Ecclesiology Flashcards
Who is the head of the church and Why?
In Christian theology, Jesus Christ is recognized as the head of the Church. This belief is supported by various passages in the KJV Bible that emphasize His central and authoritative role in the Church:
2. Colossians 1:18 (KJV):
- “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.”
- This verse reaffirms that Jesus is the head of the Church and emphasizes His preeminence in all things.
3. Ephesians 5:23 (KJV):
- “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.”
- This analogy likens the relationship between Christ and the Church to that of a husband and wife, with Christ as the head, providing salvation and leadership.
The belief that Jesus Christ is the head of the Church is foundational in Christian doctrine. It signifies His supreme authority, leadership, and care over the Church, which is described metaphorically as His body. This understanding reflects the biblical teaching that the Church is to be governed, guided, and led by Christ, with believers following His teachings and example in their faith and conduct.
When did the church begin, and is it essential for the practice of church polity today?
many believe that it began on the day of Pentecost, shortly after Jesus’ ascension into heaven. This is described in the book of Acts:
Acts 2:1-4 - “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
This event marked the beginning of the church age, and the Holy Spirit was poured out on believers, empowering them to spread the gospel message throughout the world.
As for the practice of church polity, the Bible provides guidance for how churches should be organized and led. In the New Testament, we see examples of churches being led by apostles, elders, and deacons, with Christ as the head.
1 Timothy 3:1-7 - “This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.”
Titus 1:5-9 - “For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”
These passages, among others, provide guidance for how church leaders should be selected and what qualities they should possess. While there is some flexibility in how churches are organized and led, it is important to follow biblical principles in order to ensure that the church remains faithful to its calling and mission
How does Jesus Christ govern His churches since He is not bodily present today? How does this relate to the position of autonomy of the local church and priesthood of the believer?
The New Testament teaches that Jesus Christ is the head of the church (Ephesians 1:22-23) and that He governs His churches through the Holy Spirit (John 16:7-15; Acts 20:28). The autonomy of the local church and the priesthood of the believer are related to this understanding of Christ’s governance of His churches.
Regarding the autonomy of the local church, each church is responsible for its own governance and decision-making. This is seen in the example of the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15, where the apostles and elders came together to make a decision regarding Gentile believers, but ultimately left the decision up to the individual churches to implement (Acts 15:22-29).
Regarding the priesthood of the believer, every believer has direct access to God through Jesus Christ and does not need a human mediator (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 4:14-16). This means that every believer has the responsibility to discern truth and obey God’s will, as well as the privilege to serve God and others with their gifts and abilities.
Jesus Christ leads His churches through the Holy Spirit, who guides and empowers believers to fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). This includes preaching the gospel, baptizing believers, and making disciples of all nations. As believers follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and submit to the authority of Scripture, they can trust that Christ is leading and guiding His churches, even though He is not bodily present on earth today.
Kjv verses to prove:
* Ephesians 1:22-23: “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.”
* John 16:7-15: “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”
* Acts 20:28: “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.”
Is a Pastor, Bishop, and Elder different descriptions of one office or are they three distinct offices in the local church? What other roles are given to the pastoral office
In the New Testament, the terms pastor, bishop, and elder are used interchangeably to describe the same office in the local church. The pastor is the shepherd or overseer of the church, responsible for teaching and guiding the congregation. The bishop or overseer is responsible for overseeing the affairs of the church, while the elder is a position of honor and wisdom within the church.
1 Timothy 3:1-7 states, “This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover, he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.”
In Titus 1:5-9, Paul instructs Titus to appoint elders in every city. He lists the qualifications for an elder as being blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children, not accused of being self-willed or given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre, but hospitable, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, and temperate.
Other roles given to the pastoral office include preaching and teaching (1 Timothy 5:17), shepherding and caring for the flock (1 Peter 5:2-3), equipping the saints for the work of the ministry (Ephesians 4:11-12), and providing spiritual oversight and discipline (Hebrews 13:17).
In summary, the pastor, bishop, and elder are different descriptions of the same office in the local church, responsible for overseeing, teaching, guiding, and caring for the congregation. Other roles of the pastoral office include preaching, equipping, and providing spiritual oversight and discipline.
Define or describe the three forms of church government, and then which one is the true biblical model to practice in the local church government?
