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CHURCH COVENANT
Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, we do now in the presence of God, angels, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.
We engage therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this church, in knowledge, holiness, and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines; to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations.
We also engage to maintain family and secret devotion, to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to avoid all tattling, back-biting, and excessive anger; to abstain from the sale and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage, and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Saviour.
We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember one another in prayer; to aid each other in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offence, but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the rules of our Saviour, to secure it without delay.
We, moreover, engage that when we remove from this place we will, as soon as possible, unite with some other church, where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant, and the principles of God's Word.
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Introduction:
The church covenant is important for several reasons. It spells out clearly the agreement made by the membership of the church to one another and to Jesus Christ. It sets forth a well-defined body of belief. It is an agreement of choice, binding the membership of the church to a policy and program which, when followed, will strengthen and build up the spiritual body of the church as well as set forth a system of doctrine which will benefit each believer in matters relating to both the flesh and the spirit. The Church Covenant is a compact document that reflects basic principles in the Word of God.
This study will be an in-depth analysis of the agreement to the church and the church member’s responsibility to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It will be paragraph upon paragraph, sentence upon sentence; phrase upon phrase; and word upon word.
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Paragraph One
Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, we do now, in the presence of God, angels, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.
"Having"
"Having" refers to an act of owning as in owning a commitment or as in "being under necessity or obligation to perform that which was promised." When a person becomes a member of the church, he or she obligates themselves to follow the church covenant and to live by the Word of God. The act of becoming a member of the church places a grave responsibility upon the person uniting with the assembly. It is a responsibility that cannot be taken lightly without seriously affecting the church as well as grieving the Spirit, sinning against the Father, and doing wrong to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
"Having been"
"Having been" emphasizes upon the time element of uniting or attaching oneself to the church. "Having been" began the instant of membership into the church. Each individual is responsible to be obedient to the covenant as well as to the Word of God.
Disobedience to the Word of God as well as the covenant by which we join together our lives as members of the same body, carries with it responsibility to live within the framework of the Scripture and the covenant we make with one another. Membership within the local body of Christ carries with it discipline for negligence and violation of the terms of the covenant and of the Holy Scriptures.
"Having been" means that at a point in the past, certain obligations become binding upon the newly born believer entering the local assembly. These obligations are not measured in the short run. They are designed to be binding as in a marriage "until death do us part."
The membership of the church has certain privileges attached to it as well as certain disciplinary actions to be taken when the principles by which we govern ourselves have fallen by the wayside. Disobedient members of the body are not to be overlooked. The church is responsible to exercise discipline when necessary.
"Having been led"
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"Having been led" speaks to the effect that the actions we obligate ourselves to are not merely words but is in fact a body of laws which every member of the church is required to safeguard.
The significance of the word "led" is that we did not obligate ourselves on our own merits, but we were led to this decision by an agent other than ourselves. We had a need, upon being born again, to place our lights upon the candlestick from which place it could glow and show our determination toward obedience.
We go from "having", "having been", and "having been led" to a crucial understanding of why this covenant is of such great importance.
"Having been led, as we"
These two additional words "as we" lay out the scope of the covenant. This is an inclusive allusion to our relationship to the Lord and one to another. Inclusive in that every member of the local assembly share the same obligation and responsibility.
When one suffers, all suffer. When one is unfaithful then all who do not work diligently and with no regard of self, become unfaithful with the offender. When one is lying, cheating, stealing, drinking, fornicating---all who sit by and watch it happen become as guilty as the offender. The mandate of Scripture commands that sin be dealt with in the church.
The word "we" means that all are affected by the action or actions of the one. This fact along with the Lord's command to "judge yourselves" is as binding today as when he first spoke the command. If we do not judge ourselves then it becomes the responsibility and obligation of others to do the judging.
"Having been led as we believe"
The basis of our belief as stated does not rest upon what we desire to believe but is founded upon the foundation of Jesus Christ as made known to us. There are certain things that we believe, not because we desire to believe; but because we were "led" to believe. Our need to believe came not from our knowledge but from another Source...our believing is related to Deity and not to the heart of man.
