Lezione 33: La Chiesa e il Regno

Perché sono qui? Sono qui per partecipare al regno di Gesù Cristo. Oltre a conoscere che Cristo un giorno di vincere i suoi nemici, so anche che prenderanno parte nel Suo regno. Cristo instaurare un regno perfetto ed eterno, ed ogni chiesa in età credente regneranno con Lui in esso.

Prima di procedere oltre, dobbiamo chiarire la differenza tra i due regni bibliche: Dio regno universale e il suo regno mediatorial. Il regno universale è la sovranità assoluta di Dio su tutta la sua creazione. Il regno mediatorial è il suo governo personale di specifici individui, attraverso un mediatore (o rappresentante). Questo regno Quest'ultimo ha avuto inizio nel Vecchio Testamento ed è il fine ultimo della storia (vedi Lezione Twenty Two). E 'in questo regno, che i credenti un giorno si co regno con Cristo il loro re.

[A mediatore è un intermediario o rappresentante. Un regno mediatorial è un terreno, politico, regno in cui Dio governa attraverso un mediatore. Dio regno universale è il fatto che Dio governa l'universo.]

Il regno mediatorial è conosciuto con vari nomi, come "il regno dei cieli", "il regno di Dio," o semplicemente "il regno." In generale, il contesto determina quale di questi due regni (universale o mediatorial) l'autore ha in mente. In questa lezione, "il regno" si riferisce al regno mediatorial.

[Il Schofield Reference Bible fa una distinzione tra il regno di Dio e il regno dei cieli, ma i due sono sinonimi e intercambiabili. La maggior parte dei dispensationalists non fanno alcuna distinzione tra i due.]

Non bisogna confondere il regno con la salvezza o la chiesa. Anche se la gente spesso usano queste parole in modo intercambiabile, il regno è una distinta idea.

[Vale a dire, "Joe è entrato nel regno", che significa "Joe sono stati salvati." Ci sono un paio di passaggi che insegnano che si entra nel regno in un certo senso al punto di salvezza. Tuttavia, vedremo che è meglio mantenere le idee regno e la salvezza separati. Il regno sarà una realtà fisica. La chiesa non soddisfa tutte le promesse regno.]

Questa lezione sarà esplorare la natura del regno mediatrice, la sua storia, e il rapporto della chiesa ad esso.

[Ricordate che quando usiamo la parola "regno" in questa lezione, stiamo parlando del regno mediatorial, non sovranità universale di Dio o la salvezza.]

I. La natura del Regno

La Bibbia indica che il regno di Dio comprende tre elementi: (1) un righello divinamente scelto, (2) un regno di soggetti di essere governati, e (3) l 'atto di regnare. A meno che tutti e tre sono presenti, non c'è regno. David lo conferma quando dice:

Eppure il Signore, Dio d'Israele, ha scelto me tutta la mia famiglia come re di Israele per sempre. Ha scelto Giuda come leader, e dalla casa di Giuda scelse la mia famiglia e dai figli di mio padre era contento di farmi re di tutto Israele. Di tutti i miei figli-e il Signore mi ha dato molti-che ha scelto mio figlio Salomone a sedere sul trono del regno del Signore su Israele. 1 Cronache 28:4 5

Il profeta Daniele ha anche sottolineato questi tre elementi, quando scrisse il futuro del regno del Messia:

Nella mia visione di notte ho guardato, e davanti a me c'era uno simile a figlio di uomo, venire con le nubi del cielo. Si avvicinò al vegliardo e fu condotto alla sua presenza. E 'stato dato il potere, gloria e potere sovrano, tutti i popoli, le nazioni e gli uomini di ogni lingua lo adoravano. Il suo potere è un potere eterno, che non passerà, e il suo regno è tale che non sarà mai distrutto. Daniele 7:13 14

[Secondo questa definizione, è Gesù Cristo, attualmente governare il suo regno? No. Qualcuno potrebbe dire che Egli sta governando la chiesa come la sua testa, o che Egli governa i cuori dei credenti, ma questo non è in linea con l'idea regno di Gesù e gli apostoli hanno insegnato. Hanno insegnato letterale, regno terreno, non un invisibile, uno spirituale.]

II. La Storia del Regno di Dio

In tutta la Bibbia, Dio ha sempre governato per mezzo di rappresentanti umani. Di seguito sono riportati alcuni degli uomini che Dio ha utilizzato o utilizzerà in questo modo.

A. Moses

Questo è lo stesso Mosè che avevano respinto con le parole: "Chi ti ha costituito capo e giudice?" E 'stato inviato a essere il loro capo e liberatore da Dio stesso, attraverso l'angelo che gli era apparso nel roveto. Atti 7:35

Mosè era il rappresentante di Dio. Dio ha stabilito Israele per mezzo di lui.

Saul e David B.

Samuele prese il corno dell'olio e unse [David] in presenza dei suoi fratelli, e da quel giorno lo Spirito del Signore venne su David al potere. Samuele poi andò a Rama. Ora, lo Spirito del Signore si era ritirato da Saul, e uno spirito maligno dal Signore lo tormentava. 1 Samuele 16:13 14

Saul era re il rappresentante di Dio. Tuttavia, a causa della sua disobbedienza, Dio ha tolto il suo diritto di governare (1 Samuele 15:23) e lo speciale unzione dello Spirito che è andato con essa, la "teocratica unzione." [Review l'idea del unzione teocratico.] A questo punto, dobbiamo notare due fatti: (1) Nel momento in cui l'unzione teocratico è stato dato a David, è stato preso da Saul (David teme la stessa sorte nel corso della vita secondo il Salmo 51:11).. (2) Dio ha iniziato una dinastia di David attraverso il quale Egli avrebbe governato il suo popolo. Da quel momento in poi, ogni re sopra il regno di Dio doveva essere dalla linea di Davide.