The three forms of church government are Episcopal, Presbyterian, and Congregational.
Episcopal church government is a hierarchical system where bishops have authority over multiple churches, with the highest authority held by the bishop of Rome (the Pope) in the Roman Catholic Church. This form of government emphasizes the apostolic succession of bishops and the authority of the church hierarchy.
Presbyterian church government is a representative system where elders (also known as presbyters) are elected to serve as representatives of the congregation and exercise authority in governing the church. This form of government emphasizes the shared responsibility and authority of the church members and leaders.
Congregational church government is a democratic system where each church is autonomous and governed by its own congregation, with decisions made by a vote of the members. This form of government emphasizes the priesthood of all believers and the importance of individual congregations making decisions for themselves.
Explain how the priesthood of the believer gives us a pattern for public worship in the local church? And, why do we worship on Sunday and not on Saturday?
The concept of the priesthood of the believer, often associated with Protestant theology, emphasizes that every believer has direct access to God through Jesus Christ and is a priest before God. This idea can influence patterns of public worship in the local church in several ways:
1. Direct Access to God: Since every believer is considered a priest, there is an emphasis on direct access to God in worship. This means that believers can approach God in prayer, praise, and worship without the need for intermediaries.
2. Congregational Participation: In a church where the priesthood of the believer is emphasized, there is often a focus on the active participation of all believers in worship. This may include opportunities for congregational singing, prayer, reading of Scripture, and sharing testimonies.
3. Emphasis on the Word: The priesthood of the believer underscores the importance of studying and understanding the Bible for oneself. Therefore, public worship often includes the reading and teaching of Scripture to equip believers for their priestly role.
Regarding the choice of worship on Sunday instead of Saturday, it is a practice rooted in early Christian tradition and biblical events:
1. Resurrection Day: Sunday became the primary day of worship for Christians because it is the day when Jesus rose from the dead. The significance of His resurrection made Sunday a day of celebration and remembrance.
- Mark 16:9 (KJV): “Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.”
2. Early Christian Practice: The early Christian Church shifted its day of worship to Sunday in commemoration of the resurrection. This practice is documented in the New Testament and continued to develop in the post-apostolic era.
- Acts 20:7 (KJV): “And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.”
3. New Covenant Fulfillment: Sunday worship also reflects the New Covenant fulfillment of Old Testament practices. Christians believe that the Old Testament Sabbath, observed on Saturday, was a foreshadowing of the rest found in Christ (Hebrews 4:9-10).
While the Bible does not explicitly command Sunday worship, the historical and theological reasons mentioned above have led the majority of Christian denominations to gather for public worship on Sunday as a way to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus and the beginning of a new era in God’s redemptive plan.
. What by definition is the office of an Apostle? Is the office of an apostle still a legitimate
functioning office today? Is there a difference between the 12 Apostles, and the general office of
an apostle, or is there a general office?
The office of an Apostle, as defined in the New Testament, was a unique and foundational role in the early Christian Church. Apostles were chosen and sent by Jesus Himself to be His special messengers and witnesses. The term “apostle” comes from the Greek word “apostolos,” which means “one sent forth” or “messenger.” Here are some key aspects of the office of an Apostle, along with its relevance today, supported by relevant KJV Bible verses:
1. The Role of the Apostles:
- Apostles were chosen directly by Jesus Christ (Mark 3:13-14, Luke 6:13).
- They were eyewitnesses of Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection (Acts 1:21-22).
- They were given authority by Jesus to perform miracles and healings (Matthew 10:1-2).
- They played a foundational role in establishing the early Church and spreading the gospel (Ephesians 2:20).
2. The Twelve Apostles:
- The term “the Twelve” refers to the original disciples chosen by Jesus, including Judas Iscariot who was later replaced by Matthias (Acts 1:15-26).
- These Twelve Apostles held a unique and foundational position in the Church, serving as the foundation on which the Church was built (Ephesians 2:20).
3. General Apostleship:
- In addition to the Twelve, there were others referred to as apostles in the New Testament, including Paul (Romans 1:1) and Barnabas (Acts 14:14).
- These “general apostles” were recognized as individuals who were sent out with a special mission and authority by the Church.
