Christ's Church as Seen from the New Testament

Other "concepts" regarding the Church:

(1) The Kingdom--Colossians 1:13, 14,   

(2) The Church (ecclesia-[Greek]--"called out ones/assembly")--Matthew 16:18, Acts 2:47    

(3) The Body of Christ--Ephesians 1:22,23, 5:29-30    

(4) The Flock--Acts 20:28   

(5) God's Family--Romans 8:16,17, Matthew 23:9    

(6) The Bride of Christ--Ephesians 5:25

The Church belongs to Christ & He is the Head: Matthew 16:16,18, 1 Corinthians 3:11, Ephesians 1:22

Names of God's People--Corporately as His Church:  

"Churches of Christ"---Romans 16:16, Matthew 16:18,  

"Church of God"---1 Corinthians 1:2, Acts 20:28;  

"The Church"---Acts 14:27,  

"The Church of the Firstborn"---Hebrews 12:23,  

"Body of Christ"---Colossians 1:18, 24, Ephesians 1:22,23  

"Bride of Christ"---Romans 7:4, Revelation 21:2,9   

"House of God"---1 Timothy 3:15

Names of God's People--Individually as His People: 

"Christians"---Acts 11:26, 26:28, 1 Peter 4:16,  

"Disciples"---John 15:8, Acts 11:26,  

"Saints"---Romans 1:7, 1 Corinthians 1:2, Philippians 1:1, 

"Brothers"---Luke 8:21, Galatians 6:1,  

"Children"---Galatians 3:26, 1 John 2:1,  

"Priests"---1 Peter 2:5

Organizational Structure:

"elders/bishops/pastors/presbyters/overseers"---Acts 20:17-38, Ephesians 4:11, Philippians 1:1, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, 1 Peter 5:1-4;  

"deacons"---Acts 6:1-6, Philippians 1:1, 1 Timothy 3:8-13; 

"evangelists"---Ephesians 4:11, 2 Timothy 4:5;  

"teachers"---Hebrews 5:12, James 3:1, Acts 8:4;  

"members"--Acts 2:41-47, Colossians 1:13, 1 Corinthians 1:2

Plea for Unity of all Believers:  John 17:20,21, 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 3:1-9, Romans 16:17,18, Galatians 5:19-21    *Unity can be achieved when we discard man-made teachings to follow the simple truths of God's Word.   We are not to be clones and identical in all facets of our spirituality.  God made us all as differing individuals, but a wise and healthy expression says this: "in matters of doctrine, Unity; In matters of opinion, Liberty; but in all things, Love."  

Aspects of Corporate Worship: 

"Breaking of Bread/Communion/Lord's Supper"--Acts 2:42, 20:7, Luke 22:19, 1 Corinthians 11:20-29;     

"Apostles teaching"--Acts 2:42, 5:42, 20:7;   

"Prayers"--Acts 2:42, James 5:16, Ephesians 618, 1 Thessalonians 5:17  

"Singing"--Colossians 3:16, Ephesians 5:19;     

"Fellowship"--Acts 2:42; Hebrews 10:24,25;     

"Giving of Tithes and Offerings"--1 Corinthians 16:2, Acts 20:35, 2 Corinthians 8:6-9, 9:6,7;      

How must mankind be saved:

(1) What was man's original state?    Adam & Eve were sinless and in complete harmony in an intimate relationship with God in the Garden.  God has always desired to have a close relationship with mankind, but we continue to sin and push Him away.  He, in His holy state, must necessarily distance Himself from sin. 

(2) What is sin?  Sin is a willing disobediance to the laws of God.  God has created our world and knows what is best for all concerned.   When we decide to turn from Him and try it our own way, we will get hurt and our proud attitude will separate us from God.  All have sinned, except for the Lord Jesus, and come short of God's plan.  The wages of sin is death.  BUT....God didn't want us all to die and go to hell, so He sent Jesus. 

(3) Who was/is Jesus?---See the Teaching Page on this site about "the Existence of & Deity of Jesus of Nazareth."  Spend some time & get to know Him!  JESUS is the Key to it all!!  

(4) What must I do to be saved?  Jesus took the first step in the salvation process by coming here as one of us.  His crucifixion on Calvary provided the blood to wash us clean in God's sight.  Now, what must we do to avail ourselves to that blood?    

[a] Faith in Jesus as the Christ (God's annointed Prophet, Priest and King)--Mark 16:16, John 3:16, Hebrews 11:6, Acts 8:37, 16:31, Romans 1:16, 10:17; *NOTE--Not "faith alone"--James 2:14-16 shows that faith & works must necessarily go together;    

[b] Repentance (a desire to turn from the world and worldy ways to think, speak and do in God's ways)--Acts 2:38, 3:19, 2 Corinthians 7:10, Luke 13:3, Acts 17:30, Romans 6;17,18, 1 Peter 3:11, Ephesians 4:23,24;    

[c] Public Confession of Faith in Christ--Mark 8:38, Acts 8:37, Romans 10:9,10, Matthew 10:32,33, 1 John 4:15, 1 Timothy 6:12;    

[d] Baptism (water immersion into Christ)--John 3:5, Acts 2:38, 22:16, Romans 6:3-11, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Galatians 3:27, 1 Peter 3:21, Colossians 2:12;    