C. Solomon

[Dio] ha detto a [David]: "Salomone tuo figlio è colui che costruire la mia casa ei miei cortili, perché ho ​​scelto lui di essere mio figlio, e io sarò il padre. Renderò stabile il suo regno per sempre, se è incrollabile nello svolgimento i miei comandamenti e le leggi, come si sta facendo in questo momento. "1 Cronache 28:6 7

D. Cristo

Come accennato in precedenza, ogni re mediatorial dal David doveva essere di discendenza davidica. Ciò ha incluso Cristo (Isaia 11, Matteo 1 e Luca 3).

1. Regno di Cristo era stato predetto.

A causa della ribellione di Israele, Dio temporaneamente concluso il suo regno accordo con la nazione. [Questo è avvenuto nel 586 aC con la cattività babilonese.] Tuttavia, da quel momento in poi i profeti hanno predetto che Dio un giorno sarebbe ripristinare il suo regno in maniera eterna.

Il vecchio dominio verrà ripristinato a voi; regno arriverà alla figlia di Gerusalemme. Micah 04:08

Egli regnerà sul trono di Davide e sul regno, stabilire e sostenere con la giustizia e la giustizia da quel momento e per sempre. Isaia 09:07

[Si noti che lo stesso tipo di regno che Davide aveva verrà ripristinata. Era il regno di Davide uno spirituale? No, era letterale, terreno, ecc Così sarà di Cristo.]

2. Regno di Cristo è stato offerto.

Sia il Cristo e Giovanni Battista predicò un messaggio regno. Cristo è venuto sulla terra come il Re promesso, il Messia. Tuttavia, gli ebrei rifiutato la sua offerta e brutalmente assassinato.

Giovanni Battista predicò:

"Convertitevi, perché il regno dei cieli è vicino." - Matteo 03:02

Cristo pronunciata anche:

"Convertitevi, perché il regno dei cieli è vicino". Matteo 4:17 (vedi anche Matteo 4:23 e Luca 11:19 20.)

I discepoli dissero a predicare:

"Il regno dei cieli è vicino". Matteo 10:07

Nota: L'offerta del regno di Israele era una offerta vera e propria. Tuttavia, il piano di Dio incluso il rifiuto di Israele e la morte di Cristo. In questo modo, Cristo è venuto sulla terra per due motivi: in primo luogo, Egli è venuto per offrire il regno agli ebrei. In secondo luogo, Egli è venuto a fare il coinvolgimento nel regno futuro possibile. Consentendo stesso per essere crocifisso, Egli ha fornito la via della salvezza in modo che gli uomini potessero lo conoscono come re.

[C'è un certo dibattito riguardo a ciò che sarebbe successo se gli ebrei accettato Gesù come loro Messia. Alcuni dicono che il Millennio sarebbe iniziato proprio lì. E 'un punto controverso, perché Israele non ha accettato Gesù come loro Messia in questo momento.]

3. Regno di Cristo è stata rinviata.

Il regno di Dio è stata rinviata. Non è in atto oggi. Dopo la sua risurrezione, Cristo ha dato ai suoi discepoli ulteriori istruzioni riguardanti il ​​suo regno futuro (Atti 1:3). I discepoli Egli avrebbe assunto immediatamente ripristinare il regno di Israele e comincerà a regnare. Cristo, tuttavia, ha insegnato il contrario.

Così, quando si riunivano, gli domandarono: "Signore, tu sei in questo momento va per ripristinare il regno di Israele" Egli disse loro: "Non spetta a voi conoscere i tempi ei momenti che il Padre ha impostato la sua propria autorità. "Atti 01:06 7

[Questo è un buon testo che mostra che i discepoli si aspettavano un valore letterale, regno terreno. Se il regno fu uno spirituale (cioè, la salvezza), non avrebbero fatto questa domanda, perché il regno sarebbe stato in effetti.]

4. Regno di Cristo sarà un giorno stabilito.

Alla sua seconda venuta, Cristo stabilirà il suo regno terreno. Sarà un letterale, regno fisico centrato a Gerusalemme.

Il trono di Dio e dell'Agnello sarà in città, ei suoi servi lo serviranno. Apocalisse 22:03 (Vedi anche Isaia 09:07, 07:13 Daniel 14 e Luca 1:31 33.)

III. La Chiesa e il Regno

Mediatorial regno di Dio coinvolge in realtà tre fasi: la teocrazia Antico Testamento, il regno millenario, e il regno eterno. Come detto nella lezione Thirty Two, la tribolazione culminerà con la seconda venuta di Cristo. A quel tempo, Cristo completamente distruggere i suoi nemici, temporaneamente bind Satana, e stabilire il Suo regno millenario ("Millennium" significa 1.000 anni). Dopo il Millennio, Satana sarà liberato dalla sua schiavitù temporanea, conducono una rivolta definitiva, subire una sconfitta, ed essere condannati alla pena eterna (Apocalisse 20:01 10). Dio poi giudicare le persone non salvate di tutte le età al giudizio del grande trono bianco (20:11 Apocalisse 15), distruggere i cieli e la terra attuali e crearne di nuovi (2 Pietro 3:10 13 e Apocalisse 21:1), e stabilire il Suo regno eterno (Apocalisse 21:2 ss).

A. credenti epoca della chiesa sono cittadini del regno.

Poiché egli ci ha liberati dal potere delle tenebre e ci ha trasferiti nel regno del Figlio che ama. Colossesi 1:13

La nostra cittadinanza è nei cieli. Filippesi 3:20

Si deve interpretare questi versi in termini di verità "posizionale". Verità posizionale descrive ciò che il credente possiede, ma non l'esperienza. Così, anche se viviamo ancora in questo mondo oscurato dal peccato, e il regno di Cristo non è ancora stato stabilito, siamo liberi dal potere del peccato e sono cittadini del regno di Cristo posizionalmente.