When we (plural) go about to establish our own system of belief, we automatically get into trouble. What we believe must come from God and not from man and it does matter what we believe!!! Failure to believe and to practice that which Christ Jesus has commanded will make us out of fellowship with the Lord, with His church, and with one another.
From whence did our "believing" come?
"Having been led as we believe... by the Spirit of God,"
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We as a people of God have been led to believe certain truths that the bulk of humanity scorns. These beliefs did not originate from our own being but came from Another. It was the Spirit of God who pressed upon our souls unto salvation and then taught us to accept these beliefs as recorded in the Church Covenant. These beliefs in the Church Covenant are consistent with the Word of God.
Knowing that we believe because we were led to believe by the Spirit of God, should instill within every soul in the Lord's Church determination to strive for the mark of the high calling of God. Because this leading came from the Spirit of God, we can have faith that the precepts contained in the Church Covenant are there for a purpose.
The word "we" is a plural word. Our congregations do not consist of one person but of a larger number. This is a matter of the whole working together as one body in Christ.
"We believe" because of the leadership of the Spirit of God. What we believe should be consistent to what the Spirit of God led the writers of the Scripture to pen. If we are led by the Spirit, we will believe what the Spirit teaches. All problems within the church stem from not believing and practicing what the Holy Spirit ultimately leads us to believe.
The Spirit of God leads us to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior. The Spirit of God...third Person of the Godhead leads us to receive. To receive means to accept and welcome the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior.
Notice carefully the following words as they relate to salvation: a.
Lord = lord, master, owner, possessor, sovereign
b.
Jesus = a Savior, Jesus
c.
Christ = The Christ, The Anointed One, The Messiah
d.
as our = A plural word meaning "of or belonging or relating to us."
“Our” in the sense of belonging to all of us as a group.
e.
Savior = Savior, preserver, deliverer
The Spirit of God leads us to be "baptized" as a "profession of our faith. This baptism does not save one from sin. Baptism enters heavily upon the formula of profession. It is an outward expression of an inward reality. Without the outward profession the inward possession is left without the necessary confession of faith. Baptism is our public profession of faith in The Lord Jesus Christ.
The definition of profession is "Act of declaring, avowal, affirmation, statement." We confess Jesus as our Lord in salvation.
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Romans 10:8-11 8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy
mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 That
if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in
thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth
confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever
believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
Our profession is a public act declaring one to be a child of God and a member of the assemble or church of the Lord Jesus Christ. By the act of baptism we declare ourselves publicly to be children of God and disciples of Christ. John preached baptism as a declaration of repentance and salvation.
Mark 1:4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of
repentance for the remission of sins.
Luke 3:7-8 7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of
him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to
come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to
say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you,
That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.
Peter preached it the same at Pentecost.
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of
you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall
receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Peter, like John, makes the declaration that repentance precedes the act of baptism and that baptism is not the active cause which procures salvation. He lays emphasis upon baptism as an action that declares what has already taken place. When using the word "for" in the phrase
“for the remission of sins”, Peter is saying that one should "be baptized" for or because of the remission of sins.
Life came through repentance. (Repentance and faith are simultaneous.) Acts 11:18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and
glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted
repentance unto life.
Profession of faith or being ready to declare themselves followers of Christ are found in the following Scriptures.
Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and
fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
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Acts 8:36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water:
and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
Acts 9:18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he
received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.
Every person that confesses Christ as his Savior must profess Him in baptism or that person will not be counted in the church. The Holy Spirit leads us to be baptized in the name of the Father, in the name of the Son, and in the name of the Holy Spirit.
We do now
At the point of baptism and entrance into the local church, the believer enters a binding relationship with every other believer within that local body. The believer is not an isolated individual set apart from every other believer within the local church. He becomes a functioning part of the whole. His covenant relationship with the local church requires of him---faithfulness to the principles outlined in the Church Covenant, a determination to serve with the whole as a singular unit in carrying out the expressed will of God, a militant stance in protecting and safeguarding the covenant and a willingness to give of himself for the benefit of others.
Upon entering into agreement or covenant with the membership of the local church, the new member pledges his cooperation with the body he is joining. That cooperation will be seen in a dedicated and committed lifestyle.
