I. The Church is

Church - People of God - Keeping the word of God which can lead people to reconcilation to God.

Church - Body of Christ - Different people, different gifts, functions. In spite of the diversity, the church is unified in the purpose and mission, which is the direction of Christ as head of the Church.

Church - Evidence of God's re-creational work. Whereas the old humanity was self-centered and rooted in law and judgment, new humanity would be God-centered and focused on grace and reconciliation. New humanity is God's new creation, made capable of righteousness and love through Jesus Christ. But one needs to careful. The church as the new humanity odes not always show love and righteousness, and it would be disastrous to think of some of the acts of church people as God's will. So each of us must be careful to seek faithfully to follow Christ and to serve one another in love.

II The purpose of the Church is to increase the love of God, neighbor, and brothers and sisters in Christ.

Posted by yyht
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