Lectures on the New Testament Church

BY

Andrew D. Erwin

Prepared for Class Sessions of the Middle Tennessee School of Preaching and Biblical Studies

Gospel Preacher Publications

Nashville, Tennessee

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Gospel Preacher Publications Copyright © 2008 Andrew D. Erwin Permission is freely granted to all who wish to copy or use the material in this book under the stipulation that it is copied without change.

Typesetting and Cover Design: Gospel Preacher Publications PO BOX 210553 Nashville, TN 37221 Printing and Binding: Bates Printing and Binding PO BOX 97 Nettleton, MS 38858

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Dedication

To my friend and brother, Guy Hester, thank you for your friendship and fatherly guidance. Eternity alone shall reveal the extent of good which you have accomplished.

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Table of Contents

1. The Church Defined …………………………………....… 7

2. The Church in the Mystery of the Ages ………..…………. 11

3. The Establishment of the Church …………….………...… 20

4. The Rule of Faith and Practice for the Church ……...….... 22

5. The Church in Infancy and Maturity ………….…..……... 26

6. The Structure of the Church Universal ……….…..…….... 30

7. The Structure of the Local Church ……………….…..…... 33

8. The Work of the Church ………………….…………..….. 37

9. The Worship of the Church …………….………….…….. 42

10. The Great Falling Away ………………….……….….… 45

11. The Delusion of Denominationalism ……….…….….…... 52

12. The Restoration Plea ……………………….………….... 58

13. Is One Church as Good as Another? …………….…..….. 64

14. Why I Am a Member of the Church of Christ ………..… 71

15. Get in the Right Boat (Only One Boat Will Float!) …....... 73

Suggested Reading ………………………………...…… 76 About the Author ……………………………………… 78

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The Church Defined

Scripture Reading: Matthew 16:13-19

Introduction:

I. As a matter of priority, Bible students should always

determine to define key terms relative to understanding

their study of the Scriptures.

II. In Matthew 16:18, the word “church” is used for the first

time in the New Testament.

III. From this text we learn at least three important facts:

A. Christ is the builder of the church.

B. The church belongs to Christ.

C. The gates of hades (Christ’s death) would not prevail

against Him establishing His church (cf. Psalm 9:13).

Discussion:

I. What Is the Church?

A. The church is the ekklesia or “the called out” of God.

1.) The church has been called out of the darkness of

sin and ignorance to form the spiritual body and

kingdom of Christ (Colossians 1:13; 1 Thessa-

lonians 2:12; 1 Peter 2:5, 9-10; 2 Timothy 1:9-10).

2.) The gospel is the calling to which we should

respond obediently (Romans 1:16; 2 Thessalonians

2:14; Ephesians 3:6).

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3.) The gospel is the very “voice” of Christ which

compels men to follow as His disciples (John

10:27; John 8:31-32).

B. The church is the assembly of the called (Hebrews

12:23).

1.) Ekklesia is translated “assembly” in Acts 19:32, 39,

and 41.

2.) However, Christians are not called out of our homes

and assembled into a theater or town hall, but we

are called out of the darkness of sin and our

assembly is in the spiritual body – the church – of

Christ (Ephesians 1:20-23).

C. The church is the called out assembly that belongs to

the Lord.

1.) Kuriakos – “belonging to the Lord” – is the Greek

word from which our English word “church” is

derived.

2.) Kuriake oikia means “belonging to the house of the

Lord.”

3.) The church is the house of the Lord (1Timothy

3:15; Hebrews 3:1-6; 1 Peter 2:5).

4.) The church is the “household of faith” (Galatians

6:10).

5.) To belong to the house of the Lord is to belong to

the church of the Lord (see Acts 20:28 in the ASV).

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6.) The church is the temple of God (1 Corinthians

3:16-17; Ephesians 2:19-20)

D. Two predominate uses of the word “church” include:

1.) A universal application to the church at large (e.g.

Matthew 16:18).

2.) A local application to a particular congregation(s)

(e.g. Galatians 1:2).

E. An interesting definition of the church is found by

combining the first and last verses of Ephesians. Note:

1.) Ephesians 1:1 – “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by

the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus,

and faithful in Christ Jesus…”

2.) Ephesians 6:24 – “Grace be with all those who love

our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.”

3.) Therefore, the church is the faithful in Christ Jesus

who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.

II. What the Church Is Not:

A. The church is not a denomination.

B. The church is not a social club.

C. The church is not a private enterprise.

D. The church is not a building.

E. The church is not a state government exercising

military force.

F. The church is not of human conception.

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G. The church is not a replacement for a failed, earthly,

and Jewish kingdom.

H. The church is not a democracy; it is a kingdom.

I. The church is not an insignificant subject; it is the

eternal purpose and manifold wisdom of God

(Ephesians 3:10-11).

Conclusion:

I. The church is the assembly of all those who have been

called out of the darkness of sin and ignorance by obeying

the gospel and are thus added by God to the spiritual body

of Christ (Acts 2:42, 47).

II. The church is now assembled together on earth and will

someday forever be assembled together with Christ (1

Thessalonians 4:16-18).

III. Loved one, you can be added to this sacred assembly and

spiritual kingdom today by hearing the gospel preached

(Romans 10:17); believing the facts concerning Christ as

revealed in the gospel (John 8:24); turning from the sins

which have caused God to turn His face from you (1 Peter

3:12; 2 Peter 3:9); and being baptized into Christ, having

called upon His name in a good confession, to wash away

your sins (Acts 22:16).

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The Church in the Mystery of the Ages

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 3:1-12

Introduction:

I. God’s works were finished from the foundation of the

world (Hebrews 4:3).

II. God determined the last day of His creation before ever

giving a dawn to the first day (Acts 17:31).

III. God determined that He would send His Son as a sacrifice

for our sins (Revelation 13:8; 1 Peter 1:20-21).

IV. God afore ordained the fundamentals of the Christian faith

before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4-6; 3:10-

11).

V. God prepared the kingdom of heaven before the foundation

of the world (Matthew 25:34).

VI. In fact, we know not of one aspect of the kingdom which is

a matter merely of happenstance. God has acted

deliberately in every way imaginable to man to show man

that His kingdom is here for a reason – an eternal purpose.

A. Every aspect of the Christian religion is a matter of

divine revelation and authority.

B. It is not a mistake, a result of haphazard, last minute

planning, or human innovation that we speak of the

churches of Christ; rather, it is because of God’s infinite

wisdom and eternal purpose to save man, that He calls

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us out of the darkness of ignorance and sin, and gathers

us together into a spiritual body of believers with His

only Son seated as Head with all power and authority.

Discussion: I. What Is a Bible Mystery?

A. The word “mystery” is used in the New Testament to

denote a subject or prophecy of old which needed

further revelation or fulfillment in order for us as

Christians to have a correct understanding.

1.) Prior to such revelation, the subject’s full meaning

was “hidden” in the sense that complete

understanding was not yet attained on the part of

the hearer.

2.) The word “mystery” is to be understood as a

general that is executing his battle strategy. The

general’s strategy has been hidden, not yet fully

revealed, until the time it was to be executed (see 1

Corinthians 2:7-8; 4:1; Ephesians 3:5).

B. Matthew wrote of Jesus’ use of parables by quoting

Psalms 78:2, “I will open My mouth in parables; I will

utter things which have been kept secret from the

foundation of the world” (Matthew 13:35).

C. Peter wrote, “Of this salvation the prophets have

inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the

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grace that would come to you, searching what, or what

manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them

was indicating when He testified beforehand the

sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow.

To them it was revealed that, not to themselves, but to

us they were ministering the things which now have

been reported to you through those who have preached

the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven

things which angels desire to look into” (1 Peter 1:10-

12).

1.) Peter understood that these Old Testament writers

were writing by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit,

for, “no prophecy of Scripture is of any private

interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will

of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were

moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:20-21).

2.) Peter also understood that he was communicating

the answers to the prophecies for which the Old

Testament heroes could only “desire to look into.”