Notice those three words again: “We do now” meaning “at the time of becoming a part of the whole.” We covenant together in the unity of the faith, and in the unity of the knowledge of Christ.
Ephesians 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the
knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the
stature of the fulness of Christ:
We covenant together to be of one mind and to live in peace.
2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good
comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall
be with you.
We covenant together to exemplify the mind of Christ.
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
We covenant together in one accord and agreement as did the early church.
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Acts 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and
breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and
singleness of heart,
We covenant together in carrying out the great commission.
Matthew 28:18-20 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All
power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and
teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever
I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of
the world. Amen.
We covenant together in singleness of heart, meaning our spirits.
Acts 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and
breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and
singleness of heart,
We covenant together in the present of witnesses, and in the presence of God Who knows the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper
than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul
and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts
and intents of the heart.
In the presence of God Who oversees all actions and reactions, and Who sees the end from before the beginning.
Isaiah 46:10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times
the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will
do all my pleasure:
In the presence of God Who sees "All" we say, do, or think.
1 John 3:20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart,
and knoweth all things.
How do we know God is in our presence when we covenant together?
Psalm 139:7-12 7 Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee
from thy presence? 8 If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make
my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning,
and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10 Even there shall thy hand
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lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, Surely the darkness
shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. 12 Yea, the darkness
hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and
the light are both alike to thee.
Psalm 34:15 The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears
are open unto their cry.
In the presence of Angels
Some say there are as many angels as there are humans. "The number of angels are equal to the number of humans who have lived, will live, or are living therefore God's creation is balanced." Chaffer
Angels are spectators in the church.
1 Peter 1:12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto
us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them
that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down
from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
Angels rejoice over the repenting of sinners.
Luke 15:10 Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the
angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.
Angels shall separate the wheat from the tares.
Matthew 13:39 The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the
end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.
Angels watch over and protect us.
2 Kings 6:16 And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more
than they that be with them.
Psalms 34:7-8 7 The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that
fear him, and delivereth them. 8 O taste and see that the LORD is good:
blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
Angels minister to the believer. They minister even before an individual becomes a believer.
Hebrews 1:13-14 13 But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on
my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? 14 Are they not
all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of
salvation?
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They deliver messages from God in the presence of this Assembly. When we unite with a church, we enter a relationship which brings the full assembly to note or witness our action.
When becoming a member of a local body, we commit ourselves to the principles which identify that body of believers as a New Testament Church. As a result of becoming a member of a local church, we become accountable to the church for our actions.
1 Corinthians 5:12-13 For what have I to do to judge them also that are
without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are
without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that
wicked person.
We do now
We do now most solemnly and joyfully (Most solemnly = seriously, soberly, earnestly, steadfastly, formally), and joyfully (cheerfully, happily, and in an optimistic frame of heart and mind) enter, (come into, join, register with) into covenant (bond, oath, pledge, agreement, contract) with one another in association, in coalition, in brotherhood, in company, identified with, in alliance, in union with, in connection with, in adherence with, alongside, by the side of, neck and neck with, and shoulder to shoulder as one body.
As one unit, not acting separately from the whole, in such a relationship that one represents the whole and the whole represents the one. As one organism alive, thriving, functioning, growing, developing, maturing as a complete body.
As one in purpose and program, having the same ideas, beliefs, commitments, determinations, goals, purposes and plans to carry out that purpose.
In an intricate and internal part of the whole, the single, working in conjunction with the rest of the body having been made a part of that body, in Christ.
What does it mean to be in Christ? It means to be in obedience to the commands of Christ.
1 Peter 1:2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father,
through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the
blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
It means to operate within the boundaries He set in motion.
Job 14:5 Seeing his days are determined, the number of his months are
with thee, thou hast appointed his bounds that he cannot pass;
It means to be under His blood and to have made a life-time commitment to Him regardless of the cost.
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Ephesians 2:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of
truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye
were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
It means to share in suffering with Christ.
2 Timothy 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer
persecution.
It means to dedicate to be faithful.
Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the
saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:
It means we are a part of the whole being fused together so that we no longer stand alone.
Romans 12:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one
members one of another.
It means our eternal existence is linked directly with Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all
men most miserable.
It means our freedom is the result of what God has done through Christ.
Galatians 2:4 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men
most miserable.
It means life is associated with the Person of Jesus Christ.
2 Timothy 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according
to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,
It means we have become partakers of the eternal purpose of God.
Ephesians 3:11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in
Christ Jesus our Lord:
It means there is no more judgment to undergo regarding salvation in that Christ took all the judgment against the repentant sinner in giving Himself upon the cross of Calvary.
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in
Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
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It means that the triumph of Christ over sin, death and eternal punishment is appropriated to the repentant sinner.
2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to
triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us
in every place.
It means to become a new creature.
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:
old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
It means we have become a masterpiece in the hands of God.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto
good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
It means the believer is given justification and redemption through the finished work of Jesus Christ.
Romans 3:24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption
that is in Christ Jesus:
It means the act of being made holy and set apart to a holy work is summed up in Jesus 1 Corinthians 1:2 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul;
and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
It means absolute equality in the unity offered through Jesus Christ.
Galatians 3:28 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul;
and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
It means the promise of God is to all peoples and is upon the same basis.
Ephesians 3:6 For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the
children of disobedience:
It means that the highest calling and most noble pursuit is to be found in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of
God in Christ Jesus.
It means that spiritual maturity can be realized only in Christ.
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Colossians 1:28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every
man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
It means that in the final analysis, the extension of the grace of God is made through Jesus Christ.
2 Timothy 2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in
Christ Jesus.
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Paragraph Two
We engage therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this church, in knowledge, holiness, and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines; to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations.
We
Having reference to the entire local body of baptized believers who have covenanted together to carry out the will of The Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. We are those who have met on the common ground of salvation and membership in the one body with Christ Jesus as Head and Lord overall. To be alone with the standing of "I" is to be standing out of fellowship with The Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit as well as out of fellowship with the body with whom we are joined. We are not to only talk the talk but also walk the walk of the Christian experience. The act of coveting together better enables us to carry out the work bestowed upon us.
We Engage,
We pledge, make a non-verbal contract, are commissioned to abide by the principles of God's Word, are in the service of the Master as an employee of His business.
We are obligated by a blood contract to responsibly give ourselves to the service of our Master. It is He that has purchased us making us to become His property, causing us to be under His authority, obligating us to submissiveness to His rule and governorship. Because He has purchased us, He has the right to give instructions in the matters pertaining to what He desires of us.
We engage therefore, based on belonging to Him to pledge, make a contract and agree to abide by the principles of God's Word. We recognize our duty to commit to and obey whatsoever He commands. His commands and desires are made known to us by the internal working of the Holy Ghost. That internal working, that Divine leadership leads us in our coveting together. Acceptance of the leadership of the Holy Spirit is indication that we are in fact “in Christ.”
Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons
of God.
Because, hence, thus, accordingly, consequently, as a result of having been led by the Spirit of God to unite in work and fellowship, we engage on the principle of continued leadership to do certain things which are characteristic of a genuine believer in Christ Jesus.
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The leadership of the Holy Spirit is not a hit and miss proposition. He continually leads us in fulfilling our covenant relationship with one another. The Holy Spirit leads us to salvation, to baptism, to covenant together, to witness, to work, to faithfulness, to obedience, to maturity and to waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Holy Ghost is actively involved in every sphere of the believer’s life. He is not a passive influence, He is the energizing force behind all that we covenant to do, all that we hope to do, all that we are able to do.
We engage therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, The Christian is given aid to effectively and circumspectly (cautiously, watchfully, carefully, guardedly, mindfully, vigilantly, prudently) walk. He must realize that he cannot walk alone and get the job done. Christians can be only what they should be and can be by the aid of the Holy Spirit. While Christ Jesus was on earth, He did for the saints what the Holy Spirit now does.
John 15:4-5 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit
of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him,
the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
The Holy Spirit now does for the Christian what Christ did for the early church.