[e] Faithful living with Growth in Christ and active participation in His Body, the Church--1 Peter 3:18, Revelation 2:10b, 22:18-19, Hebrews 10:21-25, 2 Peter 1:5-12, Matthew 15:9, 13, Galatians 1:6-8, 2 John 9

What is the Purpose/Mission of the Church: Luke 19:10 (Seek & Save the Lost), Matthew 28:19,20, Mark 16:15,16, Luke 24:47,48, John 20:21, Acts 1:8    Matthew 5:13-16, John 15:8,16, 1 Timothy 4:16, 2 Timothy 2:2, Hebrews 5:12, Acts 8:4

The All Sufficiency of the Bible as our only Creed, Statement of Faith and Practice: 2 Timothy 2:15, 3:16,17, John 20:31, 2 Peter 1:3, James 1:21, Galatians 1:6-9  "The Bible only will make Christians only."

Why should people regularly attend church?  

(1) We have a "vertical" relationship with God as our Father, but also a "horizontal"  relationship with other Christians as brothers & sisters.  We must communicate & actively fellowship with both 

(2) We are commanded to assemble ourselves on the first day of the week to worship (see above). 

(3) We want to follow in the footsteps of the early Christians, who gathered together, regularly each Lord's Day. 

(4) We need the encouragement from the time in God's presence & with other Christians.

(5) We can get so much more accomplished for the Lord by working together with others in our Mission for Him. 

(6) We are to observe the Lord's Supper weekly, which is harder to do at home, at work, the lake or the golf course....

(7) We need to bring our tithes and offerings into the storehouse (our place of worship).  We must not rob God of what is His.

(8) We are gifted by the Holy Spirit to serve within the Kingdom.  We have an obligation to use His gifts for His glory 

(9) Any entity that is cut off from its source will die; a limb (tree or human), or a burning ember are good examples of this principle. 

(10) Who do I turn to when I'm sick, in the hospital, need married or buried?---Billy Graham? Pat Robertson?  Robert Schuler?  or even Max Lucado?  They won't come to your house in your hour of need---the local church is my safety net on my life's journey.   

Does membership in a local congregation matter?  Official membership in a local congregation is not a direct Biblical Command....but the principle behind it seems to be presented in connection with the identity of the local church. 

(1) When we are immersed into Christ, we are brought into Him, His Church universal and Christianity at large.  The Church, however, can be only recognized by the local congregations that meet in different geographical areas.  These local churches have a Biblical pattern for their organization and are to function as effectively as possible to perform the Lord's will in that particular area.  Paul appointed elders for these local bodies, and they were/are to be shepherds for their flock.  How do they know who is in or not in their particular flock?  Some statement as to whether a commital or just a time of observation must be made.  The elders of a local body don't have any responsibility to shepherd people outside of their flock, but a sheep outside the flock is easier prey for the enemy.  Hebrews 13:17 says we are to be in submission to elders--which ones?  See also 1 Timothy 5:17, Hebrews 13:7 and 1 Thessalonians 5:12,13.  These elders are to be specific men serving in specific congregations of people in their flock.  A person needs to verbally, publicly acknowledge their desire to participate with a local congregation.  

(2) When a person moves to a new area, they ordinarily transfer their banking/electric/phone/gas/water/cable, school, voting registration, magazine subscriptions, taxes, etc, etc.  They notify the 'old' of the 'new' address so they can begin to use and commit to the new local resources/agencies. 

(3) A person may attend meetings of the Rotary, Lions, etc, etc, but must transfer membership to officially get involved with the new chapter. 

(4) Common Law Marriages---When a man & woman live together long enough, many states will recognize them as being 'married,' even without any vows or signs of commitment being publicly spoken.  Does a 'wedding ceremony' make a couple any more of a couple or are they merely making a public recognition of their love and desire to be together? 

(5) One cannot hold membership at a church they used to attend and be committed to.  Church participation demands active, regular commitment right now!  Who is ministering to the present needs?  Where is the storehouse in which to bring our tithes and offerings?   Where we are or where we were? 

(6) Some people say they want "Jesus, but not the church," but the two are inseparable!  He died for her (Ephesians 5:25) and though she is made up of humans who often are weak and fail, ideally, She is God's plan for the continual salvation process for the world.  Many get disillusioned by the institutional set-up of the Church and criticize from a distance, not willing to get in and give of themselves to make it work.  As Christians, we are a priesthood of all believers and must get into and be involved in a local body of believers. 

(7) "Non-member attenders" usually do not feel like they're part of things and may or may not feel an obligation to be loyal to that group, to help out that group in a time of need, to help others commit to the cause of Christ and that body, and even at times that they don't have any accountability to anyone.  There is (or should be) an accountability between the local family of God---for sickness, spiritual, financial & family needs 

(8)  If anyone cares for and about any cause or movement, they commit to be part of the team to make it work---School PTO, Community groups, etc, etc.  By publicly announcing intentions, people are encouraged to see your commitment to the Greater Cause as a whole, but the local effort specifically.  

(9) If the Church is to be a "family" (Romans 8:16,17, John 1:12), we should reflect a real family in entrance as well.  Physically, a family is enlarged by birth, adoption or marriage (See #4 about Common Law Marriages).  These all happen with great effort and joy and public recognition.  A family doesn't grow just because a child brings over a good friend real often.  He may be there a good bit of the time and eat a good bit of your food, but he is still not your kid! 

