What We Believe: Ecclesiology
April 26, 2015 Series: What We Believe
Scripture: Ephesians 3:1–3:13
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We believe that a New Testament Church is an organized body of born again believers, practicing the scriptural ordinances: Baptism, the Lord's Table; also the example of the early church: actively engaged in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Bethel Bible Church Constitution - Article III - Statement of Faith - Section 11
To Preach the Unsearchable Riches of Christ
Ephesians 3:1-13
I. The Definition of the Church (6)
A. It is not a building
B. It is a "called-out" people
One 'invisible' church - 'visible' in many places (Ephesians 4:1-6; 1:1)
II. The Purpose of the Church (8-10; Matthew 28:19-20)
III. The Ordinances of the Church
1 Corinthians 11 - The Lord's Table
Acts 8,9,16 - Baptism
IV. The Function of the Church (Ephesians 4:1-16)
To do the work of the ministry
Core Values of BBC:
Exaltation (Romans 12:1-2) worshipping God everyday in every way
Equipping (trained, properly fitted, prepared) diet and exercise
Edification (building up)
Evangelism (making Him known, each one,reach one)
V. The Leadership of the Church
Elders (shepherd, pastor, oversee) and Deacons (Acts 6; Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:1-13/Titus 1:5-9; Acts 20:17, 28)
Next Steps:
> Answer the question about membership in the ONE church!
> Think and respond with action to the questions about membership in the local church!
Why join? To glorify God. For unbelievers so that the gospel is clear. For believers so you can encourage and edify, be accountable and walk worthy. To make disciples and to teach, help each other's grow in Christ. Leaders know who they serve (Hebrews 13:17)
Sinners who are redeemed by the blood of Christ gather together for the glory of God
More in What We Believe
May 3, 2015
What We Believe: Church OrdinancesApril 19, 2015
What We Believe: Priesthood of the BelieverApril 12, 2015
What We Believe: Eternal State of Man