Thoughts on Citizenship

Text: Colossians 2:15 In His death, Jesus made a “public display” of the civil rulers and “put them to open shame” (ESV). The full force of civil authority was against Christ (Acts 4:26), and they failed. But Jesus didn’t abolish civil authority (Romans 13:1). Therefore, we may live as citizens of an earthly country, but […]

Is the Church of Christ a Denomination?

The answer to this question could be ‘yes’ or ‘no’ depending on what one has in mind. This lesson will examine three things: the church of Christ, a church of Christ, and “Church of Christ.” The Church of Christ This is simply the church that belongs to Christ — He would build it (Matthew 16:18), […]

Caring for the Widows

Text: Acts 6:1-7 Why the Widows? Earlier the poor in general were helped (Acts 4:32-35) — here the widows specifically were served (Acts 6:1), implying ongoing care that was provided them The church was to provide ongoing care & support to certain widows (1 Timothy 5:3,9-10) Why not other widows? … They had others to […]

House Churches

Text: Philemon 1-2 What Exactly is a House Church? Generally smaller (approximately 15-25 members) Typically meet in someone’s house But there is more to the house church movement than the size & location of a congregation’s assembly Two different kinds of house churches — one is connected to a larger church, the other is independent […]

Reporting Back to Antioch

Text: Acts 14:27 Background of Paul & Barnabas’ Report to Antioch Antioch sent them on their way (Acts 13:3) They had just returned from their preaching trip (Acts 14:26) They gathered the church, not just the elders or a few individuals (Acts 14:27) Benefits of Preaching Reports Preachers are kept accountable — ensuring they are […]

“I Will Build My Church”

Text: Matthew 16:18 I Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16) He is our Savior (2 Timothy 1:10), King (John 18:36-37), and is Deity (John 1:1) This is important because Jesus’ identity would be the foundation of His church (Matthew 16:18) Will Indicates a future time when His plan would […]

What Makes Churches of Christ Different Than Denominations?

Text: Romans 16:16 Note: This is not intended to endorse every congregation that wears the name “church of Christ.” For the purpose of this outline, the “churches of Christ” are those who are faithfully following the New Testament pattern. Not Based on Our Name Many churches of Christ do not follow the NT pattern (Revelation […]