PURPOSE OF THE CHURCH

1.       We can learn by looking at what the purpose of the church is NOT.

2.       Then we can learn what the purpose of the church IS.

WHAT THE PURPOSE OF THE CHURCH IS NOT:

1.       To direct the affairs of the state

a.       The church will never be in control of the secular affairs of the world

b.       We may disagree with a law, but we do not control the government.

 

2.       To engage in and promote recreation, entertainment, manufacturing, retail business.

a.       The legal term – non-profit organization

b.       We are not in “business”

c.       The church is not here to make money

 

3.       To pretend that obstacles of faith do not exist, hiding from reality.

a.       People need to be encouraged, to have hope

b.       But we must also be real – We have problems, family, money, work, personal

c.       Many Televangelists – preach a “health and wealth” gospel

 

4.       To swell its numbers at the expense of truth.

a.       Growth is important – but it is a by-product (result) of our work

b.       We pay attention to attendance and contribution – they are measures of spiritual growth

c.       Large churches are not doing better than smaller ones

d.       Many smaller churches (Cades) are doing more than many larger churches.

WHAT THE PURPOSE OF THE CHURCH IS:

1. Preach the Word

2. Strengthen the saved

3. Help the needy

4. Be good and do good