Post on 06-Oct-2020
How unique is the church?
How unique is the church?
The church is a spiritual fellowship for members of God’s family
ekklesia – “those who are called out”
How unique is the church?
The bond between members is a spiritual bond of unity
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Every biblical metaphor of the Church, without exception, emphasizes unity. The Church is one Bride with one husband; one Flock with one shepherd; the Branches on one vine; one Kingdom with one king; one Family with one father; one Building with one foundation; one Body with one head, Jesus Christ.
John MacArthur, Body Dynamics, p. 14
How unique is the church?
The church exists for spiritual purposes
Spiritual Purposes
Glorify Jesus through worship
Serve as God’s temple on earth
Stimulate one another to love and good deeds
Offer up spiritual sacrifices
Devote themselves to the preaching and teaching of Scripture
Fellowship
Lord’s Supper
Prayer
How unique is the church?
The universal church’s structure is astonishingly simple
Jesus
Us
How unique is the church?
Leaders are given to the church for the care of the flock
Spiritual Roles
Elders – Spiritual leadership
Deacons – Ministers of mercy and benevolence
Members – Exercise spiritual gifts
How unique is the church?
All members do the work of ministry using their Spiritual Gifts
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”A spiritual gift is a channel through which the Holy Spirit ministers to the Body.
John MacArthur, Body Dynamics, p. 105
How unique is the church?
Spiritual fellowship in the local church should result in the fulness of joy (1 John 1:3-4)