B. credenti epoca della chiesa regnerà nel regno.

A chi vince, io darò il diritto di sedere con me sul mio trono, come ho superato e si sedette con il Padre mio sul suo trono. Apocalisse 3:21 (Vedi anche Apocalisse 20:06).

In questo versetto, Cristo parla in chiesa in età credenti. La parola "vincitori" si riferisce a coloro che hanno vinto Satana mediante la fede in Cristo (1 Giovanni 5:4 5). Pertanto, tutti i credenti della chiesa in età farà parte della famiglia reale. Ci sarà co regnare con Cristo nel regno eterno.

[Questo è vero solo della chiesa in età santi. OT credenti non avrà parte nel millennio.]

Learning to Live It

1. Le prove della vita sono numerosi. Lavoro, famiglia, ministero, e la malattia sono spesso causa di difficoltà. Come potrebbe il materiale imparato in questa lezione influenzare il modo in cui si accordi con le prove della vita?

Dovrebbe aiutarci ad affrontare meglio / perseverare attraverso, sapendo cosa ci aspetta alla fine (Rm 8:18, Eb 11:10, 13-16, 24-26). Sappiamo che c'è altro nella vita oltre questa vita. Tutto nella storia e nell'universo si muove alla sua fine predeterminato. I nostri studi giocano la loro parte nel piano di Dio per la storia. Sappiamo che la fine della storia. Siamo la squadra vincitrice. Le nostre prove sono davvero temporanea. Abbiamo un eternità per essere libero di loro e di godere della vera felicità.

2. In che modo la conoscenza di questi fatti influenzare il modo in cui si considera il breve tempo durante il quale vive su questa terra?

E 'relativamente insignificante rispetto all'eternità. Il nostro destino eterno, tuttavia, è determinata in questa vita. Un grande momento di gioia è in serbo per noi. Inoltre, non abbiamo bisogno di "andare per il gusto" ora, come se questo è tutto quello che c'è. Siamo in grado di rimandare / rimandare alcune cose piacevoli fino a tardi. Dobbiamo vivere nella luce dell'eternità.

Introduzione al destino della Chiesa

Perché sono qui? Sono qui per partecipare al regno di Gesù Cristo.

In Lezioni Twenty Two attraverso Twenty Four, abbiamo imparato che lo scopo della chiesa è quello di glorificare Dio attraverso il ministero della Sua Parola. In Lezioni Twenty Five attraverso trenta One, abbiamo imparato che gli obiettivi della chiesa sono edificazione, evangelizzazione e di espansione e che ciascuno di questi tre può essere realizzato perseguendo varie attività. Tra questi sono l'istruzione, culto, comunione, l'evangelizzazione personale e aziendale, e l'espansione fisica ed organizzativa.

In questa sezione finale sulla ecclesiologia (la dottrina della chiesa), si discuterà il destino della chiesa. Perché sono qui? Sono qui per partecipare al regno di Gesù Cristo. Come credente che vive in questa dispensazione, so che sono sulla "squadra vincente." Non voglio affrontare il giudizio di Dio durante la Tribolazione. Invece, posso attendo con impazienza di essere una parte del trionfo di Cristo sui suoi nemici e regnare con Lui per tutta l'eternità.

Lezione 32: La Chiesa e il Tribulation

Che cosa succederà in futuro, e quale parte ha la chiesa gioca in esso? La Bibbia parla di un periodo di sette anni coinvolge sentenza senza precedenti. Sarà un momento in cui un uomo, il potere di Satana, sorgerà per controllare le risorse politiche, religiose e militari di tutto il mondo. Sarà un tempo in cui Dio scatena la sua ira sulla terra ei suoi abitanti. Questo periodo è chiamato Tribolazione. In questa lezione impareremo che la tribolazione sarà come e quando avverrà.

I. La natura della Tribolazione

Il periodo di tribolazione sarà un momento di giudizio a livello mondiale della durata di sette anni. Si inizierà con la rottura del primo dei sette sigilli del giudizio (vedi tabella sotto) dopo il Rapimento della Chiesa e si concluderà con la seconda venuta di Cristo, momento in cui Egli assolutamente distruggere i suoi nemici nella battaglia di Armageddon e stabilire il Suo regno.

A. La tribolazione comporterà il continuo scatenarsi dell'ira di Dio.

Dall'apertura della sentenza primo sigillo in Apocalisse 6 per lo spargimento del giudizio ultima ciotola in Apocalisse 16 (che si concluderà la Tribolazione), Dio sarà versando la sua ira. La successione delle sentenze Tribulation può essere visualizzato come segue:

Alcuni credono che solo la seconda metà della Tribolazione comporterà l'ira di Dio [Questa è la cosiddetta mid-Trib. posizione.]. Tuttavia, i primi due sigilli, che iniziano la Tribolazione, dimostrano chiaramente che l'intero periodo è caratterizzato dalla effusione dell'ira di Dio.

Ho guardato come l'Agnello aprì il primo dei sette sigilli. Poi udii una delle quattro creature viventi dire con voce di tuono: "Vieni!" Ho guardato, e ci sono io prima ero un cavallo bianco! Il suo cavaliere aveva un arco, e gli fu data una corona, e ha guidato come un conquistatore piegato sulla conquista. Quando l'Agnello aprì il secondo sigillo. . . uscì un altro cavallo, un focoso uno rosso. Colui che lo cavalcava fu dato potere di togliere la pace dalla terra e di rendere gli uomini uccidere l'altro. Apocalisse 06:01 4

B. La tribolazione comporterà l'importanza di un leader chiave satanica - l'Anticristo.

Durante la tribolazione, Satana potenziare l'Anticristo, il Falso Profeta, e la chiesa apostata. Di questi tre, l'Anticristo sarà la figura principale con gli altri due sono sotto il suo controllo. L'Anticristo (1 Giovanni 2:22) è indicato anche come il re di Babilonia (Isaia 14:4), il malvagio principe (Ezechiele 21:25), il piccolo corno (Daniele 7:08), l'uomo del peccato ( 2 Tessalonicesi 2:3), e la bestia (Apocalisse 11:7).

