教训33：教会和王国

我为什么在这里？ 我到这里来参加耶稣基督统治。 除了 ​​知道基督有一天会征服他的敌人，我也知道我会在他的王国的一部分。 基督将建立一个完美和永恒的国度，每一个教会时代的信徒将与他的统治。

然后再进行任何进一步的，我们必须澄清两个圣经王国之间的差异：上帝的普遍王国和他的中保王国。 普遍的国度，是上帝对他的所有创作的绝对主权。 中保王国是他通过调解的具体个人（或代表）的个人统治。 后者王国开始在旧约，是历史发展的最终目标（见二十二课）。 正是在这个国度，信徒将有一天，他们的国王与基督共同统治。

[调解员是中间人或代表。 一个的中保王国是一个世俗的，政治的，王国中的神统治通过调解员。 神的普遍王国的事实是，上帝在宇宙的规则。]

中保王国已知的各种名称，如“天国”，“神的国”，或简单的“王国”。一般来说，上下文确定这两个王国（通用或中保）作者在心。 在这一课中，“王国”是指的中保王国。

[斯科菲尔德参考圣经“神的国和天国之间的区别，但两者的代名词，并交替使用。 大多数时代论使两者之间没有区别。]

人们不应该混淆与救赎或教会的王国。 虽然人们常常用这句话互换，王国是一个独特的想法。

[即，“乔已进入王国”，意思是“乔得到了保存。” 有几个段落教一个进入王国，在某种意义上，在得救点。 然而，我们可以看到，最好保持独立王国和拯救的想法。 王国将是一个物理的现实。 教会不履行所有的王国承诺。]

本课程将探讨的中保王国，它的历史，和教会的关系，它的性质。

[请记住，当我们在这一课中使用的“王国”，我们正在谈论约中保王国，不是神的普遍主权或得救。]

一，自然王国

圣经表明神的国度，包括三个要素：（1）选择一个神圣的统治者 ，（2）排除的学科领域 ，（3） 占统治地位的实际行动。 除非所有三个都存在，有没有王国。 大卫证明了这一点时，他说：

然而，耶和华以色列的神，选择从我的全家，我是以色列永远的国王。 作为领导者，他选择了犹大，从犹大的房子，他选择了我的家人，从我父亲的儿子，他很高兴让我对所有以色列的王。 我所有的儿子和耶和华给了我很多，他选择了我儿子所罗门坐在耶和华以色列王国的宝座。 历代志上28:4 5

先知但以理还强调，这三个要素时，他弥赛亚的未来统治中写道：

晚上，我在我的视野看，有在我之前是一个人的儿子一样，天上的云降临。 他走近古代的天，领导到他的存在。 他被授予权力，荣耀和主权权力;所有人民，民族和每一种语言的人崇拜他。 他的权柄是永远的权柄，不能废去，他的王国是一个永远不会被摧毁。 丹尼尔7:13 14

[根据这个定义，是耶稣基督目前统治他的王国？ 号也许有人会说他治港作为其头部的教堂，或者说，他掌管信徒的心，但是这不是在王国的想法耶稣和使徒的教导。 他们教文字，地上的国度，而不是一种无形的，精神的。]

二。 上帝的王国的历史

在整个“圣经”，上帝一贯排除通过人类的代表。 以下是一些上帝使用或将使用这种方式的人。

答： 摩西

这是他们拒绝的话，同摩西，“谁让你的统治者和法官吗？”他被送到布什出现在他的天使，是他们的统治者和神亲自搭救通过。 徒7:35

摩西是神的代表。 神通过他统治以色列。

B. 扫罗和大卫

所以撒母耳就在他的兄弟的存在，并从当日耶和华精神后，大卫来到电力，石油膏[大卫]号角。 塞缪尔接着拉玛。 耶和华的灵离开扫罗，和邪恶的精神，从耶和华折磨着他。 1塞缪尔16:13 14

