CLF CHURCH MISSION/VISION/LEADERSHIP TEAM/TEAM MINISTRY
Teacher: Scott Woodard
Introduction: Every church is an expression of the House of the Lord in their locality (Rev 1- 3). Jesus is concerned with how each local church operates. Paul sent Timothy into the church at Ephesus, and Titus to the churches on the island of Crete, to help set them in order. This involved both how they conducted themselves in everyday life, as well as the establishing and functioning of leadership in each local church.
Titus 1:5 NASB For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you, 1 Timothy 1:3 As I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus…
1 Timothy 3:1-15 It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. (2) An overseer, then, must be…15 but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth….
Leadership within the Local Church Family
Many of the present-day patterns that have been handed down to us contain non biblical ideas. The clergy-laity distinction in some circles tends to foster an OT mentality of separation between the special class, “priests,” and the rest of the people. In the 1500’s the Protestant Reformation restored the priesthood of all believers yet many of the leadership models from that tradition have little Biblical basis. Many current Evangelical and Charismatic leadership patterns have a “one man” leadership style with a “pastor/minister” leading local congregations. Some are
autonomous leaders with little checks and balances while others have adopted some sort of a board (Deacon Board) to help keep the leader in check. We need to examine every pattern in light of Scripture and seek to implement the New Testament patterns.
Kingdom is a governmental word.
The word “Kingdom” comes from the Greek word “Baselea” which means “a royalty, rule, a realm, royal power or dominion.” It is simply the King’s Domain. Another way to express the idea of Kingdom is government. The Kingdom is the government of God. Romans 13 talks about the idea of God’s government/authority expressed on earth through
delegated authority. The church is the primary place in the earth that willingly receives the government of God. There is delegated government there ruling that helps prevent chaos.
Scriptures indicate that leadership in the Local Church is set among a group of leaders called Elders, with Deacons functioning closely with them (see “III Leadership in the Local Church – Elders and Deacons”)
Philippians 1:1 NASB Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers (elders/bishops Acts 20:21 Tit 1:5-7 1985) and deacons.
Acts 14:23 NASB When they had appointed elders for them in every church, having prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.
Acts 20:17-28 NASB From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the church. (18) And when they had come to him, he said to them… (28) “Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. Acts 15:22-23; Titus 1:5-7; 1 Peter 5:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13; 1 Timothy 3:1-:12; 5:17-19; Titus 1:5; Hebrews 13:7,17,24; 1 Peter 5:1-2
Christ began building His church with a family/team of leaders. He started His church (Jerusalem) with a leadership team of 12 men. Throughout the Book of Acts and the Epistles you see teams of leaders in Local Churches. Acts 14:23 When they had appointed elders (plural) for them in every church, having prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord.
Scriptures indicate a plurality of Eldership.
They work as a team (see previous sections of family/team leadership)
Acts 14:23 “Elders in every city”
Acts 15:4-23 “Elders in Jerusalem”
Leadership in the House of God 14
Acts 16:4 “Elders in Jerusalem”
Acts 20:17 “Elders of Ephesus”
1 Timothy 5:1, 17-21 “Let the Elders rule”
James 5:14 “Call for the Elders of the Church”
1 Peter 5:1 “The Elders which are among you”
Titus 1:5-11 “Ordain Elders in every city”
Hebrews 13:17 “Obey them that rule”
As in any team, including leadership team, there is a leader. You see it in the Trinity where the Father seems to be the head even though they are all equal 1 Corinthians 11:3-15 But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ. Elders tend to have different measures and areas of responsibility according to calling. Elders are equal in value but not in authority or gifting. As Elders lead as a
team there will be a leader among them who leads the team.
Leaders/Members who are joined together by God, not just connected.
Unfortunately, many leaders as well as members simply connect together but never join together. The Trinity does not simply associate or connect together. They are joined. Each is such a part of the life of the other that they are seen as One, even though they are Three. Strong team members have a strong faith that God has joined them together. Their lives are interrelated by covenant and the reality that Jesus has joined them. There is a strong sense that they have a common destiny in God together. It works much like a hand on the body. There is a God designed destiny for the hand and the arm being together. Neither will fulfill its purpose without the other.
Each leader/member must possess a common vision God has birthed among them. Amos 3:3 Can two walk together unless they are agreed? Each should be able to articulate the vision and work together to see the vision come to pass.
One commentator of Acts 4:32 said that the “congregation of the believers felt the same way about things.” This should be the characteristic of each team member. Not only the vision but the values we hold together in pursuing the vision.
Leaders/Members must submit to one another in the fear of God. Ephesians 5:21
Mutual submission is the opposite of independence. Strong leadership teams walk submissively together. This submission extends beyond the scope of a professional ministry mindset in which submission is only held in church matters “at the office.” This is a submission of life. There is not line of “personal and professional matters,” because we share a common life together in Christ.
Biblically (OT and NT), ‘elders’ were:
Family men! Heads of families and tribes, e.g. Exodus 3.16, 24.1, 1 Kings 8.1
Governmental men! Rulers and judges, e.g. Joshua 20.1-4 Dt 19:12, Prov 31:23
Men who fight! Leading God’s people out into battle, e.g. Joshua 8.10
Men who seek God! Joshua 7.2-7, Acts 13.1-3
Men who bring counsel and wisdom! e.g. 1 Kings 12.1-8
Older men who have wisdom 1 Timothy 5:1
Designated leaders of local churches Acts 14:23, Acts 15:2,4, 6, 22-23, Acts 20:17-18, Philippians 1:1, 1 Timothy 5:17, Titus 1:5, James 5:14
Evolution of Eldership - The calling and idea of Eldership evolved throughout the OT into the NT: From family leaders in tribes (Elders stood alongside Moses Numbers 11:16. Elders accompanied Joshua in conquest Joshua 7:6)), through to the Elders in the city gates (Prov 31:23 Dt 19:12 Rt 4:2, 4:11), through the Intertestamental period with Elders ruling the synagogues (The Sanhedrin contained elders Matthew 26:3, and the local synagogues were ruled by Elders), to the Local church.
