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