Study notes

Chapter 2. The Pattern of the Church

To be involved in leading and building in God's church we must have a clear picture of where we are going
Exodus 25-40.
Paul’s revelation:- The word church - ekklesia - means called out ones from ek, out of and klesis, a calling and was used by the Greeks of a body of citizens gathered together to discuss the affairs of state. It was also called an assembly Acts 19:39. It has two applications to companies of Christians. Firstly regarding the whole company of the redeemed throughout the present era and secondly to the singular number of congregations of companies of professed believers, born again by the Spirit of God gathering in a certain town or location. 1 Cor.1:2, Act.19:1-12.

5 pictures in the book of Ephesians;

• Body 1:23 compare Eph.4:4, 1 Cor.12:12-31
• Building 2:21 compare Matt.7:21-28, 1 Cor.3:9-13, 1 Peter 2.v 1-9
• Family 3:15 compare Gen.30:1, Acts 2:41,47, 2 Cor.6:14-18
• Bride 5:23-32 compare 1 Cor.13:4-8
• Army 6:10-18 compare 2 Tim.2:3-4.

The Purpose of the Church

• Making disciples of Christ – Matt 28:18-20 – preaching or evangelising Acts 14:21 Baptising and Teaching – Acts14:22,23,28, Acts 15:35
• Maturing believers in Christ Col 1:25-29, Feeding, presenting them mature.
• Manifesting Christ’s glory Col 1:27, 1 Peter 2:12, Matt 5:14-16, 2 Corn 4:5-7

The Thrust of the Church

• Preaching and evangelism outside the church – Teaching and edification inside the church.