C. Three New Testament terms (Greek words) to designate the office of Eldership.
Greek “Presbuteros” Elder - speaks of “senior” or maturity and experience, an older man
This speaks of the man.
Greek “Episkopos” Bishop/Overseer - Greek “epi” - over, “skopeo” - to look or watch.
This term speaks of the leaders responsibility to watch over, protect, care for, and feed the flock.
This speaks of the office.
In the Scriptures this term is used in the same sense as an Elder Titus 1:5,7; Acts 20:17,28; 1 Timothy 2:1
Greek “Poimen” Pastor/Shepherd - one who is a feeder. This speaks of what He is doing.
The Scriptures show us the inter-relatedness of these three words. They are different aspects of the same leadership position. Acts 20:17-28 “take heed therefore unto yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Ghost made you overseers (episkopos) to feed (poimen) the church of God.
1 Peter 5:1-2 “I exhort the elders (presbuteros)…feed (poimen) the flock of God which is among you, exercising oversight (episkopos) not under compulsion,..
Titus 1:5-7 For this reason I left you in Crete, that you might set in order what remains, and appoint Elders (presbuteros) in every city as I directed you…For the overseer (episkopos) must be above reproach,…
Elders Function:
First and foremost: servants of God and servants to and for the people
Ruling on behalf of the king
Protectors of the kingdom culture and presence
Leading the church forward into maturity
Guardians of the flock
Equipping members to serve
Examples to the flock
About function more than position
Eldership is not for life; it is only as God enables them to continue to function as an elder
THE FIVE-FOLD ASCENSION GIFT MINISTRIES OF EPHESIANS 4:10-12
Ephesians 4:10-12 NASB He who descended is Himself also He who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things.) (11) And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, (12) for the equipping of the saints for the work of service (KJV work of the ministry), to the building up of the body of Christ;
A. These ministries are gifts Jesus gives to equip His church so the church will do the “work of the ministry”
Jesus walked in the full expression of the five gifting while on earth (Apostle Heb 3:1, Teacher
Matthew 19:16, Evangelist Luke 19:10, Prophet Mark 6:1-6, Pastor John 10:11-14).
B. Definition of each gift
1. Apostle comes from the Greek word “Apostolos which means” a sent one or commissioned.”
The Greek background of the word was a leader of a colony or fleet that is sent from the motherland to establish colonies in other places. The Apostolic gift desires to see the church built on Christ and built together as the Temple of the Lord in everyplace God sends them. He is a master builder1 Corinthians 3:10. I Corinthians 12:28; Acts 14:23; 15:12; Galatians 2:4-14.
Apostles typically work towards appointing and training leaders; starting and or establishing foundations in the churches; strengthening existing churches, formulating doctrine; sorting out problems; and facilitating mission and breakthrough. Apostles understand that local churches are “Christ body the fullness of Him who fills all in all” Ephesians 1:23. God is going to fill the earth with His glory and Apostles realize that the building and establishing of local churches in every geographic area are key to this happening.
2. Prophet comes from the Greek word “prophētes,” which means, “Inspired, to bubble up, foretell, and forth tell.” The prophetic desire is about God’s people being immediately connected and responding to Christ. Prophets typically work alongside apostles in foundational ministry. Ephesians 2:20; Acts 15:32. They receive revelation to direct, warn, inform, edify, exhort, and console God’s people. Ephesians 3:3-5; Acts 15:32; 11:28; 13:1,2; 21:10,11. Sometimes prophets receive revelation to foretell future events. Acts 11:27-28
3. Pastor comes from the Greek word “Poimen’ which means, “One who feeds and cares for the sheep.” Pastors desire to see people cared for and the church caring for one another. He wants the saints to be well fed and have plenty of personal attention. He, like the others, work to equip the church so she will be more pastoral.
4. Evangelist comes from the Greek word “Euaggelistēs,” which means “A messenger of good, one who proclaims good news.” Evangelist desire to see the lost saved, the gospel preached, and the kingdom expanded in society. Evangelists not only do the work themselves but desire to equip the church to be evangelistic.
5. Teacher comes from the Greek word “didaskalos,” which means “Instructor or teacher.” A teacher desires for people to know the word of God, and be discipled by the truth. A teacher wants to see people living their lives based on God’s word and become doers of word not just hearers. Teachers have a gifted insight into God’s Word and an ability to convey God’s message. They have a concern for exactness, and also the ability to bring various parts of truth into a comprehensive, understandable whole.
Local and Extra-Local Authority
There is a primary authority in local churches that lies with the elders but also an aspect of it between the elders and their apostolic connections. Autonomous eldership authority without outside apostolic connection is a problem. An apostle attempting to override the local elder’s authority is also a problem. There is an authority that lies somewhere between the two.
The New Testament clearly teaches that overall church eldership is male.
Women can and should participate fully in the life of the church, and in ministry and leadership of many sorts, but the final governmental authority in the church is to be by a team of male elders. When instructing Timothy of what to look for in elders, Paul appeals the order of government in the natural home as a parallel to the order of government in the church.
1 Timothy 3:1-15 NASB…(2) An overseer, then, must be above reproach… (4) He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (5) (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?),…(15) but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.
The general word for “men” or “brethren” includes both sexes in Greek. Throughout Acts and the Epistles these words are used to include us all equally in our salvation. However, it is interesting to note that when decisions are being made and elders are being appointed, the scope is narrowed to the male brothers, e.g.
In Acts 1 where a new apostle was being chosen Peter stood up amid a mixed group (1:15) but only men were considered (1:21).
In Acts 6 when the seven are chosen to be in charge of serving at tables only the males are addressed and the choice has to be from among them. This does not appear to prevent women from serving in the church but they are not appointed to be in charge.
In Acts 15 the Jewish/Gentile controversy was debated before the apostles and elders and the decisions were made by them. Then they, with the whole church, chose men to communicate their decision to the churches.
