A Church of Christ
Ephesians 4:1-6
Introduction
1.
Technically we can never call
ourselves “the” church of Christ, but simply “a” church of Christ
2.
Often those who have allegiance to
a denominational organization refer to themselves as a “church of Christ”
3.
“A rose by any other name is
still a rose,” but a dandelion, while being called a rose, will never be a
rose
Discussion
1.
Jesus is the head of the church –
Eph 1:22-23; Col 1:18
a.
There is a difference between a
head and a figurehead
b.
Matt 7:28-29; 17:5; 25:31-32;
28:18-19
c.
His authority is exercised through
the apostles whom he chose – Luke 6:13; Acts 1:24; Gal 1:1; 1 Cor 14:37
d.
Technically, the first century is
the beginning of “the” church of Christ (the universal church, organization
which owes its origins to Christ) and Jerusalem is the place (not Rome)
2.
All matters of doctrine are decided
according to Scripture
a.
Eph 4:5; Jude 3
b.
Matters of opinion are never to be
imposed on others
i.
for
example: Instrumental music is as
acceptable to God as singing can never be imposed on a congregation of God’s
people
ii.
Since worship is a shared
experience, all matters of worship must be under the direction of God
c.
Matters of faith can never be
reduced to optional behavior – for example:
moral legislation is not optional or cultural
3.
Baptism and communion are observed
according to Scripture
a.
Baptism is by immersion – Mark
1:9; Acts 8:38-39; Rom 6:4
b.
Baptism is for the forgiveness of
sins – Acts 2:38
c.
Communion is weekly – Acts 20:7
d.
Communion is for remembrance, not
for forgiveness – 1 Cor 11:24-25
Conclusion
1.
The
church is important because:
a.
It was purchased with the blood of
Jesus
b.
It was in the eternal plan of God
– Is 2:1-4
c.
Salvation is in the church – Acts
2:41, 47
2.
1 Cor 12:13