied by an exemplary life .

One's life has to support one's message. One cannot expect an unbeliever to accept the Christian message from someone who does not act like a Christian. Peter stressed this important concept in his instructions to Christian wives with unsaved husbands.

Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. 1 Peter 3:1 2

[In some respects, we win a person to what we display in our own lives. That is, a person will formulate a view of Christians and Christianity by what he sees from an example of someone claiming to be a Christian-- you. Cf also Matt 5:14-16; 1 Pet 2:11-12.]

2. Personal witness should treat people as people .

Many method oriented evangelistic programs depersonalize those being witnessed to. One must remember that those to whom he is witnessing are not just objects. They are created in the image of God and should be treated with respect. This means that the evangelist will seek to show genuine interest in the unsaved and witness to them from that context. Both Christ and Paul evangelized this way (John 4:4 42 and 1 Thessalonians 2:8 12).

B. Personal witness should be message centered .

Though relationships with unbelievers are necessary, such relationships alone do not constitute evangelism. One must confront the unbeliever with the gospel message.

[Few if any ever get saved just by looking at a Christian's exemplary lifestyle.]

1. Personal witness should value the message more than the method.

When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power. 1 Corinthians 2:1 2, 4 5

While the Bible presents no single method of evangelism, it does present a single message. Methods change; the content of the message does not. Whatever the method, it must be consistent with God's character.

[Beware of any evangelism that stresses a step-by-step method. We don't want to get locked in to any certain technique. Also, not all methods are equally good or appropriate. Remember, evangelism is a major goal, but not the highest goal. To glorify/honor/please God is the most important. Thus we must evangelize in a God-honoring way.]

2. Personal witness should avoid methods that detract from the message.

Methods which appeal primarily to the emotions or are characterized by high-pressure “sales techniques” often cause people to make uninformed, hasty decisions. True saving faith can take place only if one understands the content of the gospel.

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Romanos 10:17

[This obviously takes some time. Evangelism usually does not take place in 5 or 10 minutes.]

III. The Message of Personal Witness

It is extremely important that one understands the gospel message before he tries to explain it to someone else.

A. The focus of personal witness

1. Personal witness should not be man centered .

The tendency of many evangelistic methods is to make the gospel appealing in order to get more decisions. In so doing, however, the message is often corrupted. The following are common emphases of a man centered approach to evangelism:

a. Man centered witness views God primarily as a friend. This tends to minimize His authority.

b. Man centered witness views the lost from the standpoint of their needs. That is, one starts a gospel presentation by addressing an unsaved person's felt needs, such as love, acceptance, etc. This tends to minimize his sinfulness.

c. Man centered witness views Christ primarily as the Savior. This tends to minimize His lordship; He is viewed as existing for mankind's benefit.

d. Man centered witness stresses the idea that man seeks God, not vice versa. This tends to minimize God's grace and sovereignty.

2. Personal witness should be God centered .

In contrast to the characteristics of a man centered approach, the following are emphases of a God centered approach to evangelism:

a. God centered witness views God primarily as the Creator and sovereign Lord.

When Paul evangelized in Athens, he began by explaining these very truths.

The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. Acts 17:24 25

b. God centered witness views the lost as totally sinful.

As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God.” – Romans 3:10-11

c. God centered witness emphasizes the lordship of Christ.

On the Day of Pentecost, Peter concluded his sermon by highlighting this truth.

Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ. Acts 2:36

That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. – Romans 10:9

d. God centered witness stresses the need for repentance.

I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus. Acts 20:21

B. The content of personal witness

One's presentation of the gospel should be built around the following truths:

1. The character of God

a. He is our Creator; we are responsible to Him.

b. He is sovereign; He may do with us as He pleases.

c. He is holy; He will not overlook sin.

d. He is gracious and loving; He has provided a way for man to be forgiven of sin.

For more information on these truths, see Part One, Section One of this curriculum.

[It's important to start with God, because people need to know that their primary problem is a hostile relationship with God. ]

2. The character of man

a. Man became sinful by rebelling against God.

b. Man is incapable of doing anything to please God; he is totally sinful.

c. Man stands condemned before God; this condemnation results in both physical and spiritual death.

For more information on these truths, see Part One, Section Three of this curriculum.

3. The person and work of Christ

a. Christ is the God man; because He is God, He is perfect; because He is a man, He can save mankind.

b. Christ lived a perfect life; He satisfied God's demands for mankind.

c. Christ died a substitutionary death; He was punished for man's sin.

d. Christ rose from the dead; He is Lord of the universe and can grant forgiveness to mankind.

For more information on these truths, see Part One, Section Four of this curriculum.

4. The proper response to the message: repentance and faith

a. Man must acknowledge his complete sinfulness; he is unable to please God.

b. Man must repent of his sin; he must change his mind about his sinful way of life and turn from it.

c. Man must believe that Christ paid the penalty for his sin; he must acknowledge that Christ died in his place, was buried, and rose again.

d. Man must submit to the lordship of Christ; he must recognize that there is a cost to being a believer in Christ.

For more information on these truths, see Part One, Section Five of this curriculum.

[Note that the correct response is not simply a profession of faith. Repentance and commitment are also necessary. ]

IV. The Results of Personal Witness

A. God is responsible for the results of personal witness.

The abuses often associated with method centered evangelism are usually due to a misunderstanding of who is responsible for the results of evangelism. If someone's salvation is solely in the hands of the evangelist, then one can understand the tendency of some toward high pressure methods. However, the Bible makes it clear that God is the One who is ultimately responsible for the salvation of the lost.

What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 1 Corinthians 3:5 7

B. A genuine profession of faith will result in a changed life .

1. The initial response

A true believer will demonstrate his commitment to Christ in three ways:

a. Baptism by immersion

b. Local church membership

c. Spiritual growth

These do not guarantee the genuineness of one's salvation, but their absence does call one's conversion into question.

2. The continuing evidence

Lesson Twenty Seven pointed out that the book of 1 John was written to describe the marks of a genuine believer. Ellos son:

a. Belief in fundamental doctrines (deity of Christ, inerrancy of Scripture, etc.)

b. A righteous lifestyle

c. Love for other Christians

[If this evidence does not exist, one can have no confidence that he is saved.]

Recapitulación y revisión

En esta lección, hemos aprendido:

1. The local church is the source, means, and end of personal witness.

2. Personal witness should be relational and message-centered.

3. The focus of personal witness should be God-centered, not man-centered. One's presentation of the gospel should include the character of God, the character of man, the person and work of Christ, and the proper response.