3.) Of the relationship between Old Testament

prophecy and New Testament fulfillment,

especially concerning Christ and His kingdom,

Peter would say publicly to Jews at Jerusalem: “For

Moses truly said to the fathers, ‘The Lord your God

will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your

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brethren. Him you shall hear in all things, whatever

He says to you. And it shall come to pass that every

soul who will not hear that Prophet shall be utterly

destroyed from among the people.’ Yes, and all the

prophets, from Samuel and those who follow, as

many as have spoken, have also foretold these

days” (Acts 3:22-24).

D. To take these Old Testament prophecies concerning the

kingdom, and ignore their New Testament explanations,

is to abide in darkness, groping for, and yet gaining no

correct understanding.

1.) We must live by that old adage, “The New

Testament reveals what the Old Testament

conceals.”

2.) And, when the New Testament provides an

explanation to an Old Testament prophecy we

ought to respect it as the intended purpose and

fulfillment of that prophecy.

3.) In other words, when we read, “This is that which

was spoken by the prophet…” we ought not to be

found saying, “But it could also mean…” God has

given us the explanation by divine revelation and

that should suffice.

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II. The Mystery of the Christ

A. He would come from the seed of woman (Genesis 3:15;

Isaiah 7:14).

B. He would come through the family of Abraham

(Genesis 12:3; John 8:56).

C. He would come to make intercession for transgressors

(Isaiah 53).

D. He would come and establish His government and

kingdom (Isaiah 9:6; Daniel 2:44)

E. Now turn to the first chapter of the New Testament and

you will see that He did come and do all of these things

(Matthew 1:20-23; see also Luke 1:32-33; 1Timothy

3:16).

III. The Mystery of Christ’s Kingdom

A. All nations of the earth were going to be blessed by

Christ (Genesis 12:3).

B. Christ was going to be a light to the Gentiles (Isaiah

49:6).

C. Paul explains that the fulfillment of these promises is in

the church (read carefully Ephesians 3:1-11).

D. Jews and Gentiles alike are saved and added by God to

the kingdom of Christ on the basis of obedience to His

gospel (Mark 16:15-16; Galatians 3:26-29).

E. God determined from the foundation of the world that

the gospel would be preached to Jews and Gentiles

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alike, thus creating one new nation, a royal priesthood,

a spiritual house built upon the one and only foundation

of Jesus Christ His Son.

F. According to God’s eternal purpose, He spoke of the

eternal kingdom.

1.) We read of this prophecy in Daniel 2:44 and we

read that it has now been received in Hebrews

12:28.

2.) The church is that kingdom that shall stand forever.

IV. A New Name Is Given

A. It is by the manifold wisdom of God that this kingdom

would be given a new name after the Gentiles should

see His righteousness (Isaiah 62:1-2; 65:15).

B. The new name would signify an everlasting covenant

(Isaiah 61:8), and it would be an everlasting name

(Isaiah 56:5).

C. In Acts chapter 10 we read of the first Gentile converts

to Christ and, what do you suppose we find next, but a

new name being given – “And the disciples were first

called Christians in Antioch” (Acts 11:26).

D. Who was it that gave them this name? According to

Isaiah, “The Gentiles shall see your righteousness, and

all kings your glory. You shall be called by a new

name, which the mouth of the Lord will name” (Isaiah

62:2).

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E. Now, if it is true that the name “Christian” has been

given by the manifold wisdom and eternal purpose of

God, and that it signifies an everlasting covenant God

has made with His people – the church – by what

wisdom and purpose do we have authority to call

ourselves by any other name?

F. And what covenant is signified by any other name?

And, in what other name is there salvation? “Nor is

there salvation in any other, for there is no other name

under heaven given among men by which we must be

saved” (Acts 4:12).

G. In what other name is there glory? God associates His

glory with His name. Note, “I am the Lord, that is My

name; and My glory I will not give to another, nor My

praise to graven images” (Isaiah 42:8); and again

“…how should My name be profaned? And I will not

give My glory to another” (Isaiah 48:11); and lastly,

“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given

Him the name which is above every name, that at the

name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in

heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the

earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus

Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father”

(Philippians 2:9-11).

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H. We call ourselves Christians, not because some man

had an idea of what we should be called, but because of

the eternal purpose of God, hidden throughout the ages,

but now made known unto men in these last days. You

can become a Christian as well. This too is according

to the divine will and eternal purpose of God. He gave

His Son to taste death for every man (Hebrews 2:9).

V. The Authority of Christ

A. God revealed Christ to the children of Israel through

Moses saying, “I will raise up for them a Prophet like

you from among their brethren, and will put My words

in His mouth, and He shall speak to them all that I

command Him. And it shall be that whoever will not

hear My words, which He speaks in My name, I will

require it of him.”

B. Jesus said of Himself, “For I have come down from

heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who

sent Me” (John 6:38); and, “He who rejects Me, and

does not receive My words, has that which judges him

the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last

day” (John 12:48).

C. God revealed to Jeremiah that a new covenant would be

established in which He would remember our sins no

more (Jeremiah 31:31-34).

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1.) The writer of Hebrews confirms not only once but

twice that we now live under this covenant in

Christ (Hebrews 8:8 ff. and 10:16 ff.).

2.) Moreover, the writer of Hebrews revealed that

this covenant was established by the offering of

the body of Christ – “once for all.”

D. God has made known to us that He Son would come

with authority, that we should hearken unto His words,

and through His covenant we could be reconciled and

forgiven completely. It is in the offering and covenant

of Christ that Satan’s head is crushed and the last

enemy which is death is destroyed.

Conclusion:

I. Jesus says “come unto Me all you who are weary and heavy

laden and I will give you rest.”

II. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and no man can come

unto God except he comes through Jesus Christ.

III. We invite you now to accept the religion of Christ by believing

the gospel you have heard; repenting of your sins; confessing

your faith in Christ to be baptized and planted in the likeness of

His death so that you can be raised in the likeness of His

resurrection.

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The Establishment of the Church

Scripture Reading: Philippians 3:16-17

Introduction: I. In this lesson we shall focus primarily upon the

establishment of the New Testament church.

II. By knowing when the Lord’s church was established, we

will know when the Lord’s church was not established.

III. Any church established at any other time could not be the

Lord’s church.

Discussion: I. The Testimony of the Prophets

A. The church would be established in Jerusalem (Isaiah

2:1-4).

B. The church would be established during the fourth

(Roman) world empire from Babylon (Daniel 2:44).

C. The church would be established through the power of

the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:28-32).

II. The Testimony of the Lord

A. The church was to come with power (Mark 9:1).

B. The power was to be given by the Holy Spirit (Acts

1:8).

C. The Holy Spirit gave utterance on Pentecost in

Jerusalem (Acts 2:1-4) to the apostles (John 14, 15, 16).

D. The gospel was first preached on this day at Jerusalem

(Luke 24:46-47)

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III. The Testimony of the New Testament

A. Before Pentecost

1.) Jesus spoke of building His church (Matthew

16:18).

2.) Jesus spoke of the kingdom coming (Mark 9:1).

3.) Jesus continued to teach of the coming kingdom

before His ascension (Acts 1:3-6).

B. After Pentecost

1.) The Lord added the saved to the church (Acts 2:47).

2.) Paul taught how Christ’s blood had bought the

church (Acts 20:28).

3.) Paul taught of those who were taken from darkness

and added to the kingdom (Colossians 1:13).

4.) The writer of Hebrews taught the kingdom had

been received (Hebrews 12:28).

Conclusion:

I. The church of the New Testament began in Jerusalem on

the first Pentecost after our Lord’s ascension into heaven.

Peter’s sermon “unlocked the door” to the kingdom

(Matthew 16:19).

II. The doors of the kingdom are open now for all to enter (2

Corinthians 6:2); but, someday God will close the doors of

the kingdom forever (2 Peter 3:10-13).

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The Rule of Faith and Practice for the Church

Scripture Reading: Philippians 3:16-17

Introduction:

I. God has given a rule of faith and practice for the church

(Philippians 3:16).

II. No congregation is at liberty to establish their own set of

rules (1 Corinthians 1:10; Galatians 1:6-9; 2 John 9-11).