1. Il Antichrist le capacità

L'Anticristo supererà tutti gli altri leader umane e quindi ad attirare un seguito universale.

uno. Sarà un politico in grado (Daniele 8:23-25).

b. Sarà un genio militare (Apocalisse 13:4).

c. Sarà considerato degno di adorazione (Apocalisse 13:4, 8).

2. La carriera di dell'Anticristo

L'Anticristo sarà inizialmente apparire come una poco conosciuta leader politico, un "piccolo corno" (Daniele 7:08). Tuttavia, entro breve tempo diventerà più grande dittatore del mondo. I punti più alti della sua carriera sono i seguenti:

uno. La Tribolazione inizia quando fa un trattato con Israele, che le ha permesso di ricostruire il tempio e rinnovare il culto sacrificale (Daniele 9:27).

b. A metà della Tribolazione (dopo 3 1/2 anni), egli romperà il trattato con Israele, l'auto culto della domanda (Daniele 9:27 e 2 Tessalonicesi 2:4), uccidere il Signore due testimoni (Apocalisse 11:01 14 ), iniziano a perseguitare attivamente Israele (Apocalisse 00:01 6), e distruggere la chiesa apostata, che non ha più bisogno (Apocalisse 17:16).

c. Alla fine della Tribolazione, Cristo ritornerà, distruggere i suoi nemici, e lanciare l'Anticristo e il Falso Profeta nello stagno di fuoco (Apocalisse 19:11 21).

C. La tribolazione porterà alla salvezza di molte persone.

Anche se Dio punirà gli abitanti della terra inviando devastanti catastrofi e consentendo l'Anticristo e le sue forze di fare del loro peggio, la sua punizione sarà un mezzo per portare molti ebrei e gentili a se stesso (Zaccaria 13:01 e Apocalisse 7:9 17) .

II. Il tempo della Tribolazione

A. La tribolazione avrà luogo dopo il Rapimento della Chiesa.

[Molti evangelici d'accordo con tutto quello che abbiamo detto fino a questo punto. Il momento esatto della tribolazione è un punto dibattuto. Recentemente il "Pre-Wrath" teoria del rapimento ha guadagnato popolarità. Questa teoria suggerisce che i cristiani andrà la prima parte della Tribolazione thru, davanti a Dio comincia versando il suo sdegno (e quindi "pre-ira"). Riteniamo che tale posizione è in errore.]

La chiesa non si è avuta una parte della Tribolazione, perché sarà raggiunto ("rapiti") appena prima di esso. Secondo la Scrittura, Cristo, scenderà dal cielo e "catch up" entrambi vivi e morti credenti epoca della chiesa di incontrarlo tra le nuvole. Egli ha poi portarli in paradiso, dove rimarrà durante la Tribolazione.

Perché il Signore stesso scenderà dal cielo, con un comando forte, con la voce d'arcangelo e con la tromba di Dio, ei morti in Cristo risusciteranno i primi. Dopo di che, noi che siamo ancora vivi e sono rimasti verremo rapiti insieme con loro tra le nuvole, a incontrare il Signore nell'aria. E così saremo sempre con il Signore. 1 Tessalonicesi 4:16 17

[I morti "in Cristo" si riferiscono alla chiesa in età santi, non credenti OT. Per essere "in Cristo" deve essere salvato.

Il "rapimento" parola è usata da nessuna parte nella Bibbia. Proviene dalla traduzione latina di "raggiungere".]

Un certo numero di passaggi implicano che il rapimento avverrà prima della Tribolazione. I passaggi seguenti affermano chiaramente che i credenti non saranno soggetti alla collera divina. Dal momento che la Tribolazione comporta l'effusione dell'ira di Dio, i credenti non passerà attraverso di essa.

E ad aspettare il suo Figlio dal cielo che egli ha risuscitato dai morti Gesù, che ci libera dall'ira a venire. 1 Tessalonicesi 1:10

Per Dio non ci ha destinati a soffrire ira, ma per ricevere la salvezza attraverso il nostro Signore Gesù Cristo. 1 Tessalonicesi 5:9

Nota: Il contesto della 1 Tessalonicesi 5:01 11 parla della fine dei tempi. Pertanto, l'ira cui si fa riferimento non è inferno, ma l'ira che si verificano durante la Tribolazione.

Dal momento che hanno mantenuto il mio comando di sopportare con pazienza, anch'io ti preserverò nell'ora della tentazione che sta per venire sul mondo intero per testare quelli che vivono sulla terra. Apocalisse 3:10

Due cose da notare su questa promessa alla Chiesa di Filadelfia:

1. Essa si applica a tutte le chiese del Nuovo Testamento.

Chi ha orecchi, ascolti ciò che lo Spirito dice alle chiese. Apocalisse 03:13

2. E promette che tutte le chiese eviterà della Tribolazione.

Le parole greche tradotte "ti impediscono di" in Apocalisse 3:10 indicare la sola azione di separare chiesa in età da santi della Tribolazione, non la protezione continua dei credenti durante la Tribolazione.

B. La tribolazione avrà luogo prima di Cristo torna sulla terra per stabilire il Suo regno.

Il regno di Cristo sarà quella volta che Cristo regna personalmente come re e tutta la creazione si sottomette alla sua regola. Questo avverrà subito dopo la Tribolazione.

