WHAT IS THE REAL CHURCH ?

By

PASCAL A. EHOUN

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 PREFACE
There Is But One True Church of Christ.
An observing person, concerned about God, truth and eternity has reason to be perplexed.
Why is Christendom fragmented? Are some churches right, and some wrong? Does it make a
difference?
Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church said, "I will build my Church, and the gates of
hell shall not prevail against it." (Matthew 16:18)
Yes,
"Christ loved the church, and gave himself up for her, to sanctify her by
purifying her, and washing her with the water of the word, to bring forth
before him this glorious Church, without spot or wrinkle or anything like it,
but holy and blameless”. (Ephesians 5:25-27)
This is why the Bible tells us: Be continually filled with the Spirit. May the Word of Christ
dwell among you abundantly; instruct and exhort one another in all wisdom, by psalms, by
hymns, by spiritual songs, singing to God in your hearts under the inspiration of grace. And
whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to
God the Father through him.
(Ephesians 5:18 – Colossians 3:16-17)

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Pages
Introduction
I- Meaning of the word "Church"
II- Origin of the Church
III- Images and symbols of the Church
IV- Goals of the Church
V- Jesus Christ the perfect model
VI- Organization of the Church
VII- The Diacres and Diaconesses
VIII- The ancients other functions in the church
Ix- The ministry of women in the church
X- Discipline in the Church
XII- Material responsibilities of the Christian
XIII- Vision global for the Salvation of Lost, Mission
XIV- of the Church
XV-The Church is Glorious and Triumphant.

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 FOREWORD
We consider something to be timely when it makes itself available at the
appropriate period, and majority of people benefit from it. No time in history has
the world been filled with false churches as it is evident today. Paul in writing to
Timothy warned him of many false teachers appearing; some of whose
teachings he described as "4 nor give heed to fables and endless
genealogies, which cause disputes rather than godly edification
which is in faith. 5 Now the purpose of the commandment is love
from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere
faith, 6 from which some, having strayed, have turned aside to
idle talk, 7 desiring to be teachers of the law, understanding
neither what they say nor the things which they affirm." (I Tim.
1:4-7)
This booklet dealing on WHAT IS THE REAL CHURCH ?, and it will equip
you for what is already on and yet to come. Brother Pascal A. Ehoun, unlike
many others, has not failed to give credit where it is due (to the zeal and
aspiration of even those in error). He has marked out clearly by
scriptural proofs the right way to follow and the wrong way to denounce.
It is with great pleasure that I recommend the use of this these to all our literate
Christians who could translate it to teach others. ''a man warned is worth
many." The understanding of the various beliefs as well as what the Bible
teaches will equip every sincere Christian who wishes to defend this faith and to
be a soul winner for Christ. Statistics reveal that those stuffed with false
teachings are more aggressive and active. Our Christians are so materialistically
occupied that they have no time for personal work which yields better and
lusting results. Do not forget that there are souls for you to win for Christ! unless
you wish to meet Him empty handed.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I want to express my sincere thanks to all the people who helped me one way or
another in the production of this thesis. My thanks go first to my spiritual father
Rev. Dr. Daniel Ebenezer Amuzu the Chairman of Ordained Clergy
Association Ghana (President of Affach Theological College) for his
useful advice and encouragement. Without his teachings and directives this
work would have been impossible for me.
When I have come to learn at the Affach Theological College in 2019, being a
celestial christian on a mission, my eyes are open. It was God's way of bringing
me about to face somes realities about Christianity and known the difference
between the fake and the real church of Christ Jesus; and for me by then, church
is church and when I stepped in degree class through PHILOSOPHY OF
RELIGION with Rev. Dr. BERNARD BAMFO OSEI, ECCLESIOLOGY
with Rev. Dr. GERSHON A. EDINAM and other many courses, I realized
that I get lost, and I ought to find the real church in which I have to serve the
living God.
As I read, prayed and analyzing things after a course called CULTS AND
RELIGIONS with Rev. Dr. JONATHAN KUMAH, the answers began to
come. God then also began to use different people to help me put these answers
together.
The lessons have in fact grown out of me and my perception has changed, I
started to analyzing and comparing my former religion to others and comparing
it to the Scripture of the Bible and things I've learned; and the final result is I
was in wrong place serving God.
This thesis is primarily for evangelism. It is meant to equip the Christian so he
can be an effective witness for Christ, a real soul winner. I pray that it may
actually help all Christians be better soul winners and detect the real churches
from many.

I also thank Rev. Dr. William …..for editing my work. He did his best to
eliminate from this little thesis as many grammatical, punctuation and spelling
errors as possible.
He is able to make out my hand-written work which some people appreciate to
read. After his labour, work on the thesis became easier. I pray that God may
reward him for the sacrifice he made.

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I would also like to express my appreciation to all the people whose (works,
books) I have used. I hope they will rejoice to find out how much their books
have been of help to people like myself.
Finally, I want to thank my lovely wife, Mrs. Vivian Égnon
Hadjougangan Ehoun who has kept me well-fed and properly
maintained so I could give my time fully to the work of the Lord.
May God bless all the people who will ever have a use for this book.
May God bless all these people ! Amen

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 INTRODUCTION
The word "church" comes from the Latin ecclesia, derived from the Greek ekklesia
(ἐκκλησία), which means assembly. Itself derived from the verb ekkaleô, “to summon, to call
outside”. Latin-speaking Christians have adopted the term in the form ecclesia. In the
Septuagint, a Greek version of the Hebrew Bible dating from the 2nd century BC. J. - C., the
Greek word ekklesia (church) indicates an assembly convened for religious reasons, often for
the worship. In this translation, the Greek ekklesia always corresponds to the Hebrew qahal
which is however sometimes also translated as synagôgè (synagogue). For first-century
Judaism, ekklesia immediately evokes the synagogue, to be understood as the assembly of
God. The words "church" and "synagogue" were thus two synonymous terms. They will take
on a different meaning only because the Christians will appropriate the word church,
reserving that of synagogue for the assemblies of Jews who refuse Christianity and from
which they distinguish themselves more and more clearly. Other than the Church as a
universal institution, the word is written with a capital letter including in the plural when it
designates one or more organizations, unlike the church, a place of worship which designates
from the 3rd century the building where a community meets.
Is the church a building, a temple, a synagogue or an organization ? What is the name of the
Church ? How to recognize the Church of the Lord ? Let us read the characteristics of the true
church in this teaching.
1. The church is the people of God who have been called out of
the world (kosmos in Greek)
Colossians 1:12-13 "Give thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to
share in the inheritance of the saints in the light, which delivered us
from the power of darkness and carried us into the kingdom of the
Son of his love”.
II Corinthians 6:15-18 “What agreement is there between Christ and
Belial Or what part has the faithful with the unfaithful ?” What
connection is there between the temple of God and idols ? For we are the temple of the
living God, as God said: I will dwell and walk among them; I will be their God, and
they will be my people. Therefore, come out from among them, and be separate, saith
the Lord; Do not touch what is impure, And I will welcome you. I will be a father to
you, and you will be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.

2. The church is built on rock, stone:

On the revelation of who Jesus Christ is Matthew 16:18 "And I tell you that you
are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and that the gates
of Hades will not prevail against it.”
Acts 4:11 "Jesus is the stone which you builders rejected, and which
has become the chief cornerstone."
Ephesians 2:20 “You have been built on the foundation of the apostles
and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone”.

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 I Peter 2:6 “For it is said in the scripture, Behold, I am laying in Zion a
cornerstone, chosen, precious; And he who believes in her will not
be confused.”

3. The church is not a building:

It is the house of God that believers form. God does not live in temples made by
human hands;
The church is not a building.
Acts 17:24-25 "The God who made the world and everything in it, being
Lord of heaven and earth, dwells not in temples made with hands."
I Timothy 3:15 "but that you may know, if I tarry, how to behave in the
house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and
the support of the truth":
I Peter 2:5 "5and yourselves, like living stones, be built up to form a
spiritual house, a holy priesthood, in order to offer up spiritual
victims acceptable to God through Jesus Christ".
Hebrews 3:5-6 “As for Moses, he was faithful in all the house of God, as
a servant, to bear witness of what was to be spoken; 6but Christ is as
Son over his house; and his house is us, provided that we retain to
the end the firm confidence and the hope in which we pride
ourselves”.
Read also : Ephesians 2:20-22; I Corinthians 6:19 and Matthew 18:20.

4. The church is established by Jesus Christ, he is the head, the

owner
Matthew 16:18 "18 And I say to you that you are Peter, and that on this rock I will
build my Church, and that the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.”
Ephesians 5:23 "For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ is the head of the
church, which is his body, and of which he is the Saviour".
Colossians 1:18 “He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the
firstborn from the dead, in order to be the first in everything.”

5. The church is the mysterious body of Jesus Christ

Ephesians 5: 23-32 "23 because the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ is the
head of the Church, which is his body, and of which he is the Savior ".
Romans 12:5 “So we who are many are one body in Christ, and we are all members
one of another”.
Colossians 1:24 “I now rejoice in my sufferings for you; and what is lacking in the
sufferings of Christ, I complete in my flesh, for his body, which is the Church”.

6. The church bears the name of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 16:18 “18 And I say to you that you are Peter, and that on this rock I will
build my church, and that the gates of Hades shall not prevail against her”.
Acts 15:14 “14 Simon told how God first looked to the nations to choose from among
them a people who would bear his name”.

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 Isaiah 4:1 “And seven women shall take hold of one man that day, and say, We will
eat our bread, and put on our clothes; Let us only bear your name! Take away our
reproach!
Acts 20:28: “Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the
Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of the Lord, which he has
purchased with his own blood”.
Romans 16:16 “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the Churches of Christ salute
you”.
Read also: I Corinthians 11:16; I Corinthians 10:32; I Corinthians 11:22; I Cor 15:9; I
Thessalonians 2:14; II Thessalonians 1:4; Galatians 1:13.

7. There is only one church in the whole world.

Matthew 16:18 "18 And I say to you that you are Peter, and that on this rock I will
build my Church, and that the gates of Hades will not prevail against she".
Ephesians 5:27 "to bring before him this glorious church, without spot or wrinkle or
anything like that, but holy and blameless."

8. This [single church] is made up of several local assemblies.

THE CHURCH
I- Meaning of the word “Church”
Origin: from the Greek “Ekklêsia” which is to call out of… to form an Assembly. The
Ekklêsia only represented all the people called and never designated a place or a building.
Three important points in the meaning of the word “Ekklêsia”:
1. A call. That's the first thing God does to man; He calls him.
Examples: Adam: Where are you (Genesis 3:9)
Abram: (Genesis 12:1)
Moses: (Exodus 3:4)
Paul: (Acts 9:4-6; I Corinthians 1:1)
This call can come directly from the Lord or through his servants. (Acts. 2:38-39;
Romans 1:5-6; Romans 8:28-30)
This requires a personal response and decision.
It is written: Many are called, but few are chosen. (Parable of the
wedding). Matthew 22:1-14)
Thus, the Church is made up primarily of those who have heard and responded to
the call of the Lord.

2. A separation. Call out:

 From death to enter life. (John 5:24; Ephesians 2:5)
 From darkness to light. (I Peter 2:9)
 From the power of Satan to God. (Acts 26:18)
 From impurity to holiness. (II Corinthians 6:17)

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 We see two distinct camps.
In the act of separation, there is:
a. The part of the man. Moving from one camp to another through
repentance, conversion, and faith in Jesus Christ.
b. God's share. Forgiveness, salvation, regeneration, or spiritual new birth.

3. A gathering. Sin separates us from God and divides us.

Examples: Adam and Eve from with God. (Genesis 3:24; Isaiah 59:2)
In the family, Cain and Abel. (Genesis 4:8)
Men among themselves, the Tower of Babel. (Genesis 11:7)
In Jesus Christ, what was divided, separated, is united again to form a body. (I Corinthians
12:13)
This unity is only possible among those who have responded to God's call and separated
themselves. Any religious gathering that does not have this basis of unity becomes a tower of
Babel (Babel an ancient city, which is called in the Bible "the beginning of Nimrod’s
kingdom" More it means “the gate of God,” but not the Most High God. It is the place
where the Lord confused "word's meaning," the language of the nation’s who attempted
to build a tower that would get them into heaven. It is also called the land of Shinar and the
site of the great Ishtar gate. Gn. 10:10 and 11:9; Daniel 1:2; Zechariah 5:11. Dr. Bill Hamon).
One of the purposes of gathering is edification. (I Corinthians 14:26; Hebrews 10:24-25)
In summary:
God calls men and women out of the world of darkness, the kingdom of Satan, into his
wonderful kingdom of light, to worship and to serve.
Thus the Church is not a material construction, it is not a human institution, but the whole of
all those who have been washed by the blood of Jesus and who have experienced the new
birth (John 3:7) and became children of God. (John 1:12-13)
 They became one plant with Christ. (Romans 6:5)
 Image of the Vine which gives life to the branches. (John 15:5)
 Become one mind with Christ. (I Corinthians 6:17)
 Are one body with Christ. (Romans 12:5)
The Church is a body, an organism, a living cell.
All Christians who have truly been saved become members of the Body of Christ - the
Church. The Church of Jesus Christ is believed to be both an organisation and an
organism.
 It is an organisation because it has human leaders and officers.
 It is an organism because it is alive.
It has the life-giving Spirit of God, and all the true members are united in this One Spirit.
Because of this life of the Spirit of God, the Church moves and grows. This living Church is
self-supporting, self-propagating, but Christ sustained and Christ governed. [Paul O. Ajah]
The Church is spiritual, being the mystical, hidden body of the Lord. The Church is universal,
since it is made up of all the children of God of the New Covenant who are in heaven and on
earth. (I Thessalonians 4:13-18)
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If the Church in one sense is invisible, it is at the same time visible, for it is manifested on
earth by living and active members. (Matthew 5:14)
The Church is also local. In the New Testament, the Christian community of each locality
(Jerusalem, Rome, Philip, etc.) was considered a Church; hence the plural. (Acts 16:5;
Revelation 1:11)
However, the local Church cannot be identified with the invisible Church, because it is
imperfect.
Differences between the universal and local Church:

Universal Church Local Church

Celestial Terrestrial
Invisible Visible
Perfect Imperfect
Spiritual Body Tangible Reality

The universal Church is from above, like nails already attached to the magnet. The local
Church, which is from below, is a mixture of nails, wood, straw. (Parable of the tares.
Matthew 13:24-30)
Jesus said: Come, follow me! (Mark 10:21)

II- Origin of the Church.

A. The origin of the Church is divine.

Salvation is not a late work of God. Just as Jesus, the Lamb of God, was predestined
before the foundation of the world (I Peter 1:18-20), the Church was designed by God
in the beginning. (Ephesians 1:4-5; Ephesians 1:9-10; Romans 16:25-26; Ephesians
3:3-6, 9-11). It was seen and announced by the prophets of the Old Covenant. (I Peter
1:10-12) Announcement of the Church throughout the Old Testament; we see there the
shadow of things to come.

For example:
The human family
Abraham, father of many nations. (Genesis 17:5 [the Church], Revelation 5:9)
Israel, light of the nations. (Exodus 19:5-6)
The Old Covenant temple where people worshiped and sacrificed.
The New Testament often speaks to us of mysteries which are actions, dispensations
hidden in centuries past, but revealed now by the Spirit.

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 1. The mysteries of the kingdom of heaven in the parables. (Matthew 13:10-11)
Parable of the sower, the seed = the Word of God.
The fields = the different categories of listeners. Two categories are presented
here; in which categoryare you ?
Parable of the tares = the just and the unjust live side by side, until judgment.
Parable of the hidden treasure = the value of the Gospel.
Parable of the net = the religious world; mixture of the just and the unjust,
then separation.
2. The mystery of Christ in us, the hope of glory. (Colossians 1:26-27)
3. The mystery of the rapture of the Church. (I Corinthians 15:51,52)
4. The mystery of iniquity, manifested by the appearance of the
Antichrist. (II Thessalonians 2:7)
5. The Church is also a mystery. (Ephesians 5:25-32; Ephesians 3:6)

The Church, which is the body of Christ, is composed of Jews and Gentiles
regenerated by the Holy Spirit; they form the bride of Christ who will be united with
Him for eternity after the first resurrection and the rapture (Rev. 19:7).

B. The Church was announced by Christ. (Matthew 16:13-20)

1. Jesus established the Church.

It does not come from man and it is not a human institution.

