What is the purpose of the church? Acts 2:42 can be regarded as a statement of the purpose of the church, They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching, in fellowship, in the breaking of bread and the prayers. So, according to this writing, purpose or activities of the church should be; (1) Teaching Bible doctrine, (2) providing a convivial place for believers (3) celebrate the Lords Supper, and (4) pray. The church is to teach Bible doctrine, so that we may be rooted in our faith. Ephesians 4:14 tells us, to no longer be children, carried about with every wind of doctrine, by stratagems to deceive men in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting. Church is to be a place of fellowship where Christians can live together as brothers and honor one another (Romans 12:10), instruct one another (Romans 15:14), be kind and compassionate to others (Ephesians 4:32), encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and most importantly, love one another (1 John 3:11). The church is to be a place where believers can celebrate the Lords Supper, remembering Christs death and shed for us (1 Corinthians 11:23-26) blood. The concept of break bread (Acts 2:42) also carries the idea of eating together. This is another example of fellowship sponsored by the church. The ultimate purpose of the church, according to Acts 2:42 is prayer. The church is a place that promotes prayer, teaches prayer, and practices prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to, Be anxious for nothing, but are present your requests to God in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Another commission given to the church is to proclaim the Gospel of Salvation through Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8). The church is called to share the Gospel faithfully through his words and deeds. The church is to be a beacon of light in the community - leading people to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The church is both to promote the Gospel to prepare its members to proclaim (1 Peter 3:15). Some final purposes of the church are given in James 1:27, where we read Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this. Visit orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unspotted from the world the church is to minister to those in need. This includes not only sharing the gospel, but also provide for their physical needs (food, clothing, shelter) as necessary and appropriate. The church is also to equip believers in Christ with the tools they need to overcome sin and remain free of pollution in the world. This is accomplished by the principles given above - Bible teaching and Christian fellowship. So, with all that we have said, what is the purpose of the church? I like the illustration in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27. The church is the body of God - we are His hands, mouth and feet in this world. We are to do the things that Jesus would do if He were here physically in the world. The church is to be Christian --- that is, as Christ --- and to be followers of Christ.
Posted on: Mon, 14 Jul 2014 22:43:37 +0000
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