III. The way to religious unity is to learn and uphold the rule of

faith and practice which God has given to man.

A. If we walk by the same rule we will be minding the

same thing (Philippians 3:16-17).

B. Anyone who does otherwise are enemies of the cross of

Christ (Philippians 3:18).

Discussion:

I. What Is the Rule of Faith and Practice for the Church?

A. Is it man’s opinion?

1.) Is man’s opinion what determines right or wrong

(Jeremiah10:23)?

2.) Are your opinions always right?

3.) Is every way that seems right going to be right

(Proverbs 14:12)?

B. Is it man’s traditions (Matthew 15:1-9; Mark 7:1-13;

Colossians 2:8)?

1.) Traditions make void the word of God (Mark 7:13).

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2.) Traditions cause religious ignorance (Matthew 15:2;

Mark 7:1-5).

3.) Traditions cause men to be separated from God

(Matthew 15:3).

4.) Traditions cause hearts to be far from God

(Matthew 15:8).

5.) Traditions cause vain worship (Matthew 15:9).

6.) Traditions cause men to be spoiled in philosophy

and vain deceit (Colossians 2:8).

7.) Traditions cause men to be rooted up (Matthew

15:13).

C. Is it wrongful interpretations of the scriptures (2 Peter

3:15-16)?

1.) A wrongful interpretation will cause one to be

unstable and unlearned.

2.) A wrongful interpretation could lead to certain

destruction in Hell.

D. Is it man’s popular vote (Matthew 7:13-14; 27:15-26)?

1.) What is popular is not always right and what is right

is not always popular.

2.) The majority wanted to crucify Jesus. Were they

right?

E. Is it the word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17)?

1.) The scriptures are given by God’s inspiration (read

John 14-16).

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2.) The scriptures are all we need for doctrine and

every good work.

II. How Does One Learn of the Faith and Practice God

Commands?

A. Diligently study the word of God (John 5:39).

B. Rightly divide the word (2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Corinthians

3:6-14; Hebrews 8:6-7, 13; Galatians 5:4).

1.) The Old Testament is meant for our learning

(Romans15:14).

2.) The New Testament is meant for our keeping

(Hebrews 2:1-4).

C. Compare the spiritual with the spiritual (1Corinthians

2:13) by learning to cross-reference Scriptures.

D. Do not use one another as a standard greater than the

Bible (1 Corinthians 4:6; 2 Corinthians 10:12).

E. 3 important teaching methods used by Christ include:

1.) Jesus used the example of David to prove His

disciples could eat on the Sabbath day (Matthew

12:1-8).

2.) Jesus considered the subject fully before coming to

His conclusion (Matthew 12:9-13; John 7:14-24).

3.) Jesus answered temptation to sin with direct

statements from God’s word (Matthew 4:1-11).

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III. How Does One Uphold the Faith and Practice of the

Church?

A. Earnestly contend (Jude 3)

B. Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)

C. Answer with meekness and respect (1 Peter 3:15)

D. Answer with knowledge of the subject (2 Timothy 4:2)

E. Confound the false teacher and prove your point (Acts

9:22)

F. Answer emphasizing either compassion or fear (Jude

22; 2 Corinthians 5:10)

G. Logically from the scriptures (Acts 17:2)

H. Exhort and convince the gainsayers (Titus 1:9)

Conclusion:

I. How can man know if he is pleasing God in his teachings and

by his works?

A. The only way to walk by faith is to walk by the word of

God (Romans 10:17).

B. We must go to the word for our teachings and our

practices rather than try to force our preconceived

teachings and practices into the text.

II. How badly do you want to know the truth which makes men

free (John 8:32)?

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The Church in Infancy and Maturity

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 13:8-13

Introduction:

I. The first century church had certain gifts and offices not

applicable to the church in coming generations.

II. Such gifts and offices distinguish the church in infancy and

maturity.

Discussion:

I. Offices Held Only by the Infant Church (1 Corinthians

12:28)

A. The Apostles

1.) Apostles were set apart by Christ.

a.) The original twelve (Matthew 10:1-4)

b.) Judas’ replacement (Acts 1:15-26)

c.) Paul born out of due time (1 Corinthians 15:1-7)

2.) Apostles were eyewitness of His resurrection.

3.) Apostles were able to pass along spiritual gifts

(Acts 8:14-17).

4.) Paul was the last the apostle (1 Corinthians 15:8).

B. The Prophets

1.) Prophets were inspired teachers in the early church.

2.) Prophets received their inspiration through the

laying on of the apostles’ hands (see Romans 1:11).

3.) Without apostles, there could be no prophets.

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4.) With the completion of God’s revealed word, there

is no need for these inspired prophets.

II. Gifts Possessed Only by the Infant Church (1 Corinthians

12:1-11)

A. Nine gifts are listed.

B. Purpose for these gifts:

1.) To teach the word (2 Peter 1:20-21)

2.) To confirm the word (Mark 16:20; Hebrews 2:4)

C. How were these gifts bestowed (Acts 8:18; Romans

1:11; 1 Corinthians 9:1-2; 2 Timothy1:6)?

III. Some Things that Did Not Cease

A. Jesus as the Lord and Savior of the church (Hebrews

13:8).

B. God’s word as the rule of faith and practice for the

church (Jude 3).

C. Mankind’s obligation to obey God’s word and yield to

Christ to receive salvation (John 12:48).

IV. When Did These Offices and Gifts Cease?

A. When the apostles died no one remained with the

ability to pass along such supernatural gifts.

B. God had already completed His revelation by that time,

thus making the office of the inspired prophet obsolete.

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V. Explanations of “that which is perfect” (1 Corinthians 13:8-

13):

A. Possibility #1: The completion of the inspired cannon

(cf. James 1:25)

1.) Objection: the law of liberty was already perfect at

this time.

2.) Even though the cannon had not yet been

completed, the apostles already had the perfect law

of liberty.

B. Possibility #2: Heaven (cf. Revelation 21:4)

1.) Objection: faith, hope, and charity were to abide

after the gifts passed away.

2.) In Heaven faith will be sight and hope will be

reality.

C. Possibility #3: The mature state of the church (cf.

Ephesians 4:11-13)

1.) Possibilities #1 and #3 occurred around the same

time.

2.) The last book was revealed and sometime later the

last apostle passed.

3.) All God set out to accomplish through spiritual gift

and offices would have been accomplished by this

time.

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Conclusion:

I. The early church had peculiar offices and gifts that were to

cease.

II. We must seek those things which abide rather than desire

that which has ceased.

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The Structure of the Church Universal

Scripture Reading: Acts 2:22-36

Introduction:

I. No man, council, congregation, or creed should ever seek

to usurp, supplement, or substitute the authority Christ has

over His church – in any way.

II. The study of Christ’s authority to His church is THE KEY

to understanding the structure of the New Testament

church.

III. The structure of Christ’s family can be understood through

a number of relationships.

Discussion:

I. Christ’s Relationship with His Church

A. Savior of the Church (Ephesians 5:23; Acts 20:28)

B. Builder of the Church (Matthew 16:18; Hebrews 8:1-2)

C. Foundation of the Church (1 Corinthians 3:11)

D. Head of the Church (Ephesians 1:20-23; Colossians

1:18)

E. Sole Authority for the Church (Matthew 28:28; Acts

2:36; Col. 3:17)

II. The Church’s Relationship with Christ

A. Individually Submissive (James 4:6-10)

1.) Subject to Him to become a Christian (Luke 24:7)

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2.) Subject to Him to live as a Christian (John 10:27-

28)

B. Collectively Submissive as a Congregation (Ephesians

5:21-32)

1.) Christ is over His house (Hebrews 3:1-6).

2.) Christ is our Chief Shepherd (John 10:11-16;

Hebrews 13:20-21; 1 Peter 2:25; 1 Peter 5:4).

C. The church can never be subject to another or through

another and remain true to Christ (1Timothy 2:5).

III. Congregational Relationships within the Church Universal

A. The church universal is comprised of many

independent, autonomous congregations.

