The Church “Jesus Built” Unscriptural Title Slide: The Church Jesus Built—Undenominational—Makes a Difference! Undenominational Makes it Different!

Four Distinct Characteristics Those in Christ View Things Differently… Absolute Truth (Guide -One Faith) Gospel Plan (Entrance - One Baptism) Undenominational (Unity - One Body) Biblical Authority (Head - One Lord) Worship, Mission, Appeal Those In Christ View Things Differently

Is Christ The Head of Many Churches? “Church” in the Universal Sense: All Christians Everywhere. “I will build MY CHURCH” Matthew 16:18 “There is ONE BODY” Ephesians 4:4 “He is also head of the BODY, the CHURCH” Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 1:22-23 “Church” In The Universal Sense All Christians everywhere.

Descriptions of “The Church” in a Universal Sense: Passage Jesus Relationship “the church” (Acts 8:3, etc.) The One Who Calls The Called Out “the church of God” (Acts 20:28) Paid The Price Purchased of God “the body of Christ” (1 Cor. 12:27) Headship Members “the kingdom of God” (Rom. 14:17) Kingship Citizens Descriptions of “The Church” In The Universal Sense: Discuss and explain the chart… “the family of God” (1 Tim. 3:15) Son Children “the temple of God” (1 Cor. 3:16) High Priest Serve / Worship “the church of the firstborn” (Heb. 12:23) Heir Fellow Heirs

Is Christ The Head of Many Churches? “Church” in the Local Sense: Christians in a Specific Area. Who agree to join in fellowship (Acts 9:26) Who worship in common assembly (1 Corinthians 11:18) Who work out of common treasury (1 Corinthians 16:1-3) Who submit to common oversight ( Acts 14:23) “Church” In The Local Sense Christians in a Specific Area. Discuss and explain the chart….

Descriptions of “The Church” in a Local Sense: “the church of God which is at Corinth” (1 Corinthians 1:2) “the church of the Thessalonians in God” (1 Thessalonians 1:1). “the churches of Galatia” (1 Corinthians 16:1). “the churches of the saints” (1 Corinthians 14:33). “the churches of Christ” (Romans 16:16). “the churches” (Acts 8:3; 15:41, etc., etc.). Individual Christians banding Together

Descriptions of Individual Christians In relation to God’s calling: “saints”(1 Corinthians 1:1,2) In relation to the gospel: “believers” (1 Thessalonians 1:7) In relation to Christ: “Christians” (Acts 11:26). In relation to the Father: “Children of God” (1 John 3:1) In relation to Christ’s teaching: “disciples” (Acts 6:7). In relation to one another: “brethren” (1 Corinthians 1:10) Descriptions of Individual Christians…Discuss different names given in the scriptures…

What is A Denomination? D I V S O n 4 : a religious organization uniting local congregations in a single legal and administrative body Merriam-Webster “A group of religious congregations united under a common faith and name and organized under a single administrative and legal hierarchy, e.g., Anglicans, Presbyterians, Catholics etc.” http://library.christchurch.org.nz/FamilyHistory/Glossary D I V S O n What is a Denomination? Defined…

What is A Denomination? USA Religious Stats There are over 1,000 “Christian” religious organizations in North America alone. Each has their own set of beliefs, policies and practices. “When discussing such topics as the divinity of Christ, salvation, heaven, etc. it would be hopelessly impossible to explain the beliefs of each faith group.” USA Religious Stats… World Christian Encyclopedia

Divided By Distinction In Belief What Is A Denomination? Earthly Headquarters Earthly Headquarters Bound together by distinct beliefs Bound together by distinct beliefs Baptist (1608) Presbyterian (1560) Divided By Distinction In Belief Divided By Distinction In Belief Discuss and explain the chart… Earthly Headquarters Earthly Headquarters Bound together by distinct beliefs Bound together by distinct beliefs Methodist (1740) Pentecostal (1898)

Are You a Member of a Denomination? What Is A Denomination? A.D.30 The Lord’s Church—Acts 2:47 1830 Mormon Church Seventh Day Adventists Jehovah’s Witnesses Church of God Nazarene Church Christian Church Assemblies of God Roman Catholic Church Greek Orthodox Church Lutheran Church Church of England Presbyterian Church Baptist Church 1739 Methodist Church Other Churches…Lord’s Church began in Acts 2 on the Day of Pentecost following His ascension back to the Father…What about “your church?” Are You a Member of a Denomination?

