1. Introduction

What is the church? Matthew 16:18-19

The church is not a building or an organization.

• Church = Ekklesia – Called out ones (Called out of the world); Assembly of all the saints or universal church. When you become born-again, Christ baptizes you in the church.
• Local church: local expression of the universal church. Example: church in Jerusalem (Acts 8:1), in Corinth (1 Cor. 1:2), in Ephesus, Sonrise, etc. It is God’s will for us to fellowship as a local church Hebrews 10:24-25.

Facts about the church:

• Funded and built by the Lord Jesus

• Divine possession: “My church” Matthew 16:18-19, He paid the price 1 Cor. 6:19-20

• Cannot be conquered or defeated: See Gamaliel Statement Acts 5:33-39

The Bible describes the church as:

• Body of Christ Romans 12:5
• b. Bride of Christ Eph. 5:26-28, Rev. 21:2
• c. Family of God Eph. 2:19
• d. Temple of God Eph. 2:21
• e. God’s Army Phil.2:25 - Fellow soldiers
• f. Pillar and Ground of the truth 1 Timothy 3:15

2. Ministry of the church

Ministry = diakonia (Ephesians 4:12) : to be an attendant, wait upon a host or a friend, serveIn general, Ministry is synonymous with service

A. Ministry to God: Acts 13:2 Ministry NKJV or Worship NLF. Is it only with our lips? See Mark 7:6; Is it only on Sunday? Is it only in one place?Worship is not only part of your life; it is your life – Romans 12:1-2.

Worship means:

• Love God (with all your heart, mind, soul and strength) and please him.
• Glorify and honour God

B. Ministry to its own members

• Equipped, trained and prepared for service – not to seat around Ephesians 4:12. It so sad that many Christians are indifferent or think that ministry if for select people.

• God has gifted for service Romans 12:6-8

C. Ministry to the world – Evangelism:

• As you go about your daily life, you need be a witness Matthew 18:18-20. You don’t need to quit your job and be a missionary. Start at home, at your work place, with your neighbours, etc.

Example: Andy Stanley

3. Conclusion

We understand who the church is and how we fit individually as members of the body.Example: symphony orchestra-Instruments in tune. Therefore, we should not be indifferent:

• Participate in the ministry of the church
• Grow spiritually – Do not attend church only on Sunday – Take a daily time in

God’s Word; Have a desire for the things of God.

• Be bold Acts 4:29 – take advantage of an opportunity
• Pray for the church

 

Bible Verses

Matthew 16:16-18; Hebrews 10:24-25; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Romans 1:1-7; Ephesians 2:19 -24; Acts 1:32 ; Mark 7:6; Acts 4:29.