扫罗是上帝的代表王。 然而，因为他的抗命，上帝拿走了他的统治权（撒母耳记上15:23）和特殊的精神与它一起去的，恩膏“ 政教合一的恩膏 。”[评论政教合一的恩膏的想法。]在这一点上，我们应该注意两个事实：（1）在政教合一的恩膏给大卫的时刻，它是从扫罗（同样的命运。大卫担心以后的生活中，根据诗篇51:11）。 （2）神开始与大卫的王朝，他将统治他的人民。 从那个时候起，每过神的国度的国王，是从大卫的路线。

三所罗门

[上帝]说[大卫]：“你儿子所罗门是一个将建立我的房子和我的法院，因为我选择了他是我儿子，我将是他的父亲。 永远如果他坚定不移地执行我的命令和法律，我将建立他的王国，正在此时，“历代志上28:6 7

四基督

如上所述，每中保王自大卫是大卫的后裔。 这包括基督（以赛亚书1，11日，马修和卢克3）。

1。 预言基督的国度。

由于以色列的叛乱，神暂时结束了他的王国安排与国家[这发生在公元前586年巴比伦囚禁。然而 ，从点上的先知预言，上帝有一天会恢复他的王国中一个永恒的时尚。

将恢复到前统治王权将来到耶路撒冷的女儿。 弥迦书4:8

他将在大卫的宝座，并在他的王国统治，建立和维护公平和正义，从那个时候就和永远。 以赛亚书9:7

[需要注意的是相同的排序，大卫王国将恢复。 大卫王国的一种精神？ 不，这是文字，地上的，等于是将基督的。]

2。 提供基督的国度。

基督和约翰的浸礼会教友宣讲王国消息。 承诺的王， 弥赛亚 ，基督来到世上。 然而，犹太人拒绝了他的提议，并残忍地杀害了他。

施洗约翰讲道：

“悔改，天国近了。” -马太福音3:2

基督同样宣布：

“悔改，天国近了。”马太福音4:17（又见马太4:23路加福音11点19分20。）

告诉门徒讲道：

“天国近了。”马太福音10:7

注：以色列王国的报价是一个真正的报价。 然而，神的计划，包括以色列的排斥和基督的死亡 。 因此，基督来到世上有两个原因：首先，他提供了犹太人的王国。 第二，他可能在未来王国的参与。 允许自己被钉在十字架上，他提供了救恩的方法，让男人可以知道他为国王。

[有一些辩论，就什么都不会发生了犹太人接受耶稣为他们的弥赛亚。 有人说，千年已经开始在那里。 这是一个有争议的问题，因为以色列没有接受他们的弥赛亚耶稣在这个时候。]

3。 基督的王国被推迟 。

神的国度已被推迟。 这是今天不存在的。 基督复活后，他给他的弟子们进一步指示有关他未来的王国（徒1:3）。 门徒以为他会立即恢复以色列国，并开始统治。 基督，然而，否则教。

因此，当他们碰到了一起，他们就问他，“主啊，你在这个时候要恢复以色列国，”他对他们说：“这是不是让你知道的时间或日期的父亲已成立由他自己的权威。“使徒1时06分7

[这是一个很好的文本显示，弟子们期待文字，地上的国度。 如果天国是一种精神（即救恩），他们会不会问这个问题，因为王国将生效。]

4。 基督的国度，总有一天会成立 。

在他第二次来，基督将建立他的俗世的统治。 这将是一个文字，在耶路撒冷为中心的物理王国。

神和羔羊的宝座，将在城市里，他的仆人服侍他。 启示录22:3（14丹尼尔7:13，以赛亚书9:7，和卢克1:31 33。）

第三。 教会和王国

神的中保王国实际上涉及三个阶段：旧约的神权政治 ， 千年王国，和永恒的国度。 正如32个课中提到的苦难最终将与第二基督的来临。 那时，基督将彻底摧毁他的敌人，暂时绑定撒旦，并设置了他的千年王国（“千年虫”是指1000多年）。 千年之后，撒旦将被释放从他的临时束缚，导致最后的反抗，遭受的失败，并予以谴责，以永恒的惩罚（启示录20时01分10）。 上帝会判断在白色大宝座的审判（启示录20:11-15 15）不分年龄人人共享的未保存的，现在的天地，摧毁和创造新的（2彼得3:10 13和启示录21:1），并建立他永恒国度（启示录21:2 FF）。

