Many passages speak simply of the church, sometimes identifying the place (city or house) where the group of Christians met. Therefore, we can refer to the church simply as “the church” (Acts 8:1; 9:31; Romans 16:1).
Frequently, the descriptions of the church in the New Testament show the relationship that exists between the Lord and his church. The church belongs to God, and is often called “the church of God” (see Acts 20:28; I Corinthians 1:2; 10:32; Galatians 1:13; 1 Timothy 3:5,15).
Jesus shed his blood to purchase the church. Therefore, Paul spoke of “churches of Christ” (Romans 16:16) and Jesus spoke of his own church (Matthew 16:18).
Religious division in our society is shameful. Many people are confused in a world with many different denominations. Some of these names honor certain men, while others emphasize specific doctrinal points.
The unity of the saved is based on the name and doctrine of Christ. We must do everything by the authority of Jesus or in his name (Colossians 3:17). “There is salvation in no other name” (Acts 4:12). This unity is possible only when we speak and think the same thing, which is the doctrine of Christ (I Corinthians 1:10). When men begin to follow other men, they lose unity with Christ and his people (I Corinthians 1:11-13).
Being the Church the body of Christ it is indivisible. Christ is perfect, he is not a body with three heads nor a head with many bodies. Paul argued that we should identify ourselves only with the Lord we serve. Jesus was crucified for us and we are baptized in his name. Jesus, and not men, deserves our dedication and honor. The true followers of God are part of the church that belongs to the Lord Jesus Christ, the one and true God.
Guarulhos - SP
Pastor Wilson de Lima Salustiano
Master in Pastoral Psychology