The qualifications for an elder in Timothy and Titus can only be applied to men.
There is not mention of any female elders in the New Testament
Wherever apostles are mentioned and there are 20 named in the New Testament, they are always men. Junias is mentioned as an apostle (Romans 16:7), but it is absolutely impossible to tell whether this is a male or female name.
Government within the church – both in the local church and in the apostolic team - thus seems to have been always exercised by men, both in practice and teaching. We believe this combination Leadership in the House of God 15 of doctrine and the practice of the church is unassailable, being both prescriptive for and descriptive of the church’s life.
Government (Leadership) within the organization of the Local Church.
There appears to be one office listed in local church government Elder/Bishop, with the function of Deacon closely connected with it. Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus
who are in Philippi, including the overseers (elders/bishops) and deacons: (NASB) 1 Tim 3:8-13, Acts 14:23; 20:28; 15:22-23; Titus 1:5-7; 1 Peter 5:1-2; 1Thessalonians 5:12
Deacons were closely associated with Elders The main two verses where the Greek word is translated into English word Deacon in KJV NIV and NASV.
Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ
Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons:
1Timothy 3:8 Deacons likewise (like the Elders) must be…
C. Overlap of the Fivefold gifts with Elders and Deacons
It seems God calls certain elders to possess and functions in one of these gifts and at times there seems to be an overlap of ministry. Ephesians 1:1; Galatians 1:1; 2 Timothy 1:11; I Peter 1:1, 5:1.
D. Is every local church leader called and gifted in one of these gifts?
Scriptures do not dogmatically indicate that all local leaders will possess one of these Five-Fold gifts. There does seem to be an overlap of these gifts’ existent in some Elders and Deacons.
The early leaders in Antioch were identified as Prophets and Teachers Acts 13:1.
Peter identified himself is both an Elder and an Apostle 1 Peter 5:1-5.
Paul identified himself as both an Apostle and Teacher 2 Timothy 1:11.
Philip who was one of the first Deacons in the church in Jerusalem was recognized as an Evangelist Acts 6:5; 8:26-40; 21:8.
Stephen, who was also one of the first Deacons in Jerusalem also had a significant breakthrough ministry Acts 6:8.
Fatherhood and Family:
Paul acknowledges that the influence of motherhood and fatherhood is important for healthy churches
1 Thessalonians 2:7-11 But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children. (8) Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us…(11) just as you know how we were exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children,
God wants spiritual fathers and mothers caring for his people because spiritual moms and dads foster the best spiritual families! They combine:
encouragement and provocation
care and challenge
sensitivity and directness
passion and objectivity
an atmosphere of approval and preparation for God’s destiny
The book of Hebrews – Submit, Obey, and Follow your leaders allowing them to work with and in you
The background of the letter to Hebrews was that Christians were facing early Neronian persecution. Nero hated the Christians because he perceived them as a threat to his rule. Before he burned Rome and blamed in on the Christians, he leads a systematic persecution of them by taking away property and various privileges. Jewish religion was still tolerated, so many Jewish Christians were turning back to Judaism, and Gentile Christians were simply falling away to avoid the pressure. Throughout the letter he showed the superiority of Christ as the fulfillment of Judaism as he attempted to turn them back to Jesus. At the end of the letter, he affirms the important place of leadership in the process. He encourages the people to imitate, obey, submit to, receive the exhortation of, receive, and greet their leaders. Summed up it means to make plenty of room for leaders to work in their lives
Hebrews 13:7-24 Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith… (17) Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you…(18) Pray for us (leaders)… (22) But I urge you, brethren, bear with this word of exhortation (from a leader), for I have written to you briefly. (23) Take notice that our brother Timothy (a leader) has been released, with whom, if he comes soon, I will see you. (24) Greet all of your leaders and all the saints.
Follow Your Leaders:
The thing that causes people to break covenant is when their selfish desires go against their covenant responsibility. They follow their perceived self-interest instead of what they agreed to. If they think it is too painful to fulfill their covenant responsibility, then they break it (the reason of most divorces).
Heb 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.
Heb 13:7-8
Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct.
1 Peter 5:1-7
The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: 2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; 4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. 5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” 6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,
1 Tim 5:17-22 (Do Not Receive an Accusation Against an Elder Unless)
The elders who perform their leadership duties well are to be considered worthy of double honor (financial support), especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching [the word of God concerning eternal salvation through Christ]. 18 For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain [to keep it from eating],” and, “The worker is worthy of his wages [he deserves fair compensation].” 19 Do not accept an accusation against an elder unless it is based on [the testimony of at least] two or three witnesses. 20 As for those [elders] who continue in sin, reprimand them in the presence of all [the congregation], so that the rest will be warned. 21 I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels that you guard and keep these rules without bias, doing nothing out of favoritism. 22 Do not hurry to lay hands on anyone [ordaining and approving someone for ministry or an office in the church
It demonstrates the Biblical principle of more than one voice speaking the same thing which makes a more pronounced impact.
Deuteronomy (17:6), 19:15 NASB “A single witness shall not rise up against a man on account of any iniquity or any sin which he has committed; on the evidence of two or three witnesses a
matter shall be confirmed.
Matthew 18:16 NASB “But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED.
2 Corinthians 13:1 NASB This is the third time I am coming to you. EVERY FACT IS TO BE CONFIRMED BY THE TESTIMONY OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES.
TOPIC: THE CHURCH: LIVING FOR GOD’S PURPOSE - MATTHEW 16:18
Teacher: Nelson Masinde
PREFACE: God desires His people to live with a great sense of purpose for their lives. It is a sad statistic, but according to some polls, 36% of born-again Christians are still trying to find out the purpose of their lives. This is in contrast to only 49% of non-believers still trying to find
out the purpose of their lives. God wants every Christian to live for His purposes on this earth and has made them clear in His word.
3 Areas of Purpose All Christians are Called to Walk In
A. We are called to grow up/mature as followers of Christ.
The call of the Great Commission is a call to grow as we follow Christ. – Mat. 28:19-20.