(10)  Not placing membership makes the congregational people wonder, "Why not?"  "Are we not being friendly?"  "Have we offended them in some way?"  "Do they disagree with us in some doctrine or opinion?"  "Are they going to stay or are they just looking around to check us out?"  The elders wonder if they have an obligation to Shepherd them--if the elders don't respond in a time of need, the attenders could claim neglect, but if the elders do respond without the O.K., then they claim that the leaders are sticking their noses in to their business.  Everyone feels awkward because it's never been stated exactly what the relationship really is.

It seems wise, prudent & appropriate to place membership as soon as possible with the new congregation as your new church home.  You would then

(1) be eligible to vote on congregational matters,

(2) be able to teach and serve in various ministry opportunities through that church,

(3) be under the caring eye of the congregation's Shepherds and

(4) be brought into a loving, caring family of faith in your current local community.  

What's the differences between the denominations about how one is saved? 

We do not sprinkle babies--Babies are born in innocence.  The theme of Ezekiel 18 is that "the soul that sins will perish."  The parents are not accountable for the wickedness or righteousness of their parents or their own children.  If we cannot inherit the sin or the merit of our parents or grandparents or children, how then can we be born carrying any "original" sin that is supposedly connected all the way back to Adam and Eve?    Jesus had a high view of children, as is seen during His ministry---see Matthew 18:1-9, 19:13-15, 21:16.  There is no reference at all in the Bible about sprinkling babies--no command, no example, no precedent.  This practice was adopted much later by the Catholic church due to the corrupt belief in "Original Sin."       We do not pray to God for Jesus to come into our heart and save us--once again, there is no Scriptural Authority for this view.  There is no command, example or precedent of anyone saying an alleged "sinner's prayer" to receive Christ.  Some will look to Revelation 3:20 where Jesus stands and knocks at the door waiting for us to open & let Him in.  If one examines the greater context in that passage (3:14-22), Jesus is speaking to the Church of Laodicea who had become so steeped in surface religion and self-righteousness, He was no longer even in their midst [and they apparently didn't realize it!].  This is in regards to a cold, lifeless church, not an individual seeking salvation.  Some may also look to Romans 10:9-11, but again, there is no prayer for Salvation.  This passage mentions faith in the person of Jesus as Christ and His death, burial and resurrection.  It also refers to a verbal confession of Jesus as the Christ, which is also discussed in Matthew 10:32,33, and Acts 22:16, when Saul/Paul called upon (confessed) the name of the Lord in connection with his baptism.  Some may also want to look to the Thief on the Cross at Calvary, alongside our Lord, as one who was saved without immersion.  Jesus told him to his face he'd be with Him in Paradise, but this all took place under the Old Covenant of Judaism, because Jesus had not yet died.  There was no baptism into His death, burial and resurrection simply because these had not yet taken place. 

Modern Innovations  While we try to support all that we believe, teach and practice by the Word of God, there are current issues that are not directly addressed by Scripture.  Biblical principles can be used to make application to modern issues.  Smoking cigarettes, abusing drugs and gambling may not be "directly" addressed, but principles such as:

(1) Christian's bodies being the Temple of the Holy Spirit, and

(2) Christians trying to live holy and pure lives, and

(3) Christians relying on the power of God to help us through difficulties and

(4) Christians being an example to the world around us could all be used to give direction in these & other areas.  As time changes and progresses new issues must be examined in light of Biblical principles as well as of course, direct Biblical addresses.  The Bible does speak to current issues such as: divorce, adultery, prostitution, fornication, abortion and homosexuality, condemning each one.

Also, in regards to our corporate worship, new innovations have been introduced.  While not Biblically endorsed, they are nonetheless, helpful for worship and the advancement of the local church.  The Bible does not speak of church buildings, hymn books, church vans/buses, Sunday School/VBS/Church camp, musical instrumentation, choirs, puppets, drama, video projection, etc, etc.  Some see this Scriptural silence on such issues as a prohibition that these may not be used for the advancement of the local congregation.  We understand this silence as, not a prohibition, but a freedom to use whatever creative methods may be deemed effective to enhance the work of the local church.  They may be "un-Biblical" concepts, meaning that they are not found in the Bible, but they are not "anti-Biblical," meaning that they do not go against anything found in God's Word.  We intend to remain faithful to the old Gospel message but use any methods available to promote the Gospel message to as many people as possible.  Paul said he would become all things to all people, to the strong, to the weak, to those under the law, to those not having the law---all things to all men, so that he might save as many as he could (1 Corinthians 9:24-27).  We must maintain that attitude of flexibility and variety of methodology to keep the church relevent in this age.   

 

GOD WANTS YOU TO BE WHOLE

By that, we mean that God created mankind in His image, perfect & complete.  But, we live in a sinful world and many of our lives are so out of balance, in so many ways!  We're in terrible health; We're ate up with stress; We're in debt up to our eyeballs; Our families are a mess and We certainly don't have the joy of the Lord in our lives!  How did this happen and is there anything we can do to restore some order and balance to our lives??!!