2. The Church has only one foundation which is Jesus Christ,

the unshakable Rock. (Acts 4:11-12; I Corinthians 3:10-11)
On what basis, today, are the so-called Christian Churches founded ?
Already in the Old Testament, the Eternal God was represented as a Rock. There is
no rock like our God. (I Samuel 2:2)
Lord my rock, my fortress... (Psalm 18:3)
He is my rock and my salvation. (Psalm 62:3)
The Lord is the rock of ages. (Isaiah 26:4)
Israel drank from a spiritual rock that followed them and that rock was Christ. (I
Corinthians 10:4)
In King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, Christ is represented by the
stone that toppled the image and became a mountain. (Daniel
2:34-35)

3. The Church belongs to Christ and no one else.

He said: My Church. He bought it with his own blood. (Matthew 16:18; Acts
20:28). It does not belong to a man.
Christ is the head, the head of his Church. (Ephesians 1:22; Col. 1:18) Jesus said: I
will build. He is therefore the architect and builder. (Acts 2:47)
We are mere workers with God and we work with him. (I Corinthians 3:9, II
Corinthians 6:1)
We cannot change the plan, it was handed down once and for all to the apostles by
his Word. (Ephesians 2:20-21)

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 We don't have to wait for more revelations for the Church.
Beware of seducers. (II John 9-10; Colossians 2:18-19)
Of what materials is the Lord's Church built ? With living stones. (I Peter 2:4-
5) These living stones are not all those who call themselves Christians, but only
those who, like Peter, confess that Jesus is the Christ, (the Messiah), the one
who came to do the atonement of sins, the Son of the living God. (Romans
10:10)

The Church is the hidden mystery of all times and ages, but
revealed now. (Ephesians 3:9 – Colossians 1:26)

III- WHAT THE CHURCH IS NOT

The word church has come to mean many things to many people, and often these concepts
are different from the New Testament meaning.
 The church is NOT a building
 The church is NOT a hierarchy
 The church is NOT a denomination
 The church is NOT made up of all “Christian” denominations
 The church is NOT a temporary substitute for the kingdom
 The church is NOT a building
We often hear people talk about going to church, having a “church” wedding, or maybe
you’ve even used the little hand motions that accompany the saying, “Here’s the
church. Here’s the steeple. Open it up and see all the people.” Actually,
the church is the people. Notice how Paul addressed the letter to the Corinthians: “To the
church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ
Jesus, called to be saints, with all who in every place call on the name
of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours.” I Corinthians 1:2
The church is NOT a hierarchy.
The church is not a hierarchy of clergy that exists separately from the body of believers.
When Roman Catholics refer to “the church” they are talking about the Pope, the
Cardinals, and the Bishops who make up the governing body of Catholicism. There is no
such designation in the New Testament. Paul called himself a fellow worker (I Cor 3:9 ; II
Cor 1:24) and a servant (I Cor 4:1). All Christians comprise the body of Christ, and He is
its only Head.
The church is NOT a denomination.
By definition a denomination is a division. American money can be separated into
different denominations ($1, $5, $10, etc.). In the New Testament, such division is strictly
forbidden. In I Corinthians 1:10-13 Paul wrote, “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the
name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no
divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the

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 same judgment. For it has been declared to me concerning you, my brethren, by those of
Chloe’s household, that there are contentions among you. Now I say this, that each of you
says, “I am of Paul,” or “I am of Apollos,” or “I am of Cephas,” or “I am of Christ.” Is
Christ divided Was Paul crucified for you Or were you baptized in the name of Paul” The
church is NOT made up of all "Christian" denominations. The church is NOT the
assemblage of all “Christian” denominations. Many teach that the New Testament church
(i.e. the body of Christ) is now comprised of all the various denominations which some
have estimated to be well over 30,000 in the world today. Again, this cannot be so for the
same reason given above. Denominations are forbidden in the New Testament. In
addition, please notice that Paul said the body of Christ is made up of individuals: Now
you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 1 Cor 12:27
The church is NOT a temporary substitute for the kingdom.
Many teach that Jesus came to establish His kingdom, but when the Jews rejected Him He
put the church in place until some future day when He will be able to return and set up His
kingdom on earth. This is not an idea one can find in the Bible. Jesus came to establish
His kingdom, and establish it He did. It exists even now and will continue until the end of
time. Jesus preached that “the kingdom of God is at hand” He promised that some of His
contemporaries would live to see the kingdom of God (Mark 9:1). On the Day of
Pentecost in Acts 2, Peter said that Jesus was reigning as King (Acts 2:29-36). After
Pentecost Christians are described as citizens of the kingdom: He has delivered us from
the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love
(Colossians 1:13). He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father; to Him
be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen (Revelation 1:6 NASB). The
kingdom of Jesus Christ was established when He sat down at the right hand of the throne
of God to rule with all power and authority. Those who respond favorably to His rule as
King of kings comprise His body, the church. This is in accordance with God’s eternal
plan, To the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the
church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, according to the eternal
purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord (Ephesians 3:10-11).

IV- IMAGES AND SYMBOLS REPRESENTING THE SPIRIT UAL

NATURE OF THE CHURCH.
How to explain a mystery Symbols help us better understand the mystery of the Church.
1. A Spiritual Temple
The Church is the building of God. (Ephesians 2:20-22; I Corinthians 3:9, 16-17)
The temple is built on a solid foundation which is Jesus Christ and the Word which
form a whole. (John 1:1, 14)
The temple is glorious, eternal, it is the habitation of God by His Spirit. (I
Corinthians 6:19; II Corinthians 6:16)

Examples: The glory of God was already manifested under the Old Covenant by
the cloud, on Mount Sinai, the face of Moses, in the tabernacle and in the temple
of Solomon. (Exodus 16:10, 24:15-17, 34:29-35, 40:34-35, I Kings 8:10-11)

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 The present ministry of the Spirit is more glorious and the Church must manifest a
greater great glory. (II Corinthians 3:7-18) By a life of love, holiness, strength,
wisdom. (John 13:34-35; I Peter 1:15-16; I Corinthians 4:20; II Timothy 1:7)

Examples: Jesus during the transfiguration. (John 1:14)

The unity of the people of God. (Acts 4:32)

The radiance on Stephen's face. (Acts 6:15)
The glory of God in the judgment of Ananias and Sapphira. (Acts 5:1-11)
The glory of God in miracles and healings. (The shadow of Peter… Acts 5:12-16)
The glory of God in the wisdom of the messages given. (Acts 4:13, 6:9-10)
The moving of Philip by the Spirit (Acts 8:39-40)
The glory of God in divine works and deliverances. (Acts 12:8, 16:26)
Glory in times of persecution. (I Peter 4:14)
The temple also tells us about members serving in the Church.
The Church is a kingdom of priests and all believers are part of the royal
priesthood. (I Peter 2:5, 9; Revelation 1:5-6).

Work of the priests now:

To stand in the presence of God. (Hebrews 10:19-22)

To serve the Lord through sacrifice; not for the forgiveness of sins, for it was done
once for all by Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 7:24-27, 10:10, 12, 14)
Self-sacrifice. (Romans 12:1-2)
Sacrifice of thanksgiving and praise. (Ephesians 5:19-20; Hebrews 13:15)
By making known the Word of God, by being the light of the world. If once the priests
were mediators between God and men, today we have only one mediator who is Jesus.
(I Timothy 2:5)
But we are called to intercede for one another. (James 5:16)

The Church is to lead souls to Jesus alone. It is thus that believers are the living stones
of the temple, and that the edifice is always under construction. When the last stone is
placed, Jesus will return. (Romans 11:25) Maranatha!

2. A Family, or a House
The Church is the family of God. (Ephesians 2:19; Hebrews 3:6; I Timothy 3:15;
II Corinthians 6:17-18)
We become members of God's family by the new birth. We are children of the
same family, united in brotherly love, by the same spirit, heirs of the same will.
(Hebrews 9:15-18)
God is our Father, Jesus Christ is our elder brother. (Hebrews 2:10-12;
Colossians 1:18)

Example: Jacob receives the blessing that belonged to his firstborn brother Esau.
How ? By appropriating the clothes and the name of his brother. (Genesis 27)

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 Functions and responsibilities of the Father:
Protect, nourish, teach, correct, … The presence of the Father is not only
felt during his blessings, but it is also during the spanking that the child feels the
presence from his father. (Hebrews 12:5-11)
Place and attitude of the son: Submission, obedience, trust and
showing himself worthy, in order to honor his Father.

We Are Members of God's Family

The church is God's household (I Tim. 3:15). In other words, we are members of
God's family.

God said, "I will dwell in them and walk among them; and I will be
their God, and they shall be my people. Therefore, come out from
their midst and be separate" . . . "And do not touch what is unclean; And I
will welcome you. And I will be a Father to you, and you shall be sons and
daughters to Me. . ." (II Corinthians 6:14-18).
As Christians, God is our Father, and we are His children. We are members of His
family.

Household of the Faith

Another phrase identifying God's family is "the household of the faith."

 "So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and
especially to those who are of the household of the faith" (Gal. 6:10).

We are members of God's family because we are obedient to the faith (Acts 6:7).

 Faith comes from hearing Christ's word (Rom. 10:17).

 We must obey the gospel of Christ to be saved (2 Thess. 1:8; Heb. 5:9).
 When we obey the gospel, we are adopted by God and added to the church
(Gal. 3:26-4:7; Acts 2:47).
 The church is God's household --- family (I Tim. 3:15).

When we obey God's word, in obedience to the faith, God makes us members of
His family, adopting us as His children.

Citizens of Heaven

As members of the household of God, our citizenship is in heaven.

 "So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens
with the saints, and are of God's household" (Eph. 2:19).

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  "But God . . . made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been
saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly
places in Christ Jesus" (Eph. 2:4-6).
 "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a
Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ" (Phil. 3:20).

Pillar and Support of the Truth

As God's household, we are the pillar and support of the truth.
 "But in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to
conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living
God, the pillar and support of the truth" (I Tim. 3:15).

We are responsible for preaching the truth to the world, and teaching it to every
generation, as we earnestly contend for the faith (Jude 1:3).

Everyone is Important
Just like an earthly family, each person in God's family is important. "As a result,
we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about
by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful
scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into
Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and
held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper
working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the
building up of itself in love" (Eph. 4:14-16).

Everyone Has Work To Do

There is work everyone to do. Like we sing in the song, Room In God's Kingdom,
"There is work that we all can do."
Elderly members of God's family may not be able to do the physical work they
once did, but they are valuable teachers, leading the way to God in the latter years
of life.
Christians in the prime of life have many responsibilities in the church. We don't
all have the same talents and abilities, but each one is equally important (I Cor.
12:12-26; Eph. 4:16).
Young Christians and children are growing in the Lord. There are many things
they do in God's kingdom, while they prepare themselves for leadership roles in
the future.

As a Family. . . .
We have a special relationship as God's family, which can't be experienced by
people outside of Christ (2 Cor. 6:14-18).

The song, Bless Be The Tie, expresses this relationship:

 Bless be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love; the fellowship of
kindred minds is like to that above.

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  Before our Father's throne we pour our ardent pray'rs; our fears, our hopes,
our aims are one, our comforts and our cares.
 We share our mutual woes, our mutual burdens bear; and often for each
other flows the sympathizing tear.
 When we asunder part, it gives us inward pain; but we shall still be joined
in heart, and hope to meet again.

Conclusion
It's a wonderful privilege to be a member of God's family. When it comes to
judgment, we'll be judged first (I Pet. 4:17), then in whatever capacity ordained by
God, we'll judge the world and the angels (I Cor. 6:2-3).

Let's carefully examine ourselves to ensure we're walking in a manner worthy of

our calling, so we don't come short of the grace of God (Eph. 4:1; Heb. 12:15). We
are God's family!

3. A Body
The Church is the body of the Lord. (Ephesians 1:22-23; I Corinthians 12:12, 27;
Colossians 1:18)

There is only one body of Christ, one universal Church. This body has only one
head which is Jesus Christ. The body is “ONE” when it submits to the head.
Christ calls and unites the elect into one body, one life. The life of Christ,
communicated by the Spirit, gives this body its vitality. If united at the head, there
must be unity of the spirit (I Corinthians 6:17), as well as unity at the level of the
soul, of the personality: Submissive will. (Colossians 4:12).

Example of Jesus: (John 6:38)

Same feeling. (Philippians 2:5)
We receive wisdom from God. (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:20-24; I Corinthians
2:6-7).
The image of the body tells us about the different functions in the Church. Each
member has a particular function and task. (Romans 12:4; I Peter 4:10) So in the
Church there is not just one leader who steers the boat and rows doing all the
work. The members are varied, but depend on each other and above all on the head
which is Christ.
The body is a unity in diversity and not in uniformity. Diversity of nationalities,
social classes, spiritual gifts, etc.

Example of the human body which, in perfect health, shows a remarkable unity in
mutual aid, support, forgiveness. If one member suffers, the whole body suffers. (I
Corinthians 12:14-26)

How is the church the Body of Christ ?

The phrase “the Body of Christ” is a common New Testament metaphor for
the Church (all those who are truly saved). The Church is called “one

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 body in Christ” in Romans 12:5, “one body” in I Corinthians 10:17, “the
body of Christ” in 1 Corinthians 12:27 and Ephesians 4:12, and “the body” in
Hebrews 13:3. The Church is clearly equated with “the body” of Christ in
Ephesians 5:23 and Colossians 1:24. When Christ entered our world, He took on a
physical body “prepared” for Him (Hebrews 10:5; Philippians 2:7).
Through His physical body, Jesus demonstrated the love of God clearly, tangibly,
and boldly—especially through His sacrificial death on the cross (Romans 5:8).
After His bodily ascension, Christ continues His work in the world through those
He has redeemed—the Church now demonstrates the love of God clearly, tangibly,
and boldly. In this way, the Church functions as “the Body of Christ.” The
Church may be called the Body of Christ because of these facts:
1) Members of the Body of Christ are joined to Christ in salvation (Ephesians
4:15-16).
2) Members of the Body of Christ follow Christ as their Head (Ephesians 1:22-
23).
3) Members of the Body of Christ are the physical representation of Christ in this
world. The Church is the organism through which Christ manifests His life to
the world today.
4) Members of the Body of Christ are indwelt by the Holy Spirit of Christ
(Romans 8:9).
5) Members of the Body of Christ possess a diversity of gifts suited to particular
functions (I Corinthians 12:4-31). “The body is a unit, though it is
made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many,
they form one body. So it is with Christ” (verse 12).
6) Members of the Body of Christ share a common bond with all other Christians,
regardless of background, race, or ministry. “There should be no division in the
body, but . . . its parts should have equal concern for each other” (I Corinthians
12:25).
7) Members of the Body of Christ are secure in their salvation (John 10:28-30).
For a Christian to lose his salvation, God would have to perform an
“amputation” on the Body of Christ!
8) Members of the Body of Christ partake of Christ’s death and resurrection
(Colossians 2:12).
9) Members of the Body of Christ share Christ’s inheritance (Romans 8:17).
10) Members of the Body of Christ receive the gift of Christ’s
righteousness (Romans 5:17).

4. God's Field
The true Church is God's field. (I Corinthians 3:9)
The Word of God is the good seed that is sown in the field. In the local church, the
enemy is trying to sow weeds. (Matthew 13:24-30)
In His field, the Lord also cultivates His fruits: the fruit of the Spirit. (Galatians
5:22)
This is why Jesus said: The tree is known by its fruit. (Matthew 7:17-20)
What the Lord is looking for is good fruit. (Parable of the barren fig tree.
Luke 13:6-9) …….

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 Why Does Paul Call the Church God’s Field ?
The Bible uses a number of striking agricultural images when speaking about
God’s people and God’s relationship with them. Isaiah 5 includes the song of
God’s vineyard that yields only wild grapes, and God gives it over to be destroyed.
The psalmist compares the righteous man to a fruitful tree planted by streams of
water (Ps. 1:3). Jesus tells parables about a sower, seed and soil, about wheat and
tares, and about a mustard seed. He also compares Himself to a vine and His
disciples to branches. These images are powerful tools, not only because they are
memorable, but also because they vividly portray how God works and how His
people are to respond.

The Apostle Paul uses an agricultural metaphor for the church in I Corinthians 3,
calling it “God’s field” (v. 9). In that same chapter, he also refers to the church as
“God’s building” (v. 9) and “God’s temple” (v. 16). All of these images teach us
something about the church, and each metaphor brings out a different feature about
the church and our responsibility as members of it.