4. God is the One responsible for the results of personal witness. A true profession of faith will result in a changed life.

Aprender a Vivir

1. A popular “how to” book on evangelism states that when you visit someone whom you want to lead to Christ, you should begin by complimenting him on his home, children, etc. Why do you suppose the book suggests that you do this?

in order to make him more receptive to the gospel. Note the emphasis on method–”first do this, then this, then this, ….”

Is such an approach message centered or method centered?

method-centered

Is it man-centered or God-centered?

man-centered. Remember that methods change but the content does not. We should not be tied to a certain method/system of evangelism.

2. This same book says that it is the evangelist's responsibility to make sure that everyone who hears the gospel is brought to a point of decision; the hearer must either say yes or no to the gospel. If he says no, the evangelist must press him to change his mind. According to this method, who is responsible for the results?

the evangelist

Does an unbeliever need to decide to reject the gospel? ¿Por qué o por qué no?

no; he already has been rejecting it. John 3:18 states that an unbeliever is “condemned already.”

Lesson 27: The Horizontal Expression of Edification – Fellowship

We have learned that the primary task of the local church is to educate its membership. The truths a believer is taught are expressed toward God ( worship ) and toward fellow believers ( fellowship ). Technically, the word “fellowship” is also used to describe the believer's relationship with God. The major emphasis of this lesson, however, will be the believer's relationship with other believers.

The New Testament word for fellowship means “to share something in common with someone else.” It is a word that stresses unity and refers to three relationships that the believer has:

1. Believers have fellowship with God .

2. Believers have fellowship in the faith .

3. Believers have fellowship with one another .

I. Believers Have Fellowship with God.

A. Fellowship with God is synonymous with salvation .

People often use the phrase “fellowship with God” to describe the quality of their relationship with God. Obedient, faithful believers are said to be “in fellowship,” whereas backslidden believers are “out of fellowship.” However, this is an improper use of the phrase. Paul clearly viewed “fellowship with God” as a description of salvation.

He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful. 1 Corinthians 1:8 9

B. Fellowship with God is evidenced by conformity to His character .

Spiritual growth is not optional for the believer; it is the natural result of salvation. First John was written to give some of the tests of salvation. Ellos son:

1. The test of righteousness

The true believer will strive to be righteous as God is righteous.

If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of him. 1 John 2:29

[The idea here is doing right as a way of life, not sinless perfection. ]

2. The test of sound doctrine

The true believer will embrace the truth as revealed by the God who is the Truth.

También sabemos que el Hijo de Dios ha venido y nos ha dado entendimiento para que podamos conocer al que es verdadero. And we are in him who is true even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. 1 John 5:20

3. The test of love for other believers

The true believer will love other believers because God is love.

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:7-8

II. Believers Have Fellowship in the Faith.

Unity among believers is based upon belief in a common set of doctrines–”the faith” (Jude 3). Apart from such, fellowship is impossible.

[Common doctrine is the proper basis of unity. Since we believe this, we will never cooperate with those who disagree with us about major doctrinal matters. Those who stress ecumenism (the unity of various faiths in a common goal) downplay doctrine and seek to build unity thru other means, such as experience (eg, tongues).]

A. Believers share the responsibility to proclaim the Word of God.

God has commissioned the local church to proclaim the Word of God. One way this can be done is through the support of missionaries. Paul was joyful over the support he received from the Philippian Church.

In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. Philippians 1:4 5

Support of missionaries, however, does not fulfill the believer's responsibility to proclaim the Word of God; there must also be personal involvement. To Philemon, Paul wrote:

I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith. Philemon 6

B. Believers share the responsibility to defend the Word of God.

Fellowship in the Word of God involves more than proclaiming it; there must also be a commitment to maintaining purity of doctrine. Esto se puede hacer de dos maneras:

1. Believers must not cooperate with those who teach error.

If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take him into your house or welcome him. Anyone who welcomes him shares in his wicked work. 2 John 10 11

[“This teaching” here refers to apostolic doctrine regarding Christ. ]

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. ¿Para qué compañerismo tiene la justicia con la injusticia en común? ¿O qué comunión la luz con las tinieblas? 2 Corinthians 6:14

2. Believers must refute error.

[A pastor] must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. Titus 1:9

All believers, not just pastors, should expose false teaching.

[Cf also Titus 2:15. Refute means to challenge, expose or speak out against something. Some people accuse fundamentalists of being too negative and critical. This criticism is a reaction to the fundamentalist's desire to refute and expose error. Refuting error is necessarily negative, although it does not have to be done in a negative or caustic way.]

III. Believers Have Fellowship with One Another.

Fellowship, or unity among the members of a church, is one of the distinguishing marks of genuine believers.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another. 1 Juan 1:7

The Bible places great emphasis on this unity. It is described by a word that is translated “one another” or “each other.” This word appears over 100 times in the New Testament. Since unity is so important, believers should encourage and support it.

[Not unity at any cost. Unity is a good goal, but not the highest one. Unity should primarily be focussed on the local church. It's good to have fellowship with many other Christians not from your church, but it is especially important to be in fellowship with those in your church.]

A. Believers strengthen their unity with one another through proper attitudes .

1. Believers should avoid the following attitudes toward one another:

a. Pride

Pride is the tendency to think more highly of oneself than one ought to (Romans 12:3).

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Romans 12:16

[Cf also Prov 13:10 “Only by pride comes contention.” ]

b. Criticism

The Bible forbids a judgmental, condemning attitude toward other believers.

Por lo tanto, dejemos de juzgarnos unos a otros. Romanos 14:13

c. Envy

Envy is the improper desire to possess that which rightfully belongs to another.

Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Galatians 5:26

2. Believers should develop the following attitudes toward one another:

a. Humility

The opposite of pride, humility was despised by the society in which the first century church ministered, as it often is by our culture. God, however, greatly values humility.

All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5

b. Deference [to defer, to let another have his way]

The believer should possess an attitude which willingly yields his own rights and interests to the desires and needs of others.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4

c. Patience

Patience is the willingness to bear with the shortcomings and quirks of others.

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2

B. Believers strengthen their unity with one another through proper speech .

Words have great potential to be harmful or helpful. Accordingly, the New Testament greatly emphasizes the constructive use of speech.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Efesios 4:29

[Cf also James 3:5-8 ]

1. Believers should avoid the following kinds of speech toward one another:

a. Lying

Lying is deliberately misrepresenting the truth either in whole or in part.

