Local churches are authorized to provide for the preaching of the gospel, continued

Observation: The gospel was taught.

  • II Corinthians 11:7
  • I Corinthians 15:1-5
  • Matthew 4:23
  • II Thessalonians 1:8
  • I Peter 4:17
  • Matthew 28:18 – Compare Mark 16:15-16.
  • It’s possible to think of the gospel as less than it is or more than it is. Many today see the church as a kind of community improvement project.
    • Romans 1:13
  • We have the joy of spreading God’s message to others.

Observation: Encouragement of preachers was important (not just money).

  • Acts 13:1, 2; 14:26-28

Local churches are authorized to provide for worship and edification

The local church is a group designed for mutual encouragement as we serve God together.

  • The benefit of a group.
    • I Corinthians 14:3-6, 12, 17, 26, 31
    • Atheist mega-churches?
  • Lord’s Supper
    • Acts 20:7, 16, 6 – Paul made extra effort to be with them.
  • Studying/preaching
    • I Corinthians 14:26
    • I Timothy 4:6, 16; II Timothy 4:1-5
  • Giving
    • I Corinthians 16:1-2; II Corinthians 8:1-7; 9:1-2