Agricultural images in Scripture typically carry connotations of growth or lack

thereof. We often use them the same way today when, for instance, we speak of a
child as “growing like a weed.” The idea of growth is also inherent in Paul’s
imagery of the church as “God’s field” in I Corinthians 3. Paul’s point is twofold:
first, he chastises the Corinthians for their lack of growth; second, he points to the
church, when functioning properly, as the place of growth for God’s people.

Paul begins this chapter by comparing the Corinthian Christians to infants who
still need milk, not solid food (my high school English teacher would frown on the
mixing of metaphors). Their immaturity is evident in their divisions, their self-
centered individualism, and their worldly mind-set. The church is divided into
factions: “‘I follow Paul’ . . . ‘I follow Apollos’ . . . ‘I follow Cephas’ . . . ‘I follow
Christ’” (1:12). They act only with regard to self, not for the good of the whole (as
the rest of the letter painfully demonstrates). Furthermore, their actions and
attitudes reflect the culture around them.

To counter this, Paul begins by pointing them to the cross. The cross, while foolish
and weak in the eyes of the world, is the wisdom and power of God (1:17–25). It
should humble believers because it says that only the death of God incarnate can
pay the penalty for our sins and bring reconciliation with God. We cannot save
ourselves. It should also lead to a “cross-shaped” life, living for others, not self. In
chapter 3, Paul also subtly points the Corinthians away from self and away from
the cult of celebrity to God Himself. In this chapter, there are twenty-one
references to God, Christ, or the Holy Spirit in twenty-three verses. The Christian
life is a God-centered, not a self-centered, life.

These are lessons that the church needs to learn again today. Much of evangelical
Christianity has degenerated into a self-focused, consumerist religion often driven
by a worldly mind-set. Many individual Christians have become consumers in
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 their approach to churches, remaining in a church only as long as that church
“meets my needs.” Many churches themselves foster this consumerist mentality,
gearing their philosophy of ministry and their worship services to attract a
particular demographic. Thomas Bergler’s book The Juvenilization of American
Christianity helpfully shows how the widespread, churchwide embrace of methods
originally designed to make Christianity attractive to young people has ended up
producing a largely immature church that has lost its power to influence our
culture. This is eerily similar to what Paul was addressing in the church at Corinth.
The church today is fostering “infants in Christ,” not mature believers who can
withstand social pressure to conform to the world.

God’s field is where God’s people grow.

This leads to the second implication of the image of the church as “God’s field,”
namely, the church itself is or at least should be the place of growth for God’s
people. How does this take place Paul gives the formula: Paul planted, Apollos
watered, but God gives the growth (3:6–7). How did Paul plant He preached the
Word, especially Jesus Christ and Him crucified (2:1). How did Apollos water He
preached and taught the Word. These are the primary means that God uses to cause
His church to grow. These ordinary means of grace have extraordinary power
because God Himself works through them to bring growth.

There are two caveats, however. The first is that those who preach and teach the
Word cannot go on forever giving milk (3:1–2). Paul does not give detail here
about what is “milk” and what is “solid food.” The writer of Hebrews, however,
lays out six foundational tenets of the faith that are the “milk” that Christians need
to move beyond so they can get to the “solid food” of the deeper teachings of the
faith (Heb. 5:11–6:3). He then immediately warns his readers about falling away
from the faith (6:4–8). In other words, the danger of living in continual immaturity
is losing the faith altogether.

The warning for the church at large today is that as long as a particular church’s
worship services, where the Word of God is preached, do not get beyond the basic
gospel message or continually target a certain consumerist demographic, then that
church will find it nearly impossible to move on to maturity. It also puts professing
Christians at risk of losing the faith altogether.

The second caveat is that it is possible to be in a church that proclaims the whole
counsel of God and still not grow. The Corinthians had the Apostle Paul as church
planter and Apollos as one of their preachers. You cannot get better pastors than
that. Yet the Corinthian believers were not growing.

Growth in the Christian life comes when we place ourselves under the ordinary
means of grace, receive them joyfully, meditate on them, and faithfully and
prayerfully put into practice what we learn. James warns that the one who is only a
“hearer” of the word and not a “doer” deceives himself (James 1:22–25). In

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 particular, we must apply a biblical mind-set to every area of our lives. This
includes thinking critically about how the attitudes of the world infect our own
ways of thinking and living. The Corinthians still embraced the world’s
triumphalist, human-centered philosophy. This stunted their growth in Christ.

From a biblical perspective, nurture and growth take place primarily in and
through the church. The great interpreters of Scripture throughout church history
have recognized this. The church father Cyprian famously said, “You cannot
have God as your Father if you do not have the church as your
mother.” The great Reformer John Calvin used the same imagery, writing of
“the church, into whose bosom God is pleased to gather his sons,
not only that they may be nourished by her help and ministry as
long as they are infants and children, but also that they may be
guided by her motherly care until they mature and at last reach
the goal of faith.” These great interpreters are only expounding what Scripture
teaches. The Apostle Paul wrote that only together “with all the saints” will
believers be able to grasp the love of Christ and to be filled with all the fullness of
God (Eph. 3:18–19). Growth in the Christian life requires growing together. The
church is God’s ordained means of bringing this about.

The individualism and worldly mind-set of the first-century church is very similar
to that of the evangelical church today. The church is peripheral at best for many
evangelicals. This is contrary to God’s revealed will.

Individual Christians need to commit themselves prayerfully to a body of believers

one that is committed to the ordinary means of grace. “God gives the growth”
through His ordinary, extraordinary means. And this takes place principally in and
through the local church, God’s field where God’s people grow.

5. The Vine
Jesus is the vine, the Church, the believers, are the branches. Without Christ they
can do nothing. They depend on him. They receive the same sap, the same leaves,
the same fruits, the same smell and the same taste. And the winemaker is taking
care of it regularly. (John 15:1-5) ……

6. The Flock
The Church is the flock of the Lord. (John 10:11, 14, 16) Jesus is the Good
Shepherd who leads, protects, nourishes, heals, corrects, sacrifices. The sheep
must be confident, submissive, faithful. Alone, she cannot find her way, she loses
herself. (Psalm 23) Among the ministries given to the Church is that of pastor, or
shepherd. (I Peter 5:1-4) …..

7. The Kingdom
The Church is the kingdom of the Lord. (Luke 17:20-21) A spiritual kingdom,
hidden in hearts. Thy kingdom come. Jesus is the King, the Lord, and believers are
members of the kingdom and serve as ambassadors. (II Corinthians 5:20)

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 Importance of seeking the interests of the kingdom of God that one represents.
(Matthew 6:33)

8. A bride
The Church is the bride, the bride of the Lord. (II Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians
5:27; Revelation 19:7-9)
In the eternal state, believers will have access to the heavenly city known as New
Jerusalem, also called “the holy city” in Revelation 21:2 and 10. The New
Jerusalem is not the church, but it takes on some of the church’s characteristics. In
his vision of the end of the age, the apostle John sees the city coming down from
heaven adorned “as a bride,” meaning that the city will be gloriously radiant
and the inhabitants of the city, the redeemed of the Lord, will be holy and pure,
wearing white garments of holiness and righteousness.

Some have misinterpreted verse 9 to mean the holy city is the bride of Christ, but
that cannot be because Christ died for His people, not for a city.
The city is called the bride because it encompasses all who are the bride, just as all
the students of a school are sometimes called “the school.” Believers in Jesus
Christ are the bride of Christ, and we wait with great anticipation for the day when
we will be united with our Bridegroom. Until then, we remain faithful to Him and
say with all the redeemed of the Lord, “Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation
22:20).

Relationship of affection with Christ, united by love.

Christ, the Bridegroom, loves His bride, protects her, honors her,
endows her richly. (I Corinthians 6:19-20)

The Church which is the bride, is lovely, pure, spotless, faithful, dreams only of
her future husband, is proud of him and speaks of him expectantly while getting
ready. (Revelation 22:17)

Example: A young girl used to prepare her trousseau well in advance.

9. An army
We find ourselves in a great spiritual war: the kingdom of God against the
kingdom of darkness. (Ephesians 6:12; Song of Songs 6:10)
We are called to put on all the armor of God. (Ephesians 6:11, 13; II Corinthians
10:4)
The believer is compared to a soldier. (II Timothy 2:3-4)
Christians must never forget they are soldiers in a war
Soldiering is a part of who Christians are–you are in a war and you need to be
tough. The Roman soldiers of Paul’s day were the toughest, most disciplined, and
most resourceful soldiers in the world. They marched 20 miles a day with 50
pounds of gear. When not in battle, they practiced for battle, plus they built roads
and public buildings. Roman soldiers were multi-talented–they threw javelins,
used short swords in battle, but most could also swim across rivers and moats to

23
 get to an enemy, climb walls, shoot arrows, ride horses and operate Roman war
machines. Plus, Roman soldiers were the national police force–the FBI for Rome.
They maintained the peace by enforcing Roman law. Soldiers were everywhere in
the empire. Paul had known many soldiers personally, and their example was in
his mind in 2 Timothy 2:3 to 4 when the apostle says to Timothy, “You, Tim, are
to be a ‘soldier of Christ’.” Open your Bibles to 2 Timothy 2:3 to 4, and follow
in your outline. “Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ
Jesus. 4 No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs
of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him
as a soldier.” A good soldier doesn’t quit because he faces a difficult task or a
dangerous situation. He knows his life is expendable and he must be prepared to
lay it down when required. This is part of what Paul is calling Timothy to stay in
the battle regardless Timothy. God, in his Word, calls you here to become more
soldierly. Students, you need more to be soldierly with, “Yes sir, Lord”— not,
“Whatever,” or “I’ll get to it.” Young Marrieds need to develop more
soldierly discipline raising kids and managing money. Those in their forties need
to reject life choices which are distracting them from soldiering for Christ. Older
saints need to embrace the assignment of investing in the lower ranks and not
merely looking for their next weekend pass or hanging out at the commissary.
Singles need to embrace the opportunity of making a big impact for their
commander during this undistracted season of life. Why An effective soldier
willingly disentangles his life in order to please his captain. Read aloud with me
what Paul calls Timothy to do in II Timothy 2:3 to 4, “Suffer hardship with
me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No soldier in active service
entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may
please the one who enlisted him as a soldier.” The two major points
Paul makes in the Greek text involve endurance and entanglements.

10. A candlestick (Exodus 25:31-40; 27:20 to 21; Lev. 24:1-4; Num. 8:1-4)

The Church is called to be the light of the world. (Matthew 5:14-16;

Revelation 1:20) You are the body of Christ (I Corinthians 12:27)

Unlike the other items in the tabernacle made of shittim wood overlaid with gold,
the candlestick was entirely of pure gold, forged in one piece; it speaks to us of
what is essentially divine. It was “beaten” gold, a reminder that the One it
represents, Christ, went through suffering.
The golden calf, on the other hand, had simply been melted down (Ex. 32:24).

The candlestick itself is therefore a type of Christ, while the oil is, as in all the
Word, a type of the Holy Spirit.
One of the elements of the candlestick mentioned several times are the almond
blossoms. These flowers make us think of the rod of Aaron which had budded,
produced flowers and almonds, as we see it in Numbers 17:

type of the resurrection of Christ.

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 The almond tree, according to Jeremiah 1:11 and 12, shows that God is
fulfilling his promises in Christ.
It is thus a Christ risen and raised in glory who gave the Holy Spirit to His
own.
As a whole:
Candlestick, Oil and Seven lamps burning in the sanctuary, we
can also see Christ as presented by the Holy Spirit through the
human vessels of ministry.

Indeed, under this aspect, there was need of the snuffers (Ex. 25:38) to remove all
that would have hindered the free flow of the oil to produce the light. On the other
hand, the seven lamps show us that the ministry of Christ by the Spirit is exercised
through various channels.
We see the candlestick shining under five different aspects:
1. vis-à-vis him and before him (chap. 25:37): the greatest and the first
witness that the Holy Spirit bears is to Christ himself. same: the first object
that caught the eye on entering the sanctuary was the lighted candlestick.
2. The Lord Jesus said in speaking of the Holy Spirit: “He will glorify me;
for he will take of what is mine and declare it to you” (John
16:14).
3. The candlestick illuminated the table of bread (Ex. 26:35): the Holy Spirit
illuminates the position of the saints in Christ in the sanctuary. The
candlestick shines in Numbers 8 in connection with the purification of the
Levites: it is the Holy Spirit who must direct all service for God, and be its
mainspring.
4. In Leviticus 24, we see the candlestick at the beginning of a chapter where
the opposition to God will manifest itself in the midst of Israel: apostasy. In
the face of the evil that enters the people of God, only the Holy Spirit is the
remedy.
5. In Exodus 27:21; 30:8, we see that the candlestick burned during the night
(Note that in the temple of Ezekiel during "the day" of the millennium,
there is no candlestick). It is during the night of Christ's rejection and
absence that the Holy Spirit lights up the sanctuary on earth and brings
about intercessory prayer and worship (chap. 30:7).

If food is essential for growth, light is no less so. A plant placed in a dark place,
even well watered, would die. A young Christian who does not walk in the light
cannot make any progress. On the contrary, he is increasingly estranged from the
Lord.
Now, the light of the Holy Spirit does not usually darken for us suddenly, but we
leave little by little one thing, then another places itself between the Lord and us
like a light veil, which goes thicker and thicker more and deprives us of
communion with Him, of the enjoyment of His Person, and hinders the action of
the Holy Spirit in us. There can then be no growth, no fellowship, no joy.

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 What should we do ? Return to him with prayer, seek his face and take the
necessary time, like Mary, spend time with him, if possible spend hours, and let it
pass until He returned the joy of our salvation.

V- PURPOSES OF THE CHURCH

The 5 purposes of the Church of Jesus Christ here below.
What is the vocation of the Church, what are the purposes of the Church of Jesus Christ
here below ? By saving us, the Lord makes us citizens of heaven and we are no longer
from below, but from above and our names are written in heaven. (Luke 10:20; John
15:19)
So why does the Lord maintain his Church on this earth ?
Why does he not take us immediately ?
If he maintains his Church, let us know that it is for a very specific purpose and I would
like to give at least 5 reasons which are all important and priority.
1. For God Himself, to serve His glory
2. To be a demonstration of the Wisdom of God in the face of the heavenly dominations
3. For the edification of the believers of the Church
4. For the lost world
5. For an eternal vocation

 The 1st purpose of the Church is for God Himself, to serve

His glory, in order to have a relationship, a communion,
an intimacy with God.
Example: The Bible gives the image of the couple to compare it to Christ and to the
Church in their unity, friendship, communion. (Ephesians 5:25-32).
And as the woman is the glory of the man, so the Church must be the glory of Christ. (I
Corinthians 11:7).
Unity in service comes next.
In Christ we have become an habitation of God through the Holy Spirit, so that here on
this earth we may offer spiritual victims pleasing to God through Jesus Christ. (I Peter 2:5,
9)
Man was created to worship and serve God, but as sin entered the world, all men were led
to rebel against God.
And it is only through Jesus Christ and his sacrifice on the cross that men can be
reconciled with God and once again exercise the vocation for which they were created,
that is to say, to adore and serve God. In his teaching on prayer, Jesus showed this by
telling his disciples: When you pray, say: Father, your will be done on earth as it is in
heaven. (Matthew 6.10).
In heaven, angels and all heavenly beings worship the Eternal God. And the Lord desires
that here below all that breathes, all human beings, can also adore him. (Psalm 150:6).
And this is possible only by those who have been redeemed, purified and reconciled to