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices. Colossians 3:9

[Notice the "whole or in part" bit. Half of the truth is a whole lie. Misrepresentation is lying.]

b. Slander

Slander is speech that is intended to injure . The word literally means “to talk down.” What is said may or may not be true; however, it is the motive and/or effect that is the issue. In other words, why are you saying it and what harm might it cause? A good rule to follow when discussing someone else's problems is: Don't say it unless you and your listener are part of the problem or part of the solution .

Brothers, do not slander one another. Santiago 4:11

c. Complaining

Complaining is a cancer that grows rapidly and has the potential of destroying a local church. Believers should practice constructive criticism rather than complaining. The difference between the two can be determined by asking the following questions: Is my comment addressed to the right person , is it being said with the right spirit , and does it include a biblical suggestion for change?

Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. James 5:9

[If a person has a problem with something, he should deal with it the right way: go to the source. Most often, people just complain without approaching the person who can do something about it.]

2. Believers should develop the following kinds of speech toward one another:

a. Truth

The opposite of lying, truth is correctly representing the facts.

Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. Efesios 4:25

b. Encouragement

Biblical encouragement is more than a pat on the back along with a promise that everything will be all right. In the Church at Thessalonica, there was a problem that caused the congregation great concern. Paul addressed the problem by explaining to them appropriate doctrine . Y luego agregó:

Therefore encourage each other with these words. 1 Tesalonicenses 4:18

Therefore, encouragement is speech that provides comfort by focusing on the teachings of the Word of God.

c. Counsel

Paul challenged the members of the Church at Rome to counsel one another. Such counsel is biblical instruction intended to correct

sinful behavior .

I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to [counsel] one another. Romans 15:14

[Counseling should be of the kind that points out the problem and then gives the biblical remedy for it ("nouthetic"). All Christians should be capable of giving good counsel.]

C. Believers strengthen their unity with one another through proper actions .

1. Believers should avoid the following kinds of actions toward one another:

a. Partiality

A nineteenth century preacher once said that the gospel is the “great leveler,” meaning that there are no class distinctions within the church. The church is made up of one group of people:

sinners saved by grace .

My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. – James 2:1

b. Retaliation

While few church members would consider hitting someone who offends them, some may retaliate in more subtle ways. Such retaliation can be anything from gossip to the “cold shoulder.”

Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. 1 Thessalonians 5:15

c. Hostility

Believers should not be unfriendly or antagonistic toward one another.

If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. Galatians 5:15

2. Believers should develop the following kinds of actions toward one another:

a. Service

God expects every believer to use the abilities He has given him to serve other believers within his local church.

You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. Gálatas 5:13

b. Benevolence

Benevolence may be defined as acts of kindness , or doing good to others. Believers should continually practice benevolence toward all men, especially toward other believers.

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Gálatas 6:10

c. Hospitality

Believers should use their homes and possessions as means of being a blessing to others.

Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Pedro 4:9

Note: There are occasions when believers must break fellowship with other believers.

[Note that this is with believers. Each of these is grounds for church discipline. Those who practice these things are the most dangerous and troublesome people in the church because they destroy fellowship/unity.]

Estos incluyen:

1. Doctrinal deviation

Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. Their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have wandered away from the truth. – 2 Timothy 2:16-18

[There is room for some doctrinal differences, but not on the major tenets of the faith. Teaching wrong doctrine is especially dangerous. ]

2. Divisive spirit

I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. – Romans 16:17

Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. – Titus 3:10

[Cf Prov 6:16-19. The Lord hates those who sow discord among the brethren.]

3. Disorderly conduct

Keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. – 2 Thessalonians 3:6

If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. – 2 Thessalonians 3:14

[Note that the discipline/dis-fellowshipping of an individual is to bring him to repentance. If he will not repent, one should treat him as an unsaved person and avoid him. Note also that this is why church membership is so important—if one is not a member, the church has no right to discipline the person.]

Recapitulación y revisión

En esta lección, hemos aprendido:

1. Believers have fellowship with God. Fellowship with God is synonymous with salvation and is evidenced by conformity to God's character.

2. Believers have fellowship in the faith. As such, they share the responsibility to both proclaim and defend the Word of God.

3. Believers have fellowship with one another. Such fellowship is dependent upon proper attitudes, speech, and actions.

Aprender a Vivir

1. A nationally-known evangelist comes to town to conduct a crusade and asks your church to participate. This evangelist is known for including Catholics, liberal Protestants, and charismatics in his crusades. Should your church participate? ¿Por qué o por qué no?

no; to do so would be wrong for two reasons: 1) You would be associating in spiritual matters with unbelievers (contra 2 Cor 6:14-7:1) and 2) You would be associating with disobedient believers (contra 2 Thes 3:6, 14). We are not to cooperate with those who deny the faith. Instead, we should rebuke and expose those who cooperate in such ways with unbelievers. (Eg “Evangelicals and Catholics Together,” Billy Graham)

2. You often hear a friend of yours making the following statements:

• “I don't mean to gossip, but have you ever noticed that

he . . . ?”

• “Is it just me or does so and so . . . ?”

• “Well, I think that she . . . and I'm not the only one who thinks so.”

• “Why don't they . . . ?”

• “When are they . . . ?”

What is wrong with such comments?

They are not constructive, edifying, etc.; rather, they are gossipy, critical, adversarial, accusatory, etc.

How should you respond when your friend begins to make such comments?

Cut him off before he gets started. Tell him to address his comments to someone who can resolve the problem. Rebuke him for his wrong attitudes and actions.

Lesson 26: The Vertical Expression of Edification

In the previous lesson, we learned that the primary activity of the local church is the education of its members and that education is the foundation of their edification. Edification is expressed in two ways: toward God ( worship ) and toward other believers ( fellowship ). This lesson will deal with worship.

[The relationship with God is sometimes called "vertical" while that with other believers is sometimes called "horizontal."]

Many years ago, the English word “worship” was spelled worthship .” Originally, the word was associated with the concept of worthiness. It referred to the act of displaying the worth or value of a person or object. Worship is any activity whereby believers display the worth or value of God .

[Note that it's not just what goes on at church during the "worship" service. One can worship God in many ways and at many times. So were not just talking about a church service.]

In this lesson, we will study the following aspects of worship:

1. The object of worship [who we worship]

2. The means of worship [how we worship]

3. The outgrowth of worship [the result of worship]

4. Improper worship [wrong ways to worship]

I. The Object of Worship

The sole object of the believer's worship is God .

Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. – Exodus 34:14

Jesus answered, “It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'” – Luke 4:8

A. True worship is based upon the character of God.

Because of His character, God alone is worthy of worship.