Si solleverà popolo contro popolo e regno contro regno. Ci saranno grandi terremoti, carestie e pestilenze in vari luoghi e gli eventi spaventosi e segni grandi dal cielo. Per questo è il momento della punizione in adempimento di tutto ciò che è stato scritto. Quanto terribile sarà in quei giorni per le donne incinte e madri che allattano! Ci sarà grande calamità nel paese e ira contro questo popolo. Ci saranno segni nel sole, della luna e le stelle. Sulla terra, le nazioni saranno in angoscia e ansia per il fragore e lo sballottamento del mare. Gli uomini verranno meno per la paurosa attesa di quello che sta venendo al mondo, per le potenze dei cieli saranno scrollate. Anche così, quando vedrete accadere queste cose, sappiate che il regno di Dio è vicino. Luca 21:10 11, 22 23, 25-26, 31

La tribolazione culminerà con la seconda venuta di Cristo sulla terra con i santi della chiesa tutte le età per distruggere i suoi nemici.

Vidi il cielo aperto e in piedi davanti a me c'era un cavallo bianco, il cui pilota è chiamato Fedele e Vero. Con giustizia giudica e fa la guerra. Gli eserciti del cielo lo seguivano, in sella su cavalli bianchi e vestito di lino bianco e puro. Poi vidi la bestia ei re della terra ei loro eserciti radunati per far guerra contro il cavaliere sul cavallo e il suo esercito. Ma la bestia fu catturata, e con lui il falso profeta che aveva fatto i miracoli per suo conto. . . . I due furono gettati vivi nello stagno ardente di fuoco e zolfo. Il resto di loro sono stati uccisi con la spada che usciva dalla bocca del cavaliere sul cavallo, e tutti gli uccelli si saziarono delle loro carni. Apocalisse 19:11, 14, 19-21

[Non confondere il rapimento con la Seconda Venuta. Si tratta di due eventi distinti, separati da 7 anni. ]

Di seguito una cronologia (sviluppato da Rolland McCune, ThD) che indica alcuni dei più significativi eventi del tempo della fine.

Richiudere e Recensione

In questa lezione, abbiamo imparato:

1. La tribolazione è il futuro, periodo di sette anni durante il quale si scatena l'ira di Dio, l'Anticristo sale al potere, e le moltitudini che vengono salvati.

2. La tribolazione avrà luogo dopo il Rapimento della Chiesa e prima della costituzione del regno di Cristo alla Sua seconda venuta.

Learning to Live It

1. Mentre in una libreria cristiana locale, si nota un nuovo libro sulla profezia biblica. Dopo l'acquisto, si porta a casa e iniziare a leggerlo. L'autore afferma che il rapimento si svolgerà a volte intorno alla metà della Tribolazione, perché la prima metà della Tribolazione non comporta l'ira di Dio. Perché questa posizione sbagliata?

Tutto il Tribolazione comporta l'effusione dell'ira di Dio, non solo la metà. L'ultima metà sarà più grave, tuttavia (a volte chiamata "la grande tribolazione" nella Scrittura). Dal momento che i credenti sono tenuti da questa ira, si passerà attraverso nessuna parte della tribolazione.

2. Un amico cristiano di vostro è preoccupato che passerà attraverso la Tribolazione. Cosa puoi dirgli per alleviare l'ansia?

Dio ha promesso che i credenti non passerà attraverso la Tribolazione (1 Tessalonicesi 1:10, 5:09, e Ap 3:10).

Lesson 31: Stewardship & Expansion of the Church

Ministry growth, or expansion , takes place as local churches engage in edification and evangelism. Such growth requires the management of the church's physical and human resources. Another word for such management is “ stewardship .” In this lesson, we will examine:

1. The foundation of stewardship

2. The profile of a steward

3. An example of stewardship

4. The importance of stewardship

I. The Foundation of Stewardship

Gestione si basa su due principi fondamentali:

A. Dio è creatrice e proprietaria di tutte le cose.

Poiché Dio ha creato l'universo, Egli possiede e tutto ciò che contiene. Questo non è vero solo di rocce, alberi e animali, ma anche degli esseri umani.

La terra è del Signore, e tutto in essa, il mondo, e tutti coloro che vivono in essa, egli l'ha fondata sui mari e ha stabilito che sulle acque. Salmo 24:1 2

B. L'umanità non fa niente veramente propria.

Quando si parla di loro "beni", essi sono davvero parlare impreciso. Tutto ciò che una persona "possiede" sarà lasciato indietro per qualcun altro. Tutto ciò che una persona "possiede" è stato prestato da Dio.

Per chi ti rende diverso da chiunque altro? Che cosa mai possiedi che tu non abbia ricevuto? E se l'hai ricevuto, perché te ne vanti come se non l'hai fatto? 1 Corinzi 4:07

II. Il profilo di uno Steward

A. Un steward è dato un trust (responsabilità) da un altro.

Commissari erano comuni in tempi biblici. Uno steward avrebbe dovuto sovrintendere agli affari di qualcun altro. La parola "steward" significa letteralmente "colui che

gestisce una famiglia. "Una gestione è quello che è stato affidato alle cure di un manager. Un sinonimo di buona amministrazione è l'amministrazione. Il Nuovo Testamento mette spesso i credenti con steward. Dio ha dato compiti credenti a realizzare e le risorse necessarie per realizzarli. Cristo ha illustrato questa verità in molte parabole.

Chi è dunque il manager fedele e saggio, che il padrone mette a capo dei suoi domestici per dar loro la loro razione di cibo a suo tempo? Luca 12:42

B. Un amministratore è quello di amministrare (controllare) che la fiducia.

I credenti sono per utilizzare tutte le risorse a loro affidate da Dio a svolgere i compiti loro affidati.

Sarà un bene per quel servo che il padrone troverà al suo lavoro al suo ritorno. Vi dico la verità, lo metterà a capo di tutti i suoi beni. Luca 12:43 44

[In altre parole, i credenti devono gestire / amministrare / supervisionare tutto ciò che Dio ha loro affidato. Ad esempio, Joseph.]

