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)