4. Apostolic Authority and Revelation:
- Apostles had a unique role in receiving and transmitting divine revelation. They played a key role in the inspiration of the New Testament Scriptures.
- Their authority was recognized by the early Church, and their teachings carried significant weight (2 Peter 3:15-16).
5. Apostleship Today:
- The question of whether the office of an Apostle still exists today is a matter of theological debate within Christianity.
- Some believe that the apostolic office was unique to the foundational period of the Church and is no longer present in the same sense.
- Others use the term “apostle” in a broader sense to refer to church planters, missionaries, or leaders who are sent out with a specific mission, but their authority and role may not be on par with the original Twelve.
In summary, the office of an Apostle in the New Testament was a unique and foundational role characterized by a direct call from Jesus, eyewitness testimony of His ministry, authority to perform miracles, and a foundational role in establishing the early Church. While there were “general apostles” beyond the Twelve, the unique authority and role of the original Twelve Apostles cannot be replicated. Whether the office of Apostle exists today and in what form is a matter of theological interpretation and varies among Christian denominations.
Define the office of an Evangelist, and how is the biblical purpose of an evangelist fulfilled in the local church today?
The office of an Evangelist is described in the Bible as a gift from God to the church, with the purpose of proclaiming the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ to the lost and leading them to repentance and faith. The evangelist is also responsible for equipping the saints for the work of the ministry and building up the body of Christ.
The following verses from the KJV Bible demonstrate the importance of the office of an Evangelist:
1. Ephesians 4:11-12 - “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.”
2. 2 Timothy 4:5 - “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.”
3. Acts 21:8 - “And the next day we that were of Paul’s company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.”
In the local church today, the office of an evangelist is fulfilled through preaching the gospel to the lost and equipping the church for evangelism. The evangelist is also responsible for discipling new believers and building up the body of Christ through the teaching of the Word of God.
The biblical purpose of the evangelist is to spread the good news of salvation and help bring people into a relationship with Jesus Christ. This role is essential for the growth and health of the local church, and for the advancement of the kingdom of God.
- Define what the word “church” means? Define what is a local church and its purpose? Is there a universal church existing today and is it the same as the institution of the church?
The word “church” comes from the Greek word “ekklesia” which means a called-out assembly or congregation. In the New Testament, the term “church” is used to refer to the body of believers in Jesus Christ, both locally and universally.
A local church is a group of believers who gather together regularly for worship, fellowship, and discipleship under the leadership of qualified pastors/elders. The purpose of the local church is to glorify God, make disciples, and carry out the Great Commission.
There is also a universal church, which refers to the spiritual body of all believers in Jesus Christ across time and geography. This universal church is not an institution or organization, but rather a spiritual reality that unites all believers in Christ.
KJV verses to prove:
* Matthew 16:18 - “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
* Acts 2:42 - “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”
* Ephesians 1:22-23 - “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.”
* Ephesians 5:25-27 - “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”
* Hebrews 10:24-25 - “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”
Define what the word “church” means? Define what is a local church and its purpose? And are
local churches to be autonomous or under a hierarchy Biblically?
The term “church” carries different meanings depending on its context. In Christian theology, it can refer to the global body of believers, the local congregation, or the building where believers gather for worship. Let’s define these terms and discuss the purpose of a local church, as well as the question of church autonomy versus hierarchy, supported by relevant KJV Bible verses:
1. Church (Global Body of Believers):
- The global “Church” refers to all believers in Jesus Christ worldwide, regardless of denominational or geographical boundaries.
- Matthew 16:18 (KJV): “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
- The Church, in this sense, is the universal body of Christ, united by faith in Jesus.
2. Local Church (Congregation):
- A local church is a specific congregation of believers who gather regularly for worship, fellowship, and ministry in a specific geographic location.
- Hebrews 10:25 (KJV): “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”
- Local churches provide a context for believers to worship together, support one another, and carry out ministry in their community.
3. Purpose of a Local Church:
- The primary purposes of a local church, as outlined in the New Testament, include worshiping God, teaching and edifying believers, evangelism and outreach, and caring for the spiritual and physical needs of the congregation.
- Acts 2:42 (KJV): “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”
4. Autonomy vs. Hierarchy:
- The question of church autonomy versus hierarchy is a matter of ecclesiology (church government) and varies among Christian denominations.
