What is the church of Christ?
In a place often called the "Bible Belt," the abundance of churches is confusing. Is there a difference between these places? If there are differences, do they truly matter? These are critical questions that warrant biblical answers. We first establish the fact that Jesus Christ is the founder of the church that bears His name. Jesus spoke prophetically regarding the establishment of this church to His apostles prior to His sacrifice.
"Simon Peter answered and said, 'You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.' Jesus answered and said to him, 'Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it'" (Matthew 16:16-18, New King James Version).
Jesus promised to build His church upon the truth of His identity. Thus, we discover that the church started with Him and is His possession. At the Madisonville church of Christ, we recognize that Jesus Christ is the reason why we exist. Without Him we would have no purpose or direction. He is the centerpiece of this congregation and of every church of Christ that remains faithful to His teachings.
We must also acknowledge that because the church belongs to Jesus Christ, it is also subject to His teachings. Scripture provides all the guidance the church needs to operate. There are areas that are left up to each congregation, but the core beliefs, teachings, and principles remain the same. Several Scriptures show us that Jesus is the head of the church and has the authority to dictate its practices.
"And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all" (Ephesians 1:22-23, New King James Version).
"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, New King James Version).
These texts show us that Jesus is the leader of the church. In addition, He has a vested interest in keeping His church pure. At the Madisonville church of Christ, we recognize Jesus' lordship over us. Whenever we seek a new area of service or intend to make a decision, we consult the Scriptures to ensure what we desire aligns with them.
All these facts show us that there are differences between the many churches that exist. Unfortunately, not every church was established by Jesus Christ; instead, many were built by human beings with good, albeit misguided, intentions. They carry out many good works, but they do not have Jesus Christ at their head. This shows us that these differences do matter. We may want to worship, teach, or believe that which brings us the most happiness, but if it does not align with the Scriptures, then it is not proper. Thus, it is not about our preferences, but about the commandments of God and the teachings of His Son Jesus Christ.
We encourage you to continue reading about our beliefs in the pages underneath this one. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding what you read, please contact us.
"Simon Peter answered and said, 'You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.' Jesus answered and said to him, 'Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it'" (Matthew 16:16-18, New King James Version).
Jesus promised to build His church upon the truth of His identity. Thus, we discover that the church started with Him and is His possession. At the Madisonville church of Christ, we recognize that Jesus Christ is the reason why we exist. Without Him we would have no purpose or direction. He is the centerpiece of this congregation and of every church of Christ that remains faithful to His teachings.
We must also acknowledge that because the church belongs to Jesus Christ, it is also subject to His teachings. Scripture provides all the guidance the church needs to operate. There are areas that are left up to each congregation, but the core beliefs, teachings, and principles remain the same. Several Scriptures show us that Jesus is the head of the church and has the authority to dictate its practices.
"And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all" (Ephesians 1:22-23, New King James Version).
"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, New King James Version).
These texts show us that Jesus is the leader of the church. In addition, He has a vested interest in keeping His church pure. At the Madisonville church of Christ, we recognize Jesus' lordship over us. Whenever we seek a new area of service or intend to make a decision, we consult the Scriptures to ensure what we desire aligns with them.
All these facts show us that there are differences between the many churches that exist. Unfortunately, not every church was established by Jesus Christ; instead, many were built by human beings with good, albeit misguided, intentions. They carry out many good works, but they do not have Jesus Christ at their head. This shows us that these differences do matter. We may want to worship, teach, or believe that which brings us the most happiness, but if it does not align with the Scriptures, then it is not proper. Thus, it is not about our preferences, but about the commandments of God and the teachings of His Son Jesus Christ.
We encourage you to continue reading about our beliefs in the pages underneath this one. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding what you read, please contact us.