[The character of God is who he is. Psm 150:2 “Praise him for his surpassing greatness.”]

Entonces miré, y oí la voz de muchos ángeles alrededor del trono miles de personas, y diez mil veces diez mil. Que alrededor del trono y de los seres vivientes y los ancianos. In a loud voice they sang: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Revelation 5:11 12

The first section of this curriculum described several of God's attributes which make Him worthy of our worship.

1. God is to be worshiped because He is great .

David praised the LORD in the presence of the whole assembly, saying, “Praise be to you, O LORD, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.” – 1 Chronicles 29:10-13

[Verses like this tell us of the awesome majesty of God. This is why we need to be reverent and serious about God and worship. We don't play fast and loose with God, God's name, God's church, etc. ]

2. God is to be worshiped because He is good .

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. – Psalm 100:4-5

When a believer reflects upon God's character, it should cause him to worship God all the more.

[Remember that God's attributes/characteristics can be separated into these two categories: greatness (power) and goodness (moral perfections). We worship God because of Who He is.]

B. True worship is a response to the works of God.

[That is, we worship God because of what He has done/does. Psm 150:2 “Praise him for his acts of power.” ]

1. God is to be worshiped because He is the Creator and Sustainer .

“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” – Revelation 4:11

2. God is to be worshiped because He is the Savior .

You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. – 1 Corinthians 6:20

When a believer reflects upon God's work, it should cause him to worship God all the more.

C. True worship is inseparably linked to the Word of God .

People often think of worship merely as an emotional experience. While worship does affect one's emotions, it primarily depends upon the believer's knowledge of the Word of God. Apart from understanding the content of the Bible, true worship is impossible, for it is only in the Bible that the character and works of God are thoroughly explained.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:16 17

II. The Means of Worship

[That is, how we worship. These are the ways we worship God. These activities emphasize or highlight God's character and thus display His worth/value.]

A. The believer worships God by confessing his sin .

Confession is the believer's acknowledgment of his sinfulness and God's holiness.

Then Joshua said to Achan, “My son, give glory to the LORD, the God of Israel, and give him the praise. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me.” Achan replied, “It is true! I have sinned against the LORD, the God of Israel.” – Joshua 7:19-20

Besides displaying God's holiness, confession of sin also displays God's grace.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 Juan 1:9

B. The believer worships God by living a godly life .

Believers should always be reflecting the character of God in the way they live.

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:18

[Cf also 1 Pet 2:12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. ]

C. The believer worships God by praying .

A significant part of the believer's prayer life should include praising God.

This, then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” Matthew 6:9

[“Hallowed” mean “to be made holy.” Thus, “may your name be recognized as being holy.” ]

Prayer is the believer's way of communicating with God. Besides praise, prayer includes confession, thanksgiving, and petition. Every aspect of prayer ultimately depends upon the believer's understanding of God's character. For example, confession of sin recognizes that God is both holy and gracious; praise recognizes God's greatness; thanksgiving recognizes God's goodness; and petition recognizes God's omnipotence and sovereignty.

D. The believer worships God by singing .

Singing has always been an important part of worship. The Bible contains a book of songs (the Psalms) which ascribe glory to God.

It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. Psalm 92:1 3

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:1 3

III. The Outgrowth of Worship

The natural result of worship is service . One of the Greek words for worship in the New Testament is often translated “service.” It was Paul's favorite word for worship because it emphasized its practical nature.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God this is your spiritual act of worship. Romanos 12:1

IV. Improper Worship

God is interested in the form worship takes. There are many forms of worship that God finds unacceptable. Sincerity and fervor do not “sanctify” an incorrect form of worship.

[It's amazing what passes for worship these days. Worship practices should be strictly limited by biblical principle. That is, what the Bible presents as worship should be our guide. Don't add or subtract from that standard.

From the Westminster Confession of Faith: The acceptable way of worshiping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited by his own revealed will, that he may not be worshiped according to the imaginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation, or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture.]

A. Idolatrous worship

[Aaron] took what they handed him and made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. Then they said, “These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.” – Exodus 32:4

Some people use statues, pictures, etc. as aids in their worship. Such a practice is forbidden in Scripture.

[For example, Catholics use lots of statues, Greek Orthodox use icons (pictures, engravings). It is likely that the Israelites were doing the same sort of thing: attempting to worship the true God thru this calf. Cf verse 5: "Tomorrow shall be a feast unto the LORD." Aaron was employing an illegitimate means of worshipping the true God. ]

You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God. – Exodus 20:4-5

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. – John 4:24

[Note that worship must be "in truth." It doesn't matter how sincere worship is if it's not the right form or the right way.]

B. Disobedient worship

God does not accept worship that is not in keeping with the teaching of Scripture.

[The priests] confronted [Uzziah] and said, “It is not right for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to the LORD. That is for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who have been consecrated to burn incense. Leave the sanctuary, for you have been unfaithful; and you will not be honored by the LORD God.” – 2 Chronicles 26:18

[This is an example of a king who attempted to do something good --burn incense to God-- which was unacceptable to God. The king had no right to burn incense; it was the priest's job. This tells us that even if one is trying to do a good thing, if he disobeys God's word in the process, it's wrong. How would this idea affect something like baptism? communion? evangelism? God does care about how we approach and serve him. We can't just do as we please. ]

C. Rebellious worship

God does not accept worship from rebellious people.

When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide my eyes from you; even if you offer many prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are full of blood; wash and make yourselves clean. Tome sus malas acciones fuera de mi vista! Stop doing wrong, learn to do right! – Isaiah 1:15-17

[He's not talking here about sinful people, but about rebels. No Christian is perfect. If you are rebelling against God, it does no good to attend church, pray, give money, etc. "Worship" from rebellious people is worse than worthless; God hates it. Cf. Isa 1.11, 13-14: Your New Moons and festivals "my soul hates."]

D. Disorderly worship

God does not accept worship that is chaotic.

Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way. – 1 Corinthians 14:40

[Organization and decorum should characterize a worship service. Many are anything but that. Eg, the "laughing revival," much of Charismaticism, even some fundamental churches lack orderliness. This is important because we serve a God of order. ]

Note: The context of the preceding verse finds Paul reprimanding the Corinthian Church for their improper worship practices.

Aprender a Vivir

1. A friend of yours often talks about worshiping God. Yet, he has clear areas of disobedience to the Word of God in his life. What impact does disobedience have upon one's ability to truly worship?

It greatly hinders one's ability to worship. God does not accept the worship of disobedient or rebellious people. One may as well not bother.

¿Qué debe decirle?