A.教会时代的信徒有天国的公民 。

他救了我们从黑暗的权势，和我们带进他爱子的国度。 歌罗西书1:13

我们是天上的国民。 腓3:20

必须解释这些经文中的“位置”的真相。 位置真理介绍，信徒拥有，但不会遇到。 因此，尽管我们现在还住在这罪恶黑暗的世界，和基督的王国尚未建立，我们从罪的权势和基督的国度的公民定位。

B.教会时代的信徒会在王国统治 。

他得胜的，我会跟我坐在宝座上的权利，就像我克服了，坐在他的宝座上与我的父亲。 启示录3:21（见启示录20:6）。

在这首诗中，基督是教会时代的信徒说。 “得胜者”一词是指那些克服撒旦在基督信仰（约翰一书5:4）。 因此，所有的教会时代的信徒，将王室的一部分。 我们将共同与基督的统治，在永恒的国度。

[这是唯一的真正的教会年龄圣人的。 旧约的信徒有没有千年的一部分。]

学习生活

1。 生活的考验是多方面的。 工作，家庭部和疾病经常造成困难。 如何在这一课学到的材料可能影响与生活的审判方式之一交易？

它应该帮助我们应付/坚持通过他们，与他们知道等待在年底，我们（罗8:18，希伯来书11:10，13-16，24-26）。 我们知道，有超过此生的生命。 在历史上和宇宙中的一切都被移动到预定的结束。 我们的审判在神的历史计划的一部分。 我们知道故事的结尾。 我们是冠军球队。 我们的试验是真的很临时。 我们有一个永恒的，是他们的自由和享受真正的幸福。

2。 这些事实的知识如何可能的影响方式，把短的时间内，在此期间，他住在这个世界上？

它是相对永恒相比微不足道。 我们永恒的命运，然而，决定在此生活。 一个巨大的喜悦，是在我们的商店。 此外，我们并不需要“走出去”现在的有滋有味，仿佛这是所有有。 我们可以推迟/推迟，直到后来一些愉快的事情。 我们应该生活在永恒的光。

介绍教会的命运

我为什么在这里？ 我到这里来参加耶稣基督统治。

二十到二十四中的经验教训，我们了解到，教会的目的是为了荣耀上帝通过他的话语部。 二十到三十一五，在课堂上我们了解到，教会的目标是熏陶，传道，以及扩大和这三个每个人都可以通过推行各种活动来完成。 其中，教育，崇拜，团契，传福音的个人和企业，实体和组织的扩张。

在这最后一节的教会（教会的教义），我们将讨论教会的命运。 我为什么在这里？ 我到这里来参加耶稣基督统治。 在本福音的信徒生活，我知道，我是“获胜的队伍。”我不会在磨难面临神的审判。 相反，我热切期待着基督的胜利，他的敌人，并通过所有永恒与他的执政。

教训32：教会的苦难

发生了什么事情发生在未来，哪一部分的教会在其中发挥吗？ “圣经”讲7年期间，涉及无与伦比的判断。 这将是一个时，会出现一个人，受撒旦的授权，控制整个世界的政治，宗教，军事资源。 这将是一个时候，神释放后，他的愤怒的地球及其居民。 这一时期被称为灾难 。 在这一课中，我们将学习苦难就会像什么时，它会发生。

一，自然的苦难

灾难时期将是一个世界范围内的判断持续了7年的时间。 破七印的判断（见图表）教堂着迷，它将开始，将结束与第二个基督的来临，届时，他将完全摧毁他的敌人，在世界末日之战建立他的王国。