Hebrews 6:1 - Therefore leaving the elementary teaching about Christ, let us press on to maturity.
Things that promote your growth and progress spiritually:
Systematic Bible reading,
Bible classes
Disciplined prayer times, and
Meeting with spiritual mentors and/or peer fellowship
B. Playing our part in building the body of Christ, the church on earth.
1 Corinthians 12:12-13, 18 - For even as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body, though they are many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body,.. But now God has placed the members, each one of them in the body, just as He desired.
Matthew 16:24-26 - We must deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.
We are citizens of heaven (or a colony of heaven on earth) and are seeking to make His church
all He desires.
Philippians 3:20 For our citizenship/commonwealth is in heaven (we are a colony of heaven), from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Galatians 4:26 But the Jerusalem above is free; she is our mother.
Ephesians 2:19-20; 4:1, 15-16 -
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, entreat you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called,..but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him, who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by that which every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.
When you embrace this purpose, you wake up and think thoughts like, “How can I help motivate, serve, and encourage my brothers and sisters to live the lifestyle of heaven on earth? What can I contribute to seeing my fellow citizens’ live God’s ways in the earth? Who can I help disciple in the ways of God?”
C. We are to be ambassadors for Christ. This is not disconnected from the other two purposes
2 Corinthians 5:20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were entreating through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
The word “ambassador” means, “to represent one royal court to another.” We are representing God and His ways to the world around us in order to see them reconciled to God.
This has to do with both aspects of evangelism: Demonstration and Declaration
Everyday when we get up and go to work, to the campus, or to the marketplace, we go as ambassadors of Christ who are trying to see mankind reconciled to Him.
This purpose and mission should motivate us and dominate our thinking. We don’t just go to our job, class, or store; we go to our mission field as ambassadors of Christ.
If this isn’t at the forefront of our thinking we will tend to live in futility.
The Local Church: Building a House Where His Presence Dwells
PREFACE: In its simplest form the church is relationships. It is walking out a joining together with God and those He joins us to in the Local Church. Relationships in the Local Church are not to be a nice theory of fellowship but to be a way of life serving God together.
Local Church - An identifiable group of believers who are joined together by God in a way of life serving God under the oversight of God-given pastors. This includes worship, prayer, serving, fellowship, and mutual submission.
A. The practical living of the truths of relationships and the Church involves a commitment to the Local Church.
B. The context of the Bible (specifically the New Testament) is the context of the Local Church.
The New Testament was written to Local Churches and it is only in that context that it can be properly understood.
The Church is mentioned 114 times in the New Testament, 96 of those times it is in reference to the local Church.
C. We tend to individualize the scriptures which causes us to misinterpret their Local Church context.
Examples: Rom 12:1-2, The context is vs 3-18
1Pet 1:23, The context is vs 22-2:10
You can read your Bible with individual glasses, or corporate glasses. It is obvious that the Bible is a corporate book. It is not just God’s personal love letter to you, but is His love letter to His Bride, the Church.
D. To correctly experience the Biblical design of relationships there must be a joining together in a Local Church.
To say you are functioning right with the head (Christ) and are not functioning right with the body (The Church) is an abnormality. Many believers want only a relationship with the head but not the body, which is a distorted image of the plan of God.
The New Testament was written to Local Churches and it is only in that context that it can be properly understood.
The Universal Church
THE EXPERIENCE OF THE EARLY CHURCH
This was the Church that “turned the world upside down”. Acts 17:6. They made a great impact in the earth. This is in great contrast to society’s view of the Church today as boring, irrelevant, impersonal, and full of hypocrites.
Quote from “Restoration In The Church”
A. The Church of Pentecost.
Acts 2:36-47; 4:31-33; 5:42
Authentic Christianity “Coming under the loving Lordship of Jesus, and being joined to a company of imperfect people who are learning to live a new life in a new way.”
B. One of the hallmarks was that they were devoted to fellowship. Acts 2:42.
Fellowship - Koinonia - a having in common, partnership, a shared life, or a common life. It is where we get our word “community”.
Their view of Church was not a building, a meeting, or an organization. They saw it as a joined
together group of people (people in relationship with God and each other) relating and working
together on a regular basis to extend the Kingdom of God.
C. Examples of the life of fellowship in the Early Church’s experience.
They prayed, broke bread, and received teaching together. Acts 2:43
They were together and held things in common. Acts 2:44
They shared material possessions as any had need. Acts 2:45, 4:32
They walked together living their lives on a daily basis. Acts 2:46
They ate meals together in their homes. Acts 2:46
They praised God together. Acts 2:47, 4:24
They met in the Temple and from house to house. Acts 2:46
They were united in purpose, one heart one soul. Acts 4:32 (They had a common destiny in God together).
There wasn’t a needy one among them due to their benevolence. Acts 4:32
The Universal Church is…
The Bride of Christ – Eph. 5:25-27; Rev. 19:7-9, 21:2
The vehicle through which He accomplishes His purpose on earth - 1 Corinthians 12:12–27
The carriers of the presence of God on the earth – Acts 7:48; John 14:16-17
The change agent in the earth – Mat. 5:13-16
The reflection of Heaven to the earth – Gen. 1:26, 2 Cor. 3:18
The temple and residence of the Holy Spirit – Eph. 2:19-22
Composed of all believers from all churches across the entire earth that profess the name of Jesus.
THE GODHEAD
Teacher: Tim Majors
Overview
Godhead and revelation of God
Trinity Overview
Functions of the Godhead persons
Views we do not hold
Godhead and Progressive Revelation
Definition- Refers to that which is divine, to deity, involving God’s revelation of His own mode of being
(Col 2:9/Romans 1:19-20)
Anything that can be known about God comes from him revealing it to us. The Word of God has revealed what can be known about God and his nature to us.
The nature of God has been progressively revealed throughout the Bible. The nature of God’s essence has evolved over time up to the incarnation of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1:3/Colossians 1:19)
OT – God is one
God is one
HS present, but unclear how he relates to individuals, but scripture speaks of Spirit resting on people for supernatural works
Prophecies point to Messiah figure to come , Son of Man with the ancient of days, etc.