1.) Apostasy is limited by congregational autonomy.

2.) Sectarianism is limited by congregational

autonomy.

B. No congregation has ever been set over another

congregation.

1.) The elders at Ephesus were the overseers and

feeders of that flock, not of any other flock (Acts

20:28).

a.) Each congregation is to be self-governing (Acts

14:23).

b.) No biblical evidence exists which demonstrates

one eldership overseeing multiple churches.

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4.) We have fellowship with one another because we

have fellowship in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:9).

5.) All relationships stem from the relationship a

church has with Christ.

D. Congregations can work together (Acts 11:27-30;

Romans 15:25-26).

E. Congregations can choose not to work together.

1.) No congregation can force another congregation in

any way.

2.) If a good work turns sour a congregation can cease

support.

Conclusion:

I. Christ is the head of His house.

II. How audacious would you consider a person you

welcomed into your family who decided nothing was good

enough and everything needed changing – including your

position in the family?

III. Do you not believe the Lord takes note of those who seek

to change His house and usurp His role as its head?

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The Structure of the Local Church

Scripture Reading: Acts 14:23

Introduction:

I. The church is the assembly of all who have been called out

of sin by obedience to the gospel.

II. A congregation must submit to His authority if they are to

be a New Testament congregation.

III. The Lord’s assembly is comprised of autonomous,

independent, and individual congregations.

IV. In this lesson we shall focus on the structure and

responsibilities of such congregations.

Discussion:

I. Leadership

A. Elders

1.) Note the qualifications (1Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9).

2.) The very things that qualify an elder should also

disqualify an elder.

3.) Note the responsibilities (Acts 20:28; 1 Timothy

3:5; Titus 1:9; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:1-3).

4.) A congregation must never be allowed to become

“family owned and operated.”

5.) Elders must serve as spiritual, visionary leaders for

the congregation by example, mission, organization,

and goals.

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B. Deacons

1.) Note the qualifications (1Timothy 3:8-13).

2.) Again, the things that qualify the man should also

disqualify him.

3.) The deacon is responsible in serving the church in

the work of the church.

4.) A congregation should never have elders and

deacons just say they have them. These men must

be faithfully qualified and willing to work!

C. Preachers

1.) Note the qualifications (2 Timothy 2:2).

2.) Note the responsibilities (1 Peter 4:11).

3.) Note the responsibility to support him (1

Corinthians 9:7-14).

II. Membership

A. Note the terms of admission (Acts 2:41).

B. Note the terms of membership (Acts 2:42).

C. Congregational responsibilities include:

1.) Encouragement (Hebrews 10:24)

2.) Conflict management (Matthew 18:15-17)

3.) Submissiveness to biblical eldership (1 Thess. 5:12-

13; 1 Timothy 5:17-20; Hebrews 13:7, 17)

4.) Support to those who labor (1 Corinthians 9:7-14;

Galatians 6:6)

5.) Work (2 Corinthians 8:11-12; Titus 3:1)

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6.) Worship (John 4:21-24)

7.) Every congregation must have a leadership willing

to lead and a membership willing to follow.

III. Fellowship

A. Fellowship is more than a meal. It is the relationship

we have with one another as Christians (1 John 1:3).

B. “Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brethren to

dwell together in unity” (Psalm 133:1).

C. “One Another” Passages

1.) The membership as a responsibility to one another.

a.) Love one another (John 13:34, 35; 15:12, 17;

Romans 13:8; 1 Thessalonians 3:12, 4:9; 1 Peter

1:22; 1 John 3:11, 23, 4:7, 11, 12; 2 John 5).

b.) Be kindly affectionate one to another …. in

honor preferring one another (Romans 12:10).

c.) Be of the same mind one toward another

(Romans 12:16).

d.) Edify one another (Romans 14:19). This same

truth is revealed in Ephesians 4:16.

e.) Admonish one another (Romans 15:14;

Colossians 3:16).

f.) Salute or greet one another (Romans 16:16; 1

Corinthians 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:12; 1 Peter

5:14).

g.) Serve one another (Galatians 5:13).

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h.) Bear the burdens of one another (Galatians 6:2).

i.) Forbearing and forgiving one another

(Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:13).

j.) Be kind one to another (Ephesians 4:32).

k.) Submit one to another (Ephesians 5:21; 1 Peter

5:5).

l.) Lie not one to another (Colossians 3:9), rather,

speak truth one to another (Ephesians 4:25), not

evil (James 4:11).

m.) Comfort one another (1 Thessalonians 4:18).

n.) Compassion for one another (1 Peter 3:8-9).

o.) Grudge not one against another (James 5:9).

p.) Confess faults one to another (James 5:16).

2.) From these passages we see what it means to

consider one another in the way God intends.

3.) We cannot be living faithfully unless we are treating

each other properly.

Conclusion:

I. Every member in the local congregation is important to the

overall health.

II. Each member and work has with it its own qualifications

and responsibilities.

III. A church that pleases God is a church that takes such things

seriously.

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The Work of the Church

Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:6-9

Introduction:

I. The work of the church can be classified under three

headings: evangelism, edification, and benevolence.

II. We must do these works according to the pattern

commanded by God.

III. God’s pattern not only points to the method in which these

things are done, but also the spirit.

Discussion:

I. Evangelism (What and How?)

A. Preach the oracles of God (1 Peter 4:11).

1.) In a spirit glorifying God.

2.) In spirit which praises God and testifies of His

dominion.

B. Preach the word (2 Timothy 4:2).

1.) In spirit of readiness and resolve.

2.) In a spirit of longsuffering and conviction in

Christ’s doctrine.

C. Preach the truth (Ephesians 4:15).

1.) In a spirit of love (cf. 2 Timothy 2:23-26).

2.) In a spirit that would encourage growth for the

body.

D. Preach the cross (1 Corinthians 2:2).

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1.) In a spirit which recognizes the sufficiency and

power of the cross (1 Corinthians 1:18; 2:1).

2.) In a spirit which seeks to draw people closer to God

rather than self (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).

II. Edification (What and How?)

A. The work of the church is building up one another

(Ephesians 4:11-16).

1.) We build up by Bible teaching (Ephesians 4:12).

a.) Godly edifying is in faith (1Timothy 1:4).

b.) Faith comes by Bible teaching (Romans 10:17).

c.) We must have a spirit of faithfulness to God’s

word in order to work this work in spirit and

truth.

2.) We build up by every part working together

(Ephesians 4:16).

3.) We build up by loving one another (Ephesians

4:16c)

a.) Love edifies (1 Corinthians 8:1).

b.) Every part works together because of the love

they share for the body.

c.) We must have a spirit which is ready to help

another in order to work this work in spirit and

truth.

B. A church that is not committed to edification is a

church that is not committed to Christ.

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C. We must have a love for Christ in order to have a love

for His church.

1.) The church is His body (1 Corinthians 12:27).

2.) The church is His bride (Romans 7:4).

3.) The church is His brotherhood (Hebrews 2:11).

D. Edification is a work that requires work.

1.) We must think about how we might edify each

other (Romans 14:19; Hebrews 10:24).

2.) We must act upon our considerations (2 Corinthians

12:19).

III. Benevolence (What and How?)

A. The church is to be a charitable institution.

1.) Not one line of scripture supports a church selling

its services.

2.) The local congregation is to fund her work through:

a.) Lord’s day collection (1 Corinthians 16:1-2)

b.) Help from sister congregations (Romans 15:26)

c.) Contributions taken as needed or necessary

(Acts 4:37)

B. The church is completely sufficient to do what God

would have us to do (2 Corinthians 9:8).

1.) Not one line of scripture supports a church doing

her work through a corporation or society.

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2.) Churches can:

a.) Send help directly to another congregation (Acts

11:27-30)

b.) Work cooperatively with other congregations to

send help to another congregation (Romans

15:26).

3.) The church is the only institution ordained by God

with the obligation to do good unto all men

(Galatians 6:9-10; 2 Corinthians 9:13; Acts 24:17).

4.) The church is completely capable of doing the work

God has given her.

C. The church that has the right spirit will have the right

works.