Denominational Concepts (i.e., Unscriptural Concepts…) “We're all going to heaven, just by different routes.” (Mat. 7:13,14; John 10:9; 14:1-6; Acts 4:12; 2 John 9) You must not challenge or oppose somebody else’s church (faith). (2 Tim. 4:2-4; Titus 1:10-2:1; Prov. 27:5; Mt. 15:7-9) All denominations (belief systems) are OK. They are “parts” or “units” of the one church and the one faith (John 15:1-8; 1 Cor. 1:10-13; 4:17). (Different Kinds???) (i.e., Unscriptural Concepts . . .) Titus 1:10-2:1 (NKJV) For there are many insubordinate, both idle talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, [11] whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole households, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain. [12] One of them, a prophet of their own, said, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons." [13] This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith, [14] not giving heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth. [15] To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled. [16] They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work. [2:1] But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine:

Denominational Concepts (i.e., Unscriptural Concepts…) The church is composed of congregations. The congregations are organized or associated together in some manner to provide unity of doctrine and cooperative work. These congregations provide financial support to dependent and supplementary social organizations (colleges, hospitals, missions, etc.) These supplementary organizations are seen as necessary for the church to fulfill a collective, universal social and spiritual mission. (i.e., Unscriptural Concepts . . .) Titus 1:10-2:1 (NKJV) For there are many insubordinate, both idle talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, [11] whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole households, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain. [12] One of them, a prophet of their own, said, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons." [13] This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith, [14] not giving heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth. [15] To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled. [16] They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work. [2:1] But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine:

Denominational Concepts (i.e., Unscriptural Concepts…) The Hiscox Standard Baptist Manual “THE WIDER FELLOWSHIP OF BAPTISTS: Because churches are the only Christian organizations provided for in the New Testament, it may be said that they are the only ones really essential to the accomplishment of the purposes of Christ. “Experience, however, has demonstrated that churches in fellowship with one another are able to fulfill the work of the gospel more effectively than churches alone.”` (i.e., Unscriptural Concepts . . .) Titus 1:10-2:1 (NKJV) For there are many insubordinate, both idle talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, [11] whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole households, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain. [12] One of them, a prophet of their own, said, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons." [13] This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith, [14] not giving heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth. [15] To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled. [16] They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work. [2:1] But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine:

Denominational Concepts Things “We” Need To Think About!! 1. Churches of Christ declare themselves to be non-denominational. 2. NO OFFICIAL organizational structure exists. However, many of these churches view the one church as composed of local congregations, all with the name, “Church of Christ”. 3. SOME of these “Church of Christ” churches are tied together by their connection to a number of colleges, schools, welfare agencies, hospitals, orphan homes, etc. which are designed to aid the Church in fulfilling its “mission”. (i.e., Unscriptural Concepts . . .) Titus 1:10-2:1 (NKJV) For there are many insubordinate, both idle talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, [11] whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole households, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain. [12] One of them, a prophet of their own, said, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons." [13] This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith, [14] not giving heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth. [15] To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled. [16] They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work. [2:1] But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine:

Is Denominationalism Pleasing to Christ? V S O N Question needs to be asked? Is Denominationalism Pleasing to Christ?

Is Denominationalism Pleasing To Christ? V S O n John 17:20,21 “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” John 17:20,21…

Is Denominationalism Pleasing To Christ? 1 Corinthians 1:10 D I V S O N “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 1 Cor.1:10…

Is Denominationalism Pleasing To Christ? 1 Corinthians 1:12,13 D I V S O N “Now I say this, that each of you says, "I am of Paul," or "I am of Apollos," or "I am of Cephas," or "I am of Christ.“ Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?” 1 Cor.1:12,13…

Unscriptural Concepts… Denominationalism Bible… Ephesians 4:3-5 the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. “Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. {4} There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; {5} one Lord, one faith, one baptism … diversity many bodies Just a little change of Ephesians 4:3-5—the promise of our Lord…Ephes. 4:3-6 (NKJV) endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. [4] There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; [5] one Lord, one faith, one baptism; [6] one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all Many faiths many baptisms

and that there be no divisions among you, Unscriptural Concepts… Denominationalism Bible… 1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, ……... Different things and that there be no divisions among you, Check out 1 Corinthians 1:10…Paul’s words must be twisted to fit their concept about “unity and diversity!” but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

Is Denominationalism Pleasing To Christ? V S O n Truth: Denominationalism is divisive and AGAINST Christ’s will. Truth: Denominationalism contributes to UNBELIEF. Truth: Denominationalism is caused by following TEACHINGS OF MEN. Conclusion: Anyone who has participated in denominationalism should REPENT and SEEK the unity Jesus prayed for and Paul implored!