Now, I'm not a Licensed Psychologist or Psychiatrist or even a Trained Counselor, but it seems to me that the BIBLE holds the keys to seeking God's will for our lives to bring about a balance and peace of mind that we desperately desire.  We'll look at a few of these areas on this page:  PHYSICALLY, FINANCIALLY, EMOTIONALLY, RELATIONALLY, and SPIRITUALLY.  Please realize, that entire books have been written about each of these facets of our lives, so I cannot/will not go into any real depth, but still there are some basic Biblical concepts that can give us some real help and hope.  The Bible speaks of both Samuel from the Old Testament and Jesus from the New Testament living lives that were balanced---they grew in Wisdom, Stature and in Favor with God and Man (1 Samuel 2:26 & Luke 2:52). 

PHYSICALLY: 

(1) I must come to terms with the fact that men are different from women.  God made them both in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 1:27, 2:18-25) different and complimentary.  Both genders have similarities, differences, strengths and weaknesses that are both needed to see that society continues on.  Both are needed to bring about new life and help keep the current society in balance.  When one is filled with jealousy, envy or pride towards the other or perhaps filled with a sense of unworthiness and a desire to withdraw, then we all suffer. 

(2) I must be more concerned about my inward qualities than my outward.  They say that "beauty is only skin deep, but ugly goes all the way to the bone."  We live in a society that is obsessed with outward appearances.  We all want the desirable figure/physique and want to buy all the lotions and tonics to look and smell better, as if there were a miracle in a bottle!  1 Samuel 16:7 says that God looks at the heart, not the outside appearance.  1 Peter 3:3,4 says that we should not try to make ourselves look good just by outward beauty aids & jewelry, but by a true and kind heart.  1 Timothy 4:7,8 says that Physical training has some merit, but we really need to be training ourselves to be Godly, which has merit in the here-and-now, and also for eternity.  We've got to realize that no matter how much Botox, face lifts, callogen or whatever exercises.....we will all get old, wrinkled, sick and DIE!  When our body is in the pine-box, the mourners may say that our "shell" still looks good, but at that very same moment what will God, our Judge, be saying about the appearance of our soul??  

(3) We've all got to come to terms with the fact that we will all die.  Now, doctors may have developed ways in which we can prolong our lives here on this earth, but we will still all die somehow, sometime.  We must understand the frailty of our flesh--we get sick, we get tired, we get old, we get hurt....you get the idea.  Psalm 90:10 says that we get an average of 70 years to live or 80 if we're strong.  See also Psalm 90:12, 39:4-6 and James 4:13ff for some other real encouraging words about the duration and strength of our days! 

(4) Finally, we must understand that our bodies are the Temple of God's Holy Spirit and then somehow find a balance between the 2 concepts that, on the one hand, I must not abuse my body, but on the other hand, I must not worship the human form.  We have been made in a fearful and wonderful way with bodies that are capable of doing so many tasks.  The way our eyes work, the power of our blood pumper in our chest, the sheer impossiblity of our balance, the miles of blood tubes running through us---all are mind boggling and confirming that a real intelligence is behind this special creature, not just eons of random selections.  We have every right to be amazed at who we are, but we must remember that we are the Creature, not the Creator.  We are not all there is.  We have been bought with a price and cannot live just for ourselves and the cravings of our flesh.  We have the strength to say "NO" to things that can harm us---tobbacco, alcohol, too many Big Macs (oops, did he really say that?!), other drugs, gambling, illicit sexual behavior and a myriad of other actions that can enslave us into addictions---even time on the internet!  while we cannot worship our bodies as the be-all and end-all of life, we cannot destroy them either.  They are the Temple that houses God's Spirit in us, so we need to care for, nourish and help them to be the best they can for His service.  If we are already caught up in various abuses and addictions, what can we do? 

Claim God's promises that we can do anything through Christ Who gives us the strength (Phil 4:13) and also that God will not give us more than we can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13).  You are not alone in this.  Others are struggling, some have beat it, some are in the process, & some still haven't even admitted it to themselves yet.  Help is available on so many fronts from your family, to your church, to your friends, to other societal agencies that have varied plans to help you to overcome whatever addiction you have.  Are you reaching out for the help that is already available to you?

JESUS CHRIST

1--We can historically prove the existence/life of the man, Jesus of Nazareth: 

[1] Josephus (Jewish Historian, AD37-100) "Antiquities XX 9:1, xvii.33" Arabic Text  

[2] Cornelius Tacitus (Roman Historian, AD55?-after 117) "Annals XV.44"  

[3] Lucian (Greek Satirist, 2nd Cent AD) "On the Death of Peregrine" 

[4] Suetonius (Roman Historian, c. AD120) "Life of Claudius 25.4", "Lives of the Caesars 26.2"  

[5] Pliny the Younger (c. AD112)  "Epistles X.96"  

[6] Thallus (Samaritan-born Historian, c. AD52)  "third book of his histories"--Julius Africanus (c. AD221) 

[7] Letter of Mara Bar-Sarapion (after AD73), letter in the British Museum 

[8] The Jewish Talmud (completed by AD 500) Sanhedrin 43a, "Eve of Passover", Yeb. IV 3; 49a

 

"Combining the above secular testimony to Christ, we get the following picture:

1) Jesus was crucified under Pontius Pilate at Passover time;

2) He was believed by His Disciples to have risen from the dead three days later;

3) the Jewish leaders charged Christ with sorcery and believed He was born in adultery;

4) The Judean sect of Christianity could not be contained, but spread even to Rome;

5) Nero and other Roman rulers bitterly persecuted and martyred early Christians;