1.) Be ready-minded.

a.) Be steadfast (1 Corinthians 15:58)

b.) Be not weary (Galatians 6:9-10)

c.) Be not slothful (Hebrews 6:10-12)

2.) Be soft-hearted.

a.) Be pure in your religion (James 1:27).

b.) Be like Christ (Luke 10:30-37).

3.) Be faithful.

a.) Be faithful in what you have (2 Corinthians

8:11-12).

b.) Be faithful in what you do (Colossians 3:17).

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Conclusion:

I. Worship is not the only thing to be done in spirit and truth.

We must also work in spirit and truth.

II. When the church works in spirit and truth:

A. God is glorified.

B. The church is edified.

C. Souls are sanctified.

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The Worship of the Church

Scripture Reading: John 4:19-24

Introduction:

I. Does it matter how the church worships?

II. God is seeking a certain type of worship – in spirit and

truth (John 4:23-24).

III. Only those who worship in spirit and truth are true

worshippers.

Discussion:

I. What Does It Mean to Worship in Spirit?

A. Worship is induced by emotions of the human heart.

1.) These emotions are to be channeled properly (1

Corinthians 14:40).

2.) There is a difference between worshipping with

emotion and worship aimed solely at our emotions.

B. Worship is a bowing of the knees to God (cf. Ephesians

3:14).

C. Worship is homage rendered to God.

1.) To worship in spirit is to worship with the right

emotion.

2.) Worship in spirit is to God’s glory, not man’s

wants.

3.) Worship in spirit occurs when the heart is in the

right place – regardless of physical location.

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II. What Does It Mean to Worship in Truth?

A. What is truth?

1.) God’s word (John 17:17)

2.) To worship in truth is to worship according to

God’s word.

B. Which covenant?

1.) Patriarchal, Jewish, or Christian?

2.) Are we bound to any other covenant than Christ’s

(Romans 7:1-3; Colossians 2:14)?

3.) The truth is in Jesus (John 1:17; Ephesians 4:21)

C. Worship services according to Christ’s covenant:

1.) There is a “Lord’s Day” (Revelation 1:10).

2.) We are to assemble on that day (Hebrews 10:25; 1

Corinthians11:20).

3.) That day is the first day of each week (Acts 20:7; 1

Corinthians16:1, 2).

4.) On that day we are to do the following acts of

worship:

a.) Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:26-28; Acts 20:7; 1

Corinthians11:23-29)

b.) Prayer to God in Christ’s name (Luke 11:1-4;

John 14:13; Eph.5:20; Col. 3:17)

c.) Singing (Ephesians 5:19-20; Colossians 3:16-

17)

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d.) Giving (1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians

9:7ff)

e.) Preaching (1 Corinthians 14:34-35; Acts 20:7)

III. Worship in Spirit and Truth

Act Spirit Truth (In Jesus) Lord’s Supper Examine self Unleavened bread,

fruit of vine, first day of week

Prayer Thanksgiving; humility

To God through Christ

Singing Grace in the heart Singing, spiritual songs, everyone

Giving Cheerfully with purpose

A collection, as prospered, first day

of week Preaching In love with

meekness; receive with meekness

Speak truth, preach Christ not self

Conclusion:

I. God is seeking true worship.

II. When we worship in spirit and truth, we enjoy one of the

greatest and purest blessings of life.

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The Great Falling Away

Scripture Reading: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12

Introduction:

I. What does it mean to fall away?

A. apostasia – a defection from truth; to forsake

B. apostasia is the feminine form of apostasion, which

means literally to divorce or separate.

C. We derive our English word apostasy from this Greek

word apostasia.

D. Therefore, to “fall away” would mean to apostatize.

II. The nature of the falling away:

A. It was gradual in that in did not occur suddenly or at a

specific point in time.

B. It is ever digressing in new doctrines and traditions

which continue to develop and take people further away

from God’s New Testament church.

1.) The doctrine of the “immaculate conception”

became official in 1854.

2.) The doctrine of “papal infallibility” was not

proclaimed until 1870.

3.) Just as many tornados can be spun from one

massive hurricane, many “churches” and

doctrines are continuing to be spun from the one

massive falling away.

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Discussion:

I. The Falling Away from Biblical Leadership

A. Paul’s Warning and Prophecy (Acts 20:28-30):

1.) False teachers would arise from among the elders

speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples

after them.

2.) These were considered grievous wolves that would

not spare the flock by the great apostle.

B. The second century saw the beginning of this great

apostasy.

1.) “Presiding elders” became common practice with

such historic examples as Irenaeus of Lyons,

Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, and Cyprian

of Carthage (in the third century).

2.) The “presiding elder” sought to have the

preeminence, or be the “chief elder” among the

eldership in which he was to serve.

a.) Jerome argued that the practice of presiding

elders was a necessary expedient to still strife in

the church.

b.) A New Testament example of this attitude is

found in Diotrephes who loved having

preeminence in the church so much that he

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would not receive the great and beloved apostle

John (3 John 9-10).

c.) We must keep in mind that God ordained

“elders” at Ephesus and gave them the charge to

feed the flock of which the Holy Spirit had

made them overseers (Ac. 20:28).

3.) The doctrine of “apostolic succession” began being

taught in the second century.

a.) Some felt because of the close relationship they

or their congregation had had with various

apostles in times past that they had a greater role

or prestige in the church than did others.

b.) An historic example of this theory in practice

was Clement of Rome’s letter to the church at

Corinth, 1 Clement.

c.) He felt because he was the presiding bishop of

Rome that he had succeeded the apostles Peter

and Paul and, therefore, had the authority to

admonish the quarreling church at Corinth.

d.) His counsel, however, was far different from

that of any New Testament writer as he

encouraged them to honor the elders at Corinth

even though a kind of “super elder” had already

emerged.

e.) Paul surely would have rebuked such a man!

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C. The third century saw a priesthood begin to be

patterned after the Old Testament pattern for the Jewish

priesthood rather than after the New Testament pattern

for the church.

1.) Cyprian was instrumental in advancing this cause.

2.) The office of “priest” began to be viewed as a

mediating office just as the Levitical priesthood of

the Jewish covenant.

3.) Ordaining ceremonies began to be held for the

purpose of consecrating a “propitiating priest.”

D. By the fourth century elderships began to take on the

pattern of the Roman magistrates of the day.

1.) A Roman magistrate would be responsible to the

emperor for the region of communities (diocese)

under his control.

2.) Presiding bishops in the congregations were already

common by this time.

3.) The next step was to make a “presiding bishop”

over the presiding bishops in that area.

4.) Rome, Constantinople, Antioch, Alexandria, and

Jerusalem were the five main dioceses in which

each had a “chief elder” of the chief elders.

5.) Councils began to be held by these chief elders to

determine doctrines for the church.

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a.) The most historic being the Council of Nicea in

325.

b.) The traditions and doctrines decided in such

councils were accepted as being just as

authoritative as the scriptures by those who held

them.

E. The “Universal Bishop”

1.) Although various men had claimed this title it was

not recognized until 606 when Boniface, the Bishop

at Rome assumed the title.

2.) The “universal bishop” is known today as the

“pope” or “holy father” – a title never found in the

Bible!

II. The Falling Away from Sound Doctrine

A. Christ’s Prophecy (Matthew 7:15-20)

B. Paul’s Prophecy (1 Timothy 4:1-3)

C. Peter’s Prophecy (2 Peter 2:1-3)

D. Historic Examples:

1.) “Holy Water” – 120 AD

2.) “Apostolic Succession” – 146 AD

3.) “Penance” – 157 AD

4.) “Original Sin” – 2nd century

5.) “Closed communion” – 2nd century

6.) “Sprinkling and Pouring” – 251 AD (made equal to

immersion at the Council of Ravenna in 1311)

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7.) “Special class of singers in the church” – 4th century

8.) “Religious images and paintings introduced” – 4th

century

9.) “Mary, mother of God” – 431 AD

10.) “Purgatory” – 5th -6th century

11.) “Extreme Unction” – 6th century

12.) “Mechanical Instruments of Music in

Worship” – 660 AD (officially accepted in 1250)

13.) “Transubstantiation” – 8th century

14.) “Celibacy” – 11th century

15.) “Auricular Confession” – 13th century

E. If these things are of God, why can we not find them in

the scriptures given by God for Christians to follow?