A.苦难将涉及连续释放神的忿怒 。

从开幕的第一个密封的判断，在启示录6浇在启示录16（这将结束苦难）的最后一碗判断，上帝将倾泻而出，他的愤怒。 可以直观在苦难判断继承如下：

有些人认为下半年的苦难将涉及神的忿怒[这就是所谓的中期TRIB的位置。]。 然而，前两个印章，而开始了苦难，清楚地表明，在整个期间的特点是由神的忿怒流露。

我看见羔羊揭开七印。 然后我听见在四活物像打雷的声音说，“来吧！”我看了看，那里之前，我是一匹白马！ 其车手举行了鞠躬，并给了他一顶王冠，他骑着作为一个征服征服者弯曲。 当羔羊揭开第二印的。 。 。 另一匹马出来，一片火红。 它的骑手被赋予的权力，采取从地球上的和平，并让男人杀死对方。 启示录6:1 4

B.苦难将涉及突出的一个关键邪恶的领导人- 敌基督。

在苦难中，撒旦将授权敌基督，假先知，背道的教会。 这三个，敌基督将与其他两个是他的控制之下的首要人物。 敌基督（约翰一书2:22），也被称为巴比伦王（以赛亚书14:4），邪恶的王子（以西结书21:25），小喇叭（但以​​理书7:8），无法无天的人（帖撒罗尼迦后书2:3），野兽（启示录11:7）。

1. 敌基督的能力

敌基督将超过所有其他人的领导人，并因此吸引了通用以下。

一个。 他将是一个能干的政治家（但以理书8:23-25​​）。

2。 他将是一个军事天才（启示录13:4）。

C。 他将被视为值得崇拜（启示录13:4，8）。

2。 敌基督的职业生涯

敌基督最初将出现一个鲜为人知的政治领袖，“小喇叭”（但以理书7:8）。 然而，在很短的时间内，他将成为世界上最大的独裁者 。 他的职业生涯的高点如下：

一个。 灾难会开始时，他与以色列的条约 ，让她重建庙宇和更新祭祀崇拜（但以理书9:27）。

2。 在苦难的中点（3 1/2年后），他将中断与以色列的条约，需求自我崇拜 （但以理书9:27和2撒罗尼迦2时04分）， 杀主的两名证人（启示录11时01分14 ），开始积极迫害以色列（启示录12:1 6），并摧毁背道的教会，他不再需要（启示录17:16）。

C。 在基督的苦难结束，将返回，摧毁他的敌人，敌基督和假先知扔在火湖里 （启示录19:11 21）。

C.灾难将导致许多人得救 。

虽然上帝会惩罚发送毁灭性的灾难和地球的居民，使敌基督和他的力量，做他们的最坏，他的惩罚会带来许多犹太人和外邦人（撒迦利亚书13时01分和17启示录7:9）自己的一种手段。

二。 时间的考验

A.磨难后，将采取教堂着迷的地方。

[许多福音派同意我们已经说过了这一点。 苦难的确切时间，是一个争论点。 最近的“预怒”狂喜的理论已经得到普及。 该理论认为，基督徒将通过第一部分的苦难，在神前开始浇筑出他的愤怒（“前的愤怒”）。 我们相信，这样的立场是错误的。]

教会不会遇到苦难的一部分，因为它将会赶上（“欢天喜地”）前夕。 根据圣经，基督会从天上降下来，“迎头赶上”都死了，生活教会时代的信徒，以满足他的云。 然后，他会带他们到天堂，在那里他们将继续留在苦难。

对于自己的主会从天上降下来，随着一声响亮的命令，与天使的声音，并与神的号吹响，在基督里死了，第一次上升。 在那之后，我们仍然健在，留将赶上在云，以满足在空中与主，与他们。 因此我们将主永远同在。 帖前4:16 17

[“在基督里”死教会时代的圣人，而不是旧约信徒。 是“在基督里”是要保存。

在“圣经”，“狂喜”这个词是用来无处。 它来自拉丁语翻译的“追赶”。]