John 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you
from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the
Father, he shall testify of me:
John 16:12-15 12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I
have loved you. 13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay
down his life for his friends. 14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I
command you. 15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant
knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all
things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. 16 Ye
have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye
should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that
whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
Romans 8:1-2 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which
are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For
the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law
of sin and death.
Ephesians 6:17-18 17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the
Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and
supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance
and supplication for all saints;
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Ephesians 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled
with the Spirit;
We engage therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to walk together We are to walk. The word “walk” speaks of activity, progression, movement, forward motion with deliberate purpose, advancement, development. Every believer who has entered a covenant relationship with other believers are marching forward, with deliberation, with purpose and with a particular goal in mind. That purpose and goal are summed up in carrying out the will of God.
We are to walk together hand in hand. Solidified, having the same aim, going in the same direction, doing that for which the body was designed, manifesting a united determination, seeking the same end, and sharing the same expectations.
Walking together is where the whole concerns itself with the one and the one concerns itself with the whole. Walking together is where the strong help the weak, the spiritually enlightened help the blind, and those who hear the voice of God in His Word help the deaf.
Walking together develops a united front through which the warriors of Christ are able to make a positive impact on those who have never received Jesus Christ as personal Savior.
Walking together is the only way the church will be able to carry out the commission Christ gave to her. The commission was not given to a single individual. It was given to a body, a collection, a particular group, a unit made up of many members, each working together, striving together, coveting together, and walking together.
The commission does not belong to the pastor-teacher, it does not belong to the deacons, it does not belong to any particular individual in a singular sense; it belongs to the body covenanted together to do what one person could not do alone.
We engage therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to walk together in Christian love.
Christian love is unlike the love of the world. Christian love comes from Christ. We are to love one another as Christ loved us.
Christian love is seen in the act of walking together in peace and unison. The love of a Christian does not show itself when we are handicapped by being ill with the brethren. Love is the great commandment of the LORD Jesus Christ. All other commandments are dependent upon the commandment to love.
Matthew 22:35-40 35Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a
question, tempting him, and saying, 36 Master, which is the great
commandment in the law? 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the
Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto
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it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two
commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
John 13:34-35 34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one
another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall
all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
John 15:12-14 12This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I
have loved you. 13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay
down his life for his friends. 14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I
command you. 15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant
knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all
things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
1 John 4:7-21 7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and
every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth
not knoweth not God; for God is love. 9 In this was manifested the love of
God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world,
that we might live through him. 10 Herein is love, not that we loved God,
but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. 12 No
man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in
us, and his love is perfected in us. 13 Hereby know we that we dwell in
him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have
seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the
world. 15 Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God
dwelleth in him, and he in God. 16 And we have known and believed the
love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth
in God, and God in him. 17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may
have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this
world. 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear:
because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. 19
We love him, because he first loved us. 20 If a man say, I love God, and
hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he
hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? 21 And this
commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother
also.
1 John 5:1-3 1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God:
and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of
him. 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love
God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we
keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
Revelation 2:4-5 4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou
hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen,
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and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and
will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
We engage therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to strive for the advancement of this church,
We engage to strive. To strive means to make a determined action, a dedicated effort, a genuine attempt, a noble undertaking, a endeavor of worth, a labor of love, a struggle for survival, a battle to win, a fight for truth, and contending for the faith.
We engage to strive for the advancement. To advance means to move, to progress, to further, to promote, to elevate, to raise. For the Church to advance there must be people willing to be motivated to service.
We engage to strive for the advancement of this
These words spell out a particular action on behalf of a particular cause. No Christian can strive who puts no genuine effort into the matter. The action is to build up and the cause is the body of baptized believers.
We engage together to strive for the advancement of this Church,
Our concern is "this church." We are an intrinsic part of this local assembly. We are to be concerned about other local churches but not to the point of neglecting "this church."
We engage together to advance this church in knowledge otherwise the church will not increase in knowledge where the membership does not give herself to study of the Word of God.
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that
needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but
fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Romans 10:2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according
to knowledge.