III. The Falling Away from God’s Pattern for the Church

A. The church of the Bible has no such organization and

no such practices as have been noted in our study.

B. The pattern of God’s church has changed so

dramatically that even the sense of the word “elder” or

“bishop” has changed.

C. Note the Philippians and Colossians volume of the

Pulpit Commentaries.

1.) Philippians 1:1 reads, “Paul and Timotheus, the

servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ

Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and

deacons…”

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2.) The comments on this verse are as follows, “St.

Paul is addressing the elders of the church at

Philippi, not bishops in our sense of the word.”

Conclusion:

I. Can a falling away occur today?

A. Anytime at any place a church can fall away by failing

to follow God’s word in its leadership, doctrine, and

practice.

B. By so doing, churches have formed a pattern for

apostasy rather than following God’s pattern for the

church.

II. What can we do to prevent a falling away?

A. Stop it before it starts.

B. Only scripturally qualified men should serve as bishops

and deacons.

C. Only sound doctrine should be taught with a zero

tolerance for anything else.

D. The great falling away began with a great weakness in

the leadership of the church.

III. Which pattern shall we follow?

A. Shall we choose to follow God’s pattern for the church

and be the church of the New Testament?

B. Or, shall we follow this pattern for apostasy and

separate ourselves from the love of God?

52

The Delusion of Denominationalism

Scripture Reading: Colossians 2:4-10

Introduction:

I. Denominationalism is the result of the prophesied falling

away (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12).

A. Until Catholicism there was no denominationalism.

B. Denominationalism is the re-forming and re-naming of

other churches so as to distinguish them from (and in

protest of) the Catholic heresy.

C. The fallacy in this concept is the re-forming of

Catholicism rather than the restoring of true New

Testament Christianity.

II. Denominationalism is a most bitter subject.

A. The only thing denominationalism has accomplished is

to further divide those who would otherwise be

following Jesus.

B. Because of the influence of denominationalism, people

sincerely believe all churches are denominations and all

denominations make up the one church.

1.) For those in denominations, it is no doubt easier to

accept this view than to accept the biblical teaching

of one church made up only of those who have

obeyed the one gospel.

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2.) Because of the belief that all churches are

denominations, those in denominationalism believe

no denomination has a right to judge or condemn

another denomination.

3.) From the biblical perspective, we understand that all

denominations are sinful and therefore no

denomination is better than another denomination.

4.) However, no denomination can rival the one church

of the Bible.

III. No greater enemy of the cross exists today than the enemy

of denominationalism.

A. Anyone unwilling to walk by the same rule and mind

the same thing as did the apostle Paul is an enemy of

the cross of Christ (Philippians 3:16-19).

B. Consider the following and decide for yourself whether

or not denominationalism is such an enemy.

Discussion:

I. Denominationalism Opposes Biblical Unity

A. Christ prayed and died for the unity of His followers

(John 17:17; Ephesians 2:13-17).

B. Paul condemned the division at Corinth (1 Corinthians

1:10-13).

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C. If any man should promote any doctrine different than

Paul’s he should be accursed – not embraced and

followed (Galatians 1:6-9).

II. Denominationalism Opposes Biblical Church Offices

A. We read of a plurality of elders or pastors in every

church (Acts 14:23).

B. Denominationalism promotes a single elder or pastoral

system.

1.) Each church must be self-governing (Acts 20:28).

2.) We do not read of any association established to

oversee congregations in a particular area.

C. We read of deacons being the husband of one wife (1

Timothy 3:12).

1.) Today’s denominations are enthralled with the idea

of women’s liberty and seek to allow women

deacons.

2.) However, if you can find a woman who is the

husband of one wife, she would need counseling

and Bible teaching rather than an office in the

church!

D. We read of the office of preacher being filled by

faithful men (2 Timothy 2:2).

1.) Women are admonished to “learn in silence with all

subjection” (1 Timothy 2:11).

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2.) Paul forbids them “to teach, nor to usurp authority

over the man, but to be in silence” (v.12).

3.) God’s commandment pertains specifically to the

assembly of the saints and the public proclamation

of the gospel (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:34-35).

IV. Denominationalism Opposes Christ’s Preeminence

A. Christ is to have the preeminence in the church in all

things (Colossians 1:18).

B. Denominations give the preeminence due to Christ to

men – e.g. Wesley and Luther; or to the denomination

itself – e.g. Baptist, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, etc.

C. Does Christ have the preeminence if we call ourselves

“Baptists” rather than Christians (Acts 11:26; Isaiah

42:8; 62:2; 65:15)?

D. Does Christ have the preeminence in the “People’s

Church” rather than the church of Christ?

V. Denominationalism Opposes Christ’s Authority

A. Whatever we do in word or deed must be done in the

name of the Lord (Colossians 3:17).

1.) To do something in His name is to do it with His

authority and approval.

2.) Christ has all authority over His church (Matthew

28:18; Ephesians 1:22-23).

B. Man will be judged by the word of Christ (John 12:48).

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C. If Christ has all authority and we will be judged by His

word, what authority does man’s opinion hold?

D. Rather than seek Bible authority for their practices,

denominations give feelings and wrongful

interpretations of the scriptures the authority.

VI. Denominationalism Opposes True Worship

A. God is seeking true worship (John 4:21-24).

B. God’s word is truth (John 17:17).

1.) Truth and reality is found in Christ (John 1:17;

Matthew 5:17).

2.) To worship in truth is to worship according to the

covenant of Christ rather than God’s covenant with

the Jews (Hebrews 8:6-7).

C. Man is not at liberty to choose how he will worship

God.

1.) When man worships according to his will rather

than God’s it is “will worship” (Colossians 2:20-

23).

2.) God has given us commands for worship which we

are to observe in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

VII. Denominationalism Opposes the Biblical Doctrine of

Man’s Salvation

A. We find not one line of scripture which teaches a

sinner’s prayer, mourner’s bench, or the oft claimed

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“outward sign of an inward grace” in all the New

Testament.

B. Neither do we find a passage which teaches the

unconditional “Once Saved Always Saved” doctrine.

C. Why obey a teaching not taught in the Bible when you

can read and obey these commands from your Bible?

1.) Believe (John 8:24)

2.) Repent (Luke 13:3, 5)

3.) Confess Christ (Matthew 10:32-33)

4.) Be Baptized (Mark 16:16) and become born again

into His kingdom (John 3:3-5).

Conclusion:

I. Man has an alternative to denominationalism.

A. He can be a Christian and only a Christian.

B. He can obey the gospel and the Lord will add him to

His church (Acts 2:47).

II. Not every church is a denomination

A. One church was established before any denomination

existed (Matthew 16:18).

B. One church will endure long after all denominations are

consumed (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Hebrews 12:25-29).

III. Obey the one gospel and be added to the one church and let

the one hope of your calling be the hope of life eternal!

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The Restoration Plea

Scripture Reading: 2 Thessalonians 2:15

Introduction:

I. A great falling away from God’s New Testament pattern

for the church has occurred.

A. As Christians are begotten by the word of truth (James

1:18), this falling away has begat many practices,

names, offices, titles, traditions, creeds, councils,

Catholicism, and denominationalism which cannot be

supported on the basis of biblical teaching.

B. Because of this falling away we live in an age of great

religious confusion, strife, frustration, and diversity.

II. In recognition of this we plead:

A. That professing Christians speak and practice the same

thing.

B. That all who desire to follow Christ share all things in

common pertaining to faith in Him.

C. That the only way this can be accomplished is by every

person’s return to the Bible, and the Bible alone, for a

guide to all things religious.

D. To lay aside all practices, names, offices, titles,

traditions, creeds, councils, Catholicism, and

denominationalism which remain unauthorized by

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commands, examples, or necessary and proper

inferences from the text.