God has revealed himself as one God, existing in three persons: The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirt; distinguishable but indivisible in essence; co-eternal, co-existent, co-equal in nature, attributes, power, and glory.
Scripture points to a trinitarian view of God
Trinity Overview
Traditional trinitarian understanding of God rests on 3 truths revealed by the Word of God
God is 3 persons- Scriptures show that Father, Son, and Holy Spirit each have unique characteristics and qualities of personality.
Father is not the Son is not the Holy Spirit
Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:16-17) all 3 persons of the Trinity are present
Olivet Discourse Jesus distinguishes between Father, Son, and Spirit (John 14-17)
2 Corinthians 13:14 all members attributed different functions
Each person is fully God
The Father is God
The Son is God
With God and Was God (John 1:1)
John 20:28- Thomas call Jesus “God”
Jesus “I AM” and references that he is the Son
The Holy Spirit is God
Peter equates lying to Holy Spirit as lying to God (Acts 5:3-4)
There is one God
OT speaks to this (Deut 6:4
NT speaks of this (Romans 3:30/ 1 Tim 2:5)
Functions of the Godhead
Father is the source of all things. Son proceeds from the Father. Spirit proceeds from the Father and
the Son.
The Father
The Head
The Source
The Son
The mediator between God and man
The perfect sacrifice for sins- he was without sin
Head of the Church
Giver of the E4 ministry gifts
Creator of All things (above all things)- through God
The visible expression of the invisible God/The fullness of the Godhead bodily (Hebrews 1:3/Colossians 1:19)
The Holy Spirit
The one who interacts with us post ascension of Jesus
The one who is active in our sanctification process
The one who seals us for salvation and empowers us for ministry
The giver of the gifts
The counselor
The teacher
The comforter
Glorifies Jesus (takes what is of Christ and makes it known to us) – John 16:14
Illuminator of the Word of God
Incorrect views
Modalism- One person appearing in 3 forms
Unitarianism- Christ was inspired, but not divine
Views that don’t hold to Christ’s deity
BIBLICAL SALVATION/CONVERSION/DISCIPLESHIP/SERVANTHOOD
Teacher: Tim Majors
Overview
Define sin and why we need Saving
Define Salvation and Conversion
Define Discipleship and how servanthood fits in.
Why is salvation necessary?
What is Sin?
Any failure to conform to the moral law of God in act, attitude, or nature.
To miss the mark (in regards to God’s law/standard)
How does sin affect man?
Because of Adam’s Fall, there is an inborn desire for man to go his own way
We are by nature children of wrath (Ephesians 2:3)
By nature alienated and hostile to God (Colossians 1:21)
No one is righteous (Romans 3:9-12)
All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23)
Man is in need of redemption
Reject humanism and ideas that build with man at the center
Believe that we are born into sin
Salvation
Salvation is being delivered from the righteous judgement of God that will fall upon those who have sinned by breaking his law.
Salvation comes through Christ alone (Acts 4:12/John 14:6)
By grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Accompanied by works(James 2:17)
Sins are forgiven (Colossians 1:14)
Conversion
Conversion is our willing response to the gospel call, in which we sincerely repent of sins and place our trust in Christ for salvation. Conversion is the process by which we change from following self and Satan, and change to following Christ.
It is a turning from and a turning to. It is a turning from sin, repentance, and a turning to God to serve and follow Him through faith. It involves repentance and faith.
Synonymous with being born again- allows us to see the Kingdom of God (John 3:3)
A moment in time – refer to analogy of birth pains vs. actual birth. Conversion is the “actual birth.”
Accompanied by repentance from dead works
Personal process where H.S. convicts people of sin. God uses HS, the Word, and people to shine light on sin. We do not heap rules on people to follow, but through relationship co-labor with Christ.
Includes turning away from and forsaking ungodly ways (1 Thess 1:9)
Discipleship
Discipleship is the process we undertake to follow Jesus and become more like him.
A disciple in a biblical sense is not just a pupil but also a follower and an adherent. A disciple follows and adheres to his teacher. A disciple following his teacher is not a negotiable issue. The word “disciple” appears 269 times in the Bible, KJV. The designation “Christian” only occurs 3 times in the New Testament.
Discipleships is not only “Spiritually” focused, but encompasses all elements of ones life
Spiritual, doctrinal, work, relationships, finances, relationships, past, call of God, sin, etc.
Not just a class or program, but a continuous lifestyle
God uses various methods on our discipleship journey to mature us into him
Personal walk with HS, study of the Word, relationships within the Body, Sunday morning gatherings, life groups, prayer, serving, ministries, personal pastor, etc. These are all parts of discipleship
Recognition of Jesus as Lord
Not only Savior, but Lord
A denial of self and seeking to follow Jesus
God places members in the body according to his Will
Fervent Love for all who belong to Christ
Servanthood
The body of Christ is a living organism that requires all members to function accordingly (1 Cor 12:12-26) so that the manifold wisdom of God might be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places (Ephesians 3:10)
We are all living stones being built into a Spiritual house (1 Peter 2:4-5)
Each stone has a place in the wall and is critical for the placement of other stones
Think in accordance to the measure of faith that God has assigned (Romans 12:3-8)
Use your gifts to serve one another (1 Peter 4:10)
THE HOLY SPIRIT
Teacher: Anna Hilton
The Holy Spirit in Salvation
Titus 3:5
Ephesians 1:13
2 Thessalonians 2:13
The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament
Present at Creation
Genesis 1:2
Present with God’s Chosen
Joseph - Genesis 41:38
Moses - Numbers 11:24,25
Judges (Othniel) - Judges 3:7-10
David and Saul - 1 Samuel 16:13,14; Acts 4:25
The Holy Spirit in the New Testament
*The Holy Spirit is present with the disciples, apostles, and believers in the New Testament; however, this study only focuses on the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ life.
