InstaStudy

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.