He needs to get right with God before worrying about worship. He's being a hypocrite. Furthermore, part of worship is living a godly life.

2. You hear of a church where during the service some of the people mumble incoherently, some get up and dance around, and others lay on the floor laughing uncontrollably. Could this be called true worship? ¿Por qué o por qué no?

no; True worship is orderly, not chaotic (1 Cor 14:40).

¿Por qué estoy aquí? I am here to worship God, serve His children, and reach the lost.

Introduction to the Objectives of the Church

We learned in Lessons Twenty Two through Twenty Four that the believer is part of the body of Christ, that this body is composed of local assemblies, and that the purpose of these local assemblies is to bring glory to God through the ministry of His Word.

Having determined the purpose of the church, we can now move on to address its objectives and how to accomplish them. In other words, having answered the “why” question, we are ready to answer the “what” and the “how” questions. What should a local church be doing and how should it be doing it? The Great Commission answers the “what” question by giving three objectives for the church: edification, evangelism, and expansion. The New Testament epistles answer the “how” question by giving detailed descriptions of how to meet each of these objectives. This second section on the doctrine of the church will focus on the objectives of the local church.

Lesson 25: The Foundation of Edification — Education

In previous lessons, we have learned that the three objectives of the local church are the spiritual growth of its members ( edification ), the salvation of the lost ( evangelization ), and the growth and management of its physical and human resources ( expansion ). Of these three, edification is primary. In order for edification to take place, there are three activities the local church should pursue. These are education , worship , and fellowship .

[Follow the flow: The purpose of the church is to glorify God through the ministry of the Word. We accomplish this purpose by means of edification, evangelism, and expansion. Edification is produced through education, worship and fellowship.]

The first of these [education] is the foundation of edification, while the other two are expressions of it. The fact that education is the foundation of edification is seen in Paul's statement that the teaching ministry of the pastor is

to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up [edified] until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Ephesians 4:12 13

In this lesson, we will examine the following aspects of education in the local church:

1. Its nature [what it's like]

2. Its goals [or purposes]

3. Its means [how it's purposes are to be fulfilled]

4. Its students [who is to be educated]

I. The Nature of Education in the Local Church [ie, what ed. is like]

The educational ministry of the local church involves teaching both the content and practice of biblical doctrine to successive generations.

[That is, the goal of education is to teach what the Bible says (content) and what should be done about it and how (practice).]

A. Education is the local church's first priority .

Since the edification of believers is the primary objective of the local church, and education is the foundation of edification, one must conclude that education is the most important activity of the local church.

[Obviously, one cannot fulfill the objectives of the church until one is educated about what they are, how to fulfill them, etc. In other words, education must precede everything else. Cf 1 Tim 2:2.]

B. Education in the local church should be Bible centered .

1. Bible centered education is comprehensive .

A local church that focuses only on selected teachings of the Bible while ignoring others is unbalanced and vulnerable to doctrinal error.

For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. Acts 20:27

2. Bible centered education is theological .

Education is more than the memorization of facts. Though the knowledge of facts is valuable, a Bible centered education is not intended to produce Bible trivia buffs. Rather, it is intended to produce believers who can correlate biblical truths and properly apply them.

[Correlation of biblical truth is the goal of systematic theology. It seeks to discern what the overall teaching of the Bible is concerning various topics. ]

C. Education in the local church should be practical .

Many believe that doctrine is impractical. However, Paul believed just the opposite.

All Scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16 17

Because what one believes affects what one does, doctrine is extremely important. Correct doctrine more often than not leads to correct practice.

[Someone once said, "Ideas have consequences." Esto es cierto. Most actions stem from beliefs. In order to act right/correctly, one must understand correctly. Improper belief leads to improper practice. Eg tongues/healing/health-and-wealth, etc.]

II. The Goals of Education in the Local Church

A. Education in the local church is designed to produce theological stability .

In Ephesians 4:13, Paul describes pastors as educators whose teaching results in the edification of the church. In the next verse, he shows that edification results in stability.

Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Ephesians 4:14

[If you understand correct doctrine, you'll be able to spot false doctrine, and are much less likely to accept it. We should develop biblical discernment, the ability to evaluate an idea to determine whether or not it is truly biblical. ]

B. Education in the local church is designed to produce transformed thinking .

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22 24

When a believer is properly taught the Word of God, his thinking will be transformed [Rom 12:1-2] . As a result, he will have a discriminating mind. “Discrimination” means to make an evaluation or assessment about something. Although the word has a negative connotation in our society, appropriate discrimination is a mark of spiritual growth. It is the ability to evaluate all things in light of God's Word.

The spiritual man makes judgments about all things. 1 Corinthians 2:15

[What have we called this kind of discrimination? A Bible-soaked logic or a biblical mindset. That is, making evaluations and decisions based on biblical principles.]

C. Education in the local church is designed to equip believers .

The teaching/learning process is not intended to be an end in itself. It ought to be the means whereby believers are prepared to serve the Lord.

It was he who gave some to be . . . pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service. Efesios 4:11 12

III. The Means of Education in the Local Church

A. Education in the local church is accomplished through formal instruction.

1. Formal instruction involves the authoritative presentation of biblical truth.

The teaching of the early church was authoritative. That is, the apostles' preaching was strong, direct, and uncompromising. This style of preaching is unpopular in our society. However, the Word of God must be authoritatively preached, even if doing so is unpopular.

[Titus 2:15 – “Encourage and rebuke with all authority.”]

2. Formal instruction takes place in the assembly .

As learned previously, the word “church” means “assembly” or “congregation.” The church assembles to hear the Word of God preached, among other things.

On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight. – Acts 20:7

[This is one of the primary things church is all about. Since the preaching/teaching aspect of church is so important, it is vital that you attend a church where the pastor teaches the Bible correctly.]

B. Education in the local church is accomplished through informal instruction.

1. Informal instruction takes place through personal relationships.

Part of the reason that local church members are to assemble regularly is to develop relationships. Believers learn from one another by exhortation and example .

[Exhortation is verbal (preaching, classes, testimonies, etc.), example is non-verbal (others see and are influenced by your behavior). ]

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24 25

[Most of us learn much by example. Remember that as adults are examples to you, you are examples to those younger than you.]

2. Informal instruction takes place through familial [or family] relaciones.

These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Deuteronomy 6:6 7

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4

The educational ministry of the local church equips parents to accomplish this task.

[Strong families are the basis of strong churches. Thus it is in the church's best interests to promote strong families.]