Present with Jesus
At Birth
Isaiah 11:1,2 (700 years before Jesus’ birth!)
Matthew 1:20
Luke 1:35, 39-41
In Life
Anointed for Ministry - Luke 4:18,19
Anointed to Cast Out Devils - Matthew 12:26-28
Anointed with Power - Acts 10:38
The Holy Spirit in Believers
The Promise of the Holy Spirit
Luke 24:49
Joel 2:28,29
Acts 2:38,39 (Acts 1:5; 2:33)
The Impartation of the Holy Spirit
Received through Repentance and Belief - Acts 2:38
Received Directly from God - Acts 2:1-4; 10:44,45
Received through Laying on of Hands - Acts 8:12-17; Acts 19:1-7
The Fruit of the Holy Spirit
He dwells in us.
Romans 8:5-11
He teaches us.
1 Corinthians 2:12-14
He convicts us.
John 16:8-11
He guides us.
John 16:13
He empowers us.
Acts 1:8; John 14:12-14; John 15:16,17
THE WORD OF GOD
Teacher: Anna Hilton
Why is the Word of God important?
Psalm 112:1-3 - “Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments! His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.”
It is truth that endures forever.
Psalm 119:160 - “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.”
It is our guide.
Psalm 119:105 - “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
It strengthens us.
Psalm 119:28 - “My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.”
It keeps us pure.
Psalm 119:9 - “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.”
It cleanses us.
Ephesians 5:25,26 - “Husbands love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word.”
It is able to save our souls.
James 1:21 - “Therefore put away filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”
It keeps us from sin.
Psalm 119:11 - “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”
Written Word vs. Spoken Word
Written Word - Lógos
“The entire communication process”
The entire Bible - the Word (or communication process) of God
Something said, reasoning or motive, Divine expression
Expressing the thoughts of the Father through the Spirit
Steps of Lógos
Collection - collecting words, thoughts
Counting - calculation, consideration, evaluation, reflection, reason (list or catalogue)
Presenting - proverb, command, legend, promise, written account, even thing
Unity of the Word of God - John 5:39, 46, 47
Examples of Lógos in scripture
John 1:1,14
Hebrews 4:12
James 1:21
1 Thessalonians 2:13
Luke 24:32
Psalm 119:11
Spoken Word - Rhema
A part of Lógos (which is the entire communication process)
An utterance
Begins when words are spoken
Examples of Rhema used in scripture
Ephesians 6:17 - “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
Vine’s Expository Dictionary: The significance of rhema (as distinct from logos) is exemplified in the command to take “the sword of the Spirit, which is the rhema of God”; here the reference is not to the whole Bible, but to the individual scripture which the Holy Spirit brings to our remembrance for use in time of need, a prerequisite being the regular storing of the mind with Scripture.
God speaks his rhema to us in different ways
Still, small voice - 1 Kings 19:11-13
Prophecy - Acts 11:27-30; Acts 21:10,11
Prophecy will NEVER go against the Word of God
Action (living out of the Scriptures)
- Acts 5:30-32, 2 Corinthians 3:2,3
Lógos and Rhema work together
Hebrews 4:12
The Joy of the Word - Psalm 119:103,104
PRAISE, WORSHIP & PRAYER
Teacher: Tiffany Cogdell
PRAISE AND WORSHIP SIGNIFIES OUR PRIESTLY MINISTRY.
We are priests unto God. (Rev 1:6; I Pet 2:5, 9-10)
I Pet 2:4-5
4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, erejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
PRIESTS – OFFER MORNING & EVENING SACRIFICES (EX 29:38-44)
Rom 12:1
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
Worship: Greek word - kiss, to do reverence to, adore, fawn or crouch; It is the result of a divine encounter that involves an intimate communion with God. To Honor God
The spirit of man (inward man) reaching out to the Spirit of God.
John 4:20-24
20 Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you say that in Jerusalem is the place where people ought to worship.” 21 Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. 22 You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. 24 God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”
Worship:
Isn’t limited to location nor time
more than outward ritual
we worship according to God’s word (John 14:6)
I Pet 2:9-10
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of kdarkness into His marvelous light; 10 lwho once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
Praise: to commend, to applaud, to express approval or admiration of, to extol in
words or in song, to magnify, shine, boast, rave etc. It is an outward expression.
Hebrews 13:15
15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. 16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
The importance of praise and worship lies in the relationship it establishes between the worshiper and the object worshiped. We tend to become like what we worship.
EXPRESSIONS OF PRAISE & WORSHIP:
My attitude, lifting our hands, obedience, clapping, playing instruments, singing, submission, shouting, standing, dancing, bowing, doing good, sharing
PRIESTS - WATCH OVER THE FIRE ON THE ALTAR OF BURNT OFFERING, AND TO KEEP IT BURNING EVERMORE BOTH BY DAY AND NIGHT, ( Leviticus 6:12 ; 2 Chronicles 13:11 )
This was a dirty and humbling task involving cleaning and preserving of ashes. Priest served both God and the people diligently and were responsible to never let the fire of the altar go out. The priests did not start the fire, God started it, they maintained it. You cannot start a hunger instead yourself, God draws you. This meant constant sacrifice, constant serving. Guard the things that are precious.
Luke 11:1-2
11 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” 2 He said to them, “When you pray, say: “‘Father,[a] hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. [c]Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.
PRAYER IS:
Prayer is not a religious duty, but a foundation that Jesus built his life upon. It was essential. it’s
governmental activity
Spending time in conversation with God (two-way communication)
Earthly licenses for heavenly interference.
Heaven Power impacting earth through man’s earthly authority
The petitioning of authority for rights guaranteed in constitutional law.