6) These early Christians denied polytheism, lived dedicated lives according to Christ's teachings, and worshiped Christ.  This picture is perfectly congruent with that of the New Testament."    (Christian Apologetics, Norman Geisler, p. 325)

 

2--Many, Many fulfilled Old Testament prophecies show the Deity of Jesus---His Birth---Offspring of a woman/Genesis 3:15, Offspring of Abraham/Genesis 12:3, Offspring of Isaac/Genesis 17:19, Offspring of Jacob/Numbers 24:17, Tribe of Judah/ Genesis 49:10, Throne of David/Isaiah 9:7, Place of birth/Micah 5:2, Time of Birth/Daniel 9:25, "Immanuel"/Isaiah 7:14, Born of a virgin/Isaiah 7:14, Slaughter of infants/Jeremiah 31:15, Escape into Egypt/Hosea 11:1---His Life---Ministry in Galilee/Isaiah 9:1,2, Rejected by His people/Isaiah 53:3, He'd be a great Prophet/Deuteronomy 18:15, He'd be a Priest/Psalm 110:4, Characteristics/Isaiah 11:2-4, Triumphal entry/Zechariah 9:9, Isaiah 62:11---His Death & Burial---Betrayed by a Friend/Psalm 41:9, Sold for 30 pieces of silver/Zechariah 11:12,13, $$ used for the potter's field/ Zechariah 11:13, false witnesses accuse Him/Psalm 27:12, Silent when accused/ Isaiah 53:7, Struck and spit on/Isaiah 50:6, Hated without a cause/Psalm 69:4, 109:3-5, Suffered vicariously/Isaiah 53:4-6, Crucified with criminals/Isaiah 53:12, Mocked & insulted/Psalm 22:6-8, Not a bone broken/Psalm 34:20, Hands and feet pierced/Psalm 22:16, Zechariah 12:10, Given gall & vinegar/Psalm 69:21, Hears prophetic words repeated in mockery/Psalm 22;8, Prays for his enemies/Psalm 109:4, Isaiah 53:12, Side to be pierced/Zechariah 12:10, Soldiers gamble for his clothes/Psalm 22:18, Buried with the rich/Isaiah 53:9, His Resurrection/Psalm 16:1, His Ascension/Psalm 68:18, Judas's position filled/Psalm 109:7,8

 

3--Jesus claimed to be Deity (John 10:30).  God claimed it too (Matthew 3:16,17, 17:5).  So did John the Baptist (John 1:1-36), Peter (Matthew 16:16), John (John 20:28, 1:1, 1 John 5:20 and many accounts from his Revelation), Thomas (John 20:28), Paul (Romans 9:5, Philippians 2:5-8, 2 Corinthians 4:4, Colossians 1:15,19, 2:9,13, Titus 2:13,), the writer of Hebrews (1:3,8) and even the demons that Jesus cast out of people (Mark 5:6).

Examining Jesus' claims to Deity--

[1] Items from the OT that God claimed for Himself, Jesus also claimed for Himself:    Shepherd (John 10:11/Psalm 23:1),   Judge (John 5:27/Joel 3:12),   Light of the World (John 8:12/Isaiah 60:19),   shared Eternal Glory (John 17:5/Isaiah 42:8),   Coming Bridegroom (Matthew 25:1/Isaiah 62:5),   First & Last (Revelation 1:17/Isaiah 42:8),   I AM (John 8:58/Exodus 3:14)      

[2] Jesus's claims to be equal to God:   could forgive sins (Mark 2:10,11/Jeremiah 31:34),   could raise & judge the dead (John 5;25,29/Psalm 2:7, Joel 3:12),   Honor the Son & Father; Believe in the Son & Father (John 5:23, 14:1)     

[3]   Jesus' claims to be the Messiah/God: Psalm 110:1/Matthew 22:43-44; Daniel 7:13,22/Mark 14:61-64      

[4] Jesus' acceptance of Worship: See Exodus 20:3,4!!    healed leper/Matthew 8:2,   ruler/Matthew 9:18,   those in the boat/Matthew 14:33,   Canaanite woman/Matthew 15:25,   Mother of sons of Zebedee/Matthew 20:20,   Jesus' followers/Matthew 28:17, 28:9,   Women at the tomb/ Matthew 28:9,   Garasene demoniac/Mark 5:6,   Blind man/John 9:38,   Thomas/John 20:28      

[5] Authority of Jesus' Commands: Matthew 5:21,22, 28:18,19, 5:18, 24:35, John 12:48, 13:34       

[6] Jesus requested men pray in His name:John 14:6, 13,14, 15:7, 1 Corinthians 5:4, Acts 7:59 (prayed to Christ)   

 

* * NOTE--some alleged counter-claims against the Deity of Christ:   

1) Jesus said, "My Father is greater than I" (John 14:28).  God the Father is greater in office, but not in nature.  Jesus was subordinate in function, but not in essence.  John 5:18, 10:30     

2) Jesus didn't know when He'd return again. (Mark 13:32).  In His human nature, He knew limitations---figs on fig tree (Matthew 21:19), schooling (Luke 2:52).  He knew human limitations not known in His infinite Godhood, such as no longer being omnipresent.    

3) Jesus said no one was good but God (Mark 10:18).  Jesus did not deny that He was good or that He was God to the rich young ruler.  Jesus said to him, in essence, "Do you realize what you are saying?  Are you calling me God?"  Jesus' reply left only 2 alternative responses: 1-Jesus is good & God, 2-Jesus is bad & human.     