IV. The Students of Education in the Local Church

A. All local church members are students.

One of the synonyms for a believer in the New Testament is “disciple,” which means a learner . Learning, therefore, should be a pursuit of every believer.

Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation. 1 Peter 2:2

[“All” includes teens. You should be serious about learning biblical truth at church. You may be indifferent/apathetic about other subjects, but you should be an avid, serious student when it comes to biblical instruction. ]

B. Suggestions for pupils

1. Attend church faithfully.

2. Read and study the Bible daily.

3. Take notes during sermons.

4. Discuss what you are learning with others.

5. Read biblically-sound literature.

6. Take advantage of teaching opportunities.

7. Take part in other biblically-sound learning opportunities, such as Bible Institute classes.

Learn to Live It

1. A fellow youth group member says, “I don't study by myself. My youth leader is such a wonderful teacher that he gives me all I need.” Is this a healthy attitude? no

What would be some of the dangers of such an attitude?

What if the youth leader leaves? What if the youth leader is wrong? You follow him/her into error. You become dependant upon someone else to “feed” you. You cannot “feed” yourself.

¿Qué debe decirle?

that he needs to become a “self-feeder.” He shouldn't be overly dependent upon leaders.

2. You hear a fellow youth group member say that he wishes the class would quickly finish a doctrinal study in order to move on to more “practical” issues. What false conclusion has he made?

that doctrine is not practical or that it's unimportant

What might you tell him about the relationship between doctrine and practice?

They are inseparable–Doctrine determines practice. Incorrect practice is the result of incorrect belief. Mind (belief) directs the will (behavior). He should be concerned as much about doctrine as he is about practice.

Lección 24: El papel de la Iglesia en su Asamblea Local

En la lección de veintitrés años, nos enteramos de que el cuerpo de Cristo se compone de todos los creyentes en esta dispensación, la era de la iglesia, y se estableció para dar gloria a Dios por el ministerio de su Palabra. Esta parte "invisible" del cuerpo es visible a través de las asambleas locales. De las 114 apariciones de la palabra griega ekklesia en el Nuevo Testamento, 99 se refieren a la iglesia local. These assemblies are organizations designed to carry out the objectives of the body of Christ. Apart from the local church, these objectives cannot be accomplished properly . Esta lección se centrará en la organización de la iglesia local, que incluye:

[Esta lección tiene que ver con la iglesia local, no el universal. ]

1. Administrative responsibilities

2. Las oficinas de liderazgo

3. Specific ordinances

4. Requisitos de Afiliación

5. Limitaciones bíblicas

I. The Local Church is an Organization with Administrative Responsibilities.

The church of the first century is often viewed as being free from administrative details. Esto, sin embargo, no era el caso.

A. La primera iglesia dedicada a la planificación del ministerio.

Las reuniones eran una parte necesaria del ministerio de las iglesias del primer siglo. El libro de los Hechos indica que las reuniones administrativas se llevaron a cabo para abordar las siguientes cuestiones:

1. Hechos 6 - El problema de servicio a las viudas

2. Hechos 11 - La cuestión de si acepta o no a los gentiles en la iglesia

3. Hechos 13 - La puesta en marcha de los primeros misioneros

4. Hechos 15 - La cuestión de qué requisitos se deben colocar sobre los gentiles conversos

B. La Iglesia primitiva se desarrolló procedimientos para la aplicación de sus planes.

La iglesia primitiva no sólo discutieron lo que había que hacer, sino que también determina la forma de hacer, y cumplimiento de sus planes. Por ejemplo, cuando se reunieron para abordar el problema de servicio a las viudas en la iglesia, que resolvió el problema mediante la creación de la oficina de diácono.

Así que los doce reunieron a todos los discípulos y les dijo: "No sería justo que nosotros dejemos el ministerio de la Palabra de Dios con el fin de servir a las mesas. Hermanos, elegir a siete hombres de entre ustedes que son conocidos por ser lleno del Espíritu y de sabiduría. Vamos a convertir esta responsabilidad a ellos. Hechos 6:2 3 (Véase también Hechos 15:22 30).

C. La iglesia primitiva se dedican a la evaluación. [Es decir, para comprobar que todo está trabajando y tratando de hacer que funcione mejor.]

Al cierre del primer viaje misionero de Pablo (Hch 13, 14), él y Bernabé regresaron a la Iglesia de Antioquía [la iglesia puesta en marcha, Hechos 13:1-3] y presentó los detalles de su ministerio entre los gentiles.

On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. Hechos 14:27

La reunión del Concilio de Jerusalén en Hechos 15 fue diseñado para evaluar más a fondo la información presentada a la Iglesia de Antioquía.

La asamblea entera quedó en silencio mientras escuchaban a Bernabé ya Pablo, hablando de los signos y prodigios que Dios había hecho entre los gentiles a través de ellos. Acts 15:12

[Por lo tanto debemos evaluar nosotros mismos y nuestros ministerios periódicamente para ver si estamos golpeando lo que estamos apuntando.]

II. La Iglesia local es una organización con oficinas de Liderazgo.

A. El oficio de pastor

1. Los títulos de la oficina

The office of pastor is described with a variety of titles, each emphasizing a different aspect of the one office.

a. He is called the pastor . [Viene de "pastor"]

Este título se refiere a la responsabilidad del pastor para cuidar de las necesidades espirituales de la congregación, una responsabilidad que cumple principalmente a través de la predicación y la enseñanza de la Palabra de Dios.

b. Él es llamado el supervisor. [GK episkopos = = el jefe obispo]

This title refers to the administrative oversight that the pastor is to exercise. Es para establecer la agenda para el ministerio de la iglesia y guiar a la iglesia en el cumplimiento de sus objetivos.

[Dios tiene el pastor sobre todo responsable de lo que sucede en la iglesia, los pastores. Supervisión de las tareas de gestión. El pastor tiene a su cargo, no a los diáconos, la secretaria, etc Esto no quiere decir que él es libre de ser un tirano, aunque.]

c. Él es llamado el anciano. [GK = presbíteros]

This title refers to the wisdom and experience of the pastor and the respect that the office should be given.

[Tenemos que respetar el pastor. Esa es una de las razones por las que no lo llaman por su nombre. 1 Thes 5:12-13 tell us to avoid young, inexperienced pastors. ]

Discurso de Pablo a los pastores de Éfeso contiene los tres ideas.

From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived, he said to them, “. . . Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Ser pastores de la iglesia de Dios, que él compró con su propia sangre. Acts 20:17-28 (See also 1 Peter 5:1-2.)