It’s not to get God to do what we want Him to do/manipulate Him but to co-labor with Father
A command
A Discipline & lifestyle
It is a bending of the will of man before God to admit his need. 2 Chron 7:14; Mt 6:9,10
POSTURE/ATTITUDE OF PRAYER:
Pray in Faith (Heb 11:6)
Pray without Wavering (Jas 1:6-8; Mk 11:24)
Pray According to God’s will (I John 5:14-16)
Come to the Father through Jesus Christ, our intercessor (Heb 7:25)
HINDRANCES TO PRAYER:
A. Asking amiss (Out of the will of God). (Jas 4:1-4.)
B. Wrong motives (Mt 6:5-8)
C. Pride. (Ps 138:6)
D. Iniquity (1sa 59:1-3)
E. An unforgiving Spirit (Mt 5:23, 24; 18:21-35)
F. Bitterness (Heb 12:15-17; 2 Pet 2:21-23)
G. Heart idols (covetousness) (Ezek 14:3)
H. Stinginess (Prov 21:13)
I. Doubts (Jas 1:5-7)
J. Wrong relationships (I Pet 3:7)
TEACH THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL THE STATUTES OF THE LORD. ( Leviticus 10:11 ; 33:10 2 Chronicles 15:3 ; Ezekiel 44:23 Ezekiel 44:24)
FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP
Teacher: Tiffany Cogdell
We cannot fully understand the Gospel nor take on the nature of Father without understanding giving.
John 3:16 For God so LOVED the world that he GAVE his one and only son…”
God is love (I John 4:16) and his love is associated with giving.
Matthew 7:11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
MONEY MENTIONED IN THE BIBLE
The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. I Tim 6:7-10
The Gospels contain more warnings against money and its misuse than any other subject.
1 in every 4 verses in Matthew, Mark, and Luke deals with money.
1 in every 6 verses in the N.T. deals with or has reference to money in one way or another.
Almost 1/2 of the Parables of Jesus have reference to money in one way or another.
The first apostle to fall was over the love of money. Jn 12:4-8: Acts 13:27-29; Acts 1:25
The first sin in the early church was concerning money. Acts 5:1-10
2350 times money/stewardship is mentioned in the Bible.
THE LAW OF GENEROSITY. (Matt 7:11; Rom 8:32; 1 Cor 2:12; James 1:5, 17)
But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete
earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you[a]—see that you also excel in this grace of giving. (2 Cor 8:7)
The Law of Generosity: the principle that whoever sows generously will also reap generously (2 Cor 9:6)
Abraham (Genesis 14:8-20; Hebrews 7:1-2).
Israel (Exodus 25:1-8; 36:2-7; 1 Chronicles 29:1-9).
Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10).
Early Christians (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35).
Macedonian church (2 Corinthians 8:1-4).
Philippian church (Philippians 4:15-18; see also 1 John 3:17-18).
STEWARDSHIP IS A FOUNDATIONAL PRINCIPLE IN DISCIPLESHIP.
God doesn’t NEED anything from you.
Ownership is with God, Stewardship is with us
100% of Everything belongs to God!!
Ps 24:1 The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it
Steward – Greek “oikonomon” – one charged with the administration of the affairs of the true owner. The steward is a manager. We are entrusted to steward/manage
Life - what we have received. (Including our bodies & health)
Time - What we have been allotted.
Possessions - What has been entrusted to us.
Talents - What we have been given to use.
Finances - What we have labored for.
WHAT IS A “TITHE”?
“Tithe” comes from a Hebrew word which means tenth. A tithe of one’s income (or increase); therefore, is one-tenth (10%). Tithing refers to the practice of systematically giving 10% of one’s income back to the Lord for His work.
Tithing was the common practice of holy men of God in Old Testament days.
Prior to the giving of the law, God’s people tithed voluntarily.
Abraham gave a tenth to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18-20)
Jacob gave a tenth at Bethel (Genesis 14:18-20)
When God gave the law to Moses, tithing was a major part of His overall financial system (Leviticus 27:30-33; Numbers 18:20-32)
Jesus confirmed tithing in His teaching and practice (Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42; 18:12; Hebrews 7:1-21)
Luke 11:42 “You Pharisees are hypocrites! For you are obsessed with peripheral issues, like paying meticulous tithes on the smallest herbs that grow in your gardens.[a] Of course, these matters you should do, but when you unjustly cheat others, you ignore the most important duty of all: to walk in the love of God.[b] Readjust your values and place first things first.
Tithings is to serve as a reminder that all we have comes from and belongs to the Lord. (Deuteronomy 8:11, 17-18)
Tithing and giving is God’s cure for covetousness. (Matthew 6:19-21; Ephesians 4:28)
Tithings is the beginning of our giving (Deuteronomy 12:6). Freewill offerings and giving to the poor should also be part of our giving (Galatians 2:10)
WARNINGS & MISCONCEPTIONS CONCERNING MONEY
The Bible clearly teaches us that money is not evil, but the love of money more than our love for God will cause us to stumble in the area of covetousness. (Covet – to desire something and want to take it for yourself).
We are warned not to make the accumulation of wealth our main ambition in life. (Luke
12:16-21; 1 Timothy 6:9).
We are warned not to value material gain above spiritual gain (I Timothy 6:6, 11)
We are warned that a love for money will end in destruction (I Timothy 6:9-11)
Some say you can give money wherever you want but God says there’s a designated place (Deuteronomy 12:5, 6, 13, 14)
Some say that you can designate on your envelope where the tithe is to be used, but God says the tithe is to go for the service of His house (Numbers 18:21-24).
Some say you can borrow your tithes and pay them back later, but God says if you do borrow them, when you pay them back, you must add a fifth more to the initial tithe (Leviticus 27:31).
Some say that God doesn’t care what we give, only how we give, but God says that He is concerned with both (Mark 12:41-44; Matthew 5:20).
WHAT ARE SOME CLEAR NEW TESTAMENT PRINCIPLES THAT SHOULD GOVERN OUR GIVING?
