Category: Church
Subject: Church
Mining the Scriptures: Ephesians 1:22-23
A simple examination of the text. The pronouns regard God in the first instance, and His Son in the last three.
God gave Jesus a place of preeminence in the world. This is best demonstrated in the church, which is figuratively described as His body. As the head is to the body, so is Christ to the church. He is the authority, He is the guide, He is the director.
As the church (His body) does His will on earth, it accomplishes everything God intends. This is our purpose as we live here — do Christ’s will, and accomplish His purpose.
Another truth in the metaphor of the head and the body is that there is one of each. One head and multiple bodies is a monster. There is only one body, on church (cf. Ephesians 4:4).
One body with multiple heads is a monstrosity as well. For any to exalt themselves by taking authority that belongs to Christ is wrong. He has “all authority in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18).
Christ fulfills us completely. His power, goodness, might, love & preeminence empower us in all things (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Sermon: Congregational Resolutions for 2024
Our last 9am sermon of the year looks forward to a prosperous and zealous year 2024 from the members at West Side.
Sermon: Some Identifying Marks of the Lord’s Church
Correct concepts of the makeup, authority and purpose of the Lord’s church, contrasted with erroneous views that a prevalent in our society today.
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Sermon: The Lord’s Church
A fundamental lesson showing that the Lord’s church is made up of the saved, detailing Jesus’ authority over it, and the means by which entrance into the church is gained.
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Sermon: Duties of Local Church Membership
God requires that Christians work together in His service. Too many have a “consumer mentality” when it comes to choosing a church. We should join a faithful congregation, that strives to to God’s work in God’s way.
Sermon: In My Father’s House are Many Mansions
In lesson 35 of the series, the discussion centers on the first 6 verses of Jesus’ address to His disciples on the night of His betrayal. (John 14:1-6).
Sermon: Being a Place for Growth
Speaker: Justin Carrell.
It is important for our congregation that we be a safe and welcoming place, that each of us are able to confess our failings, and grow spiritual as we love one another.
Sermon: What is Autonomy?
A discussion of the concept of autonomy, as it is revealed in the New Testament scriptures. The questions asked and answered, Are local congregations autonomous? What does that mean?
Sermon: Denominationalism
A discussion contrasting contemporary attitudes regarding denominationalism, and what the Bible teaches on the matter.
Sermon: The Curious Case of Micah and His Idols
Micah was one in Israel (like many others) who did what was right in his own eyes (cf. Judges 17:6). His willful, uninformed worship of God teaches us much about the dangers present in our own day.
Sermon: The Church as Family
Speaker: Ian Tilley
Ian Tilley describes and shows by the scripture what it is like to be a member of a faithful congregation of God’s people. As Christians, we are a family!
Sermon: Shake Hands and Be Friendly, Brethren!
Because of the circumstances of the day, it is a challenge for us to maintain our familial affection and closeness as a congregation. However, it is important to our spiritual welfare, and it is required of us by God.
Sermon: The Church Belongs to Christ!
The New Testament is full of proofs that the church belongs to Christ. Since this is true, it is the responsibility of the church to accept His headship and authority, and limit themselves to His desires for her.
Sermon: The Big Picture
Justin Carrell exhorts the brethren to careful self-examination. In this way, we can be sure what our talents, purpose and position is in the Lord’s church, and ensure we are living up to our capabilities.
Sermon: Church Exhortations
Speaker: Josh Cox
Josh turns to 1 Corinthians 3 to see what was lacking among the Corinthians and Paul’s response. He appeals Christians today to make appropriate applications.