[Los tres términos, pastor, anciano, y supervisor, son sinónimos, en referencia a la misma oficina. The episcopal form of church government sets up a bishop over local pastors. ]

2. The qualifications for the office

Los requisitos para que el pastor se enumeran en 1 Timoteo 3. Esta lista ofrece las cualificaciones personales y profesionales.

[Personal - cualidades internas, las características, el "carácter". Profesional - habilidades relacionadas con los deberes de pastor].

Ahora que el obispo sea irreprensible, marido de una sola mujer, sobrio, yo no controlada, respetable, hospitalario, apto para enseñar, no dado a la embriaguez, no violenta, pero suave, no pendenciero, amante del dinero. Que gobierne bien su casa y ver que sus hijos en sujeción con toda honestidad. (Si alguien no sabe gobernar su propia casa, ¿cómo cuidará de la iglesia de Dios?) No debe ser un recién convertido, o que se vuelva presuntuoso y caiga en la condenación del diablo. También debe tener una buena reputación de afuera, para que no caiga en descrédito y en lazo del diablo. 1 Timoteo 3:2 7

[Tenga en cuenta que aquí no hay nada acerca de ser divertido, un orador dinámico, una "persona de personas", etc Esas cualidades son agradables, pero no primaria y realmente no es necesario.]

3. The responsibilities of the office

a. The pastor is responsible to teach and preach the Word of God.

Hasta que yo llegue, dedícate a la lectura de las Escrituras, la exhortación y la enseñanza. 1 Timoteo 4:13

[La lectura pública era importante ya que muchos no sabían leer y la mayoría no tiene una copia de la Biblia. Often the pastor was the most educated person in the community. ]

Predicar la Palabra, que instes a tiempo y fuera de tiempo; redarguye, reprende, y fomentar con toda paciencia y doctrina. 2 Timoteo 4:2

[This is the primary task of the preacher. This is so because the rest of his duties depend on this one.]

b. The pastor is responsible to equip the congregation for ministry.

It was [Christ] who gave some to be . . . pastores y maestros, para preparar a los santos para la obra del ministerio, para que el cuerpo de Cristo sea edificado. Efesios 4:11 12

c. El pastor tiene la responsabilidad de gobernar la congregación.

Ahora le pedimos, hermanos, que reconozcáis a los que trabajan entre vosotros, que [los gobiernos] que en el Señor y os amonestan. 1 Tesalonicenses 5:12

Los ancianos que dirigen los asuntos de la iglesia son dignos de doble honor. 1 Timoteo 5:17

[Because of these responsibilities, the pastor has a great deal of authority. He's the one in charge. Los diáconos no se ejecutan de la iglesia, el pastor (s) lo hace].

B. The office of deacon

1. El título de la oficina

La palabra "diácono" simplemente significa siervo. Las Escrituras usan la palabra en un sentido general para cualquier persona que sirve a otro y en un sentido específico de la oficina de la iglesia local de diácono.

2. The qualifications for the office

1 Timoteo 3 listas de calificaciones para el cargo de diácono, similares a las dadas por el oficio de pastor.

Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. Se debe guardar el asimiento de las profundas verdades de la fe con limpia conciencia. Primero deben ser probadas, y entonces si no hay nada que reprocharles, que sirvan como diáconos. Un diácono debe ser esposo de una sola mujer y que gobiernen bien sus hijos y sus casas. 1 Timothy 3:8 10, 12

Nota: Las cualidades personales que figuran en 1 Timoteo 3 no son cualidades especiales que se encuentran sólo en los pastores y diáconos. They are marks of mature believers. Therefore, all believers should be striving after them.

3. The responsibilities of the office

A diferencia de la oficina del pastor, la Biblia no se indique claramente las responsabilidades del diácono. Por lo tanto, deben ser derivados a partir del título de la oficina y el ejemplo de los primeros diáconos. In Acts 6, the first deacons were selected to minister to the congregation in order to free the pastoral staff to focus on more important matters.

Vamos a convertir esta responsabilidad a ellos y le dará la atención a la oración y el ministerio de la palabra. Hechos 6:3 4

[Bíblicamente, los diáconos no están en una posición de autoridad, sin embargo, la autoridad puede ser delegada. La tarea principal de los diáconos es servir.]

III. The Local Church is an Organization with Specific Ordinances.

A. The nature of an ordinance

1. An ordinance is not a sacrament .

Sacramentos están destinados a proporcionar la gracia salvadora. Sin embargo, si la gracia estaba vinculado a cualquier trabajo o ritual, dejaría de ser gracia. [Cf. Romanos 11:6]

[An ordinance is a rite or ritual that the church is responsible to administrate. Estas resoluciones son importantes y significativas, pero no tienen valor salvífico. La palabra "sacramento", sugiere un medio de gracia o de una obra que salva. Puesto que no somos salvos por obras, que evite el lenguaje sacramental.]

2. An ordinance is a symbol .

Cuando Cristo dio las ordenanzas, que él deseaba que sirven como recordatorio de las verdades espirituales que se presentan.

Porque yo recibí del Señor lo mismo que les transmití a ustedes: Que el Señor Jesús, la noche en que fue entregado, tomó pan, y habiendo dado gracias, lo partió y dijo: "Esto es mi cuerpo, que es para que, haced esto en memoria mía "De la misma manera, después de cenar, tomó la copa, diciendo:" Esta copa es el nuevo pacto en mi sangre;. ello, cada vez que lo bebáis, en memoria de mí "1. Corintios 11:23 25

[Un símbolo es representativa, diseñada para traer a la memoria de la cosa representada. ]

B. The ordinances of the local church

1. The ordinance of baptism

a. El método del bautismo es por inmersión.

La palabra griega que se traduce "bautizar", literalmente significa "sumergir" o "sumergir". Cada instancia del bautismo en la Biblia es por inmersión.

Entonces Felipe y el eunuco descendieron al agua y Felipe lo bautizó. When they came up out of the water, . . . . Hechos 8:38 39

[Así que cuando un bebé es "bautizados" por aspersión, que es en realidad no ha sido bautizada.]

b. The purpose of baptism is identification .

El bautismo se ha llevado a cabo en el "nombre" del Dios trino. The significance of the “name” is that of identification. El que es bautizado es visiblemente imaginarse su identificación con el Dios uno y trino a través de Cristo.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Mateo 28:19

[Baptism publicly identifies one as a follower of Christ. It says of the one baptized, "I am a disciple of Christ."]

2. La ordenanza de la Cena del Señor

a. Es un recordatorio de la labor de la Cruz de Cristo.