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 God through Jesus Christ. Thus the primary purpose of the Church here below is to
worship and serve God on this earth, as it is written in Ephesians 1:11-12: In Christ also
we have obtained an inheritance, (of heaven and glory) being predestined according
to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, 12 that we
who first trusted in Christ should be to the praise of His glory.
And God says in Isaiah 43:7, 21: All those who are called by my name and whom I have
created for my glory, whom I have formed and whom I have made. The people I have
formed will publish my praises.
Thus every born-again Christian is a temple of the Holy Spirit, a spiritual house, and
called to offer spiritual sacrifices pleasing to God.
The Church is a kingdom of priests whose first great occupation is to offer sacrifices of
worship and praise. (Hebrews 13:15)
And each individual Christian is a temple of the Holy Spirit, a spiritual house where
sacrifices are offered to God. (I Corinthians 6:19-20)
How to offer spiritual sacrifices ?
a) By being completely submitted to the Lord: spirit, soul and body. (I Thessalonians
5:23)
b) By loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, strength. (Matthew 22:37- Luke
10:27)
c) By total faith in God and in his Word. (Hebrews 11:6)
Example of Abraham: He was strengthened by faith, giving glory to God.
(Romans 4:20-22). Later he adored God by being ready to offer his only son.
d) By complete obedience to the Word of God in our daily life. Obedience is better
than sacrifice; that is to say, our prayers, our fasts, our tithes, our offerings, our
songs, all our good works. (I Samuel 15:22-23)
e) By a life of holiness and blameless conduct. (I Corinthians 10:31; John 15:8)
Otherwise our praise will be empty noise. (Amos 5:23-24; Proverbs 28:9)
f) Worship and praise are also expressed through the body. But they must come first
from our communion with God in our spirit, which communicates it to our soul
and then to the body.
It is from the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks. (Luke 6:45)
While singing and praying are part of worship and praise, they are not the only expressions,
nor the most important, for worship is lived and expressed through our behavior of every day.
So our whole life should be in an attitude of worship in thought, word and deed. (Colossians
3:17)
The opposite would be empty noise. (I Corinthians 13:1-3; Isaiah 29:13)
The Christian should be in continual praise and worship of God.
The Bible says “always”! (Hebrews 13:15)
Examples:
This was the habit of David, the man after God's own heart. (Psalm 34:2)
It was so important that David had assigned four thousand Levites to be busy praising God
from morning till night. (I Chronicles 23:5, 30)

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This was also the practice of the early church. (Luke 24:53)
This is how Bible believers began their meetings. (Psalm 100:4)
This is God's will for every believer. (I Thessalonians 5:18)
This is a command that comes to us from the throne of God. (Revelation 19:5)
It is an obligation as long as we breathe. (Psalm 150:6)
This is a habit to practice all day. (Psalm 113:1-3)
It is the result of a Spirit-filled life. (Ephesians 5:18-20)
The Spirit leads to praise. (Isaiah 61:1-3; I Corinthians 14:15)
Different expressions of praise in the Bible
By proclaiming God and celebrating who he is and what he does; by reading the Word or
praying. (Psalm 146; Isaiah 43:21)
By singing. (Psalm 47; Ephesians 5:19)
Clapping hands and shouting for joy. (Psalm 47)
With instruments. (Psalm 150; Revelation 15:2-3)
With dances. (Psalm 149:1-6)
Lifting up your hands. (Psalm 134; I Timothy 2:8)
By prostrating and kneeling. (Psalm 95:1-6; Acts 21:5)
Even jumping. (II Samuel 6:14-16; Acts 3:8)
Praise and worship glorify God, because we withdraw to give Him all the space and that is
when God acts.
Growth and outcome in other church ministries and functions will depend on our faithfulness
to the “ministry of worship.” You shall worship the Lord your God and serve him alone.
(Matthew 4:10)
 A second purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ here below is
to be a demonstration of God's wisdom in the face of
spiritual domination.
As it is written in Ephesians 3:10-11: That rulers and authorities in heavenly places may know
today through the church the infinitely varied wisdom of God, according to the eternal
purpose which he has execution by Jesus Christ our Lord.
Satan, who is an enemy of God, had thought, by seducing our first parents, to annihilate the
plan of God who had created man to worship and serve him willingly and with all his heart.
But in his eternal wisdom, God had already planned everything, as well as the restoration of
all things by the sending of his only begotten Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Is it not written that Jesus, the spotless and spotless Lamb of God was predestined before the
foundation of the world and was manifested at the end of time for our sake (I Peter 1:19-20)

Christ came to atone for our sins; by his sacrifice on the cross; it is thus that divine justice has
been fully accomplished so that man can be forgiven, reconciled with God and thus serve all
again to the glory of the Lord.
Thus, the Church of Jesus Christ on earth is a demonstration of God's wisdom in the face of
rulers and authorities in heavenly places. Hence the importance that we here below have a
good testimony as children of God.

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For it is through the Church that the eternal plan of God is manifested to the angelic world; as
it says in I Peter 1:10-12: The things which angels desire to look into.
It is through the Church that the victory of Christ over darkness is proclaimed. (Colossians
2:15; Acts 26:18)
This is why we are called to live in the victory of Christ and in holiness, so as not to give
access to the devil, (Ephesians 4:27) and not not allow Satan the advantage over us, for we are
not unaware of his designs. (II Corinthians 2:11)
He is the accuser of all the children of God and he accuses us before our God day and night.
(Revelation 12:10)
Also, it is important that his accusations are not justified, but that they are false. As was the
case with Job who, accused by Satan, was able to be a demonstration before all the heavenly
authorities of his integrity, his righteousness, his faithfulness, by fearing God and by turning
away from evil, despite all the trials. which had been sent to him. This is why we are asked to
resist the devil with firm faith. (James 4:7); so that here below, by our life, we may be a
demonstration of the victory of Christ over all the power of darkness.
He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. (I John 4:4).
This is the second purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ on earth.
The 3rd reason for the Church here below is for the unity and
growth of believers.
A duty towards the body and its members, for in Christ we are one body; an organic unity,
which must develop.
Conditions:
To be able to serve our brothers properly, it is first important to serve God with all our heart,
by being a real servant of the Lord. (I Thessalonians 1:9)
Each member of the body of Christ has a particular function and must participate in the
building up and growth of the Church. (I Corinthians 12:27, I Corinthians 12:7)
Purpose of Service:
That each member may serve the edification, growth, balance, and maturing of the body, so
that each member attains perfect stature of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-16)
How ?
If the universal church is a spiritual body, the body of Christ is also manifested by the local
church.
a. Importance of joining a local church. (Acts 2:47)
b. Participate in the life of the Church, its meetings, its activities. (Acts 2:42; Hebrews
10:24-25)
c. To serve his spiritual development by bearing fruit. (John 15:16). The tree never bears
fruit for itself.
d. To serve in the building up of the body by using the abilities and the gifts that the Lord
grants. (I Peter 4:10; I Corinthians 12:4-7)

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 e. Participate also materially in the life of the Church, in its needs, in its expansion,
through voluntary donations, offerings and tithes, as well as in the needs of God's
work in general in the world. (II Corinthians 9:6-7)
We are all called to serve the body of Christ for its edification. (Matthew 4:10)
Service in the Church is as varied as there are limbs and organs in the human body. (Romans
12:4-5)
Find your place living the life of Christ in the body and serving the body with the gift you
have received. (I Peter 4:10)
However, we also have certain common responsibilities and tasks.
a. Not all are apostles, that is, sent to establish Churches. But Jesus said: As the Father
has sent me, so I send you into the world (John 20:21) to be the light and the salt of the
earth, to live the life of Christ wherever he places us.
b. All are not prophets, but all can prophesy, exhort, edify, console. (I Corinthians 14:3,
5, 31; Romans 15:14 – Acts 2:17, 21:8-9)
c. Not all are evangelists, but all are called to witness. (Acts 1:8 – 8:1, 4 – 11:19-21)
d. Not all are doctors (teachers), but all of us must edify ourselves by sharing spiritual
nourishment by reading the Word of God. (Colossians 3:16)
e. All are not pastors (shepherds or guardians), but we must all watch over each
other, (Hebrews 10:24) and not do like Cain who said: Am I the my brother's keeper
(Genesis 4:9)
f. All are not leaders, leaders, but we are all called to strive for the qualifications
required of a leader (or elder and deacon), to family, moral and spiritual maturity
blameless. (I Corinthians 11:1; I Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9)
g. As members of the body of Christ, we are all called to intercession for all brothers and
sisters in Christ whom we know. (Ephesians 6:18-19). Starting with those of the local
Church. (James 5:16). Then, to allow ourselves to be led by the Spirit, in order to also
intercede for strangers. (Romans 8:26-27). Importance of being faithful in this
ministry.
Examples:
Faithfulness of Paul praying for the different churches. (Romans 1:9-10; Ephesians 1:16;
Philippians 1:4; Colossians 1:3, 9; I Thessalonians 1:1-2; II Thessalonians 1:11)
Also praying for different people. (II Timothy 1:3; Philemon 1:4)
Paul relied heavily on the prayers of others. (Romans 15:30-31; Colossians 4:2-4; I
Thessalonians 5:25, II Thessalonians 3:1-2; Philemon 1:22)
Intercession of Epaphras. (Colossians 4:12)
Prayer of the whole Church for a troubled brother. (Acts 12:5)
h. Called to bear one another's burdens. (Galatians 6:2; Romans 15:1-2)
i. Called to be servants of others and to love them. (John 13:14-17, 13:34)
To visit those in need. (Matthew 25:35-36; James 1:27)
j. Called to bear, to forgive. (Colossians 3:13; Ephesians 4:32)
k. Called to have the same feelings towards each other. (Romans 12:15-16)
l. To exercise hospitality. (I Peter 4:9; Hebrews 13:2)

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 m. Called to learn to sow good in all, (Galatians 6:9-10) by sharing, by giving oneself. (II
Corinthians 9:6)
n. Called to social welfare. Practical help to those in need; assist the poor among the
saints. (Romans 15:25-28)
Examples:
Church decision following famine. (Acts 11:28-30)
Social assistance and insurance did not exist, so the Church provided for those who were
actually widowed. (I Timothy 5:16)
Helping God's servants in full-time ministry. (I Corinthians 9:13-14; Philippians 4:15-18)
As members united to one body, let us work for unity, peace, love, forgiveness, mutual aid,
growth of the body of Christ by "giving". (Luke 6:38)
And by serving others what we have received. (I Peter 4:10)
Every gift, function, ministry must be used and developed (I Timothy 4:14, II Timothy 1:6-7)
What God asks of us is our faithfulness in little things. (Luke 16:10; I Corinthians 4:1-2)
Parable of the talents. (Matthew 25:19-21)
Then God can entrust us with greater responsibilities. Faithfulness, which is part of the fruit of
the Spirit, must develop. (Galatians 5:22)
Growth in the ministry of service to the body.
Importance of not always remaining at the same stage in the ministry of service for God and
for neighbour. Paul's exhortation to Timothy to grow in his ministry of service. (1 Timothy
4:12-16) Progress of the Church of Thessalonica. (2 Thessalonians 1:3) Good growth requires
good food which is the Word of God. (Matthew 4:4) Command of the Lord Jesus to teach all
the Word. (Matthew 28:20) Priority of the Word of God above all things. (John 1:1-2)
Example of the Church in Jerusalem. (Acts 2:42) The Word before communion and prayers.
The Word which is truth is the foundation of fellowship and unity. Do not neglect the Word
for other secondary things.
Example of the Church of Philadelphia. (Revelation 3:10) Keeping the Word must take
precedence over activity, service, gifts, ministries. (John 14:23).
Example of Martha and Mary. (Luke 10:38-42) He who acts without keeping the Word, it
will do him no good, for he will be rejected. (Matthew 7:21-24) All service, all ministry must
be controlled and judged by the Word of God. (II Corinthians 13:5)
The Christian faith rests on God and His Word. Importance of keeping the Word in these end
days when apostasy is so evident. (II Thessalonians 2:3) Apostasy, from the Greek
“apostasis”.
Jude 1:3 tells us that the faith was passed on to the saints once for all.
 Faith is a firm assurance, confidence, faithfulness to God and to His Word.
 Apostasy is abandonment of the Word of God in favor of lying words. We live in a
time of increase in pernicious sects which increase the seduction of error.
(II Thessalonians 2:1-2; I Timothy 4:1)

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Error seems to have more appeal than the Word of God. Therefore, let us not tire of the Word;
it is essential to our spiritual growth. (II Timothy 3:16-17)
Above all, let's put it into practice. (James 1:22) Let us not forget that those who despised the
"manna" which was the bread from heaven, perished in the desert. (Numbers 21:4-6)
We are called to experience service by the Word of God; for we may encounter false
ministries and false inspirations.
False apostles. (Revelation 2:2). We have to experience them. They forsake faith, the Word,
but not service.
 False prophets. (I John 4:1)
 False teachers. (II Peter 2:1, 15).
They were once on the right track.
Not to mention unfaithful pastors. (Jeremiah 23:1)
 Evangelicals working for sordid gain. (Philippians 1:15)
 And false brethren. (II Corinthians 11:26)
 For this, judgment is needed according to the Word of God. A servant of God
(apostle, prophet, etc.) is never infallible! This is why he must accept the
judgment of others, of the body of Christ. (Ephesians 5:21)
For this, we must remain attached to the body, to the local Church. (I Corinthians 14:29, 37)
Leaving the body, the local church, one becomes independent, proud, incorrigible.
(Colossians 2:18-19)
Examples: David who was anointed king and shepherd of Israel, being also a prophet, and
who once numbered Israel, but this inspiration came from the devil. (I Chronicles 21:1-4)
From Peter who also had a devilish inspiration. (Matthew 16:23) Be careful, because there
can be a wisdom, a human inspiration which can be diabolical. (James 3:14-15)
Every human being since Adam is exposed to three different influences: human, divine and
diabolical. Hence the importance of testing all things by the Word of God. (I John 4:1)
False teaching, false revelation or prophecy can be bewitchment, seduction, entanglement,
blindness. Galatians 3:1; Who bewitched you (Darby version). It is the same effect as
divination and sorcery; it's a link.
The person can only be released after recognizing, confessing and refusing the error. (II
Timothy 2:25-26)
David confessed his sin, his false inspiration and he offered a burnt offering and the ban was
lifted. (I Chronicles 21:26-27) So to grow in the ministry of service, we must absolutely
accept the authority of all the Word of God in our life and let everything in us be judged by it.
(Psalm 119:11)
 The 4th purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ here below is the
salvation of the lost world.
We must proclaim the gospel, the knowledge of God revealed in Jesus Christ, in order to win
souls to Christ and make new disciples of them.
It is a duty of the whole Church. (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8)
Evangelism is the task of the Church.
Why ?

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If there is no Church, there will be no evangelism, since it has been ordained to the Church.
(Mark 16:15)
Evangelism cannot exist without the Church, because the purpose of evangelism is to add
souls to the Church. (Acts 2:47)
Evangelism is the mission ordained to the whole Church; not to angels, but to members of the
body of Christ.
Angels do not have this privilege to preach the Gospel. See Corneille's story. (Acts 10)
Evangelism is the last command given by Jesus Christ to all his disciples, and not only to a
certain category of specialists. (Matthew 28:19)
While not all are called to preach like Peter on the day of Pentecost, or to hold campaigns
like Philip in Samaria, all are called to be witnesses of Christ. (Acts 8:1,4)
Two ministries are particularly linked to evangelism:
a. Apostle
b. Evangelist. (Ephesians 4:11)
Although other ministries can also contribute to the salvation of the lost.
 Shepherd = The shepherd who looks for the lost sheep. (Luke 15:4-7)
 Prophet = Who unveils the secrets of the heart. (I Corinthians 14:24-25)
 Teacher = Who teaches the Word, in order to correct those who are in error.
(II Timothy 2:24-25)
If evangelism is ordained to the Church, it is because it must continue the work of the Lord.
(John 20:21) This is why God keeps us here. (John 17:15-18) Some images of this ministry to
the lost:
Light: Jesus said: I am the light of the world. Now he tells us: You are the light of the world.
(Matthew 5:14-16)
The world is in darkness; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. (John
12:35)
To be the light is to bear witness to the light which is Christ and his Word.
Salvation is a passage from darkness to light. (Acts 26:18)
Light can have two effects; it can save or condemn. (John 1:1-12 – John 3:19-21)
Our light must shine first by our behavior and our works, and then by our words. (Matthew
5:16 – Ephesians 5:8-9)
Watchman: (Ezekiel 33:6-9)
That is, to warn of danger: sin, judgment, death and hell. To witness what we see and know.
(Isaiah 21:6, 11-12)
Salt: (Matthew 5:13. You are the salt of the earth.
Several properties of salt:
a) Gives taste, flavor, brings influence where it is. The taste and the influence
do not come from ourselves, but from Christ in us. For that we must disappear, melt
away. Likewise salt is useful only in the hands of him who uses it with wisdom.

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 b) Salt creates thirst. We must create thirst for the things of God around us and
make them crave. God gives to the thirsty.
c) Salt melts the ice. Terrible situations can change, hard hearts can melt. Paul and
Silas in the prison of the city of Philip.
d) Salt preserves from corruption, cleans, purifies. By our presence, families,
regions can be transformed, purified.

