The Church  

    Part 4, last in series

The Greek word ekklesia refers to a meeting of people called out and summoned together. The church headed by Christ includes believers redeemed by his voluntary death and resurrection...pilgrims no longer belonging to the world. 

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   ...you were redeemed from the empty way of life...with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. 1 Peter 1:18-19

   The church is a temple of the Holy Spirit and members of Christ himself. ...you are God's temple and God's Spirit lives in you. 1 Corinthians 3:16 

   No true church exists apart from vital union with Christ. God...appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body... Ephesians 1:22

   The church is a spiritual fellowship, involving the grace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. 2 Corinthians 13:14 

   The church is an army in spiritual conflict with Satan and sin. The living Word of God delivers people from Satan's dominion and conquers every power of this dark world. Acts 26:18, Ephesians 6:10-18, Hebrews 4:12, Rev. 19:15, 21.

   The church is a foundation of the truth. 1 Timothy 3:15. 

   The church invisible is the body of true believers united by faith in Christ. The visible church is local congregations of faithful overcomers along with those who are false, Rev. 2:2; fallen, Rev. 2:5; spiritually dead, Rev. 3:1; or lukewarm, Rev. 3:16. 

    The church's hope is centered on Christ's return. We wait for the hope - the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior. Titus 2:13 

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