4) Jesus cried out to His Father from the cross (Mark 15:34).  Several other examples are seen in parts of the Godhead ("Trinity") speaking to the other parts (Psalm 110:1, see also Jesus' baptism [Matthew 3:13-17] & transfiguration [Matthew 17:1-13]) -------all these critiques taken from Norman Geisler,

 

"Christian Apologetics", p334,335

[7] The claims of Jesus' Disciples that He was God: (see Deuteronomy 6:4 & John 10:30)       

{a} Jesus was given names of Deity:   First & Last by John in Revelation1:17, 2:8,   Light by Johnin John 1:9,   Rock by the Disciples in 1 Corinthians 10:4,   Stone by Peter in 1 Peter 2:6-8,   Husband/Bridegroom by Paul & John in Ephesians 5:28-33 and in Revelation 21:2,   Shepherd by Peter in 1 Peter 5:4,   in His Name, sins are forgiven by Apostles in Acts 5:31,   Redeemer by Paul in Titus 2:13,   Savior by John in John 4:42,   Lord of Glory by Paul in 1 Corinthians 2:8,   Judge by Paul in 2 Timothy 4:1     

{b} Jesus was considered to be the Messiah:  Many OT Passages are clear that Messiah is GOD:  Isaiah 9:6, 7:14>>>Matthew 1:23, Zechariah 12:10, Isaiah 45:22,23>>>Philippians 2:11      

{c} Jesus possesses eternal life:  1 John 5:11,12,20, John 1:4      

{d} Jesus was given powers possessed only by God:   raised the dead-John 5, 11,   all things created through Him-John 1:2,   Forgive sins-Mark 2:7      

{e} see the association of Jesus' Name with God:   the Disciples used Jesus' name in Prayer--1 Corinthians 5:4,   they prayed to Jesus--Acts 7:59,   See Epistles' Salutations/ Benedictions-Galatians 1:3, Ephesians 1:2, 2 Corinthians 13:14,   Baptismal Liturgy-Matthew 28:19    

[8] Jesus was considered the Creator of the Universe: John 1:2, Colossians 1:15-17    

[9] Jesus was obeyed and worshipped by angels (Ephesians 1:21, Matthew 8:32, Hebrews 1:5,6)

 

4) Jesus' Miraculous Life is Evidence of His Deity--- 

Jesus' miracles as recorded in the Gospels can be divided into 3 sections:

(1) His miracles over Nature,

(2) His miracles over Flesh and

(3) His miracles over the Spiritual Realm

Jesus' miracles over Nature: 

 [a] changed water to wine at wedding in Cana of Galilee (John 2:1-11),  

[b] 2 Large catches of fish (Matthew 4:18-22/Mark 1:16-20/Luke5:1-9/John 1:35-43 and John 21:3-11),  

[c] calmed the storm on the lake (Matthew 8:23-27/Mark 4:35-41/Luke 8:22-25),

[d] feeding the 5000 men (Matthew 14:13-21/Mark 6:31-44/Luke 9:10-17/John 6:1-14), 

[e] Walking on the water (Matthew 14:22-36/Mark 6:45-54/John 6:15-21), 

[f] feeding of 4000 men (Matthew 15:30-38/Mark 8:1-9), 

[g] receiving coins from the fish's mouth (Matthew 17:24-27), 

[h] withered fig tree (Matthew 21:17-22/Mark 11:12-14, :20-24, 

[i] cosmic signs at Calvary: 1-Darkness for three hours (Matthew 27:45/Mark 15:33/Luke 23:44),  2-Stones breaking (Matthew 27:51),  3-graves opening and the dead rising (Matthew 27:52-54),  4-earthquake (Matthew 27:51),  5-Temple veil tearing from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51/Mark 15:38/Luke 23:45),  

[j] Earthquake at the Resurrection & soldiers frightened (Matthew 28:1-4), 

[k] Jesus' own Ascension (Acts 1:1-11/Mark 16:19/Luke 24:51)

 

Jesus' miracles over the Flesh:  

[a] His conception inside Mary, a virgin (Matthew 1:18-25/Luke 1:26-38), 

[b] Lepers (Luke 17:11-19), 

[c] the Blind (John 9:1-41), 

[d] the Lame (Mark 2:1-12 & John 5:1-18), 

[e] the Deaf (Mark 7:31-37), 

[f] the Mute (Matthew 9:32), 

[g] man with a withered hand (Matthew 12:9-14), 

[h] woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5:24-34), 

[i] raised the dead (Jairus's daughter: Mark 5:22-24,:35-43; Widow of Nain's son: Luke 7:11-17; Lazurus at Bethany: John 11:1-46), 

[j] casting out demons (Luke 4:31-37, 8:26-39, Matthew 17:14-18)

 

Jesus' miracles over the Spirit Realm: 

[1] the presence of the Godhead (God the Father/Son/Holy Spirit) with Jesus at His baptism by John at the Jordan (Matthew 3:16,17),  

[2] Jesus read people's minds (Matthew 9:4, Luke 21:1-4, John 4:16-18), 

[3] Jesus prophesied (Matthew 21:2,3, 26:18, :34, Acts 1:5), 

[4] His own Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-13/Mark 9:1-13/Luke 9:28-36/2 Peter 1:16-18), 

[5] Jesus slipped away mysterioulsy through/from the crowds (Luke 4:30, John 8:59, 7:44, 10:31,39, 6:15?),

[6] Jesus forgave sins (Matthew 9:2/Luke 5:20/23:42,43), 

[7] Jesus cast out demons (Luke 10:17),  

[8] Jesus repeatedly defeated Satan:  [a] 3 face-to-face temptations (Matthew 4:1-11),  [b] exorcisms (Matthew 8:16, Mark 1:34, Luke 8:26-39),  [c] 1 John 3:7,8,  [d] ultimately (Revelation 19:19-21, 20:7-10), 

[9] Jesus provided salvation for Mankind at Calvary (Romans 5:8-11, John 19:30--"It is finished!"/"The debt is paid!"  

