• Introduction

    • God gave specific (II Samuel 6:7) instructions about carrying the ark, but David did not follow them, resulting in the death of Uzzah.

    • Rehoboam corrupted worship.

    • Naaman at first refused God’s commands and was not healed until he relented and obeyed.

    • The Pharisees corrupted God’s teaching and were repeatedly rebuked for it by Jesus.

    • II John 1:9

  • What do we learn about local churches from the New Testament?

    • They assembled to worship God and edify each other (I Corinthians 14:12, 26, 40).

      • Singing – Colossians 3:16

      • Praying

      • Lord’s Supper

      • Preaching

      • Giving

    • They appointed men to work as elders and deacons. I Timothy 3:1-13

    • They dealt with sin among members. I Corinthians 5:1-2

    • They sounded forth the word. I Thessalonians 1:8

    • They used resources to care for needy Christians only. I Timothy 5:16

  • Modern religious “wisdom”

    • Worship God commands vs. entertainment, praise bands, contests, youth ministries, etc.

    • Elders and deacons vs. “pastor” system – a preacher who is the public face of the church and may run things.

    • Dealing with sin among members vs. a vast majority of people who don’t like being confronted with their sin.

    • Teaching and preaching vs. other gifts, treats, and coffee.

    • Using resources for needy Christians only vs. operating as a public charity.

  • God knew exactly what He was doing!

    • Worship commanded by God
      • Edifies us! Hebrews 10:23-25
    • Elders and deacons
      • Gets the right work done the right way! I Peter 5:1-4
    • Dealing with sin among members
      • Protects souls! I Corinthians 5:6
    • Teaching and preaching
      • Saves! James 1:21
    • Using resources for needy Christians only
      • Keeps the focus on spiritual things! Acts 6:2-4

  • Quote from Frank Turek – Stealing From God