By Kerry Knight, Minister, Emerald Beach Church of Christ
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the
Church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify
And cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,
That He might present her to Himself a glorious church,
Not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she
Should be holy and without blemish. (Ephesians 5:25-27)
We all realize that the church of our Lord was established 2000 years ago by Christ Himself. After Peter acknowledged that Jesus was the Son of God, the Lord announced that “upon this rock I will build MY church.” (Matthew 16:18)
The first-century church was made up of people just like us, but with a special mission. The name identified them as being God’s children, having exercised faith and obedience to His will. “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For
As many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” (Gal. 3:26-27)
The church of the first century “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine (teaching), and fellowship, in the breaking of bread (communion), and in prayers.”
(Acts 2:42)
They lifted up their voices in song, praising God and edifying one another. (Eph.5:19)
The early Christians knew that God had designed His followers to be servants as Christ Himself was. (Luke 19:10)
We are to love one another (in the church) as Christ loved us. (John 13:34-35).
And, we are to lead others to Christ (Luke 19:10).
Christ has given us a pattern by which we can identify the church, which Christ established. We can be Christians only today by abiding in His will. Are you a disciple of His? “If you continue in my word then are you my disciple indeed.” John 8:31
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