[10] His own Resurrection from the dead--this item will be discussed in some detail still to come.

 

5) Jesus' Sinless Life Is Evidence of His Deity---see testimonies from: 

[1] Pontius Pilate--Luke 23:4,  

[2] The soldier at the Crucifixion--Luke 23:47,   

[3] the dying Crucified thief--Luke 23:41,42,   

[4] Peter--1 Peter 1:19,   

[5] John--1 John 2:1, 3:7,  

[6] Paul--2 Corinthians 5:21,  

[7] author of Hebrews(?)--Hebrews 4:15

 

6) Jesus' Own Resurrection Is Evidence of His Deity

How can we know that Jesus did resurrect from the dead?    

{1} It was prophesied about Him (see Section #2 about the many OT Prophecies about Jesus), 

{2} Jesus prophesied it about Himself (John 2:19,21, Matthew 12:40, Mark 8:31), 

{3} Witnesses saw His death on the cross and helped with His burial, 

{4} Witnesses saw where Joseph's Tomb was (surely Joseph knew!), 

{5} Witnesses saw the tomb sealed---you bury dead people! (the Pharisees believed He was dead), 

{6} Radical changes in the lives of His followers---previously they had fled, but shortly afterward were publicly  proclaiming Jesus as Messiah, even as they themselves lost their lives.  

{7} Why die for a lie?  It makes no sense that the Apostles would willingly lie about Jesus' resurrection when they were given a chance to recant & live.   

{8} It was verifiable--the disciples/Apostles taught/preached/ wrote at a time when anyone could have said they knew of a cover-up or some other kind of deception--no one did.  

{9} 14 Post Resurrection appearances of Jesus: that same day: 

1) Mary Magdalene-Mark 16:9-11, John 20:11-18, 

2) The Women-Matthew 28:9,10, 

3) the Two on the Road to Emmaus-Luke 24:13-22, 

4) Peter-1 Corinthians 15:5, Luke 24:36-43, John 20:19ff, 

5) The Ten-Mark 16:14, Luke 24:36, John 20:19ff,   the same day the next week:  

6) The Eleven-John 20:26-31, Other Appearances: 

7) the Seven by the Sea of Galilee-John 21:1-23, 

8) the 500 (from the Great Commission context)-1 Corinthians 15:6, Matthew 28:16-20, 

9) In Jerusalem (Great Commission repeated)-Mark 16:15-16, 10), 

10) James (Jesus' 1/2 brother)-1 Corinthians 15:7, 

11) The Disciples (further Commission)-Acts 1:3-8, Luke 24:44-49, 

12) The Ascension-Acts 1:9-12, Mark 16:19-20, Luke 24:50-53, 

13) Stephen-Acts 7, 

14) Saul/Paul-Acts 9 

 

NOTE--many skeptics, past and present, deny Jesus' bodily resurrection.  Some alternative theories proposed are: 

{1} "Jesus' enemies stole His body."  Our Response: Why would they not produce it to put a stop to all the preaching of the Apostles claiming His resurrection?  The church grew immediately with excitement, but it all would have been quickly stopped by His enemies if they'd produce His still-dead body.   

{2} "Jesus' friends stole His body."  Our Response: The Apostles then would have known they were lying in their preaching.  Why would they go to horrible deaths (as nearly all of them did) if they knew it was all just a hoax they were perpetrating?     

{3} "Jesus' followers and friends had hallucinations/dreams of what they wanted to see."  Our Response: Different numbers of people saw Him in various places and times and settings.  It's hard to imagine they all experienced the same delusion!      

{4} "Jesus wasn't really dead on the cross, but revived in the tomb and escaped in shame."  Our Response:  John records that the soldiers at Calvary didn't break Christ's legs, as they did to the 2 thieves, because they testified that He was already dead (John 19:33) and that blood & water came from His side as He was pierced while on the cross (John 19:34).  His body was removed from the cross & prepared for burial.  Surely, they would have known in the time needed for this if He were still alive or was now dead!  Jesus was weak and exhausted, and could not have lifted the 75 pounds of spices off His chest and then rolled away the large stone covering the cave-tomb.    

{5} "The Historical Records have been tampered with/the church fabricated the whole story."    Our Response: Christ's resurrection was the very core of the Gospel message.  Why would the early church base their whole focus upon a deception?  Why make up something that could be so easily disproved?  That message has not changed since the start of the Church on the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2, and has been spread consistently throughout all levels of documentation regarding the early church, from sources both spiritual and secular.  