“According to its Kind” The Cure For Division “According to its Kind” Corn Apple Acorn Physical Law of procreation—”Gen.1:11—”after its own kind.” Seed produces only ONE type of crop!

“According to its Kind” The Cure For Division “According to its Kind” Methodist Christian Mennonite Nazarene Works in the Spiritual as Well!!!

The Bible Doesn’t Teach Me To Wear One Name and You Another!! The Cure For Division And the disciples were first called Presbyterians in Antioch. And the disciples were first called Methodists in Antioch. The Bible Doesn’t Teach Me To Wear One Name and You Another!! The Cure For Division…Two opposing conclusions—which is right? Two different answers? Can we know? “…and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” Acts 11:26

The Bible Doesn’t Teach Me to Be Saved One Way and You Another!! The Cure For Division Ask Jesus to come into your heart . . . Say the sinner’s prayer! There is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING you can do to be saved! . The Bible Doesn’t Teach Me to Be Saved One Way and You Another!! The Cure For Division…Two opposing conclusions—which is right? Two different answers? Can we know? Believe, repent, confess and be baptized into Christ. Mk.16:16; Acts 2:38; Romans 10:9,10; Colossians 2:11-13

“I don’t think it makes any difference what CHURCH you join!” The Cure For Division “You have to be a member of “MY” denomination in order to go to heaven!!” . “I don’t think it makes any difference what CHURCH you join!” The Bible Doesn’t Teach Me to Be Member of One “Kind” of Church and You Another!! The Cure For Division…Two opposing conclusions—which is right? Two different answers? Can we know? “…The Lord added daily to the church those who were being saved.” Acts 2:47

Biblical Unity Cure For Division D I V S O N The one body is an organism, not an organization. (Colossians 1:18-24) Unity is NOT maintained by bringing all Christians into a “visible body of Christ”. (2 Peter 5:1,2) Unity is maintained as Christians remain faithful to the revealed TRUTH of God. (Ephesians 4:1-6) Cure For Division…

Cure For Division D I V S O N When all men will lay down their creeds, disciplines, manuals, confessions of faith, catechisms, think-so's, maybe's, and subjective feelings, and with an unprejudiced and receptive heart turn to the Word of God, then, and ONLY then, will unity result. We must be committed to being nothing, calling ourselves nothing, obeying nothing, and saying nothing except that which is authorized by the Word of God. D I V S O N Cure For Division…

Four Distinct Characteristics Those in Christ View Things Differently… Absolute Truth (Guide -One Faith) Gospel Plan (Entrance - One Baptism) Undenominational (Unity - One Body) Biblical Authority (Head - One Lord) Worship, Mission, Appeal Those In Christ View Things Differently…Conclusion

The Plan of Salvation Confess Hear Believe Be Baptized Repent Invitation—Plan of Salvation Hear Romans 10:17 John 8:24 Acts 17:30 Romans 10:9,10 Acts 2:38 Be Baptized

The Plan of Salvation “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body--whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free--and have all been made to drink into one Spirit.” Luke 8:11; Rom. 10:17 John 8:24; Heb. 11:6 Luke 13:3,5; Acts 17:30 Matt. 10:32,33; Rom. 10:9 Acts 2:38; 1 Cor. 12:13 Luke 8:11; Rom. 10:17 John 8:24; Heb 11:6 Mat. 10:32,33 Luke 13:3,5; Acts 17:30 Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21

The Plan of Salvation “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.” Luke 8:11; Rom. 10:17 John 8:24; Heb. 11:6 Luke 13:3,5; Acts 17:30 Matt. 10:32,33; Rom. 10:9; Gal. 3:26,27 Acts 2:38; 1 Cor. 12:13 Luke 8:11; Rom. 10:17 John 8:24; Heb 11:6 Mat. 10:32,33 Luke 13:3,5; Acts 17:30 Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21