The Church

The church is <<the assembly of the living God..., the pillar and foundation of truth>> (1 Tim 3:15, Elb).

The church is a mystery (Col 1:26-27, Eph 3:9, 6:19).

Jesus Christ is the head of the church (Eph 1:22, Col 1:8), the church is His body (Eph 5:23-32, Col 1:24).

Jesus Christ is also the cornerstone of the church and it is the temple of God (Eph 2:20-22, 1 Cor 3:16).

Jesus Christ builds His church (Matthew 16:18).

Jesus Christ bought the church with His blood (Acts 20:28).

The church is universally an organic body of born-again believers (1Co 5:12, 6:4, 10:32, 1Co 15:9).

The universal church consists of numerous local churches in actual locations (Rom 16:24- 5::16, 23; Col 4:15).

The church is called the flock of God (Acts 20:28, 1 Peter 5:2).

The members of the church have various tasks to build up the church (1Co 12:18, 14:4).

The leaders of the local church are the elders (overseers-men) or shepherds (1 Tim 3:17, 1 Peter 5:2).

A local church office is also that of a deacon (1 Tim 3:8-13, Acts 6:2-6). Women can also hold this office.

Among others, the congregation includes evangelists, shepherds, and teachers (Eph 4:11, see 2:20).

(Heb 10:24-25) A Christian should not leave or miss the regular meetings of his local church.

The members of the church should care for one another (1Co 12:25).

(1Co 9:14, Gal 6:6) The church should support those who are called to preach and teach financially and with goods.