The New Testament, in every case elevates the Old Testament practices to a higher and more spiritual level. Rather than giving merely because we have to, there are other factors that believers need to consider. We should give:
Ourselves to the Lord first (II Corinthians 8:5)
Willingly (II Corinthians 8:3, 12)
Cheerfully (II Corinthians 9:7)
Generously, liberally (II Corinthians 8:2; 9:13)
Proportionately (II Corinthians 16:1-2)
Regularly (II Corinthians 9:7)
Systematically (II Corinthians 9:7)
Lovingly (II Corinthians 8:24)
Thankfully (II Corinthians 9:11, 12)
Sacrificially (Hebrews 13:16)
As a Ministry to the Lord and His saints (II Corinthians 9:12, 13).
WHAT ARE SIX SURPRISES THAT A TITHER CAN EXPECT TO FIND?
A systematic tither is going to be surprised:
At the deepening of their spiritual life in paying the tithe.
At the ease in meeting obligations with nine-tenths.
At the amount of money that they have for the Lord’s work.
At the ease in going from one-tenth to larger giving.
At the preparation that tithing gives to a faithful and wise steward over the remainder of his income
At yourself for not adopting the plan sooner!
Malachi 3:8-11 NIV
8 “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty.
SUBMISSION IN GODLY RELATIONSHIPS
Teacher: Nelson Masinde
A. Walking together with other believers in submitted relationships is essential to the process of growth and maturity.
Relationships are the “school of the Spirit” through which God not only brings needed nourishment but also exposes weaknesses to be dealt with which produces growth and maturity.
B. In God’s scheme of things He has made us part of one another.
Romans 12:5 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. (NASB) Amplified “..mutually dependent on one another.
Ephesians 4:25 25 Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak the truth, each one of you, with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. (NASB)
There is a God-designed need for the input of others in our lives.
C. There must be submission and humility in our relationships if we are to receive nourishment from others in our lives.
Ephesians 5:21 - and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. (NASB)
1 Peter 5:5 5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. (KJV)
D. Three important ideas about walking together in humble/submitted relationships.
1. God has designed us in such a way that the influence and input of others in our lives is critical and used by God to help us grow.
Ephesians 4:16 16 from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by that which every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love. (NASB)
Colossians 2:19 19 and not holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth which is from God. (NASB)
Colossians 3:16 16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. (NASB)
Hebrews 3:12-13 12 Take care, brethren, lest there should be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart, in falling away from the living God. 13 But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called “Today,” lest any one of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. (NASB)
Hebrews 10:24 24 and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, (NASB)
2. We benefit from others perspective and experience in walking with God.
Ephesians 3:17-18 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, (NASB)
In any investigation, you want to try to get as many witnesses in order to get as complete a picture as possible of what happened and what the suspect looked like.
3. God uses the influence of others to correct, admonish, encourage, and challenge us if we are failing to hit the mark.
In Gal 2:11, Paul rebukes Peter for something he was doing that missed the mark. If Peter one of the three closest friends of the Lord, needed a rebuke, it is also possible that we may at some point in our walk.
Galatians 6:1-2 1 Brethren, even if a man is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, lest you too be tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ. (NASB)
Colossians 3:16-17 16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. (NASB)
James 5:16 16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much. (NASB)
Proverbs 27:5-6 5 Better is open rebuke Than love that is concealed. 6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy. (NASB)
Proverbs 12:1 1 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, But he who hates reproof is stupid. (NASB)
Proverbs 10:17 17 He is on the path of life who heeds instruction, But he who forsakes reproof goes astray. (NASB)
Proverbs 28:23 23 He who rebukes a man will afterward find more favor Than he who flatters with the tongue. (NASB)
Proverbs 17:17 17 A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity. (NASB)
Proverbs 27:17 17 Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another. (NASB)
E. In the Church there is also the authority and protection of God given leadership.
Hebrews 13:17 17 Obey your leaders, and submit to them; for they keep watch over your souls, as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you. (NASB)
1 Thessalonians 5:12 12 But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, (NASB)
1 Cor 16:13-16
1 Pet 5:1-5
F. Beware of an independent mindset.
This was the problem in Col 2:16-23.
These people are not following God’s plan for His Church (vs 23). They have an appearance of wisdom and elements of truth but are lacking the full picture of God’s plan for His Church.
Independent people are not connected and are not receiving the vital input of others to help them grow. This puts them in a dangerous position.
People of an independent mindset often display an emphasis on “My Ministry” without realizing that ministry exists to further the needs of the Church.
Things that cause an independent mindset - lack of vision, pride, rebellion, covering of sin, etc.
G. The New Testament gives us very clear guidelines on how we are to walk in relationships together as a Local Church.
1. Be devoted to and prefer one another. Rom 2:10
2. Be of the same mind and live in harmony. Rom 12:16
3. Love one another. Rom 13:8
4. Don’t judge one another. Rom 14:13
5. Pursue harmony and build up one another. Rom 14:19
6. Be like-minded and sympathetic to one another. Rom 15:5
7. Accept one another, like Christ accepted you. Rom 15:7
8. Admonish, council or instruct one another. Rom 15:14
9. Care for one another. 1Cor 12:25
10. Serve one another. Gal 5:13
11. Bear each other’s burdens. Col 6:2
12. Bear with each other. Eph 4:2, Col 3:12
13. Be kind and helpful to one another, and forgive each other. Eph 4:32
14. Be accountable to one another. Eph 5:21
15. Be honest, don’t lie to one another. Col 3:9
16. Teach and admonish one another. Col 3:16
17. Increase in love for one another. 1Thes 3:12
18. omfort and cheer up one another. 1Thes 4:18
19. Exhort and encourage each other daily. Heb 3:13
20. Stimulate and provoke others to love and good works. Heb 19:24
21. Don’t speak evil about each other. Jas 4:11
22. Don’t complain about each other. Jas 5:9
23. Love one another. 1Pet 1:22; 1Jn 3:11; 3:23; 4:7; 4:11; 4:12; 2Jn 5
24. Be hospitable towards one another. 1Pet 4:9
25. Be submitted to and humble towards one another. 1Pet 5:5
It is obvious that in order to walk in these instructions for fellowship it will take more than just a corporate meeting one or two times a week. It is to be a way of life.