1. What is evangelism ?
It is to bring the Gospel which means: Good News
It is the Gospel of God, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is the Good News of salvation
by faith in Jesus Christ for all, Jews and Gentiles. (Romans 1:1-5, 16-17)
It is also presented to us as:
The Gospel of Peace. (Ephesians 6:15)
The gospel of salvation. (Ephesians 1:13)
The Gospel of grace. (Acts 20:24)
The everlasting gospel. (Revelation 14:6)

2. What evangelization is not.

It is not to bring people to be part of a group, of a society like Rotary and the Lion's
club, ...
It is not to lead them to follow traditions, rites,... Many Churches are clubs of sinners!
It is not leading the oppressed masses to be liberated from imperialism, capitalism,
communism, slavery, etc.
Examples: The disciples of Emmaus. (Luke 24:21)
The new gospel of the World Council of Churches, which is the gospel of liberation by
arming liberation movements, terrorists.
There were many social injustices in the time of Jesus and the apostles. See the duties of
servants and slaves in Ephesians 6:5-9
Nor is it political, economic, or cultural liberation, or adapting the Gospel of the Lord to
one's culture and traditions. It is not providing social assistance during natural disasters, in
food, medical aid, education, etc. Although social work can be a springboard to bring the
gospel.
It is not the gospel of prosperity, promising to make millions, to have
the solution to all problems, illness, unemployment, celibacy, studies,
etc.

3. What is evangelization according to the New Testament.

It is to lead people to reconciliation with God through freedom from sin, Satan, death and
hell, receiving forgiveness and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. (Acts 26:17-18)
What is the Good News according to 1 John 1:5, 8-9 – 2:1-2
a) To make known the existence and holiness of God.
b) To make known the state of perdition of man.

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 c) To make known the salvation of God.

a. The existence and holiness of God

God reveals himself through his creation. (Romans 1:19-20)
By his Word. (Psalm 19:1-11)
Through Jesus Christ. (John 14:8-11)
The Lord is a thrice holy God. (Revelation 4:8)
He demands holiness from his people. (I Peter 1:15-16)

b. Make known the state of perdition of man.

He was born a sinner and separated from God. (Romans 3:23)
He is a slave to sin and Satan. (John 8:34 – 1 John 3:8)
He is on death row. (Romans 6:23)
He is already spiritually dead. (Ephesians 2:1)
Judgment in Gehenna fire awaits him. (Revelation 21:8)
(To seek healing, one must know that one is sick.)

c. Make known the salvation of God.

God loves us and has provided for our salvation through the sacrifice of His Son
Jesus Christ. (John 3:16)
At the cross, divine justice was fulfilled. (Romans 5:18-19)
Jesus Christ alone saves us. (Acts 4:12)
Christ also came to destroy the works of the devil in the lives of men. (1 John 3:8)

4. Who must evangelize or witness ?

The whole Church of Jesus Christ. You will be my witnesses… Go! … (Matthew 28:19-
20 – Acts 1:8–8:4)
We alone are responsible for saving our generation, not the angels. (I Corinthians 9:16)

5. Conditions to be a witness.
a. Having been evangelized oneself.
Example of Paul. (Acts 26:19)
Meeting Jesus, life changed, liberated, filled with the Holy Spirit. No more doubt,
in order to be able to say: I know in whom I believed, I am not ashamed of the
Gospel. (II Timothy 1:12; Romans 1:16)

b. Have the vision of spiritual needs.

If no vision, no evangelism, no purpose, letting go, the church loses its testimony
and its purpose in this world. (Proverbs 29:18)
Vision of Ezekiel in chapter 37.
Vision of the four lepers to save Samaria which was besieged by the Syrians. (II
Kings 7)
 God's vision = world vision. (John 3:16)
 Vision of Christ = salvation of souls. (Luke 19:10)

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  Vision of the harvest before sowing = vision of the harvest. The
vision will move us to action.

c. Have compassion and passion for the salvation of souls.

Pray for it, then start testifying of Jesus. The passion will come. (James 5:11; Luke
15:20; Mark 6:34)

d. Everything in us must contribute to evangelization.

Our prayers. (I Timothy 2:1-4)
Our words. (Romans 10:14; I Peter 4:11; Matthew 10:32)
Our deeds. (I Peter 3:1)
Our possessions. (II Corinthians 9:6) Sow for the advancement of the kingdom of
God.

6. Indispensable equipment for evangelization.

Evangelism is spiritual warfare against darkness to free captives, pull down the
strongholds of the devil, and cast out demons. (Ephesians 6:12)
Importance of spiritual equipment and weapons. (Luke 24:45-49; Acts 1:8; Ephesians
6:13-18)
Salvation is a work of the Holy Spirit; also without being subject to the Holy Spirit, we
will not do spiritual works, but carnal ones. (John 15:5)
We must be led and act by the Spirit.
Upon your Word, I will cast the net. (Luke 5:5)
The Spirit said to Philip: Come forward and approach this chariot. (Acts 8:29)
Bound by the Spirit, I go to Jerusalem… (Acts 20:22-23)
Having been restrained by the Holy Spirit from speaking the Word in Asia… (Acts 16:6-
10)
We Must Speak the Word by Being Filled with the Spirit
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me to bring good news to the poor. (Luke 4:18, 32)
We must live the Word by the Spirit. (Galatians 5:16, 25)
We must pray in the Spirit. (Ephesians 6:18; I Corinthians 14:15)
The Holy Spirit convinces, opens the eyes, regenerates, frees, heals, … The more we are
filled with the Holy Spirit, the more we will be moved to glorify Jesus and to witness to
him. The more our hearts are filled with the Lord Jesus, the more we will talk about him.
It is from the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks. (Matthew
12:34)

7. Means of communicating the Gospel message

Witnesses filled and led by the Holy Spirit. (Acts 1:8, 2:14, 4:8, 8:4)
There can be hundreds of ways to communicate the Good News. What matters is that the
Word be proclaimed: salvation by faith in Jesus Christ.

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 Faith comes by hearing, by the Word of God. (Romans 10:17) Direct communication by
the Holy Spirit. (John 16:7-8)

The Holy Spirit works in the work of evangelism.

By reading the Word of God.
Evangelism through literature, treatises, libraries, correspondence courses, posters,
stickers, etc.
By dreams and visions. (Job 33:14-18)
Examples from Saul of Tarsus. (Acts 9:3-6)
of Cornelius. (Acts 10:3-6)
Means of attraction.
Divine means: healings, miracles. These are to lead people to listen to and receive the
Word of God. (Acts 8:6-7; Acts 13:6-12)
Loudspeakers, musical groups, theater, mimes, tents, films, radio, television, internet,
tapes, video, telephone, records, letters, etc.
Premises.
Example of Philip: in front of crowds or facing one person. (Acts 8:5, Acts 8:29-30)
In buildings: churches, synagogues. (Acts 13:5)
Outdoors, in homes. (Acts 20:20-21)
Neutral local, cinema hall, coffee bar, by the parade, in the market by stalls, at the factory,
at the office, at school, in buses, trains, planes , on the sidewalk, in hospitals, prisons, door
to door, through sports, at home by inviting people to a meal, in prayer cells and home
Bible studies, by helping the needy, by works social services, clinics, schools, etc. Every
Christian is called to individual evangelization. (Acts 8:1-4, 11:19-21; I Peter 2:12, 3:15-
16)

8. Objective of evangelization.
The Church according to the New Testament is a Church that evangelizes. (Acts 8:4) They
went from place to place proclaiming the good news of the Word.
The purpose of evangelism is shown to us by Jesus in Matthew 16:18:…on this rock (the
Rock = Christ), Jesus said: I will build my Church…Christ is the supreme head, the
head of the Church who is his body. (Ephesians 1:22-23)
Thus, through evangelism, the Lord added to the Church those who were saved. (Acts
2:47)
The purpose of evangelism is that souls be brought into the body of Christ, that living
stones be added to the edifice which is the Church. (I Corinthians 3:9; Ephesians 2:19-22;
I Peter 2:5)
The Holy Spirit himself baptizes us, brings us into the body of Christ. (1 Corinthians
12:13)
How to get there ?

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 By following Matthew 28:19-20. That is to say, by going, by making the nations disciples
of Christ, by baptizing, by teaching all the Word, by associating them with a local Church.
Evangelism in the New Testament, then, was not just preaching and campaigning.
Examples of what was happening in the early Church. (Acts 2:41-47)
a. They accepted the Word. V. 41 = decision for Christ through repentance,
conversion and faith in Jesus.
b. They were baptized. V. 41 = commitment, testimony; they sealed their decision
publicly, like a wedding ring.
c. They joined the Church. V. 41 = participation.
d. They were taught by the apostles. V. 42 = their spiritual nourishment
e. Each day they persevered in the fraternal communion of the Church = daily
Christian life.
f. They reached the unconverted. V. 47 = their activities
g. They increased in number daily. v. 47 = the fruit of their testimony.

9. Reports and Statistics of Evangelism

The effectiveness of evangelism in the New Testament is shown to us by numbers which
are the result of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Luke 24:45-47)
As well as the result of the coming of the Holy Spirit and the authority of Christ and his
work with his disciples. (Luke 24:48-49; Mark 16:19-20)
These figures are based on the number of those who accepted Jesus Christ as Savior and
Lord, those who were baptized and who persevered in the teaching of the apostles, in
fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in prayers. (Acts 2:41-42)
They were not Christians in name, circumstance, or only Sunday!
It was not just quantity, but quality.
 Beginning with 120 followers. (Acts 1:15)
 At Pentecost, 3000 were added. (Acts 2:41)
 Then 5000 men. (Acts 4:4)
 Daily increase. (Acts 2:47, 5:14) = minimum increase of 365 souls per year.
 Big increase. (Acts 6:7)
 Geographic multiplication of churches. (Acts 9:31)
 Daily increase in number of churches. (Acts 16:5)
 Thousands of converts. (Literally myriads, indefinite quantity). (Acts 21:20)
In two years, all of Asia Minor will have heard the Word. (Acts 19:10)
All of this shows us:
It is not enough to reach people with the Gospel by preaching to them. It is not enough for
people to accept Christ. It is not enough for people to go to church, be taught and
baptized, the goal of evangelism is that each new convert in turn bring forth new souls.
Thus, we see two important points:
a. Forming Christians capable of giving birth to other disciples.
b. Form Assemblies capable of forming other Assemblies and this within an
unlimited radius.
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 Never forget the vision and the call:
To make disciples of all nations.
A 5th purpose of the Church is in view of the final goal and of a
future and eternal vocation, but which is already being prepared
now.
A future vocation, in order to reign with Christ as the bride of the Lord, but which is already
now being prepared. The Church is to be made like Christ, as it is written: When Christ your
life appears, then you will also appear with him in glory. (Colossians 3:4)
And it is at this time that the Church will be united with Christ as a bride at the wedding feast
of the Lamb which will take place in glory. (Revelation 19:7-9) The apostle Paul, in planting
churches, was working towards this glorious end. This is what he mentions when he writes in
2 Corinthians 11:2: I am jealous of you with the jealousy of God because I
have betrothed you to one husband, to present you to Christ as a pure
virgin.
And when the marriage supper of the Lamb is over, the Bible declares that we will reign with
Christ on the earth for a thousand years. (Revelation 20:4)
At this time, we are not called to reign on this earth, since it is said that we are strangers and
travelers here below. But later, with Christ, we will reign. As it is written in Revelation 5:10:
Thou hast made them a kingdom and priests unto our God, and they shall reign on earth with
Christ.
So what are the reasons for the existence of the Church of Jesus Christ here? First, the Church
exists:
1. For God, communion, relationship, in order to celebrate his glory.
2. For spiritual dominations, in order to be a demonstration of the wisdom of God.
3. For the believers of the Church, in order to serve to edify and form them.
4. For the lost world, in order to communicate to them the Good News of salvation
through faith in Jesus Christ.
5. And the last reason is for a final purpose and an eternal vocation, it is in order to reign
with Christ as the bride of the Lord Jesus who is coming soon.
Are you ready to meet him Are you preparing to meet him We are saved so: That we may
serve to the praise of his glory (Ephesians 1:12)

VI- Jesus Christ the Perfect Model for every member of the
Church.

a. Jesus our model.

We are called to live, walk, talk, act, think like Jesus. (Luke 6:40; Ephesians 5:1-
2)
Objection: Impossible, pride, pretentiousness, etc.
 For the sinner = impossible.
 For the born-again Christian = possible, because a new creature, created in
the image of Jesus. (I John 2:6; II Corinthians 3:18)

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 b. Jesus Christ, his humanity. (Philippians 2:7; Hebrews 2:17)
All fullness was in Jesus. (Colossians 1:19, 2:9)
All the ministries were in him, along with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. He was born
of the Spirit, as well as filled, empowered, and qualified by the Holy Spirit. (Luke
4:1, 14; John 3:34; Acts 10:38)

c. Jesus Christ the perfect model He sought only the glory and the will of his Father.
(John 6:38 – John 17:4)

d. Jesus Christ a model by giving himself to others

He came as a servant. (Matthew 20:28; Luke 22:27)
See the character of Jesus, his humility, his meekness. (Philippians 2:5-8; Matthew
11:29)

e. Jesus Christ was the perfect:

Apostle. Sent from the Father. (John 3:16; John 20:21)
Prophet. He brought words of revelation. (Luke 13:33-34).
Revealed the secret of hearts. (John 2:24-25).
Announced future events. (Mark 13:23)
Doctor. He knew how to teach. (Mark 1:21-22).
And make the word penetrate into hearts. (Luke 24:32)
Shepherd He gave his life for his sheep. (John 10:11)
Evangelist. He looked for the lost sheep, went from place to place and was
often with sinners. (Luke 19:7, 10).
He had compassion for souls and saw the crowd without a shepherd. (Matthew
9:36)
Jesus said: The disciple is no more than the master, but every accomplished
disciple will be like his master. (Luke 6:40)
Yes: As he is, so also are we in this world. (I John 4:17)

VII- Organization of the Church.

The different ministries are gifts that the Lord gives to the members of the body, for the
purpose of building up, teaching, directing, helping and training the body by adding other
members to it. (I Peter 4:10-11)
A. For the proper functioning of the local Church, need for an
organization.
The Church is both earthly and heavenly.
a. Terrestrial, because composed of men and women.
b. Heavenly, because its head is Christ and it is composed of persons born of
God.
Necessity of an organization, without it, it is anarchy. God is a God of order. (I
Corinthians 14:33)

40
 However, there is a danger of too great a structure and organization, for example
by wanting to centralize everything, which would bring a lack of freedom and
limit the action of the Holy Spirit.
If Christ said: I will build my Church, he did not however say how he would
organize it.
It seems that the organization comes according to the needs and the development
of the work.
Example: Moses leading the people of Israel; it is on the advice of his father-in-
law Jethro that he chooses capable men to judge and to be leaders of a thousand,
a hundred, a fifty and a ten. (Exodus 18:13-26)

B. Biblical principles of organization.

1. Supreme divine authority

God is sovereign. Christ is the head of the Church. (Ephesians 1:22)

2. The Brotherhood of the Redeemed

All brothers are equal before the need to serve. Each must put the gift he has
received at the service of others. (I Peter 4:10)
…you are all brothers. (Matthew 23:8)

3. Order in the Assembly

Let everything be done with propriety and order. (I Corinthians 14:40)
Certain brethren are assigned to lead the assembly. (I Timothy 5:17; I
Thessalonians 5:12; Hebrews 13:17)

4. The autonomy of the local Church.

It administers itself, manages and directs its own affairs. No outside authority
has the right to interfere in local affairs. Advice can be given, but the local
Church must decide for itself, decide its own affairs.

C. How the local Churches of the New Testament were organized ?

Example: That of the Church of Jerusalem.
Start with the Twelve Apostles and as development progresses, helpers become
necessary.
Deacons. (Acts 6:1-6)
Then the elders arise, no doubt to replace the apostles in local responsibilities.
(Acts 11:30, 15:4)

Example at Lystra, Iconium and other places. (Acts 14:21-23)

As a result of witnessing, preaching the Word, born-again believers come together
and form a nucleus which is the local church.
The local Church was never entrusted to a single man. Elders were chosen to be
responsible and leaders of the Assemblies.
This body of elders was in turn aided by deacons. (Philippians 1:1)
Bishop = overseer. Note “bishops”, in the plural in the Church of Philip.