- Some churches operate autonomously, meaning they are self-governing and make decisions independently.
- Other churches are organized under a hierarchy, with centralized leadership and decision-making structures.
- There is no one-size-fits-all answer in the Bible regarding church governance, as different churches may choose different models based on their understanding of Scripture and tradition.
5. Biblical Principles for Church Leadership:
- The Bible provides principles for church leadership, emphasizing the qualifications of pastors/elders and deacons (1 Timothy 3, Titus 1).
- 1 Peter 5:2-3 (KJV): “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.”
- Regardless of the governance model, leaders are called to serve with humility and care for the congregation.
In conclusion, the term “church” encompasses the global body of believers, local congregations, and places of worship. The primary purpose of a local church is to worship God, edify believers, evangelize, and minister to the needs of the community. Whether a local church is autonomous or part of a hierarchy can vary among denominations and should be based on the church’s interpretation of biblical principles.
Is there a universal church on earth today, or at all? Why or Why not? What was Jesus Referring
to in Matt. 16:18 when He said, “…upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell
shall not prevail against it.”
2. Local (Visible) Church Perspective:
- Other Christians emphasize the importance of local congregations as the visible expression of the Church. They believe that the New Testament primarily addresses local church communities and their organization.
- 1 Corinthians 1:2 (KJV): “Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours.”
- Supporters of this view argue that the New Testament writings, including the letters to local churches, primarily address specific congregations and their practices.
In Matthew 16:18, when Jesus said, “upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it,” He was likely referring to the foundation of the Church, which is the confession that He is the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16). This foundational truth forms the basis of the Christian faith and the Church’s identity.
Define an ordinance, and what ordinances do we practice in the Baptist church and why? And,
who has the authority to administer the ordinances of the church? (combined from another
question)
An ordinance, in the context of the Baptist church and many other Christian denominations, is a religious practice or ceremony that has been instituted by Jesus Christ and is observed as an outward expression of one’s faith. These ordinances are significant acts of worship and obedience for believers. The two primary ordinances observed in the Baptist tradition are Baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Communion). Let’s explore these ordinances and their significance, as well as the authority to administer them, with relevant KJV Bible verses:
1. Baptism:
- Baptism is a symbolic act of immersion in water that represents a believer’s identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- Matthew 3:13-17 (KJV): Describes the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist as an example of Christian baptism.
- Romans 6:3-4 (KJV): “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
- Baptism is seen as an act of obedience, a public confession of faith, and an initiation into the community of believers.
2. The Lord’s Supper (Communion):
- The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic meal involving the partaking of bread and wine (or grape juice) that commemorates the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for the forgiveness of sins.
- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (KJV): Contains the words of Jesus regarding the institution of the Lord’s Supper and its significance.
- 1 Corinthians 10:16 (KJV): “The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?”
- The Lord’s Supper serves as a time of remembrance, reflection, and communion with Christ and fellow believers.
3. Authority to Administer Ordinances:
- In Baptist churches and many other evangelical denominations, the authority to administer the ordinances is vested in the local church leadership, typically pastors or elders.
- 1 Corinthians 11:2 (KJV): “Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.”
- Local church leadership ensures that the ordinances are observed in accordance with biblical principles and practices.
In summary, ordinances in the Baptist tradition are significant religious practices that include Baptism, symbolizing identification with Christ’s death and resurrection, and the Lord’s Supper (Communion), commemorating Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. These ordinances are observed as acts of obedience and expressions of faith. The authority to administer them is typically vested in the local church leadership, guided by biblical principles.
What are the three views of who can partake of the Lord’s Table and which position would you
take?
An ordinance, in the context of the Baptist church and many other Christian denominations, is a religious practice or ceremony that has been instituted by Jesus Christ and is observed as an outward expression of one’s faith. These ordinances are significant acts of worship and obedience for believers. The two primary ordinances observed in the Baptist tradition are Baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Communion). Let’s explore these ordinances and their significance, as well as the authority to administer them, with relevant KJV Bible verses:
1. Baptism:
- Baptism is a symbolic act of immersion in water that represents a believer’s identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- Matthew 3:13-17 (KJV): Describes the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist as an example of Christian baptism.
