UNDERSTANDING THE CHURCHBY KAYODE CROWN

INTRODUCTIONThe number one identity of the church is that it is Christ’s (Matthew 16:13-18).

He is the foundation (1Corinthians 3:11).

The church is a people called out to be the bride of Christ.

But the identity of the church can be seen in three different ways.

A. The Physical Identity

B. The Spiritual Identity

C. The Functional Identity

AThe physical identity of the church

times and places

1CHURCH LOCAL

one place, one time

Philemon 1:1-2

Unique genetic DNA

2CHURCH TERRITORIAL

Many places, one time Titus 1:5, 12-13 1Corinthians 14:33

Worldwide, country, regional

Avoid territorial demonic influence

3CHURCH TIMELESS

All time, all places

Hebrews 12:22-23, Ephesians 3:14-15, John 1:12, Acts 20:28 observe the example of those who have gone ahead

BThe spiritual identity of the church

Power and Wisdom 1Corinthians 1:24

1 CHRIST’S PRESENCE BY THE HOLY SPIRIT

1Corinthians 14:23-25 Matthew 18:16-20 Mark 16:19-20, Luke 4:18, Hebrews 2:3-4

spiritual power

2 CHRIST’S BRIDE

Ephesians 5:22-30, 2Corinthians 11:1-2,Revelation 22:17

spiritual relationship

3CHRIST’S TRUTH Isaiah 2:1-3, Matthew 28:19-20, 1Timothy 3:15

spiritual transformation

CFunctional identity of the church

saints and servants

1Peter 4:10-11, Colossians 3:16-17

The church is a living organism and just as the human body, it expresses a high level of structuring for adequate function.

1SAINTS

Entry level John 3:3Romans 12:1-8 1John 3:16

love one another

2SERVERS

Acts 6:3,4, 1Corinthians 13done in love

3SET ONES

Ephesians 4:11-12, 15

Christ set some in the church. Through their ministry they connect the body of Christ together and to Christ.

They should speak the truth in love

visit dailymedit.com for more