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 D. What is the place of ministries in the organization of the local
Church ?
Such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and doctors. (Ephesians 4:11)

1. Never such ministries are established in the Church by men. It is God who
establishes. (I Corinthians 12:28)
Ministry will be known by fruits and gifts. (Matthew 7:20)

2. We have seen that the local Church is led by a body of elders. Where do
they come from ? How are they chosen ?

Usually they are members of the local church. (Titus 1:5-6)

In the Church, God gives ministries. Thus the elders will be chosen from among
those whose ministry has really been recognized as coming from God.

The tree is known by its fruit and we must also test the ministries.

Among the chosen elders there may be apostles, if they are stationed in the local
church (1 Peter 5:1), teachers and prophets (Acts 13:1-3) and of course pastors
who received this ministry from God to perfectly fulfill the task of elder.

a. This is how the elder can be established by God in that he has received
from God a ministry qualifying him to be an elder. (Acts 20:28)
b. The elder can be established by the apostles who founded the Assemblies
or by their delegates. (Titus 1:5) The apostles never appointed or chose
pastors, prophets or teachers, but elders and deacons.
c. The choice can be made by the Assembly according to the criteria of the
Word. (Acts 1:23-26, 6:3-6, 14:23)
For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace. (I Corinthians 14:33)

VIII- Deacons and deaconesses Deacon from the Greek “diakonos” = servant, helper.
Generally, all believers are called to serve in the body of Christ. a- Serve the Lord
first. (Romans 12:11 – 1 Thessalonians 1:9) b- Then serve his body which is the
Church. (1 Peter 4:10) But in the early Church, deacons were officially chosen to
be associated with the leaders of the Church to assist them. For the first time we
find them in the Church of Jerusalem. (Acts 6:1-6) They helped the widows and
the needy in the Church with food. The deacon is primarily responsible for
practical work in the Church. We also see them in the Church of Philip.
(Philippians 1:1) In the Church of Cenchrea we are told of a deaconess. (Romans
16:1-2) = Practical help, service to receive saints, visitors, certainly for the
preparation of meals, laundry, hospitality in general. (Romans 12:13) Moral and
spiritual qualifications. The Deacon Filled with the Holy Spirit and wisdom and
well testified. (Acts 6:3) A married man, running his own household well.
Righteous, honest, having no love of money, having a pure conscience, that is to

42
 say, which does not reproach him for anything. Man stable in faith in the Holy
Scriptures. It must be tested. (1 Timothy 3:8-13) Deaconess Honest, upright, able
to control her tongue, not slanderous, faithful in all things, that is to say in the
Word of God, as well as in her domestic duties at home . (1 Timothy 3:11) Role of
deacons

My brothers and sisters and friends, the following statement is sometimes voiced by well-
intentioned and sincere individuals: "You go to your church; I'll go to mine; but let
us walk together." However, can people really walk together if they don't agree on the
basic teachings of the doctrines of Christ ? (Amos 3:3)

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Do all Christian churches teach the true gospel and its principles and also have the authority
to administer the saving ordinances which will guide and exalt their members in God's
heavenly kingdom ?
Jesus taught: "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that
leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: "Because strait is the
gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that
find it." (Matt. 7:13-14.)
Does that statement by the Savior suggest there are many ways to heaven ? Many people do
accept man's philosophy that "all roads lead to God," but it is a philosophy inconsistent
with the teachings of our Lord.
There is no logic or reason to the proposition that inconsistent teachings and differing
doctrines can bring about the same results. If truth comes from one source God—how can it
be so diversely taught ?
We know that all truth does emanate from God and is therefore unchangeable, consistent, and
unified. Consequently, not all Christian churches with their dissimilar teachings can provide a
fulness of truth. My intent is to assert with testimony and persuasion of scripture the reasons
there can be only one Lord, one acceptable faith, one baptism, and one true church. Then if
any of you are convinced you are mistaken in your present beliefs, you should have the
courage to investigate and the faith to change and follow the true path Christ has outlined that
assures one's eternal happiness.
CHRIST THE ONLY WAY TO GOD THE FARHER
When Jesus walked this earth among men, He proclaimed to His disciples: "I am the way,
the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John
14:6.) He proclaimed that the doctrines He taught were given to Him by his Father. He took
no credit Himself—only that He was doing what the Father had given Him to do. "For the
Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth." (John
5:20.)
"I and my Father are one," said the Savior. (John 10:30.) This statement does not mean they
are one person, but that Jesus and His Father are one in purpose. To hear and accept Jesus is
to hear and accept His Father.
Their teachings and objectives are identical. The doctrine of salvation is the same for all of
God's progeny. Jesus prayed in His intercessory prayer to His Father concerning those who
complied with His doctrines and ordinances: "And the glory which thou gavest me I have
given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. " (John 17:22.)
To proclaim this doctrine of the Father and the Son, Jesus established His church on the earth.
There were then, as there are today, many versions of truth represented by different religious
denominations. The Savior didn't choose any of the churches established by man, either when
He ministered on earth or in these latter days. He organized His own church with prophets and
apostles, with a gospel plan of salvation and exaltation. It was the church of Jesus Christ.
Jesus recognized that the various sects did not have a fulness of truth and did not possess the
authority to administer the ordinances of salvation. When many religious leaders became

44
offended by His teachings, Jesus then proclaimed most of His doctrines by using parables.
These made clear to the spiritually attuned person that there was to be only "one fold, and one
shepherd." (John 10:16.)
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but
climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber."
"But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep."
"To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by
name, and leadeth them out."
"And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him:
for they know his voice."
"And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of
strangers." (John 10:1-5.)
When this parable was not fully understood, Jesus plainly explained it by saying:
"I am the door of the sheep…."
"If any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture…"
"I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep."
"But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf
coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth." (John 10: 7, 9, 11-12.)
The testimony that Jesus is the Good Shepherd was a figure of speech familiar to those
accustomed to the pastoral conditions of Palestine. Jesus knew His hearers were acquainted
with the prophecy that a shepherd had been promised the children of Israel. David, the
shepherd boy who became king, wrote the beautiful Twenty-third Psalm that begins: "The
Lord is my shepherd." Isaiah prophesied that when God would come down, "He shall
feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm." (Isa.
40:11.) There was no mistaking what Jesus meant. He was their Lord the promised Messiah!
By likening false teachers and pastors to thieves and hirelings whose concern was for money
rather than the flock, Jesus repudiated all pretenders. A stronger indictment could not be
imagined! Then to make His point so clear that no one could misunderstand, He stated:
"There shall be one fold, and one shepherd." (John 10:16.)
He did not recognize then, nor has He recognized since, a multiplicity of folds or shepherds.
After Jesus put his apostles in charge of the Church anciently, they preached the same unity of
doctrine and practiced the same ordinances which Jesus had given them. These apostles were
not self-appointed servants, for Jesus said to them: "Ye have not chosen me, but I
have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth
fruit." (John 15:16.)
They were authorized ministers called to teach and omciate in the saving ordinances of the
gospel. Jesus had conferred the priesthood authority on them. As long as they remained on the
earth, functioning under the authority Jesus gave them, unity of doctrine and uniformity of the

45
ordinances prevailed. The gospel message, which they were commanded to take to all the
world, was the same to everyone everywhere. People were not taught different gospels and
then given a choice. There was only one plan for all.
Because of the universality of these requirements for salvation, the apostle Paul wrote:
"There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in on hope of
calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism." (Eph. 4:4-5.) On another occasion he
wrote: "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel
unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be
accursed." (Gal. 1:8.)
One church, one authorized ministry, one Christian gospel doctrine, and one Holy Ghost
characterized the church of Jesus Christ in His time. "For God is not the author of confusion,
but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." (1 Cor. 14:33.) Thus God's revelation to leaders
of the Church of Jesus Christ was reasonable, consistent, and unified.
It was only after the death of Christ's apostles that revelation ceased. The pure doctrines
Christ taught became diluted with the philosophy of the world, and profane innovations
appeared in the ordinances of the church. Eventually, that which had once been clear and
understandable became mythical and confusing. Confusion is the field where Satan operates
to deceive and lead mankind astray. Jesus and His apostles predicted a "falling away" (see
2 Thes. 2: 1-4), which did occur, and Christianity entered a long night of darkness.
Today a multiplicity of churches and doctrines abound, all claiming one source. Such a claim,
of course, defies reason and contradicts the teachings and pattern established by Jesus Christ.
A sincere seeker for truth must ask: "Which, if any, of the varying Christian groups
is right ?" For guidance, the apostle James gave this counsel: "If any of you lack
wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth
not; and it shall be given him." (James 1:5.) If you sincerely put this promise to the test
in seeking light and truth, you will be rewarded.
Moroni, a Book of Mormon prophet, outlines a simple way to know the authenticity of the
gospel of Christ. He exhorted: "And when ye shall receive these things, I would
exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of
Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart,
with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto
you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
"And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things." (Moro. 10:4-5.)
Since it is clear that Jesus was one with His Father and that they accepted only one fold, or
church, it is essential for every seeker after truth to recognize the hallmarks of the true
church. The church of Jesus Christ in any age bears certain identifying characteristics.
In the true church of Jesus Christ you will find leaders who can trace their priesthood
authority line directly back to the Lord Jesus Christ.
You will find in His church the same officers ministering among men: namely : apostles,
prophets, evangelists and teachers (Eph. 4:11). The Church will be directed on earth by the
body of Christ that we all are. The major mission of the Church is to "teach [the gospel

46
to] all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghost." (Matt. 28:19.)
The same gifts of the Spirit which prevailed in the church at the time of Jesus are prevalent
today. Some of these gifts are: revelation, healing, miracles, prophecy, and many others-as
found in First Corinthians, twelfth chapter. Charity; the pure love of Christ-will be in
evidence among its membership. The same power which Jesus gave to His apostles that
"whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and
whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven" (Matt. 18:18)
will also be in the true church today. There are ordinances and blessings bestowed by an
authorized ministry to Church members. These covenants and obligations, if entered into and
obeyed, apply not just for this life, but for all members. These covenants and obligations, if
entered into and obeyed, apply not just for this life, but for all eternity.
Every individual in the Lord's church is entitled to the sure knowledge, received by personal
revelation through the Holy Ghost, that the Church is true. Personal revelation to the
individual is the strength of the church of Jesus Christ in any age.
We must learn the truth for a surety and not merely suppose we are right. It is our
responsibility to know and by the aid of the scriptures and the Holy Ghost one can know
without any doubt.
One cannot prayerfully study the scriptures without gaining the knowledge and testimony that
there is only one way to exaltation. The scriptures point the way very clearly. It must be God's
way and not man's way, for God has said: "For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord." (Isa. 55:8.)
As an authorized servants and special witnesses of Jesus Christ in this day, I humbly bear
witness that the church of Jesus Christ is on the earth today. This Church bears all of the
identifying marks I have mentioned. Presiding under the direction of Jesus Christ stands a
living servants.

I- Meaning of the word “Church” Origin: from the Greek “Ekklêsia” = To call out from… to
form an Assembly. The Ekklêsia only represented all the people called and never designated a
place or a building. Three important points in the meaning of the word “Ekklêsia”: 1- A call.
That's the first thing God does to man; He calls him. Examples: Adam: Where are you
(Genesis 3:9) Abram: (Genesis 12:1) Moses: (Exodus 3:4) Paul: (Acts 9:4-6 – 1 Corinthians
1:1) This call can come directly from the Lord or through his servants. (Acts. 2:38-39 –
Romans 1:5-6 – Romans 8:28-30) This requires a personal response and decision. It is
written: Many are called, but few are chosen. (Parable of the wedding. Matthew 22:1-14)
Thus, the Church is made up primarily of those who have heard and responded to the call of
the Lord. 2- A separation. Call out: From death to enter life. (John 5:24 – Ephesians 2:5)
From darkness to light. (1 Peter 2:9) From the power of Satan to God. (Acts 26:18) From

47
impurity to holiness. (2 Corinthians 6:17) We see two distinct camps. In the act of separation,
there is: a- The part of the man. Moving from one camp to another through repentance,
conversion, and faith in Jesus Christ. b- God's share. Forgiveness, salvation, regeneration, or
spiritual new birth. 3- A gathering. Sin separates us from God and divides us. Examples:
Adam and Eve from with God. (Genesis 3:24 – Isaiah 59:2) In the family, Cain and Abel.
(Genesis 4:8) Men among themselves, the Tower of Babel. (Genesis 11:7) In Jesus Christ,
what was divided, separated, is united again to form a body. (1 Corinthians 12:13) This unity
is only possible among those who have responded to God's call and separated themselves.
Any religious gathering that does not have this basis of unity becomes a tower of Babel =
curse. One of the purposes of gathering is edification. (1 Corinthians 14:26 – Hebrews 10:24-
25) In summary: God calls men and women out of the world of darkness, the kingdom of
Satan, into his wonderful kingdom of light, to worship and to serve.

Thus the Church is not a material construction, it is not a human institution, but the whole of
all those who have been washed by the blood of Jesus and who have experienced the new
birth (John 3:7) and became children of God. (John 1:12-13) They became one plant with
Christ. (Romans 6:5) Image of the Vine which gives life to the branches. (John 15:5) Become
one mind with Christ. (1 Corinthians 6:17) Are one body with Christ. (Romans 12:5) The
Church is a body, an organism, a living cell. The Church is spiritual, being the mystical,
hidden body of the Lord. The Church is universal, since it is made up of all the children of
God of the New Covenant who are in heaven and on earth. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18) If the
Church in one sense is invisible, it is at the same time visible, for it is manifested on earth by
living and active members. (Matthew 5:14) The Church is also local. In the New Testament,
the Christian community of each locality (Jerusalem, Rome, Philip, etc.) was considered a
Church; hence the plural. (Acts 16:5 – Revelation 1:11) However, the local Church cannot be
identified with the invisible Church, because it is imperfect. Differences between the
universal and local Church: Universal Church Local Church Celestial Terrestrial Invisible
Visible Perfect Imperfect Spiritual Body Tangible Reality The universal Church is from
above, like nails already attached to the magnet. The local Church, which is from below, is a
mixture of nails, wood, straw. (Parable of the tares. Matthew 13:24-30) Jesus said: Come,
follow me! (Mark 10:21) II- Origin of the Church

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 A FEW THOUGHTS COME INTO FOCUS
Most every denominational organization and sect that claims a Christian purpose calls itself a
"church." In spite of all their diversity, that common term stands out. Where did the idea
come from? The Bible introduces the church, but also clearly depicts it to be a single, unified
organism. The Bible, which traces the Divine church through prophecy and its founding,
should also be the one authority for the church's organization, pattern of worship and doctrine
today.
Just listening to the many radio and television programs on a given Sunday morning presents
another enigma. The plans of salvation they preach do not agree. A few of these groups may,
on the surface, seem to be preaching doctrines that are about alike, but the teachings of some
are in direct opposition to those of others. Two opposites, each claiming to be truth, cannot
both be correct.
The existence of so many varied denominations, most claiming to be the church, testifies to
the fact that, somewhere, there is, or was a true original. Even counterfeit money is evidence
there is a real thing - and that it is valuable.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

There is only one place to go for answers about the church. The Bible, the word of God, tells
all about God's church, and it clearly presents one church! From the very first of the Bible we
find God's oneness stressed, and the unity of His followers taught. The harmony of God's
creation is revealed in Genesis 1:31 "...it was very good." God is not a God of confusion (1
Corinthians 14:33). Deuteronomy 6:4 is one of many passages which teach the oneness of
God. Genesis 2:24 reveals the beginning of marriage and says the man and wife:...shall be one
flesh." An inspired apostle, Paul uses the Divine institution of marriage to illustrate the nature
of the church, which is his body (Ephesians 1:22,23; Colossians 1:18). The figures of the
body and the oneness of husband and wife carry through many verses of Ephesians 5. Paul
culminates the comparison by saying,"...I speak in regard of Christ and of the church" (Eph.

