1. Mission of The Church Matthew 16:13-18

2. Introduction Collective work Nowhere else to go? Trying to accomplish something Answers not in the wisdom of men Go to the Bible “Speak as the oracles of God” (1 Peter 4:11)

3. Introduction Work of the church is spiritual Not political or social Evangelism- teaching the lost Edification- teaching the saved Benevolence- helping needy saints

4. Evangelism Universal need Evangelism- Greek word “euangelistos” Bringing the good news Not engaging in political affairs Not added to social events Only place to hear of a Savior (Romans 3:21-26; 6:23)

5. Evangelism The church is God’s broadcast agency “Pillar and ground of the Truth” (1 Timothy 3:15) Broadcasts the seed of the kingdom Supports those who sow the seed (Matthew 13:3-9) Example of Philippi (Philippians 4:15, 16) Philip labored there (Acts 21:8)

6. Evangelism Limited message To what the Bible teaches Not to add to the Bible Totally spiritual (1 Timothy 4:8)

7. Edification Essential to growth Means to build up as a building Individual growth (2 Peter 3:18) Every Christian to be involved Grow in love, knowledge, and discernment (Philippians 1:9) Grow in our ability to resist temptation (Hebrews 5:14)

8. Edification Should encourage individual growth Exhortation (Hebrews 3:12-14; 10:24, 25) Elders to oversee (Acts 20:28-32) Discipline (1 Thessalonians 5:14) Provide for worship (Colossians 3:15, 16) Teaching program (2 Timothy 2:2; Titus 2:1-8)

9. Edification Limited Spiritual in nature Not a political action committee Not providing dining halls, gymnasiums, theaters, etc.

10. Benevolence Primarily an individual obligation Self, family, others (1 Timothy 5:8) Church involvement after this Within the capabilities of the local church

11. Benevolence Needy saints From the beginning (Acts 2:44, 45) Antioch assisted needy saints (Acts 11:28-30) Corinth helped (1 Corinthians 16:1) Churches of Macedonia as well (2 Corinthians 8:1-4)

12. Benevolence Limited Needs of the world cared for individually Provide for their spiritual needs Help them as individuals (Galatians 6:10; James 1:27)

13. Conclusion Threefold mission Succeed if we focus on God’s plan Fail to be His church when we do more