1. Advantages of The Church Ephesians 3:10-21

2. Introduction Advantages/Disadvantages – Weighing them is a sign of wisdom –Learning comes by decision making

3. The Church Not a denomination Not a social club Not a mutual admiration society

4. The Church Group of Christians –Meet together (Acts 2:47) –Organized (Philippians 1:1) –Purchased by the blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18, 19)

5. Family of God Spiritual relationship with God –Our Father (2 Corinthians 6:14-19) –His household (1 Timothy 3:15) –Fellowship with Him (1 John 1:1-9)

6. Family of God Fellowship with brothers and sisters –A “replacement” family for some (Matthew 19:29, 30) –Early Christians (Acts 2:42) –Demonstration of God’s love (1 John 3:1-3)

7. Place To Belong A need to “belong” –Clubs, societies, etc. –Great lengths to join –Work and play together

8. Place To Belong Advantage of the church –Work together (1 Corinthians 12:12-27) –Growth and encouragement (Ephesians 4:11-16) –Shared blessings (Romans 15:25-27) –Shared time (Acts 2:46)

9. Place of Equality Inequality in the world –Racial prejudice and bigotry –Conflict of rich and poor

10. Place of Equality Church a place of equality –No racial or class distinctions (Galatians 3:26-29; James 2:1-9) –No special clergy (Matthew 23:8-12) –Baptized into one body (1 Corinthians 12:13, 25) –Assigned roles (1 Timothy 2:8-12)

11. Encouragement and Edification Sharing mutual problems and joys –Organizations like AA –Pep rallies for sporting events

12. Encouragement and Edification Church a means of spiritual support –Intends for us to assemble (Acts 2:42; 4:23; 11:26; 15:30; 18:22) –Commanded (Hebrews 10:24, 25) –Responsibilities and privileges (Romans 12:9-15; Galatians 6:2) –Help for all (1 Thessalonians 5:14)

13. Conclusion Church designed to meet our needs One to receive the glory Are you a part of the church?