[Por "trabajo cruz," nos referimos a todo lo que Cristo hizo por su muerte en la cruz por nosotros.]

Porque cada vez que coméis este pan y bebemos de este cáliz, anunciáis la muerte del Señor hasta que venga. 1 Corintios 11:26

b. It is a time of self examination .

Un hombre ha de sí mismo, y coma así del pan y beba de la copa. 1 Corintios 11:28

C. La autoridad de las ordenanzas

The authority for the carrying out of the ordinances lies with the local church .

[Es decir, no sólo nadie puede legítimamente salir y empezar a bautizar a las personas o servir la Cena del Señor. Por ejemplo, bautizos en el campamento, cena del Señor de las papas fritas y pop, sirviendo a la comunión en un hospital, etc, no son válidos. Ellos tienen que hacerse de la manera correcta y en el contexto de la iglesia.]

1. El comando para observar las ordenanzas se le dio a los apóstoles (Mateo 26:26-29 y 28:16-20).

The apostles were given the task of laying the foundation of the church (Ephesians 2:20).

2. The ordinances were practiced in the context of the local church.

Los que recibieron su palabra fueron bautizados, y cerca de tres mil fueron añadidos a su número ese día. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:41-42

[Cristo? Apóstoles? La iglesia]

3. La iglesia primitiva fue el responsable de corregir el cumplimiento inadecuado de las ordenanzas (1 Corintios 11:17 34).

IV. The Local Church is an Organization with Membership Requirements.

La iglesia primitiva creía en la importancia de la membresía de la iglesia. El Nuevo Testamento no sabe nada de los creyentes que no son miembros de una iglesia local. The book of Acts speaks of believers being added to the church through baptism. Even more clearly, there are examples of people being removed from the church by action of the local assembly (Matthew 18:15 17 and 1 Corinthians 5). One cannot be removed from a church unless he is a member of that church.

Requirements for church membership include the following:

A. miembros de la Iglesia se guardan.

Sólo aquellos que son salvos pueden convertirse en miembros de una iglesia local. Esta fue la práctica de la Iglesia desde el principio.

Y el Señor añadía cada día a los que habían de ser salvos. Acts 2:47

B. Church members are baptized by immersion .

En el día de Pentecostés, tres mil personas respondieron en la fe al mensaje predicado por Pedro. Los tres mil fueron bautizados poco después.

Los que recibieron su palabra fueron bautizados, y cerca de tres mil fueron añadidos a su número ese día. Hechos 2:41

Por lo tanto, la pertenencia a la iglesia y el bautismo de los creyentes no deben ser separados. Uno se convierte en un miembro de una iglesia local a través del bautismo.

[El patrón bíblico es siempre de ser salvado, pues, se bautizan y se añade a la iglesia. Believers who refuse baptism are out of order. ]

C. miembros de la Iglesia están viviendo en obediencia.

La iglesia primitiva se practica la disciplina eclesiástica. Los miembros que persistió en el pecado, iban a ser expulsados ​​de la asamblea. Por lo tanto, con el fin de seguir siendo miembro de una iglesia local, hay que vivir en obediencia.

Se oye hablar de que hay inmoralidad sexual entre vosotros, y de un tipo que no se da incluso entre los paganos: Un hombre tiene la mujer de su padre. Y usted se siente orgulloso! ¿No debería más bien se han llenado de dolor y se han puesto fuera de la comunión del hombre que hizo esto? “Expel the wicked man from among you.” – 1 Corinthians 5:1-2, 13

V. La Iglesia local es una Organización con limitaciones bíblicas.

Las iglesias locales están involucrados en una gran variedad de actividades. Algunos son apropiados y otros no. What limitations can be applied to help identify appropriate activities for the church? La comprensión de por qué la iglesia existe y lo que es hacer la voluntad de ayudar a determinar la forma en que sus ministros.

A. La iglesia local está limitada a los objetivos de la Gran Comisión.

Lección Veinte Tres identificado los objetivos de la iglesia tal como se presenta en la Gran Comisión. Ellos son:

1. Edificación

Edificación es el proceso de construcción de la vida del creyente sobre el fundamento de Jesucristo.

2. Evangelización

La evangelización es el esfuerzo de ver personas salvadas, bautizado, y se convierten en miembros activos de una iglesia local.

[Evangelism does not stop short at one's profession of faith. Se extiende con el bautismo y el crecimiento espiritual. La Iglesia debe esforzarse por ganar almas para Cristo, bautizar, y animarles a crecer como cristianos. ]

3. Expansión

Expansion is the growth and management of the church's physical and human resources. Esto es necesario para la edificación en curso y la evangelización.

Nota: Todas las actividades de la iglesia local debe ser consistente con estos objetivos. Any activity, however beneficial, which is not consistent with these objectives should be avoided.

B. The local church is limited by the purpose of the body of Christ.

Hemos aprendido en la lección veintidós que el propósito del cuerpo de Cristo es glorificar a Dios mediante el ministerio de su Palabra. The application of this purpose will limit the activities of the church in two ways.

1. Las actividades de la iglesia debe reflejar el carácter de Dios.

Para "glorificar" a Dios significa mostrar o dar a conocer su carácter. When this purpose is consciously pursued, the methods of church ministry will be evaluated in light of God's holy character. Consequently, church is no place for frivolous or worldly activities.

[The church building may be used for lots of different events. Pero cuando se trata del servicio de adoración, que debe caracterizarse por la santidad y reverencia y temor. ]

2. The activities of the church will center around the Word of God .

Every function of the church must provide either a means to proclaim the Word or a means to obey the Word.

Aprender a Vivir

1. A friend of yours tells you that there are three churches that he really likes and that he has decided to attend one on Sunday morning, the second on Sunday evening, and the third on Wednesday evening. ¿Cómo funciona su amigo vista el concepto de membresía de la iglesia?

not very seriously. Si él lo ve como algo opcional, que no entiende.

¿Qué podría decirle a su amigo para convencerlo de que tiene que ser fiel a una iglesia?

The New Testament underscores the need to become a member of a local church, and membership implies commitment.

2. Un domingo por la tarde, su hermano pequeño se pregunta por qué la familia tiene que ir a la reunión de trabajo en la iglesia esa noche. What “words of wisdom” might you give him?

Business meetings are a necessary part of local church ministry and help a church function more effectively and efficiently. All members should attend. All members should be concerned about how the church is spending money, what they plan to do, who they support, etc. You could say that those 4 meetings in Acts discussed earlier were business meetings. NOTA: Aunque los adolescentes que son miembros debe permanecer para reuniones de negocios.