InstaStudy

The Responsibilities of a True Church of God

An outline exploring the foundational duties and practices of a church committed to biblical truth and apostolic patterns, focusing on its role in proclaiming God's nature, administering salvation, fostering holiness, engaging in evangelism, and cultivating spiritual community.

1. Proclaiming the One True God

1.1 The Singularity of God

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 44:6; Colossians 2:9
  • Affirming that God is one, a singular divine being.
  • Rejecting any concept of multiple persons within the Godhead.
  • Emphasizing that Jesus embodies the fullness of the Godhead bodily.

1.2 Jesus as God Manifest in Flesh

Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; 1 Timothy 3:16
  • Recognizing Jesus as the visible manifestation of the invisible God.
  • Understanding Jesus as the Creator and Sustainer of all things.
  • Declaring Jesus as the Father revealed for our redemption.

1.3 The Holy Spirit as God's Presence

Verses: John 14:16-18; Romans 8:9-11; 2 Corinthians 3:17
  • Identifying the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of God and the Spirit of Christ.
  • Understanding the Holy Spirit as God's indwelling presence in believers.
  • Teaching that the Holy Spirit empowers and guides the church.

2. Administering the New Birth

2.1 The Call to Repentance

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 13:3; Acts 17:30
  • Preaching the necessity of turning from sin and worldly ways.
  • Emphasizing a genuine change of mind and heart towards God.
  • Teaching that repentance is a prerequisite for salvation.

2.2 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5
  • Administering water baptism by immersion for the remission of sins.
  • Baptizing in the name of Jesus Christ, as commanded in Scripture.
  • Teaching that baptism identifies believers with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.

2.3 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 2:39; Acts 10:44-46
  • Teaching that the Holy Spirit is the promise for all believers.
  • Encouraging believers to seek and receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit.
  • Understanding speaking in other tongues as the initial evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit.

3. Living a Consecrated Life

3.1 Separation from Worldly Standards

Verses: Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 6:17; 1 John 2:15-16
  • Instructing believers not to conform to the patterns of this world.
  • Encouraging a distinct lifestyle that reflects Christ's values.
  • Teaching the importance of being set apart for God's purposes.

3.2 Pursuing Personal Holiness

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14; 2 Corinthians 7:1
  • Challenging believers to strive for purity in thought, word, and deed.
  • Emphasizing sanctification as an ongoing process in a believer's life.
  • Teaching that holiness is essential for seeing the Lord.

3.3 Demonstrating Righteous Conduct

Verses: Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15; Titus 2:11-12
  • Encouraging believers to live justly and righteously in all interactions.
  • Teaching the importance of being a light and a positive example to the world.
  • Promoting ethical behavior and integrity in daily life.

4. Engaging in Global Evangelism

4.1 Preaching the Gospel to All Nations

Verses: Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8
  • Fulfilling the Great Commission to spread the good news of salvation.
  • Equipping believers to share their faith effectively.
  • Emphasizing the urgency of reaching every person with the gospel message.

4.2 Making Disciples

Verses: Matthew 28:19-20; 2 Timothy 2:2; Colossians 1:28
  • Teaching and nurturing new believers in the doctrines of Christ.
  • Guiding individuals into spiritual maturity and a deeper walk with God.
  • Establishing strong foundations for continued growth and service.

4.3 Supporting Missionary Endeavors

Verses: Philippians 4:15-16; 3 John 1:8; Romans 10:14-15
  • Encouraging financial and prayerful support for global outreach.
  • Promoting participation in missions through various means.
  • Recognizing the church's role in sending and sustaining those who go forth.

5. Fostering Spiritual Community and Worship

5.1 Cultivating Love and Unity Among Believers

Verses: John 13:34-35; Ephesians 4:3; 1 Peter 4:8
  • Demonstrating Christ-like love as a hallmark of the church.
  • Maintaining peace and harmony within the body of Christ.
  • Encouraging mutual respect and support among members.

5.2 Engaging in Spirit-Led Worship

Verses: John 4:24; Ephesians 5:19-20; Colossians 3:16
  • Worshipping God in spirit and in truth.
  • Allowing the Holy Spirit to lead and inspire corporate worship.
  • Encouraging expressive and heartfelt praise to God.

5.3 Practicing Mutual Edification and Service

Verses: Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 14:26; Galatians 5:13
  • Building up one another through spiritual gifts and encouragement.
  • Serving each other with humility and love.
  • Utilizing individual talents and abilities for the common good of the church.