一些段落暗示将采取灾难发生之前 ，着迷。 下面的段落清楚，信徒不会受到上帝的愤怒。 由于灾难涉及流露神的忿怒，信徒不会去通过它。

并等待他从天上的儿子，他从耶稣的死，救我们脱离将来忿怒的提出。 帖前1:10

为上帝，没有任命我们受刑，但通过我们的主耶稣基督的救恩。 1帖撒罗尼迦前书5:9

注：1帖撒罗尼迦前书5:1 11中发言的结束时间。 因此，被称为“愤怒是没有地狱，但愤怒这将发生在磨难。

既然你已经把我的命令，忍耐，我也将保持你从小时的审判，呼吁全世界来测试那些住在地球上。 启示录3:10

这在费城教会的承诺，应注意两件事情：

1。 它适用于所有的新约教会。

他，凡有耳的，让他听到圣灵向众教会所说的什么。 启示录3:13

2。 它的承诺，所有教堂将避免苦难。

从翻译的希腊字“保持你的”启示录3:10表明脱离苦难，而不是信徒在苦难的持续保护教会的年龄圣人的一个动作。

B.苦难将发生在基督之前返回地球，以建立他的王国 。

基督的国度将是基督亲自统治作为国王和所有创作服从他的统治。 这将立即发生后的苦难。

国家将攻打民，国要攻打国。 会有大地震，饥荒和瘟疫在不同的地方，和可怕的事件和大神迹从天上。 因为这是履行所有已写入惩罚时间。 它会在那些日子里，为孕妇和哺乳母亲多么可怕！ 在土地和对这种人的愤怒会有很大的困扰。 会有太阳，月亮和星星的迹象。 在地球上，各国将在大海的咆哮和折腾的痛苦和困惑。 男人会从恐怖微弱，什么是未来世界的天体，担心会被动摇。 即便如此，当你看到这些事情发生，你知道神的国近。 22 23 11，路加福音21:10，25-26，31

磨难， 最终将与基督第二次来与所有教会时代圣徒地球毁灭他的敌人。

我看到天上站在开放和之前，我是一个白色的马，被称为诚信真实的骑手。 他与正义的法官和战争。 天上的军队跟在他后面，骑白马，穿着细麻布，白色和清洁。 然后，我看见那兽和地球国王和他们的军队聚集在一起，使对在马背上的骑手和他的军队的战争。 但捕获的野兽，他曾代表他的神迹的假先知。 。 。 。 他们两个人活活地被扔在烧着硫磺的火湖里。 其余被打死的骑手在马口出剑了，飞鸟都吃饱了他们的肉。 启示录19:11，14，19-21

[不要混淆第二次来临的狂喜。 他们是两个不同的事件，相隔7年。 ]

下面是一个时间轴（罗兰McCune，THD开发），表明一些更重要的结束时间的事件。

开赛及审查

在这一课中，我们了解到：

1。 灾难是未来7年期间，在此期间，释放神的忿怒，敌基督的上升动力，和众多保存。

2。 磨难后，狂喜的教堂和前建立基督的国度，在他第二次来的地方。

学习生活

1。 虽然在当地的基督教书店，你注意到对圣经预言的新书。 购买后，你回家，并开始阅读。 作者指出着迷，将周围的苦难中的某个时候，因为上半年的苦难并不涉及上帝的愤怒。 为什么是这个位置的错误呢？

