InstaStudy

The True Church of Jesus of Nazareth in the Last Days Today: Guided and Empowered by the Holy Ghost.

This study explores the identity, foundation, and mission of the true church in the contemporary world, emphasizing its divine guidance and empowerment through the Spirit of God. We will examine the essential elements of salvation, the nature of God as revealed in Jesus Christ, and the practical living of believers as they await His return.

1. The Foundation of the Church: Jesus Christ and His Identity.

1.1 The One True God Revealed in Christ.

Verses: Isaiah 9:6; John 14:9; Colossians 2:9
  • God is one, and this one God has revealed Himself to humanity supremely in the person of Jesus Christ.
  • Jesus is not merely a part of God, but the full manifestation of the entire Godhead in human form.
  • To know Jesus is to know the Father, as He is the visible image of the invisible God.

1.2 Jesus as God Manifest in Flesh.

Verses: 1 Timothy 3:16; John 1:1, 14
  • The eternal God took on human flesh, becoming Jesus Christ, to redeem mankind.
  • Jesus is fully God and fully man, bridging the gap between the divine and humanity.
  • His incarnation is the ultimate demonstration of God's love and plan for salvation.

1.3 The Authority and Lordship of Jesus.

Verses: Matthew 28:18; Acts 2:36; Philippians 2:9-11
  • Jesus possesses all authority in heaven and on earth, making Him the supreme head of the church.
  • Confessing Jesus as Lord is fundamental to Christian faith and submission to His will.
  • His name holds ultimate power and authority, before which all creation will bow.

2. The New Birth Experience: Entry into the True Church.

2.1 Repentance: Turning from Sin.

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19
  • Repentance is a necessary first step for salvation, involving a change of mind and heart leading to a turning away from sin.
  • It is a sincere sorrow for sin and a commitment to live according to God's will.
  • Without repentance, there can be no remission of sins or true conversion.

2.2 Water Baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ.

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 19:5; Colossians 2:12
  • Water baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ is essential for the remission of sins and identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
  • This specific formula for baptism is consistently demonstrated in the book of Acts by the apostles.
  • It is a commanded act of obedience and a vital part of the new birth experience.

2.3 The Baptism of the Holy Ghost with the Evidence of Speaking in Tongues.

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:45-46; Acts 19:6
  • The baptism of the Holy Ghost is a distinct experience subsequent to water baptism, empowering believers for service and witness.
  • The initial, outward evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost is speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
  • This experience connects believers directly to the power and presence of God, fulfilling the promise of Jesus.

3. The Holy Ghost: Guide and Empowerer of the Church.

3.1 The Holy Ghost as the Spirit of God.

Verses: John 4:24; 2 Corinthians 3:17; Romans 8:9
  • The Holy Ghost is not a separate entity but the Spirit of the one God, the Spirit of Jesus Christ.
  • It is the active presence of God working within believers and the church.
  • The indwelling Spirit signifies belonging to Christ and enables a life of spiritual freedom.

3.2 Guidance and Revelation by the Spirit.

Verses: John 16:13; Romans 8:14; Acts 13:2
  • The Holy Ghost provides divine guidance, leading believers into all truth and revealing God's will.
  • Being led by the Spirit is a hallmark of true sonship and spiritual maturity.
  • The Spirit directs the church in its mission and ministry, calling individuals to specific tasks.

3.3 Empowerment for Witnessing and Service.

Verses: Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:7; Ephesians 3:20
  • The Holy Ghost empowers believers to be effective witnesses of Jesus Christ to the world.
  • This divine power enables the church to carry out its mission and overcome spiritual opposition.
  • God's power working within us through the Spirit allows for accomplishments beyond human capability.

3.4 Gifts and Fruit of the Spirit.

Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7; Galatians 5:22-23; Romans 12:6
  • The Holy Ghost bestows spiritual gifts upon believers for the edification and effective functioning of the church.
  • Alongside gifts, the Spirit produces character traits, known as the fruit of the Spirit, which reflect Christlikeness.
  • Both gifts and fruit are essential for a balanced and vibrant spiritual life within the true church.

4. Living as the True Church in the Last Days.

4.1 Holiness and Separation.

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Corinthians 6:17; Hebrews 12:14
  • The true church is called to a life of holiness, reflecting God's character in all aspects of living.
  • Believers are to be separate from the world's sinful practices and values, maintaining spiritual purity.
  • Holiness is not optional but a prerequisite for experiencing God's presence and ultimately seeing Him.

4.2 The Church's Mission: Evangelism and Discipleship.

Verses: Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Acts 2:47
  • The primary mission of the church is to preach the gospel to every person and make disciples of all nations.
  • This involves teaching believers to obey all of Jesus' commands, ensuring spiritual growth and maturity.
  • The Spirit empowers the church to effectively reach the lost and see souls added to the body of Christ.

4.3 Enduring Persecution and Tribulation.

Verses: John 16:33; 2 Timothy 3:12; Revelation 2:10
  • Believers in the true church should expect to face tribulation and persecution in the last days.
  • Godly living often attracts opposition from the world, but Christ has already overcome.
  • Faithfulness through suffering leads to eternal reward and demonstrates true commitment to Christ.

4.4 Expectation of Christ's Return.

Verses: John 14:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 22:20
  • The true church lives with the blessed hope and eager expectation of Jesus Christ's imminent return.
  • His return will involve the resurrection of the righteous dead and the catching away of living believers.
  • This hope motivates believers to live holy lives and remain steadfast in their faith until He comes.