C. steward A è responsabile per lo svolgimento del suo compito.

Un tempo si avvicina [al tribunale di Cristo] quando Dio Domanderò conto di come i suoi affari sono stati gestiti. Il contabile sarà basato sul seguente principio: maggiore è il privilegio, maggiore è la responsabilità.

Da tutti coloro che hanno dato molto, molto sarà richiesto, e da colui che è stato affidato molto, molto più sarà richiesto. Luca 12:48

D. Le risorse del steward

Molti credenti pensano erroneamente che essi devono dare una parte delle loro risorse Dio.. Tuttavia, la gestione vera si basa sulla consapevolezza che tutto si è appartiene a Dio.

1. I credenti sono amministratori del loro tempo.

Come usiamo il nostro tempo è un riflesso delle nostre priorità. Ogni secondo di ogni giorno deve essere usato con saggezza.

Fate molta attenzione, quindi, come non vivere da stolti, ma da uomini saggi, sfruttando al massimo ogni opportunità, perché i giorni sono malvagi. Efesini 5:15 16

[Ovviamente questo non significa che non possiamo passare il tempo di riposo, relax, e semplicemente oziare. Ma significa che noi siamo responsabili per il modo in cui trascorrere del tempo tale. Non dobbiamo semplicemente "sprecare" grandi quantità di tempo a fare nulla redditizio, ad esempio guardare 3-4 video, videogiochi, "vegging fuori", ecc Siamo a "riscattare il tempo".]

2. I credenti sono custodi dei loro talenti.

Ogni credente ha abilità che Dio vuole da utilizzare per realizzare i suoi scopi. Dio si aspetta che ogni credente di usare i suoi talenti per potenziare il ministero della sua chiesa locale.

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. Romans 12:6 8

Ognuno dovrebbe usare una qualsivoglia dono che ha ricevuto a servire gli altri, amministrare fedelmente la grazia di Dio nelle sue varie forme. 1 Peter 4:10

[How has God "wired" you? Where are your talents, abilities, gifts? This is where God wants you to serve in the church.]

3. Believers are stewards of their treasures .

The New Testament strongly emphasizes the proper use of possessions by believers. Many passages warn about their improper use.

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 1 Timothy 6:6 10

James 5:1 6 identifies several of the sins associated with the love of money:

uno. Mettere la propria fiducia in ciò che è temporale (05:01 3)

b. accaparramento della ricchezza, piuttosto che usarla per il bene (5:3)

c. Utilizzo di mezzi disonesti per ottenere ricchezza (05:04)

d. Vivere nel lusso (05:05)

e. Auto indulgenza Praticare (5:5)

[Si noti che un lusso, auto-indulgente stile di vita è sbagliato per il cristiano. Perché pensi che diciamo questo? Poiché dal punto di vista di Dio, ci sono usi più importanti di denaro che lusso e comfort. La parte più difficile è determinare il livello adeguato di vita. La maggior parte delle persone che aumentare il loro standard, come loro aumenti di reddito (se lo fa). Invece, si deve determinare cosa ha bisogno e usare l'extra per supportare vari ministeri, programmi, enti di beneficenza, ecc Pochi effettivamente fare questo.]

4. I credenti sono custodi di un messaggio.

Paolo considerava il messaggio che egli predicava di essere il suo più grande responsabilità.

Sono diventato servo [della Chiesa], per il Dio mi ha dato incarico di presentare a voi la parola di Dio nella sua pienezza. Colossesi 1:25

2 Timoteo 2:01 2 indica che il governo di questa fiducia è il compito di ogni generazione di credenti.

III. Un esempio di Stewardship

Uno dei requisiti di Dio per amministratori di questa dispensa è il sostegno della chiesa locale. In 1 Corinzi 16:01 4 e 2 Corinzi 8 e 9, Paolo discute un'offerta che veniva preso per combattere la fame per le chiese in Palestina. Questi passaggi ci danno importanti indicazioni in materia di donazione.

A. Il tempo di dare

Le offerte dovevano essere raccolte su Domenica.

Il primo giorno di ogni settimana, ognuno di voi dovrebbe mettere da parte una somma di denaro in linea con il suo reddito. 1 Corinzi 16:02

Il significato di questo fatto è duplice: in primo luogo, soldi dati per il ministero doveva essere canalizzato attraverso la chiesa locale, che raccoglie Domenica. In secondo luogo, dal momento che era dando da fare mentre la chiesa è stato assemblato, deve essere visto come parte del culto.

B. Il luogo di dare

Come notato sopra, le offerte sono da adottare per la chiesa locale, che era responsabile della gestione dei fondi. E 'stato Chiese locali che sono riusciti i fondi raccolti da Paul. Paul ha avuto grandi dolori per garantire l'uso sapiente di tali fondi, sia nella realtà e nella percezione. In altre parole, Paolo è stato attento a lavorare sotto l'autorità delle Chiese locali al fine di evitare la percezione o accusa di uso improprio dei fondi.

E stiamo inviando insieme a [Tito] il fratello che è lodato da tutte le chiese per il suo servizio al Vangelo. Per di più, è stato scelto dalle chiese per accompagnare noi portiamo l'offerta, che amministrano in modo da onorare il Signore stesso e per dimostrare il nostro desiderio di aiutare. Vogliamo evitare ogni critica del modo di amministrare questo dono liberale. Per stiamo prendendo la briga di fare ciò che è giusto, non solo agli occhi del Signore, ma anche agli occhi degli uomini. 2 Corinzi 08:18 21

[Siate molto cauti nel sostenere le organizzazioni parachurch. A rigor di termini, essi non abbiano fondamento biblico (il programma di Dio è la chiesa, non il parachurch), e non possono utilizzare il denaro che ricevono saggiamente, come evidenziato dai recenti scandali evangelista TV.]

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. Ephesians 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:

uno. 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. Galatians 6:10

Recap & Review

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.