Take note: Zeal is not enough, there must be knowledge. Mistaken zeal caused the church to stray from the Word. Mistaken zeal caused Peter to cut off the ear of the High Priest's servant. Mistaken zeal caused Saul of Tarsus to persecute the church of God. Zeal without knowledge is evidence that the person acting thusly has not grown in grace and knowledge as they should.
Trying to do right without knowledge is not adequate for the church to grow spiritually. Of what is the Church to have knowledge? The church is to have knowledge of God.
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Romans 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their
knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things
which are not convenient;
Hosea 6:6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of
God more than burnt offerings.
The church is to have knowledge of her responsibility.
Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the
LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk
humbly with thy God?
The church is to have knowledge of her privilege. The church is to have knowledge of her purpose for being. Ephesians 3:21 gives the instruction to give glory to God.
The church is to have knowledge of her priorities.
The church is to have knowledge of her commission.
We engage together to advance this church (in) holiness. Holiness is a doctrine of both the Old and New Testaments. A quick look at Scripture indicates that holiness in both Testaments is linked to one major concept; That being "Separation."
Both Testaments speak of "holiness" as being "Separated" unto the LORD.
Jeremiah 2:3 Israel was holiness unto the LORD, and the firstfruits of his
increase: all that devour him shall offend; evil shall come upon them, saith
the LORD.
1 Thessalonians 4:7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto
holiness.
2 Corinthians 6:17-18 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye
separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive
you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and
daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
Neither Israel in his day nor we in this day can satisfy God without holiness. Holiness has to do with being made (not of ourselves) but of God unto a righteous "separation" from the world. If any individual has truly been separated from the world by an act of God; then, that individual will be led to develop a lifestyle of "holiness" or "separation" unto the LORD.
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It is true that a church is only as holy as her members are separated. An unholy (unseparated) membership is an abomination unto the Lord. The Lord Jesus Christ verifies this by stating that if a person loves Him, they will do what he commands.
We agree to advance this church in comfort:
Advancement of the church in comfort does not mean becoming at ease in Zion; neither does it mean that the pews should have padding on them. Neither does it mean that the physical building should have air conditioning in the Summer and heating in the Winter.
Then what does it mean?
2 Corinthians 1:4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be
able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith
we ourselves are comforted of God.
Matthew 23:37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and
stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered
thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her
wings, and ye would not!
The word most used in the New Testament for "comfort" means "to call alongside." To call alongside means to call close where there is safety. To call alongside means to bring into a place of sweet assurance. To call alongside means to encourage. To call alongside means to give consolation. To call alongside means to provide supporting influence. To call alongside means to provide the strength of the stronger for the weaker. To call alongside means to stand with, assist and help.
Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit, as the One Who would call us alongside.
John 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another
Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
The abiding presence of the Holy Spirit is like the mother hen who gathers her chickens under her wings in times of danger or great need. The Holy Spirit gathers us, provides safety, gives sweet assurance, gives consolation, gives support, provides strength, stands with us, assists us and helps us. He calls us alongside Himself that we may enjoy the privileges and blessings which are ours through association with Him.
We engage to promote this church. To "promote" carries a tremendous message regarding
“this church”. It means to boost, elevate, upgrade, advance, champion, encourage, further, advertise, publicize. Promote in her prosperity.
An example of a prosperous church is to be seen in the church at Jerusalem after the Pentecost Experience.
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Acts 2:41, 42, 44-47 41 Then they that gladly received his word were
baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three
thousand souls. 42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine
and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 45 And
sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man
had need. 46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple,
and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness
and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and having favour with all the
people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
The lost were being saved. Verse 41b “and the same day there were added unto them about
three thousand souls.”
The saved were following the Lord in baptism. Verse 41a Then they that gladly received
his word were baptized:
Believers were coveting together into the church body (local membership). Verse 41b added
unto them...coveted to them
The believers continued steadfastly (constantly, faithfully, firmly, unfailingly, and unwavering) in: verse 42
(1)
the apostles' doctrine
(2)
and fellowship,
(3)
and in breaking of bread,
(4)
and in prayers.
