The New Testament Church
I happened upon an internet conversation in which the question was asked what should be done to identify God and his church*.
That individual asked for what criteria are located in the New Testament that would help address these points (and thereby identify the Church of Christ, the existence of which the poster seemed skeptical).
So I took a shot at the answer in that venue and would welcome some thoughts on the subject:
- Prophets / ongoing revelation through mortals (prophets are not perfect just because they are inspired at times). Jesus affirmed previous prophets, he granted authority to Peter and the other Apostles to prophesy in his name, and provided guidance to test prophets by their fruits. His Apostles refilled their numbers following his death and resurrection.
- God's servants are called through authority. Authority is transferred either directly from one authority to another or from a heavenly messenger. People don't just up and decide to serve in a formal capacity on their own. They are expected to serve their fellow humans rather than focusing on their place in church hierarchy.
- A focus on salvation through Christ (including baptism) and following him through doing his will, which includes works like he would do. This salvation will be offered to all people, whether or not they accepted Christ on Earth. This salvation frees individuals from sin as resurrection frees them from death.
- Believers are expected to go out and share with their fellow men.
- Learning and knowledge of the mortal world and the operations of men is helpful, but should not take precedence over what is learned during the spiritual journey (what we have received of the wisdom of God). Our mortal understanding is colored by our imperfect understanding and abilities. We should doubt these before we doubt God.
What other criteria would you add here?
* https://www.quora.com/q/catholicapologetics/If-you-are-at-odds-with-the-religious-doctrine-of-your-church-should-you-re-evaluate-yourself-or-should-you-re-evaluate-1/comment/116672899
References:
St. John 3 (especially verses 3-5, 16-17, 20-21)
St. Matthew 22 (especially verses 2-14, 31-33, 37-40)
Hebrews 11
James 1
1 Peter 3
References:
St. John 3 (especially verses 3-5, 16-17, 20-21)
St. Matthew 22 (especially verses 2-14, 31-33, 37-40)
Hebrews 11
James 1
1 Peter 3
I think there are lots of evidences of a church headed by Christ. I'd add the following, though I'd probably add more on reflection. I know some of this is repetitive.
ReplyDeleteChrist's church will focus on the gospel of Christ and individual conversion to the gospel of Christ...meaning faith, repentance, baptism by immersion, and receiving the Holy Ghost through the laying on of hands by one with authority.
Christ's church will be called in Christ's name.
Miracles, signs, revelation, prophecy, and the power of God will accompany both the Lord's servants and the Lord's church.
Christ's church will teach of His Atonement, meaning resurrection and redemption for sin on conditions of repentance and establishing and maintaining a covenant relationship with Christ. It also means we teach that Christ extends grace (divine enabling power) to assist us.
Just a few initial thoughts. :)