- Romans 6:3-4 (KJV): “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
- Baptism is seen as an act of obedience, a public confession of faith, and an initiation into the community of believers.
2. The Lord’s Supper (Communion):
- The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic meal involving the partaking of bread and wine (or grape juice) that commemorates the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for the forgiveness of sins.
- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (KJV): Contains the words of Jesus regarding the institution of the Lord’s Supper and its significance.
- 1 Corinthians 10:16 (KJV): “The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?”
- The Lord’s Supper serves as a time of remembrance, reflection, and communion with Christ and fellow believers.
3. Authority to Administer Ordinances:
- In Baptist churches and many other evangelical denominations, the authority to administer the ordinances is vested in the local church leadership, typically pastors or elders.
- 1 Corinthians 11:2 (KJV): “Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.”
- Local church leadership ensures that the ordinances are observed in accordance with biblical principles and practices.
In summary, ordinances in the Baptist tradition are significant religious practices that include Baptism, symbolizing identification with Christ’s death and resurrection, and the Lord’s Supper (Communion), commemorating Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. These ordinances are observed as acts of obedience and expressions of faith. The authority to administer them is typically vested in the local church leadership, guided by biblical principles.
What does baptism picture and must baptism be by immersion only? Is baptism necessary for
salvation, and does the Bible teach the necessity of re-baptism if one comes from a non-Baptist
church membership?
1. What Baptism Pictures:
- Baptism is often seen as a symbolic act that pictures several spiritual realities:
- Identification with Christ’s Death and Resurrection: Baptism symbolizes a believer’s identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- Romans 6:3-4 (KJV): “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
- Cleansing and Forgiveness: Baptism is seen as an outward sign of the cleansing and forgiveness of sins that occurs through faith in Christ.
- Acts 22:16 (KJV): “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”
.
- Supporters of immersion argue that it best symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ and the believer’s identification with Him.
3. Baptism and Salvation:
No
- Ephesians 2:8-9 (KJV): “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
4. Re-Baptism:
- The question of re-baptism arises when individuals who were baptized in one Christian tradition join a different tradition.
- Some denominations require re-baptism in their tradition if a person was baptized in a different tradition, while others accept the validity of the previous baptism.
It’s important to note that these questions are areas of theological debate among Christians, and perspectives vary. The specific beliefs and practices of baptism may differ based on one’s denomination and personal convictions. Therefore, it’s advisable for individuals to consult their local church leadership and the doctrinal statements of their denomination to understand their beliefs and practices regarding baptism.
Is the church responsible to obey the Great Commission and explain the Biblical concept of
worldwide missions.
Yes, the church is responsible to obey the Great Commission, which is a fundamental biblical mandate given by Jesus Christ to His disciples. The Great Commission emphasizes the mission of the church to make disciples of all nations and share the gospel message worldwide. Here’s an explanation of the concept of worldwide missions and relevant KJV Bible verses supporting this mission:
The Great Commission:
- The Great Commission is found in the Gospel of Matthew:
- Matthew 28:18-20 (KJV): “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
- In this commission, Jesus instructs His followers to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to observe His teachings.
Biblical Concept of Worldwide Missions:
- The biblical concept of worldwide missions is rooted in the idea of spreading the gospel message to all people, regardless of their geographical location or cultural background.
- The Bible emphasizes that the message of salvation through Jesus Christ is for everyone, and the church has a responsibility to share this message globally.
- Mark 16:15 (KJV): “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”
- Acts 1:8 (KJV): “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
Responsibility of the Church:
- The church, as the body of Christ, is entrusted with the task of fulfilling the Great Commission. It is called to evangelize, disciple, and minister to people in its local community and to extend its mission to the ends of the earth.
- The church is responsible for sending and supporting missionaries, both locally and internationally, who carry out the work of worldwide missions.
- Romans 10:14 (KJV): “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?”
- The church’s obedience to the Great Commission reflects its commitment to fulfilling the mission given by Jesus.
In summary, the Great Commission underscores the church’s responsibility to engage in worldwide missions by spreading the gospel, making disciples, and teaching all nations. This biblical concept of missions is a central aspect of the church’s mission and reflects its commitment to sharing the message of salvation through Jesus Christ with people from every nation, tribe, and tongue.
