Simple Passages that People Misunderstand

Text: Ephesians 3:4 Matthew 16:18 – there is one church Ephesians 2:8-9 – what salvation by grace means James 2:24 – we are not saved by faith alone Mark 16:16 – belief and baptism are necessary for salvation 1 Peter 3:21 – baptism saves

What is the New Testament?

Different views: The Product of Men – John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:10ff A Product of the Church – Catholic idea; church can therefore alter/amend it A Series of “Love Letters” – merely an expression of God’s love A General Guide – openness to different ideas/interpretations; mindset behind “unity in diversity” Our Law Today – Hebrews […]

Is One Church as Good as Another?

Common idea – one church is as good as another Deciding what church to attend is often based on personal preference Our decisions must instead be based on what is right How do we know what church is right? – find the one that follows the New Testament pattern

What Caused the Early Church to Grow?

Text: Acts 9:31 They enjoyed peace They were being built up They feared the Lord They were comforted by the Holy Spirit

Doing What Has Been Authorized

Text: Colossians 3:17 How Do We Determine What has been Authorized?

Measures of a Sound Church

Some things that are not indicators of soundness: Large numbers – Matthew 7:13-14 A popular, well-liked preacher – John 15:18-19 A new, fancy building – John 4:21 A reputation of being a sound church – Revelation 3:1 Proper indicators of soundness: Holding fast the pattern – 2 Timothy 1:13 Preach the gospel without additions/subtractions/changes – […]

Christ and the Church

Text: Ephesians 5:22-33 Christ is the Head of the Church Christ Sacrificed His Life for the Church The Church Must Submit to Christ The Church Must Love Christ The Church Must Serve Christ The Church Must be Faithful to Christ