The Work and Witness of the Church
An exploration of the Church's divine purpose and its role in sharing the message of salvation.
1. The Great Commission: Our Mandate
1.1 Proclaiming the Gospel
Verses: Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15
- Sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with all people.
- Emphasizing the message of repentance, water baptism in Jesus' name for the remission of sins, and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit.
- Understanding that salvation is found in the name of Jesus alone.
1.2 Making Disciples
Verses: Matthew 28:20; Acts 2:41-42
- Teaching new believers to obey all that Jesus commanded.
- Nurturing spiritual growth through fellowship, prayer, and studying the Word.
- Guiding believers to live a life that reflects the teachings of Christ.
2. The Power of the Holy Spirit in Witnessing
2.1 Empowered by the Spirit
Verses: Acts 1:8; Acts 2:4
- The Holy Spirit equips believers to be effective witnesses.
- Speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance is the initial sign of the infilling of the Holy Spirit.
- The Spirit provides boldness and clarity in sharing the Gospel.
2.2 Living a Spirit-Filled Life
Verses: Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18
- Walking in the Spirit leads to a life of holiness and power.
- Continually seeking to be filled with the Spirit.
- Manifesting the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives.
3. The Church as a Community of Believers
3.1 Fellowship and Unity
Verses: Acts 2:42; John 17:21
- The importance of fellowship among believers.
- Striving for unity in the Spirit.
- Loving one another as Christ loved us.
3.2 Serving One Another
Verses: Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 4:10
- Using our gifts to serve the body of Christ.
- Meeting the needs of others in the church and community.
- Demonstrating the love of Christ through acts of service.
4. The Message of Salvation: Repentance, Baptism, and the Holy Spirit
4.1 Repentance and Conversion
Verses: Acts 3:19; Luke 24:47
- Turning away from sin and turning to God.
- Experiencing a change of heart and mind.
- Confessing Jesus Christ as Lord.
4.2 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name
Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 10:48
- Being baptized in water by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
- Following the example set by the apostles.
- A public declaration of our faith in Jesus.
4.3 Receiving the Holy Spirit
Verses: Acts 2:38-39; Acts 19:6
- The promise of the Holy Spirit is for all who believe.
- Speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance is the initial sign.
- Living a life empowered by the Spirit.