Church
The church belongs to Christ
Jesus said, “I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18). Again, Paul wrote that Jesus “purchased the church with his own blood” (Acts 20:28). Paul also affirms that there is “one body, the church” (Eph. 4:4). Yet, what is the church?
The Kindgom
Today, some people are waiting for the kingdom of Christ to be established when he comes again to rule for a thousand years. The Old Testament prophesies about the coming of the kingdom (Dan. 2:44, Isa. 2:2,3). Has it already come and if not, at what point in time will it come?
The Church
The church is the body of Christ, according to Ephesians 1:22,23. This is obviously not literal. The church has the likeness of a physical body where Christ is its head and those in Christ, the saints, are the members of that body.
The first Local Church
The early Christians had to endure poverty and persecution at this time. Many brethren sold their possessions to meet the needs of their needy. Of course, even the first church was not without problems. Annanias and Sap-phira lied and suddenly died by the hand of God.
(1) The Nature of their Rule
1 Tim. 3:4 speaks of the bishop who “rules” his own house well and has his children under subjection.
(4) Selection and Appointment of Elders
Paul gave the qualifications and the church was to select the men qualified. Here is a perfect example of leadership combined with the decision of the church.