Learning to Live It

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? Perché o perché no?

no; He does not need them–they are luxuries. As Christians we should not live in posh luxury. Instead, we should provide for what we need and then for the needs of the ministry and the needs of others.

2. A church in town makes a big deal over the number of missionaries it supports. The pastoral staff, however, is struggling to make ends meet and the church facilities are in desperate need of repair. Yet, the church continues to take on new missionaries. What scriptural responsibilities has this church overlooked?

its responsibility to meet the needs of its pastors and to make its building presentable; Only after meeting these obligations should this church consider taking on more missionaries. Perhaps if they did this, the pastor would work harder or better, and better facilities would help the church grow, so the church could support even more missionaries. A solid mission program is based on a solid home church.

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.]

Learning to Live It

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. Acts 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.

Recap & Review

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.

Learning to Live It

1. Many worthy and needy causes receive money from churches: hospitals, schools, famine relief, etc. Should a local church support any of these causes? Perché o perché 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? Perché o perché 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. Acts 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. Ephesians 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.

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. – 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. Romans 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:

uno. 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:

uno. 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

uno. 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

uno. 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

uno. 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

uno. 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. Essi sono:

uno. 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.]

Richiudere e Recensione

In questa lezione, abbiamo imparato:

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.

Learning to Live It

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? Perché o perché 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. Essi sono:

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.

We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. 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. This can be done in two ways:

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. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 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 John 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.

Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Romans 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. Ephesians 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. James 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. Ephesians 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 . He then added:

Therefore encourage each other with these words. 1 Thessalonians 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. Galatians 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. Galatians 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 Peter 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.]

Questi includono:

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.]

Recap & Review

In questa lezione, abbiamo imparato:

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.

Learning to Live It

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? Perché o perché 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

lui. . . ? "

• “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.”]

Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. 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 John 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. Romans 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. Take your evil deeds out of my sight! 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.

Learning to Live It

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.

What should you tell him?

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? Perché o perché no?

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

Perché sono qui? 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." Questo è vero. 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. Ephesians 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] relazioni.

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.

What should you tell him?

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.

Lesson 24: The Role of the Church as a Local Assembly

In Lesson Twenty-Three, we learned that the body of Christ is made up of all believers in this dispensation, the church age, and was established to bring glory to God through the ministry of His Word. This “invisible” body is visible through local assemblies. Of the 114 occurrences of the Greek word ekklesia in the New Testament, 99 refer to the local church. 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 . This lesson will focus on the organization of the local church, which includes:

[This lesson has to do with the local church, not the universal. ]

1. Administrative responsibilities

2. Leadership offices

3. Specific ordinances

4. Membership requirements

5. Biblical limitations

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. This, however, was not the case.

A. The early church engaged in ministry planning .

Meetings were a necessary part of the ministry of first century churches. The book of Acts indicates that administrative meetings were held to address the following issues:

1. Acts 6 – The problem of service to widows

2. Acts 11 – The question of whether or not to accept Gentiles into the church

3. Acts 13 – The commissioning of the first missionaries

4. Acts 15 – The question of what requirements should be placed on Gentile converts

B. The early church developed procedures for implementing its plans.

The early church not only discussed what needed to be done, but also determined how to accomplish, or implement, its plans. For example, when they met to address the problem of service to the widows in the church, they solved the problem by creating the office of deacon .

So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them. Acts 6:2 3 (See also Acts 15:22 30.)

C. The early church engaged in evaluation . [Ie, checking to see how everything is working and trying to make it work better.]

At the close of Paul's first missionary journey (Acts 13 14), he and Barnabas returned to the Church at Antioch [the commissioning church, Acts 13:1-3] and presented the details of their ministry among the 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. Acts 14:27

The meeting of the Jerusalem Council recorded in Acts 15 was designed to further evaluate the information presented to the Church at Antioch.

The whole assembly became silent as they listened to Barnabas and Paul telling about the miraculous signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them. Acts 15:12

[Thus we should evaluate ourselves and our ministries periodically to see if we are hitting what we are aiming at.]

II. The Local Church is an Organization with Leadership Offices.

A. The office of pastor

1. The titles of the office

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

uno. He is called the pastor . [comes from "shepherd"]

This title refers to the pastor's responsibility to care for the spiritual needs of the congregation, a responsibility he fulfills primarily through the preaching and teaching of the Word of God.

b. He is called the overseer . [Gk episkopos = bishop = the boss]

This title refers to the administrative oversight that the pastor is to exercise. He is to set the agenda for the church's ministry and lead the church in accomplishing its objectives.

[God holds the pastor especially responsible for what goes on at the church he pastors. Oversight means management. The pastor is in charge, not the deacons, the secretary, etc. That does not mean that he is free to be a tyrant, tho.]

c. He is called the elder . [Gk = presbuteros]

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

[We ought to respect the pastor. That's one of the reasons we don't call him by his first name. 1 Thes 5:12-13 tell us to avoid young, inexperienced pastors. ]

Paul's address to the pastors at Ephesus contains all three 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. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. Acts 20:17-28 (See also 1 Peter 5:1-2.)

[The three terms, pastor, elder, and overseer, are synonymous, referring to the same office. The episcopal form of church government sets up a bishop over local pastors. ]

2. The qualifications for the office

The qualifications for the pastor are listed in 1 Timothy 3. This list gives both personal and professional qualifications.

[Personal -- inner qualities, characteristics, "character." Professional -- abilities pertaining to the duties of pastor.]

Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?) He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap. 1 Timothy 3:2 7

[Note that there's nothing here about being funny, a dynamic speaker, a "people person," etc. Those qualities are nice but not primary and really not necessary.]

3. The responsibilities of the office

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

Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 1 Timothy 4:13

[The public reading was important because many couldn't read and most did not own a copy of the Bible. Often the pastor was the most educated person in the community. ]

Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage with great patience and careful instruction. 2 Timothy 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 . . . pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. Ephesians 4:11 12

c. The pastor is responsible to govern the congregation.

Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who [govern] you in the Lord and who admonish you. 1 Thessalonians 5:12

The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor. 1 Timothy 5:17

[Because of these responsibilities, the pastor has a great deal of authority. He's the one in charge. The deacons don't run the church; the pastor(s) does.]

B. The office of deacon

1. The title of the office

The word “deacon” simply means servant . The Scriptures use the word in a general sense for anyone who serves another and in a specific sense for the local church office of deacon.

2. The qualifications for the office

1 Timothy 3 lists qualifications for the office of deacon similar to those given for the office of pastor.

Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. 1 Timothy 3:8 10, 12

Note: The personal qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3 are not special qualities found only in pastors and deacons. They are marks of mature believers. Therefore, all believers should be striving after them.

3. The responsibilities of the office

Unlike the office of pastor, the Bible does not clearly spell out the responsibilities of the deacon. Therefore, they must be derived from the title of the office and the example of the first deacons. 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.

We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word. Acts 6:3 4

[Biblically, deacons are not in a position of authority; however, authority may be delegated to them. The primary task of deacons is to serve.]

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

A. The nature of an ordinance

1. An ordinance is not a sacrament .

Sacraments are intended to provide saving grace. However, if grace was linked to any work or ritual, it would cease to be grace. [Cf Rom 11:6]

[An ordinance is a rite or ritual that the church is responsible to administrate. Such ordinances are important and meaningful, but they have no saving value. The word “sacrament” suggests a means of grace or a work that saves. Since we are not saved by works, we avoid sacramental language.]

2. An ordinance is a symbol .

When Christ gave the ordinances, He intended them to serve as reminders of the spiritual truths which they portray.

For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “this cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 1 Corinthians 11:23 25

[A symbol is representative, designed to bring to memory the thing represented. ]

B. The ordinances of the local church

1. The ordinance of baptism

uno. The method of baptism is immersion .

The Greek word which is translated “baptize” literally means “to immerse” or “to submerge.” Every instance of baptism in Scripture is by immersion.

Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, . . . . Acts 8:38 39

[So when a baby is "baptized" by sprinkling, he is really not baptized.]

b. The purpose of baptism is identification .

Baptism is to be carried out in the “name” of the triune God. The significance of the “name” is that of identification. The one being baptized is visibly picturing his identification with the triune God through Christ.

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. Matthew 28:19

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

2. The ordinance of the Lord's Supper

uno. It is a reminder of the cross work of Christ.

[By "cross work," we mean all that Christ accomplished by his death on the cross for us.]

For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. 1 Corinthians 11:26

b. It is a time of self examination .

A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. 1 Corinthians 11:28

C. The authority for the ordinances

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

[That is, not just anybody can legitimately go out and start baptizing people or serving the Lord's Supper. Eg, baptisms at camp, Lord's supper of potato chips and pop, serving communion in a hospital, etc. are not valid. They have to be done in the right way and in the context of the church.]

1. The command to observe the ordinances was given to the apostles (Matthew 26:26-29 and 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.

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:41-42

[Christ ? apostles ? church ]

3. The early church was responsible to correct improper observance of the ordinances (1 Corinthians 11:17 34).

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

The early church believed in the importance of church membership. The New Testament knows nothing of believers who are not members of a local church. 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. Church members are saved .

Only those who are saved may become members of a local church. This was the practice of the church from the beginning.

And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:47

B. Church members are baptized by immersion .

On the Day of Pentecost, three thousand people responded in faith to the message preached by Peter. All three thousand were baptized shortly thereafter.

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. Acts 2:41

Therefore, church membership and believer's baptism should not be separated. One becomes a member of a local church through baptism.

[The biblical pattern is always being saved, then baptized and added to the church. Believers who refuse baptism are out of order. ]

C. Church members are living obediently .

The early church practiced church discipline. Those members who persisted in sin were to be dismissed from the assembly. Thus, in order to remain a member of a local church, one must live obediently.

It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that does not occur even among pagans: A man has his father's wife. And you are proud! Shouldn't you rather have been filled with grief and have put out of your fellowship the man who did this? “Expel the wicked man from among you.” – 1 Corinthians 5:1-2, 13

V. The Local Church is an Organization with Biblical Limitations.

Local churches are engaged in a great variety of activities. Some are appropriate and some are not. What limitations can be applied to help identify appropriate activities for the church? An understanding of why the church exists and what it is to do will help determine how it should minister.

A. The local church is limited to the objectives of the Great Commission .

Lesson Twenty Three identified the objectives of the church as presented in the Great Commission. Essi sono:

1. Edificazione

Edification is the process of building up the believer's life on the foundation of Jesus Christ.

2. Evangelism

Evangelism is the effort to see people saved, baptized, and become active members of a local church.

[Evangelism does not stop short at one's profession of faith. It extends to baptism and spiritual growth. The church should strive to win people to Christ, baptize them, and encourage them to grow as Christians. ]

3. Expansion

Expansion is the growth and management of the church's physical and human resources. This is necessary for ongoing edification and evangelism.

Note: All the activities of the local church must be consistent with these objectives. 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.

We learned in Lesson Twenty Two that the purpose of the body of Christ is to glorify God through the ministry of His Word. The application of this purpose will limit the activities of the church in two ways.

1. The activities of the church must reflect the character of God.

To “glorify” God means to demonstrate or make known His character. 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. But when it comes to the worship service, it should be characterized by holiness and reverence and awe. ]

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.

Learning to Live It

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. How does your friend view the concept of church membership?

not very seriously. If he sees it as optional, he misunderstands.

What might you tell your friend to convince him that he needs to be faithful to one church?

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

2. One Sunday afternoon, your little brother wonders why the family has to go to the business meeting at church that night. 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. NOTE: Even teens who are members should stay for business meetings.