E. To lay aside all such things which are restricted by the

silence of the scriptures, created by man, thus hindering

a union of believers and one’s acceptable service to

God.

Discussion:

I. What Is Meant By Restoration?

A. To restore is to bring something back to its original

state.

1.) We wish not to reform the Catholic Church.

2.) The Catholic Church is beyond repair.

3.) Therefore, we wish not to start another church or

add another church to the denominational landscape

of modern day Christendom, but we wish only to

return to the ancient faith once delivered.

B. We seek a return to the Bible and the Bible only.

1.) The restoration plea is biblical in the conviction that

true unity comes when men follow the Bible and

the Bible only thus realizing the one faith spoken by

Paul (Ephesians 4:5).

2.) We believe the Bible is clearly revealed as all

sufficient in doctrine and every good work (2

Timothy 3:16-17).

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3.) History has proven that whenever man takes the

Bible and something else – whether opinions,

traditions, wrong interpretations, or creeds – the

result is always more division and more strife.

4.) Why not avoid such division and strife and follow

the Bible alone?

II. Restoration Is a Choice

A. Unlike the heresies which seek and sought to strong-

arm people into allegiance, man has the opportunity to

choose to be a restorer of the faith.

B. We seek not to manipulate or force a single soul – only

to share and help with the life changing and soul saving

gospel of the Son of God.

C. Man must choose for himself to follow or not to follow

the Bible alone as his rule for faith and practice.

1.) Keep in mind that many claim to be following the

Bible, but in reality it is always the Bible +

traditions or the Bible + wrongful interpretations

which equals in the Bible + false doctrine.

2.) The Bible + anything is too much and makes for a

deadly equation indeed!

III. Why Do We Need to Restore?

A. False Doctrines

1.) Paul explained to the Galatians that there was but

one gospel (Galatians 1:6-9).

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2.) He warned Timothy of a falling away because of

seducing spirits and doctrines of devils (1 Timothy

4:1-2).

3.) What is the cause of false doctrine (2Timothy 4:3-

4)?

a.) Man is oft unwilling to endure sound doctrine.

b.) Rather than repent, men often find a teacher

who will tell them what they want to hear

instead of the things they need to hear.

D. False Teachers

1.) False teachers will tell something to sooth the

sinner in his sins rather than prick his heart with the

gospel and lead him to repentance.

2.) Peter’s inspired description of false teachers: “But

there were false prophets also among the people,

even as there shall be false teachers among you,

who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even

denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon

themselves swift destruction. And many shall

follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom

the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And

through covetousness shall they with feigned words

make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of

a long time lingereth not, and their damnation

slumbereth not” (2 Peter 2:1-3).

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E. False Practices

1.) False teachers will assuredly promote false

practices.

2.) Such teachers have no regard for teaching biblical

principles, why should we think they would have

regard for following biblical principles?

Conclusion:

I. Is the Restoration Plea Valid?

A. Any plea to save souls from damnation is a valid plea.

B. For those who might question the validity of this plea

we ask, do you believe a soul can be saved by following

opinions, feelings, traditions of men, wrongful

interpretations of the scriptures, or without obeying the

gospel?

C. Man needs only to obey the word of God to be saved.

1.) To argue against this point only proves

stubbornness, pride, or ignorance.

2.) When man has strayed from the word he needs a

friend to help him understand and make his life

right with God.

3.) Herein is the nobility of the restoration plea.

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4.) We seek to help people understand the Bible and

prepare to meet their God by following the Bible

and the Bible only.

II. Will You Be A Restorer?

A. The harvest remains white and the laborers few.

B. Will you not help us and work with us to gain the lost

and dying for Christ?

C. May all Christians everywhere devote themselves to

this great cause, the cause of our Lord, the plea to be

united in Him, the cause for which He prayed (John

17:21) and died (Ephesians 2:11-22).

“Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our

Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of

the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to

do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight,

through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

(Hebrews 13:20-21)

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Is One Church as Good as Another?

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 2:13-22

Introduction:

I. It is easier for a person trapped in the clutches of

denominationalism to believe one church is as good as

another rather than to believe there is only one church.

A. After all, if all churches are denominations how

arrogant would it be to believe your denomination is

better than my denomination!

B. If the denominational world is right, and all churches

are denominations and all denominations make up the

church, such studies as this should cease and disappear

forevermore from the face of the earth.

II. It is easier for some to believe one church is as good as

another to keep from accepting the destiny of many loved

ones.

A. Some would rather disregard what God has said on the

subject than condemn a loved one.

B. Consider please, if this is true and a loved one of yours

or mine stands condemned, what reason does that give

for us to reject the truth?

1.) Each soul will give an account of their own life to

God (Romans 14:12).

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2.) Why should we think that our rejection of truth

would in some way change God’s judgment upon

another who likewise rebelled?

3.) A loved one’s refusal to believe the Bible on this or

any other subject in no way forces you to make the

same mistake.

III. The church is part of God’s eternal plan (Ephesians 3:10-

11).

A. The church is a subject not to be taken lightly.

B. Man has no authority to rebel against God on this or

any other point.

C. With that being said, let us consider carefully what the

Bible teaches on the subject of Lord’s church – you

may change your mind!

Discussion:

I. The Lord’s Church (read Matthew 16:13-19)

A. Having read the text we ask:

1.) If one church is as good as another church, why

didn’t the Lord build many churches?

2.) If one church is as good as another church, is

“another church” as good as the church the Lord

said was His church?

B. Can another church be as good as the church built by

Jesus?

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1.) If so, who is this builder as good as Jesus?

2.) Where do we read of this builder in the scriptures?

3.) By what authority did he build?

II. The Lord’s House (read 1 Timothy 3:15)

A. Having read the text we ask:

1.) Is one family as good as God’s family?

2.) Is one father as good as our Heavenly Father?

3.) What would another church uphold if the truth is

already upheld by the Lord’s church?

4.) If the church established in the New Testament

upholds the truth, can there be any other “Bible

believing church”?

B. Can another house be as good as the Lord’s house?

1.) If so, who is the head of this house which is

claimed to be as good as God’s house?

2.) Upon what foundation does this other house sit,

since only the church is founded upon hearing and

doing the word of God (Matthew 7:23 ff.)?

3.) If hearing and doing the word of God will bring you

into His house, whose word must you hear and do

to be brought into another house?

III. The Lord’s Body (read Ephesians 4:4-6)

A. Having read the text we ask:

1.) How many bodies are said to exist?

a.) What is this body?

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b.) Paul answers our question by saying, “And he is

the head of the body, the church: who is the

beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in

all things he might have the preeminence”

(Colossians 1:18).

2.) In this one body we are reconciled to God by the

cross (Ephesians 2:16).

a.) The body is the church.

b.) Seeing that there is only one body, there can

only be one church.

c.) If we are reconciled in the one body we are

reconciled in the one church.

3.) Let us test the questionable theory of one church

being as good as another again. If one church is as

good as another church:

a.) Why is there only one church mentioned in the

Bible?

b.) Who would have the preeminence in another

church if Christ already has the preeminence in

His church?

c.) Is there reconciliation in another church?

d.) If so, how? For there is only one body

reconciled by the cross.

B. Can another body be as good as the Lord’s body?

1.) If so, who is as good as the Lord?

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2.) Who died to establish another body?

3.) Was their death as good as the Lord’s death?

IV. The Lord’s Blood (read Acts 20:28)

A. Having read the text we ask:

1.) Why did Christ shed His blood for only one

church?

2.) Whose blood purchased another church if Christ’s

blood purchased only His church?

3.) If there is “another church” is there another means

of atonement?

4.) If there is another means of atonement, why did

Christ have to die for our sins?

B. If one church is as good as another, then whose blood is

as good as Christ’s blood?

V. The Lord’s Authority (read Acts 2:41, 47)

A. Having read the text we ask:

1.) Who has authority to equal the Lord?

2.) Who will add you to another church if the Lord

only adds to His church?

3.) By what authority are you added or joined to

another church?

4.) If all the saved are added to the Lord’s church, are

the lost in other churches?

B. The Lord decides who He will and will not add to His

church.