49
5:32). The Bible says "There is one body,...one spirit,...one hope,...one Lord,...one faith,...one
baptism,...one God...: (Eph. 4:4-6). Jesus prayed for unity of his people, "that they may all be
one" (John 17:21).
For further identification of that one church we look briefly to Old Testament prophecies:
Both Isaiah and Micah speak of a special kingdom (future) and describe it as "the mountain of
Jehovah's house" (Isaiah 2:2,3; Micah 4:1,2). These predictions designated the beginning
place as Zion, or Jerusalem, and a message called "the word of Jehovah." Jesus said the
Kingdom would come during his generation, and that it would come with power (Mark 9:1).
The great Pentecost occasion recorded in Acts 2, fulfills all of these predictions, and from that
time forward the New Testament speaks of the church as being in existence (Acts 2:46,47;
20:28; 1 Cor. 16:19). Matthew 16:18,19 and Acts 20:25-28 use interchangeably the terms
"kingdom" and "church." The first letter to Timothy (3:15) calls the church "the house of
God."
None would deny God's relationship to the church, but in a very special sense it is Christ's
church. Jesus said, "...I will build my church;" (Matt. 16:18). The word "church" is singular.
The passage in Acts 20:28 says the Lord purchased the church "with his own blood," and
Ephesians 1:23 calls it "his body." The church is a living organism with Christ the head and
Christians members of that body.
So undenominational was that original church that it was sometimes spoken of simply as "the
Way" (Acts 9:2). The basic meaning of the original Greek word for church was "the called out
ones." The New Testament pictures one universal church with one common message: "And
he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to the whole creation. He
that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that disbelieveth shall be condemned"
(Mark 16:15,16). The members of this one body, or way, were scattered everywhere and as
they met in their respective geographic locations they were called, in a local congregational
sense, "churches of Christ" (Romans 16:16).

HOW DID DIVISIONS ORIGINATE?

Nowhere in the New Testament is there a record of Roman Catholicism or any of the
numerous Protestant denominations. How did the variety of present-day "churches" come
into existence? The church always has been made up of human individuals, susceptible to
human error. Paul warned the church at Corinth (1 Cor. 1:10-13) not to follow men - not even
good men - instead of Christ. In that very passage he asks, "Is Christ divided ?" Implied in
his answer, "No!" Division comes from humans and their views, and especially so when we
look to men rather than to the Bible for our authority.
The Roman Catholic system of religion evolved as men departed from and altered the original
pattern. Examples of such unauthorized additions are: holy water; penance; Latin mass;
extreme unction and purgatory. These practices came too late to be apostolic or "original."
Perhaps the greatest departure came in the area of organization, and over a period of a few
hundred years the traditional Roman Catholic hierarchy emerged, about 606 A.D., with an
unscriptural leader (pope) called Boniface III.
Protestants began as protesters. A denomination (of anything) is a division. Early leaders of
Protestant movements were Catholics: Peter Waldo; Martin Luther; Ulrich Zwingli; etc. Their
intention was to reform a church which had become full of abuses and errors. Instead, many
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of these leaders were excommunicated and their efforts crystallized into new organizations.
These were established too late to be the church of the New Testament, and they were
founded by someone other than the one who spoke in Matthew 16:18. Many teachings and
practices of Protestant denominations are additions to, or subtractions from, the New
Testament pattern, and several are retained from the Catholic church. Throughout the years
still more denominations with new doctrines have continued to arise.

WE MUST BE IN CHRIST'S CHURCH

What is wrong with selecting a "church" of one's choice? As free, moral agents we do have
the capacity to choose, but our "choosing" can be wrong. In the case of the church, Christ
built it, purchased it, and is its head. Those who respond to his invitation, on his terms, will be
added to his church (Acts 2:41). Acts 2:47 states that the Lord added those that were being
saved. He is the author of eternal salvation "...unto all them that obey him" (Hebrews 5:9). He
is the savior of the body, his church (Eph. 5:23). Proverbs 14:12 warns: "There is a way which
seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death." Jesus himself said there
would be those who professed the name of the Lord and who did works in his name, who
would be lost. He said those who did the will of his Father who is in heaven would enter
heaven (Matt. 7:21-23).
A will, or testament, of man is strictly honored by the courts. As we prepare for final
judgment and eternal life we must make certain we are members of Christ's church (the one
described in the New Testament) having complied with his will, and having been obedient to
his commands! On this basis we shall be judged (John 12:48).

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE TRUE CHURCH

Acts 11:25-26 « Barnabas then went to Tarsus to seek Saul; and finding him, he brought him
to Antioch. For a whole year they met in the assemblies of the Church, and they taught many
people. It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians. »

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2 Thessalonians 1:4 “Therefore we glory in you in the churches of God, because of your
patience and your faith in the midst of all your persecutions and the tribulations which you
have had to endure”. Acts 15:40-41 “Paul chose Silas, and departed, recommended by the
brethren to the grace of the Lord. He traveled through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the
Churches”. Romans 16:1-16 mentions that in the city of Rome alone there were several local
assemblies. 9/ Each local assembly or local church is identified by the name of the city, town,
village or district. There is therefore no particular denomination to be given Acts 8:1 “Saul
had approved of the murder of Stephen. On that day there was a great persecution against the
Church of Jerusalem; and all of them, except the apostles, were dispersed in the regions of
Judea and Samaria”. Ephesians 1:1 "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the
saints which are at Ephesus and to the faithful in Christ Jesus" 1Corinthians 1:2 "to the church
of God which is at Corinth, to those who have been sanctified in Jesus Christ, “1
Thessalonians 1:1 “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians,
which is in God the Father and in Christ Jesus the Lord: let grace and peace be given to you!
".
Images and symbols representing the spiritual nature of the Church How to explain a mystery
Symbols help us better understand the mystery of the Church.
1. A spiritual temple The Church is the building of God. = Building picture. (Ephesians
2:20-22 – 1 Corinthians 3:9, 16-17) The temple is built on a solid foundation which is
Jesus Christ and the Word which form a whole. (John 1:1, 14) The temple is glorious,
eternal, it is the habitation of God by his Spirit. (1 Corinthians 6:19 – 2 Corinthians
6:16) Examples: The glory of God was already manifested under the Old Covenant by
the cloud, on Mount Sinai, the face of Moses, in the tabernacle and in the temple of
Solomon. (Exodus 16:10 – 24:15-17 – 34:29-35 – 40:34-35 – 1 Kings 8:10-11) The
present ministry of the Spirit is more glorious and the Church must manifest a greater
great glory. (2 Corinthians 3:7-18) By a life of love, holiness, strength, wisdom. (John
13:34-35 – 1 Peter 1:15-16 – 1 Corinthians 4:20 – 2 Timothy 1:7) Examples: Jesus
during the transfiguration. (John 1:14) The unity of the people of God. (Acts 4:32) The
radiance on Stephen's face. (Acts 6:15) The glory of God in the judgment of Ananias
and Sapphira. (Acts 5:1-11) The glory of God in miracles and healings. (The shadow
of Peter… Acts 5:12-16) The glory of God in the wisdom of the messages given. (Acts
4:13 – 6:9-10) The moving of Philip by the Spirit (Acts 8:39-40) The glory of God in
divine works and deliverances. (Acts 12:8 – 16:26) Glory in times of persecution. (1
Peter 4:14) The temple also tells us about members serving in the Church. The Church
is a kingdom of priests and all believers are part of the royal priesthood. (1 Peter 2:5, 9
– Revelation 1:5-6) Work of the priests now: Stand in the presence of God.
(Hebrews 10:19-22) To serve the Lord through sacrifice; not for the forgiveness of
sins, for it was done once for all by Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 7:24-27–10:10, 12, 14)
Self-sacrifice. (Romans 12:1-2) Sacrifice of thanksgiving and praise. (Ephesians 5:19-
20 –Hebrews 13:15) By making known the Word of God, by being the light of the
world. If once the priests were mediators between God and men, today we have only
one mediator who is Jesus. (1 Timothy 2:5) But we are called to intercede for one
another. (James 5:16) The Church is to lead souls to Jesus alone. It is thus that
believers are the living stones of the temple, and that the edifice is always under

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 construction. When the last stone is placed, Jesus will return. (Romans 11:25)
Maranatha!

2. A family, or a home The Church is the family of God. (Ephesians 2:19 – Hebrews 3:6
– 1 Timothy 3:15 – 2 Corinthians 6:17-18) We become members of God's family by
the new birth. We are children of the same family, united in brotherly love, by the
same spirit, heirs of the same will. (Hebrews 9:15-18) God is our Father, Jesus Christ
is our big brother. (Hebrews 2:10-12–Colossians 1:18) Example: Jacob receives the
blessing that belonged to his firstborn brother Esau. How By appropriating the clothes
and the name of his brother. (Genesis 27) Functions and responsibilities of the Father:
Protect, nourish, teach, correct, … The presence of the Father is not only felt during
his blessings, but it is also during the spanking that the child feels the presence from
his father. (Hebrews 12: 5-11) Place and attitude of the son: Submission, obedience,
trust and showing himself worthy, in order to honor his Father.

3. A body The Church is the body of the Lord. (Ephesians 1:22-23 – 1 Corinthians
12:12, 27 – Colossians 1:18) There is only one body of Christ, one universal Church.
This body has only one head which is Jesus Christ. The body is “ONE” when it
submits to the head. Christ calls and unites the elect into one body, one life. The life of
Christ, communicated by the Spirit, gives this body its vitality. If united at the head,
there must be unity of the spirit (1 Corinthians 6:17), as well as unity at the level of the
soul, of the personality: Submissive will. (Colossians 4:12). Example of Jesus: (John
6:38) Same feeling. (Philippians 2:5) We receive wisdom from God. (Romans 12:2 –
Ephesians 4:20-24 – 1 Corinthians 2:6-7) Body image tells us about different
functions in the Church. Each member has a particular function and task. (Romans
12:4–1 Peter 4:10) So, in the Church, there is not just one leader who steers the boat
and oars doing all the work. The members are varied, but depend on each other and
above all on the head which is Christ. The body is a unity in diversity and not in
uniformity. Diversity of nationalities, social classes, spiritual gifts, etc. Example of the
human body which, in perfect health, shows a remarkable unity in mutual aid, support,
forgiveness. If one limb suffers, the whole body suffers. (1 Corinthians 12:14-2

4. God's field The Church is God's field. (1 Corinthians 3:9) The Word of God is the
good seed that is sown in the field. In the local church, the enemy is trying to sow
weeds. (Matthew 13:24-30) In his field, the Lord also cultivates his fruits: the fruit of
the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22) This is why Jesus said: The tree is known by its fruit.
(Matthew 7:17-20) What the Lord is looking for is good fruit. (Parable of the barren
fig tree. Luke 13:6-9) 5. The vine Jesus is the vine, the Church, the believers, are the
branches. Without Christ they can do nothing. They depend on him. They receive the
same sap, the same leaves, the same fruits, the same smell and the same taste. And the
winemaker prunes it regularly. (John 15:1-5) 6. The Flock The Church is the Lord's
flock. (John 10:11, 14, 16) Jesus is the Good Shepherd who leads, protects, nourishes,
heals, corrects, sacrifices. The sheep must be confident, submissive, faithful. Alone,
she cannot find her way, she loses herself. (Psalm 23) Among the ministries given to
the Church is that of pastor, or shepherd. (1 Peter 5:1-4) 7. The Kingdom The Church
is the kingdom of the Lord. (Luke 17:20-21) A spiritual kingdom, hidden in hearts.
Thy kingdom come. Jesus is the King, the Lord, and believers are members of the
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 kingdom and serve as ambassadors. (2 Corinthians 5:20) Importance of seeking the
interests of the kingdom of God that one represents. (Matthew 6:33) 8. A bride The
Church is the bride, the bride of the Lord. (2 Corinthians 11:2 – Ephesians 5:27 –
Revelation 19:7-9) Relationship of affection with Christ, united by love. Christ, the
Bridegroom, loves his bride, protects her, honors her, endows her richly. (1
Corinthians 6:19-20) The Church which is the bride, is lovely, pure, spotless, faithful,
dreams only of her future husband, is proud of him and speaks of him expectantly
while getting ready. (Revelation 22:17) Example: A young girl used to prepare her
trousseau well in advance. 9. An Army We find ourselves in a great spiritual war: the
kingdom of God against the kingdom of darkness. (Ephesians 6:12 – Song 6:10) We
are called to put on all the armor of God. (Ephesians 6:11, 13 – 2 Corinthians 10:4)
The believer is compared to a soldier. (2 Timothy 2:3-4) 10. A Lampstand The Church
is called to be the light of the world. (Matthew 5:14-16 –Revelation 1:20) You are the
body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27)
Purposes of the Church
The five purposes of the Church of Jesus Christ here below. What is the vocation of the
Church, what are the purposes of the Church of Jesus Christ here below By saving us, the
Lord makes us citizens of heaven and we are no longer from below, but from above and our
names are written in heaven. (Luke 10:20 – John 15:19) So why does the Lord maintain his
Church on this earth Why does he not take us immediately If he maintains his Church, let us
know that it is for a very specific purpose and I would like to give at least 5 reasons which are
all important and priority. 1. For God Himself, to serve His glory 2. To be a demonstration of
God's wisdom in the face of heavenly rulers 3. For the building up of believers in the Church
4. For the lost world 5. For an eternal vocation 1. The first reason for the Church's existence is
for God himself, to serve his glory, in order to have a relationship, a communion, an intimacy
with God. Example: The Bible gives the image of the couple to compare it to Christ and to the
Church in their unity, friendship, communion. (Ephesians 5:25-32). And as the woman is the
glory of the man, so the Church must be the glory of Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:7). Unity in
service comes next. In Christ, we have become a habitation of God through the Holy Spirit, so
that here on this earth we may offer spiritual victims pleasing to God through Jesus Christ. (1
Peter 2:5, 9) Man was created to worship and serve God, but as sin entered the world, all men
were led to rebel against God. And it is only through Jesus Christ and his sacrifice on the
cross that men can be reconciled with God and once again exercise the vocation for which
they were created, that is, to adore and serve God. In his teaching on prayer, Jesus showed this
by telling his disciples: When you pray, say: Father, your will be done on earth as it is in
heaven. (Matthew 6.10) In heaven, angels and all heavenly beings worship the Eternal God.
And the Lord desires that here below all that breathes, all human beings, can also adore him.
(Psalm 150:6) And this is possible only by those who have been redeemed, purified and
reconciled to God through Jesus Christ. Thus the primary purpose of the Church here below is
to worship and serve God on this earth, as it is written in Ephesians 1:11-12: In Christ we
have also become heirs (of heaven and glory) having been predestined according to the
resolution of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, that we might
minister to the praise of his glory, we who beforehand hoped in Christ . And God says in
Isaiah 43:7, 21: All those who are called by my name and whom I have created for my glory,
whom I have formed and whom I have made. The people I have formed will publish my

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praises. Thus every born-again Christian is a temple of the Holy Spirit, a spiritual house, and
called to offer spiritual sacrifices pleasing to God. The Church is a kingdom of priests whose
first great occupation is to offer sacrifices of worship and praise. (Hebrews 13:15) And each
individual Christian is a temple of the Holy Spirit, a spiritual house where sacrifices are
offered to God. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
How to Offer Spiritual Sacrifices a. By being entirely submitted to the Lord: spirit, soul and
body. (1 Thessalonians 5:23) b. By loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, strength.
(Matthew 22:37-Luke 10:27) c. By total faith in God and His Word. (Hebrews 11:6) Example
of Abraham: He was strengthened by faith, giving glory to God. (Romans 4:20-22). Later he
adored God by being ready to offer his only son. d. By complete obedience to the Word of
God in our daily lives. Obedience is better than sacrifice; that is to say, our prayers, our fasts,
our tithes, our offerings, our songs, all our good works. (1 Samuel 15:22-23) e. By a life of
holiness and blameless conduct. (1 Corinthians 10:31 – John 15:8) Otherwise our praise will
be empty noise. (Amos 5:23-24 – Proverbs 28:9) f. Worship and praise are also expressed
through the body. But they must come first from our communion with God in our spirit,
which communicates it to our soul and then to the body. It is from the abundance of the heart
that the mouth speaks. (Luke 6:45) While singing and praying are part of worship and praise,
they are not the only expressions, nor the most important, for worship is experienced and
expressed through our behavior of every day. So our whole life should be in an attitude of
worship in thought, word and deed. (Colossians 3:17) The opposite would be empty noise. (1
Corinthians 13:1-3 – Isaiah 29:13) The Christian should be in continual praise and worship of
God. The Bible says “always”! (Hebrews 13:15) Examples: This was the habit of David, the
man after God's own heart. (Psalm 34:2) It was so important that David had assigned four
thousand Levites to be busy praising God from morning till night. (1 Chronicles 23:5, 30)
This was also the practice of the early church. (Luke 24:53) This is how Bible believers began
their meetings. (Psalm 100:4) This is God's will for every believer. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
This is a command that comes to us from the throne of God. (Revelation 19:5) It is an
obligation as long as we breathe. (Psalm 150:6) This is a habit to practice all day. (Psalm
113:1-3) It is the result of a Spirit-filled life. (Ephesians 5:18-20) The Spirit leads to praise.
(Isaiah 61:1-3 – 1 Corinthians 14:15) Different expressions of praise in the Bible By
proclaiming God and celebrating who he is and what he does; by reading the Word or
praying. (Psalm 146 – Isaiah 43:21) By singing. (Psalm 47 – Ephesians 5:19) Clapping hands
and shouting for joy. (Psalm 47) With instruments. (Psalm 150 – Revelation 15:2-3) With
dances. (Psalm 149:1-6) Lifting up your hands. (Psalm 134 – 1 Timothy 2:8) By prostrating
and kneeling. (Psalm 95:1-6 – Acts 21:5) Even jumping. (2 Samuel 6:14-16 – Acts 3:8) Praise
and worship glorify God, because we withdraw to give Him all the space and that is when
God acts.
Growth and outcome in other church ministries and functions will depend on our faithfulness
to the “ministry of worship.” You shall worship the Lord your God and serve him alone.
(Matthew 4:10) 2. A 2nd purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ here below is to be a
demonstration of God's wisdom in the face of spiritual domination. As it is written in
Ephesians 3:10-11: That rulers and authorities in heavenly places may know today through
the church the infinitely varied wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he has
execution by Jesus Christ our Lord. Satan, who is an enemy of God, had thought, by seducing
our first parents, to annihilate the plan of God who had created man to worship and serve him