所有的苦难涉及流露上帝的愤怒，不只是去年的一半。 上半将更加严峻，但是，（有时也被称为“大灾难”中的经文）。 由于信徒保持这种愤怒，他们将经历磨难的任何部分。

2。 一个基督徒朋友你是担心他会经历的苦难。 你能告诉他，以减轻他的焦虑？

神已经应许信徒不会去通过苦难（帖前1:10，5:9，和启3:10）。

教训31：教会的监管及扩展

部生长，或扩大 ，发生当地教堂中从事的熏陶和传福音。 这种增长需要教会的物质和人力资源的管理。 这种管理的另一个词是“ 管家 ”。在这一课中，我们将探讨：

1。 管理基础

2。 管家文件

3。 管理的一个例子

4。 对管理的重要性

一，监管基金会

管理是基于两个基本原则：

答：上帝是万物的创造者和所有者 。

自从上帝创造了宇宙，他拥有的一切都在它。 这是不是唯一的真正的岩石，树木，动物，但人类也。

地球是耶和华，一切都在它的世界，所有住人，他 ​​创办了它在海上，并成立后，它的水域。 诗篇24:1 2

B.人类确实没有真正属于自己的东西。

当人们说他们的“财产”，他们真的是讲不准确的。 一切，一个人“拥有”，将别人留下。 一直一个人“拥有”上帝借给他。

对于谁使你与别人不同？ 你有什么，你没有收到吗？ 如果你没有收到，为什么你吹嘘，虽然你没有？ 1哥林多前书4:7

二。 管家简介

答：一个管家是由另一信托 （责任）。

小组共同在圣经时代。 预计管家监督别人的事务。 “管家”这个词的字面意思是“一个人

管理一个家庭 。“管理的是，这已委托照顾经理。 一个管理良好的代名词，是管理 。 新约往往比较管事的信徒。 上帝赐给信徒的任务来完成，所需的资源来完成它们。 基督在许多比喻说明了这真理。

谁是那忠心有见识的经理，其中主负责他的仆人了，让他们在适当的时候他们的伙食补助？ 路加福音12:42

B. A steward is to administrate (oversee) that trust.

Believers are to use all the resources entrusted to them by God to accomplish their appointed tasks.

It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns. I tell you the truth, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. Luke 12:43 44

[In other words, believers are to manage/administrate/oversee everything God has entrusted to them. Eg, Joseph.]

C. A steward is accountable for the performance of his task.

A time is coming [at the Judgment Seat of Christ] when God will demand an accounting for how His affairs have been managed. This accounting will be based on the following principle: the greater the privilege , the greater the responsibility .

From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Luke 12:48

D. The resources of the steward

Many believers incorrectly think that they must give God a portion of their resources. However, true stewardship is based upon the realization that all one has belongs to God.

1。 Believers are stewards of their time .

How we use our time is a reflection of our priorities. Every second of every day must be used wisely.

Be very careful, then, how you live not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15 16

[Obviously this does not mean that we can't spend time resting, relaxing, and just plain goofing off. But it does mean that we are accountable for how we spend such time. We should not simply "waste" large chunks of time doing nothing profitable, eg watching 3-4 videos, playing video games, "vegging out," etc. We are to "redeem the time."]

2。 Believers are stewards of their talents .

Every believer has abilities which God wants to use to accomplish His purposes. God expects every believer to use his talents to enhance the ministry of his local church.

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

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. 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:

一个。 名次的信任，这是时间 （5:1 3）

。 囤积财富，而不是使用它为好（5 ​​时03分）

C。 使用不正当的手段获得财富（5:4）

D。 住在豪华 （5:5）

E。 实行自我放纵 （5:5）

[请注意，一个豪华的，自我放纵的生活方式是错误的基督教。 为什么你觉得我们这样说？ 因为从神的角度来看，有比金钱更重要的用途，豪华和舒适。 最困难的部分是确定适当的生活标准。 大多数人增加他们的收入增加，他们的标准（如果这样做）。 相反，应该确定他需要什么，并使用额外的支持各部委，计划，慈善机构等是做到这一点。]

4。 信徒是一个消息的管家。

保罗认为，他所宣扬的是他的最大责任的消息。

我已经成为[]由佣金神的仆人教会了我向您介绍在其丰满的神字。 歌罗西书1:25

提摩太后书2时01分2表明，这种信任管理是每一代的信徒的任务。

第三。 监管的一个例子

神在这福音的管家的要求之一是当地教会的支持。 保罗在哥林多前书16时01分4和2哥林多前书8日和9，讨论饥荒救济为教会在巴勒斯坦被采取的发行。 这些经文给我们关于给予重要指示。

A.给予时间

产品均将在周日收集。

在每星期的第一天，你们每个人都应该拨出一笔钱，在与他的收入维持。 1哥林多前书16:2

这一事实的意义在于两个方面：首先，教育部给的钱是要通过当地的教堂 ，星期日组装。 其次，因为它给人是必须做的，而教会组装，应视为崇拜的一部分。

B.赋予的地方

如上所述，产品要采取当地教会，这是负责基金的管理。 这是本地教会管理保罗收集到的资金的。 保罗煞费苦心，以确保明智地使用这些资金，无论是在现实和知觉 。 换句话说，保罗是谨慎地工作，以避免当地教会的权威下的感知或滥用资金的指控。