 

7) The Calendar year is now AD2013.  The "AD" is Latin for "anno domine," meaning, "in the year of our Lord."  Time long ago was reckoned as "BC," meaning "before Christ."  Christ's advent into the world has changed the way the world counts time.  This affects everyone on earth.  Could a mere man be honored in such a worldwide way? 

 

8) Look at the efforts to oppose God, the Church, the Bible & Jesus.  If these were not real historical entities, then they would crumble under their own grandiose claims.  As it is, they continue to spread & change/improve lives and cultures offering hope, direction and peace to a world struggling through the darkness.  Why go to all the trouble that the late Madelyn Murray O'Hair did to fight something that is non-existent?  Why bother?? 

 

The only real choices that we have are these:    (1) Jesus was a liar.  He was a clever, manipulative deceiver of the people.  *That is very hard to believe since He had no choice about the time and place and circumstances surrounding His own birth & too, why would He die a horrible death of crucifixion for a deliberate hoax?   (2) Jesus was a lunatic.  He thought He was something greater than He actually was & was deceived to believe it Himself.  *How do we explain away all the miracles, the change in the lives of the early Christians, and the complete lack of evidence of any such kind of a controversy?    (3) Jesus was & IS the LORD.  If we accept His claims and the corroborating evidence that backs it all up, He was Who He said He was & certainly still is today, our King of kings and Lord of lords, the long promised Messiah, the Son of God and, in fact our God Jehovah Incarnate! 

THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH

 

The Christian Church is distinctly an undenominational body of Christians that is part of the great movement to restore the church of the New Testament:   By wearing New Testament Names. "the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." Acts 11:25 "the churches of Christ salute you." Romans 16:16   By believing the New Testament Creed. "thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.....upon this rock I will build my church." Matthew 16:16-18 "For other foundations can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." 1 Cor 3:11 By practicing New Testament Conversion. "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved...." Mark 16:16 "Repent ye, and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins..." Acts 2:38 By obeying the New Testament Baptism. "...arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on his name..." Acts 22:16 "We are buried therefore with him through baptism into death; that like as Christ was raised through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in the newness of life." Rom 6:4 By duplicating New Testament Membership. "They then that received his word were baptized: and there were added unto then in that day about three thousand souls." Acts 2:47 "And the Lord added.....those that were saved." Acts 2:47 By doing New Testament Work. "Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatso ever I command you..." Matthew 28:19-20 By imitating New Testament Worship. "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and the prayers. Acts 2:42 By observing New Testament Communion. "...this do in remembrance of me." Luke 22:19 "And upon the first day of the week, when we gather together to break bread..." Acts 20:7 "But let a man prove himself...." 1 Cor 11:28 By keeping New Testament Stewardship. "...it is more blessed to give than to receive....." Acts 20:35 "Upon the first day of the week let each one of you lay by him in store, as he may prosper...." 1 Cor 16:2 By living the New Testament Life. "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savoir Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 3:18 "Be though faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life." Rev 2:10 By pleading for New Testament Unity. "...I pray...that they may all be one.... that the world my believe that thou didst send me." John 17:20-21 "....that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfected together in the same mind and the same judgment." 1 Cor 1:10 By adhering to New Testament Disciple. "Every Scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness." 2 Timothy 3:16 By allowing New Testament Freedom. "...not to go beyond the things which are written;..." 1 Cor 4:6 "For freedom did Christ set us free..." Gal 5:1
The New Testament Church
FOUNDER: Christ MATT. 16:18	WHERE: ??? - Scriptures - Jerusalem ISA. 2-3  ACTS 2:5, 47		WHEN: AD33 ACTS 2:		HEAD: Christ EPH. 1:22
Organization Phil. 1:1		Elders		Tit. 1:5-7, I Pet. 5:1-3, Acts 20:28. I Tim 3:1-7
		Deacons		Acts 6:1-6, I Tim 3:8-13
		Members		Acts 2:41-47, Col. 1:13, I Cor. 1:2
Name Eph. 3:15		Church of God		I Cor. 1:2, Acts 20:28
		The Body of Christ		Col. 1:18, Eph. 1:22-23
		Churches of Christ		Matt. 16:18, Rom. 16:16
		Bride of Christ		Rom. 7:4, Rev. 21:9
Name Eph 3:15		Disciples		John 15:8, Acts 11:26
		Saints		Rom. 1:7, I Cor. 1:2, Phil. 1:1
		Brethren		Luke 8:21, Gal. 6:1
		Children		Gal. 3:26, I John 2:1
		Christians		Acts 11:26, 26:28, I Pet. 4:16
Creed		Jesus Christ		Matt. 16:16-18, 10:32-33, Acts 8:37
Rules of Faith & Practice		Word of God		Matt. 28:18-20, II Tim. 3:16-17, II Pet. 1:3, Jas. 1:21
Worship Acts 2:42, I Cor 14:40		Sing		Col. 3:16, Eph. 5:19, I Cor. 14:15, Heb, 2:12
		Pray		I Thes. 5:17
		Teach		Acts 5:42
		Communion		Acts 20:7, I Cor. 11:23
		Contribution		I Cor. 16:1-2
Mission		Save Souls		Matt. 5:13-16, John 15:8, 16, I Tim. 4:16, II Tim. 2:2, Heb. 5:12
Warning		Be Faithful		Matt. 15:9, Matt 15:13, Gal. 1:6-8, II John 9:, Rev. 22:18-19