55
willingly and with all his heart. But in his eternal wisdom, God had already planned
everything, as well as the restoration of all things by the sending of his only begotten Son, the
Lord Jesus Christ. Is it not written that Jesus, the spotless and spotless Lamb of God was
predestined before the foundation of the world and was manifested at the end of time for our
sake (1 Peter 1:19 -20) (1 Peter 1:19-20) Christ came to atone for our sins; by his sacrifice on
the cross; it is thus that divine justice has been fully accomplished so that man can be
forgiven, reconciled with God and thus serve all again to the glory of the Lord. Thus, the
Church of Jesus Christ on earth is a demonstration of God's wisdom in the face of rulers and
authorities in heavenly places. Hence the importance that we here below have a good
testimony as children of God. For it is through the Church that the eternal plan of God is
manifested to the angelic world; as it says in 1 Peter 1:10-12: The angels desire to look down.
It is through the Church that the victory of Christ over darkness is proclaimed. (Colossians
2:15 – Acts 26:18) This is why we are called to live in the victory of Christ and in holiness, so
as not to give access to the devil, (Ephesians 4:27) and not not allow Satan the advantage over
us, for we are not unaware of his designs. (2 Corinthians 2:11) He is the accuser of all the
children of God and he accuses us before our God day and night. (Revelation 12:10) Also, it
is important that his accusations are not justified, but that they are false. As was the case with
Job who, accused by Satan, was able to be a demonstration before all the heavenly authorities
of his integrity, his righteousness, his faithfulness, by fearing God and by turning away from
evil, despite all the trials. which had been sent to him. This is why we are asked to resist the
devil with firm faith. (James 4:7); so that here below, by our life, we may be a demonstration
of the victory of Christ over all the power of darkness. He who is in you is greater than he
who is in the world. (1 John 4:4) This is the second purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ on
earth.
3. The 3rd purpose of the Church here below is for the unity and growth of believers. A duty
to the body and its members, for in Christ we are one body; an organic unity, which must
develop. Conditions: To be able to serve our brothers properly, it is first important to serve
God with all our heart, by being a real servant of the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 1:9) Each
member of the body of Christ has a particular function and must participate in the building up
and growth of the Church. (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 1 Corinthians 12:7) Purpose of Service:
That each member may serve the edification, growth, balance, and maturing of the body, so
that each member may attain perfect stature of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-16) How If the
universal church is a spiritual body, the body of Christ is also manifested by the local church.
has. Importance of joining a local church. (Acts 2:47) b. Participate in the life of the Church,
its meetings, its activities. (Acts 2:42 – Hebrews 10:24-25) c. To serve his spiritual
development by bearing fruit. (John 15:16). The tree never bears fruit for itself. d. Serve in the
building up of the body by employing the abilities and gifts the Lord grants. (1 Peter 4:10 – 1
Corinthians 12:4-7) e. Participate also materially in the life of the Church, in its needs, in its
expansion, through voluntary donations, offerings and tithes, as well as in the needs of the
work of God in general in the world. (II Corinthians 9:6-7) We are all called to serve the body
of Christ for its edification. (Matthew 4:10) Service in the Church is as varied as there are
limbs and organs in the human body. (Romans 12:4-5) Find your place living the life of Christ
in the body and serving the body with the gift you have received. (I Peter 4:10) However, we
also have certain common responsibilities and tasks.

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 a) Not all are apostles, that is, sent to establish churches. But Jesus said: As the Father
has sent me, so I send you into the world (John 20:21) to be the light and the salt of the
earth, to live the life of Christ where he places us.
b) All are not prophets, but all can prophesy, exhort, edify, console. (I Corinthians 14:3,
5, 31 – Romans 15:14 – Acts 2:17 – 21:8-9)
c) Not all are evangelists, but all are called to witness. (Acts 1:8 – 8:1, 4 – 11:19-21)
d) Not all are doctors (teachers), but all of us are to be edified by sharing spiritual
nourishment by reading the Word of God. (Colossians 3:16)
e) Not all are pastors (shepherds or guardians), but we must all watch over each other,
(Hebrews 10:24) and not be like Cain who said: Am I the my brother's keeper
(Genesis 4:9)
f) Not all are leaders, leaders, but we are all called to strive for the qualifications
required of a leader (or elder and deacon), family, moral and spiritual maturity
blameless. (I Corinthians 11:1 – I Timothy 3:1-7 – Titus 1:5-9)
g) As members of the body of Christ, we are all called to intercession for all brothers and
sisters in Christ whom we know. (Ephesians 6:18-19). Starting with those of the local
Church. (James 5:16). Then, to allow ourselves to be led by the Spirit, in order to also
intercede for strangers. (Romans 8:26-27). Importance of being faithful in this
ministry.
Examples: Faithfulness of Paul praying for the different churches. (Romans 1:9-10 –
Ephesians 1:16 – Philippians 1:4 – Colossians 1:3, 9 – I Thessalonians 1:1-2 – II
Thessalonians 1:11)
Also praying for different people. (II Timothy 1:3– Philemon 1:4)
Paul relied heavily on the prayers of others. (Romans 15:30-31 – Colossians 4:2-4 – I
Thessalonians 5:25 – II Thessalonians 3:1-2 – Philemon 1:22)
Intercession of Epaphras. (Colossians 4:12)
Prayer of the whole Church for a troubled brother. (Acts 12:5)
h) Called to bear one another's burdens. (Galatians 6:2 – Romans 15:1-2)
i) Called to be servants of others and to love them. (John 13:14-17–13:34) To visit those
in need. (Matthew 25:35-36 –James 1:27)
j) Called to endure, to forgive. (Colossians 3:13 – Ephesians 4:32)
k) Called to have the same feelings towards one another. (Romans 12:15-16)
l) To exercise hospitality. (I Peter 4:9 – Hebrews 13:2)
m) Called to learn to sow good in all, (Galatians 6:9-10) by sharing, by giving oneself. (2
Corinthians 9:6)
n) Called to social welfare. Practical help to those in need; assist the poor among the
saints. (Romans 15:25-28) Examples: Church decision following famine. (Acts 11:28-
30) Social assistance and insurance did not exist, so the Church provided for those
who were actually widowed. (I Timothy 5:16) Helping God's servants in full-time
ministry. (I Corinthians 9:13-14 – Philippians 4:15-18) As members united to one
body, let us work for unity, peace, love, forgiveness, mutual aid, growth of the body of
Christ by "giving". (Luke 6:38) And by serving others what we have received. (I Peter
4:10) Every gift, function, ministry, must be used and developed. (I Timothy 4:14 – 2
Timothy 1:6-7) What God asks of us is our faithfulness in little things. (Luke 16:10 - 1
Corinthians 4:1-2) Parable of the talents. (Matthew 25:19-21) Then God can entrust us
with greater responsibilities. Faithfulness, which is part of the fruit of the Spirit, must

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 develop. (Galatians 5:22) Growth in the ministry of service to the body. Importance of
not always remaining at the same stage in the ministry of service for God and for
neighbour. Paul's exhortation to Timothy to grow in his ministry of service. (1
Timothy 4:12-16) Progress of the Church of Thessalonica. (2 Thessalonians 1:3) Good
growth requires good food which is the Word of God. (Matthew 4:4) Command of the
Lord Jesus to teach all the Word. (Matthew 28:20) Priority of the Word of God above
all things. (John 1:1-2) Example of the Church in Jerusalem. (Acts 2:42) The Word
before communion and prayers. The Word which is truth is the foundation of
fellowship and unity. Do not neglect the Word for other secondary things. Example of
the Church of Philadelphia. (Revelation 3:10) Keeping the Word must take precedence
over activity, service, gifts, ministries. (John 14:23). Example of Martha and Mary.
(Luke 10:38-42) He who acts without keeping the Word, it will do him no good, for he
will be rejected. (Matthew 7:21-24) All service, all ministry must be controlled and
judged by the Word of God. (2 Corinthians 13:5) The Christian faith rests on God and
His Word. Importance of keeping the Word in these end days when apostasy is so
evident. (2 Thessalonians 2:3) Apostasy, from the Greek “apostasis” = action of
moving away from, deserting, abandoning the faith. Jude 3 tells us that the faith was
passed on to the saints once for all. • Faith = the Word of God, doctrine. Faith is a firm
assurance, confidence, faithfulness to God and to his Word.
• Apostasy = abandonment of the Word of God in favor of lying words. We live in a time of
increase in pernicious sects which increase the seduction of error. (2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 – 1
Timothy 4:1) Error seems to have more appeal than the Word of God. Therefore, let us not
tire of the Word; it is essential to our spiritual growth. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) Above all, let's
put it into practice. (James 1:22) Let us not forget that those who despised the "manna" which
was the bread from heaven, perished in the desert. (Numbers 21:4-6) We are called to
experience service by the Word of God; for we may encounter false ministries and false
inspirations. False apostles. (Revelation 2:2). We have to experience them. They forsake faith,
the Word, but not service. False prophets. (1 John 4:1) False teachers. (2 Peter 2:1, 15). They
were once on the right track. Not to mention unfaithful pastors. (Jeremiah 23:1) Evangelicals
working for sordid gain. (Philippians 1:15) And false brethren. (2 Corinthians 11:26) For this,
judgment is needed according to the Word of God. A servant of God (apostle, prophet, etc.) is
never infallible! This is why he must accept the judgment of others, of the body of Christ.
(Ephesians 5:21) For this, we must remain attached to the body, to the local Church. (1
Corinthians 14:29, 37) Leaving the body, the local church, one becomes independent, proud,
incorrigible. (Colossians 2:18-19) Examples: David who was anointed king and shepherd of
Israel, being also a prophet, and who once numbered Israel, but this inspiration came from the
devil. (1 Chronicles 21:1-4) From Peter who also had a devilish inspiration. (Matthew 16:23)
Be careful, because there can be a wisdom, a human inspiration which can be diabolical.
(James 3:14-15) Every human being since Adam is exposed to three different influences:
human, divine and diabolical. Hence the importance of testing all things by the Word of God.
(1 John 4:1)
False teaching, false revelation or prophecy can be a bewitchment, a seduction, an embrace, a
blindness. Galatians 3:1: Who bewitched you (Darby version) = fascinated, hypnotized. It is
the same effect as divination and sorcery; it's a link. The person can only be released after
recognizing, confessing and refusing the error. (2 Timothy 2:25-26) David confessed his sin,

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his false inspiration and he offered a burnt offering and the ban was lifted. (1 Chronicles
21:26-27) So to grow in the ministry of service, we must absolutely accept the authority of the
whole Word of God in our life and let everything in us be judged by it. (Psalm 119:11) 4. The
4th purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ here below is the salvation of the lost world. We
must proclaim the gospel, the knowledge of God revealed in Jesus Christ, in order to win
souls to Christ and make new disciples of them. It is a duty of the whole Church. (Matthew
28:19-20 – Acts 1:8) Evangelism is the work of the Church. Why If there is no Church, there
will be no evangelism, since it has been ordained to the Church. (Mark 16:15) Evangelism
cannot exist without the Church, because the purpose of evangelism is to add souls to the
Church. (Acts 2:47) Evangelism is the mission ordained to the whole Church; not to angels,
but to members of the body of Christ. Angels do not have this privilege to preach the Gospel.
See Corneille's story. (Acts 10) Evangelism is the last command given by Jesus Christ to all
his disciples, and not only to a certain category of specialists. (Matthew 28:19) While not all
are called to preach like Peter on the day of Pentecost, or to campaign like Philip in Samaria,
all are called to be witnesses of Christ. (Acts 8:1, 4) Two ministries are particularly related to
evangelism: a. apostle b. Evangelist. (Ephesians 4:11) Although other ministries can also
contribute to the salvation of the lost. Shepherd = The shepherd who looks for the lost sheep.
(Luke 15:4-7) Prophet = Who unveils the secrets of the heart. (1 Corinthians 14:24-25)
Teacher = Who teaches the Word, in order to correct those who are in error. (2 Timothy 2:24-
25) If evangelism is ordained to the Church, it is because it must continue the work of the
Lord. (John 20:21) This is why God keeps us here. (John 17:15-18) Some images of this
ministry to the lost: Light: Jesus said: I am the light of the world. Now he tells us: You are the
light of the world. (Matthew 5:14-16) The world is in darkness; he who walks in darkness
does not know where he is going. (John 12:35) To be the light is to bear witness to the light
which is Christ and his Word. Salvation is a passage from darkness to light. (Acts 26:18)
Light can have two effects; it can save or condemn. (John 1:1-12 – John 3:19-21) Our light
must shine first by our behavior and our works, and then by our words. (Matthew 5:16 –
Ephesians 5:8-9) Watchman: (Ezekiel 33:6-9) That is, to warn of danger: sin, judgment, death
and hell. To witness what we see and know. (Isaiah 21:6, 11-12) Salt: (Matthew 5:13). You
are the salt of the earth. Several properties of salt: a) Gives taste, flavor, brings an influence
where it is. The taste and the influence do not come from ourselves, but from Christ in us. For
that, we must disappear, melt. Likewise, salt is useful only in the hands of the one who uses it
wisely. b) Salt creates thirst. We must create a thirst for the things of God around us and make
them want them. God gives to the thirsty. c) Salt melts ice. Terrible situations can change,
hard hearts can melt. Paul and Silas in the prison of the city of Philip….
5. A fifth purpose of the Church is in view of the final goal and of a future
and eternal vocation, but which is already being prepared now.
A future vocation, in order to reign with Christ as the bride of the Lord, but which is already
now being prepared. The Church is to be made like Christ, as it is written: When Christ your
life appears, then you will also appear with him in glory. (Colossians 3:4) And it is at this
time that the Church will be united with Christ as a bride at the wedding feast of the Lamb
which will take place in glory. (Revelation 19:7-9) The apostle Paul, in planting churches,
was working towards this glorious end. This is what he mentions when he writes in 2
Corinthians 11:2: I am jealous of you with the jealousy of God because I have betrothed you
to one husband, to present you to Christ as a pure virgin. And when the marriage supper of the

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Lamb is over, the Bible declares that we will reign with Christ on the earth for a thousand
years. (Revelation 20:4) At this time, we are not called to reign on this earth, since it is said
that we are strangers and travelers here below. But later, with Christ, we will reign. As it is
written in Revelation 5:10: Thou hast made them a kingdom and priests unto our God, and
they shall reign on earth with Christ. So, what are the purposes of the Church of Jesus Christ
here? First the Church exists: 1) For God, communion, relationship, in order to celebrate his
glory. 2) For spiritual dominations, in order to be a demonstration of the wisdom of God. 3)
For the believers of the Church, in order to serve to edify and train them. 4) For the lost
world, to communicate to them the Good News of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. 5)
And the last reason is for a final purpose and an eternal calling, is to reign with Christ as the
bride of the soon to come Lord Jesus. Are you ready to meet him Are you preparing to meet
him We are saved that we may: serve to the praise of his glory (Ephesians 1:12)

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