和我们一起发送提图斯的兄弟，他是为他服务的所有福音教会的称赞。 更重要的是，他被选为教堂，陪伴着我们，为我们进行的发行，我们管理，以纪念主自己，并表明我们的热心帮助。 我们希望我们的方式管理这个自由的礼物，以避免任何批评。 为我们正在尽力做什么是正确的，不仅在主的眼睛，而且在男人眼中。 2哥林多前书8:18 21

[支持parachurch组织要非常谨慎。 严格地说，它们不是圣经（神的计划是教会，不parachurch的），他们可能不会用这笔钱，他们收到明智的，最近的电视布道者丑闻证明。]

C.给予的态度

1。 管理捐赠是自愿的 。

新约给是不是一个法律问题。 相反，它流向从心里承认，我们有属于神。

每个人应该给他在他的心里决定放弃，不要勉强或强迫之下。 哥林多后书9:7

[有趣，注意：“欢快”的希腊字，从“根”希拉“，”热闹“。 ]

2。 管理给予是一种特权 。

保罗原本没有要求巴勒斯坦教会提供给马其顿教会，因为他知道，马其顿极差。 然而，当他们听到的必要性，他们承认与保罗被列入。 即使在伟大需要自己，他们认为给予是一种特权。

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 .

新约不教，一个人的收入的具体比例是给予主。 旧约的十分之一（百分之十），只能作为一个起点。 一个很好的例子的牺牲马其顿再次：

为我作证，他们给尽可能多的，因为他们是可以的，甚至超出自己的能力。 哥林多前书8:3

[事实上，法律规定，旧约信徒给大大高于只有10％（他们被要求给近25％）。 除了 ​​需要什么，他们给了太多的牺牲和经常自由意志提供。 然而，10％是一个信徒开始的好地方。 每个人都应该给至少多。]

四。 监管的重要性

管理是重要的，至少有两个原因：

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:

一个。 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.]

2。 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

开赛及审查

在这一课中，我们了解到：

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.

学习生活

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? 为什么或为什么不呢？

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.]

二。 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.]

第三。 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.]

四。 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.]

学习生活

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.]

二。 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.]

第三。 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.

开赛及审查

在这一课中，我们了解到：

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.

学习生活

1。 Many worthy and needy causes receive money from churches: hospitals, schools, famine relief, etc. Should a local church support any of these causes? 为什么或为什么不呢？

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? 为什么或为什么不呢？

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. ]

二。 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.]

第三。 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:

一个。 Man centered witness views God primarily as a friend. This tends to minimize His authority.

2。 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:

一个。 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

2。 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

一个。 He is our Creator; we are responsible to Him.

2。 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

一个。 Man became sinful by rebelling against God.

2。 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

一个。 Christ is the God man; because He is God, He is perfect; because He is a man, He can save mankind.

2。 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

一个。 Man must acknowledge his complete sinfulness; he is unable to please God.

2。 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. ]

四。 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

2。 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. 它们分别是：

一个。 Belief in fundamental doctrines (deity of Christ, inerrancy of Scripture, etc.)

2。 A righteous lifestyle

c. Love for other Christians

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

开赛及审查

在这一课中，我们了解到：

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.

学习生活

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? 为什么或为什么不呢？

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. 它们分别是：

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

二。 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.]

第三。 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.]

这些措施包括：

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.]

开赛及审查

在这一课中，我们了解到：

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.

学习生活

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? 为什么或为什么不呢？

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

他说。 。 。 ？“

• “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

二。 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

第三。 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

四。 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.

学习生活

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? 为什么或为什么不呢？

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

Why am I here? 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." 这是真的。 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.]

二。 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

第三。 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] relationships.

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.]

四。 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.]

二。 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.

一个。 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.

2。 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

一个。 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.]

2。 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.]

第三。 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

一个。 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.]

2。 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

一个。 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

2。 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).

四。 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. 它们分别是：

1。 启迪

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

2。 传福音

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。 扩张

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.

学习生活

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.