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1.) His decision is based upon our hearing and obeying

His word.

2.) When man gladly receives the word of God and

obeys Him, the Lord adds that person to His church.

3.) The Lord’s church is the assembly of souls who

have obeyed the Lord.

a.) It is “the general assembly and church of the

firstborn” (Hebrews 12:23).

b.) The church has been “called out of darkness

into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9).

c.) The church consists of all who have been

“delivered from the power of darkness and

translated into the kingdom of His dear Son”

(Colossians 1:13).

d.) Souls in the church have been called out of

darkness and added to the church by obedience

to the gospel of Christ. Paul wrote, “Whereunto

he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of

the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2

Thessalonians 2:14). Conclusion:

I. Man must do more than “Join a Bible believing church.”

II. Man must be added by God to His church through

obedience to the gospel.

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A. The Lord shed His blood to buy the church (Acts

20:28).

B. The church belongs to the Lord (Matthew 16:18).

C. The church was built by the Lord.

D. The Lord’s gospel calls the sinner out of the world (2

Thessalonians 2:14).

E. The Lord adds us to His church (Acts 2:47).

F. Truly no church can be a Bible believing church

without accepting the truth that the Lord has only one

church.

III. Why belong to just any church when you can be a member

of the Lord’s church?

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Why I Am a Member of the Church of Christ

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 12:25-29

Introduction:

I. What is the basis for our religious affiliation?

II. Can we give an answer from the Bible for the hope that is

in us (1 Peter 3:15)?

III. By using nothing but the Bible as the basis for our study,

we wish to offer compelling, sufficient reasons to be a

member of the church of Christ.

Discussion: I. Built by Christ

A. Built by the Lord (Psalms 27:1; Matthew 16:13-19;

Hebrews 8:2)

B. Built upon the Lord (1 Corinthians 3:11; 1 Peter 2:6)

II. Authorized by Christ

A. Our Name (Acts 4:12; 11:26; Isaiah 62:2; Philippians

2:9)

B. Our Organization (Acts 14:23; 1 Peter 5:1-3)

C. Our Work (Colossians 3:17)

D. Our Worship (Acts 2:42; 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2;

Ephesians 5:19; 1 Timothy 4:13)

E. Our Entrance into the Kingdom (Acts 2:47)

F. Our Terms of Fellowship in the Kingdom (Ephesians

5:11; 2 Corinthians 6:14)

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III. Called Out by Christ

A. Called Out of Sin (Colossians 1:13)

B. Called Out of Ignorance (1 Peter 2:9)

C. Called Out by the Preaching of the Gospel (2

Thessalonians 2:14; Romans 10:17)

IV. Redeemed by Christ

A. In His Blood (Revelation 1:5)

B. In His Body (Romans 12:5; Ephesians 4:12; Acts

20:28)

V. Blessed by Christ

A. All Spiritual Blessings are in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).

B. The Church is the Fullness of Christ (Ephesians 1:23).

C. Salvation is in Christ (2 Timothy 2:10).

D. No hope out of Christ (Ephesians 2:12).

E. Those Reconciled by the Blood of Christ are in Christ

(Eph.2:13).

Conclusion:

I. We know not of any reason to remain outside of Christ.

II. We know not of any reason to belong to a church or

practice some religious rite not found in the Bible.

III. Why do something different than that which God desires of

you?

IV. We plead with you now to do only that which is

commanded by God.

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Get in the Right Boat

(Only One Boat Will Float!)

Scripture Reading: 2 Peter 2:9

*See Corresponding Chart*

Introduction:

I. To say one church is as good as another is like saying one

ark was as good as another.

A. God only built one ark and He has only built one

church.

B. To be in another church is to be in the wrong church!

C. To be out of the church is to be out of the ark of safety!

II. Only one boat will float!

A. Don’t you imagine there were men proclaiming to other

that they could be saved in this boat or that boat?

B. Men are proclaiming today that you can be saved in this

church or that church.

C. Only one boat would float and only one church will

remain after the Lord returns (Hebrews 12:26-29).

Discussion:

I. The Right Heart (Genesis 6:8-9; Proverbs 23:7; Matthew

5:8).

A. One must have the right kind of heart to enter this boat.

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B. One must have the right kind of heart to enter the

church.

II. The Right Instructions (Genesis 6:22; 7:5; Matthew 7:24

ff.; 1 Timothy 1:16).

A. The ark was built by the right instructions. Because of

its instructions, it was a unique vessel among many

vessels.

B. The church has been built with the right instructions.

Because of its instructions, in is a unique church among

many “churches”.

III. The Right Preacher (2 Peter 2:5; Mark 1:14-15; 2

Corinthians 5:20).

A. Noah was the right preacher – a preacher of

righteousness.

B. Christ and His apostles are the right preachers! No

other “word” will do!

IV. The Right Builder (Genesis 6:13-14 ff.; Matthew 16:13-

19).

A. Noah was the builder ordained of God for the work of

building the ark. Only the boat built by Noah was

going to float.

B. Christ is the builder ordained of God for the work of

building the church. The kingdom of Christ is the only

kingdom that shall stand at the judgment (Hebrews

12:25 ff.).

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V. The Right Authority (Genesis 8:1; Matthew 28:18-20).

A. Noah had the authority to build the ark, obeyed, and

God remembered Noah.

B. Christ has all authority in heaven and earth, we must

obey Him, and He will remember us.

Conclusion:

I. Will God remember you?

II. He will, if you will remember Him.

III. Just like the doors of the ark had to eventually close, some

day the doors of the church and the way of salvation will

close (Matthew 24:36 ff.).

IV. Prepare today by becoming a child of God (John 3:3-5).

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Suggested Reading

Bales, James D., Restoration, Reformation or Revelation?

_____________, The Soils and Seeds of Sectarianism

Brewer, G.C., The Model Church

Campbell, Alexander, Christianity Restored

_________________, The Christian System

Cloer, Eddie, God’s Design for “The Church”

__________, What Is “The Church”?

Cogdill, Roy, E., The New Testament Church

Connally, Andrew, M., The Dangers of Liberalism

Cox, James, D. …With the Bishops and Deacons

Crawford, C.C., Sermon Outlines on the Restoration Plea

Ferguson, Everett, The Church of Christ: A Biblical Ecclesiology

for Today

Hardeman, N.B., Hardeman-Bogard Debate

_____________, Hardeman-Boswell Discussion

Hogan, Norman, Leadership in the Local Church

Howard, V.E., What Is the Church of Christ?

Humble, Bill, J., The Missionary Society Controversy

Lewis, John T., The Voice of the Pioneers on Instrumental Music

and Societies

Mauro, Philip, The Gospel of the Kingdom

Music, Goebel, Behold the Pattern

Phillips, Thomas, W., The Church of Christ

77

Rowe, John, F., The Primitive Church and Innovations

Rutherford, Rod, The One True Church

Srygley, F.B., The New Testament Church

Stroop, J. Ridley, Restoration Ideas on Church Organization

_____________, The Church of the Bible

Wallace, Foy, E., The Current Issues

_____________, The Instrumental Music Question

Warren, Thomas, B. Lectures on Church Cooperation and Orphan

Homes

Wharton, Edward, C., The Church of Christ

Wilson, L.R., Congregational Development

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About the Author

It is the author’s privilege to be married to the former Melanie Conner of Fairview, Tennessee. Their three beautiful children are Jackson, Camille, and Hannah. He has preached for churches of Christ in Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee, and is an Instructor of Biblical Studies and Restoration History for the Middle Tennessee School of Preaching and Biblical Studies. To date, Andy Erwin has participated in six religious debates. He has been published in such periodicals as the Firm Foundation, Gospel Advocate, and Gospel Gleaner. He is a graduate of the Middle Tennessee School of Preaching and Biblical Studies, and Southern Christian University (B.A., M.Div.). Other books by Andy Erwin include:

• Each One Reach One: A Study of Church Growth and Personal Evangelism

• Truth: Plain and Simple, A Collection of Twenty-Five Gospel Sermons

• Lectures on the Last Things