The believers were (covenanted) together, verse 44a And all that believed were together,
The church had all things common, verse 44b and had all things common;
The church body sold their personal processions and parted the income to all men, as every man had need. v45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as
every man had need.
The church had "one accord" which resulted in gladness and singleness of heart. v46 And
they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to
house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart.
The church at Jerusalem: v47
(1)
Was praising God,
(2)
Was having favor with all people,
(3)
And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
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The Jerusalem example serves as a guide to what true prosperity consists. The church at Jerusalem stands in sharp contrast to what a church should be. The church at Laodicea is an example of what a church should not be.
Revelation 3:16-17 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold
nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 17 Because thou sayest, I am
rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not
that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
Promote in her spirituality “and spirituality;”
There are negatives of spirituality. Outward emotional manifestations do not make one to be spiritual. Weeping does not denote one to be spiritual condition. Shouting does not make one spiritual. Long praying does not make one spiritual. Performing “entertainment” does not make one to be spiritual.
There are positives of spirituality. What is spirituality? Spirituality is a composite of devotion, holiness, piety, saintliness, sanctity.
To be spiritual is to be: Devout which means to be saintly, orthodox, faithful, loyal, steadfast, true.
Acts 10:1-2 1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a
centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one
that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people,
and prayed to God alway.
To be godly which means to be reverent and believing.
Titus 2:11-12 11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath
appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly
lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
To be holy which means to be separated from the world, separated and sacred unto God, God fearing, and righteous before His eyes.
Leviticus 20:26 And ye shall be holy unto me: for I the LORD am holy, and
have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine.
To be priestly means to intercede on the behalf of yourself and others; to offer yourself a living sacrifice unto the Lord; to recognize you have an obligation and responsibility for others toward God.
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Ezekiel 22:30 And I sought for a man among them, that should make up
the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not
destroy it: but I found none.
To be clean means to be orderly, spotless, unadulterated in the flesh and spirit, unpolluted by the world, faultless, chaste, moral, wholesome, decent, honorable.
Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit
within me.
To be pure which means to be unblemished, undiluted, blameless, innocent, and genuine.
1 Peter 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth
through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one
another with a pure heart fervently:
Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Galatians 5:22-23 sums up what being spiritual entails. 22But the fruit of
the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
We engage to sustain, meaning to bolster, prop, underpin, carry out, support, and uphold.
We engage to sustain her worship meaning to honor, respect, revere, adore, glorify, and pay homage.
Worship in the New Testament especially included joy, happiness, celebration of the resurrection, prayer, praise, hymns, contributions, observance of the ordinances, exhortations, and lessons from the Word of God especially those dealing with Messianic prophecies.
Worship is sustained by being where worship is given. Being there in mind, body, spirit, and soul. Worship is demonstrated by taking part in the Biblically based activities of the church.
Worship will and can be given only as the believer shows true interested in their obligations and responsibilities. No one else can do your work or give your worship. Worship takes into consideration that each believer is a lighthouse which either guides others to death or to life. Worship compels the believer to go into the highways and byways carrying the message of salvation through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Worship glorifies God, exalts Jesus Christ, allows the leadership of the Holy Ghost, builds up the church, strengthens the weak and increases work in the kingdom of God.
Genuine worship will build a fire in the soul, help develop a vision of the world around us, increase our faith, cement us together in the bonds of love and mutual service, cause us to be more appreciative of the benefits given us of the Lord, make us have a godly desire to be soul winners.
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We engage to sustain her ordinances. The church has only two ordinances to sustain. What is an "ordinance?" An ordinance is an injunction, and may be viewed as a religious rite, observance, ceremony, or service.
There are only two observances practiced by orthodox churches. They are baptism and the Lord’s Supper.
Let us consider some facts about the ordinance of baptism.
There must be a scriptural subject (a true believer in Christ); one who has repented, exercised faith in Christ.
Acts 20:21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance
toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
Acts 8:36-38 36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain
water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be
baptized? 37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou
mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of
God. 38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down
both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
There must be a scriptural authority. After John the Baptist was martyred, Jesus organized His church and commissioned her to baptize.
Matthew 28:18-20 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All
power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and
teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever
I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of
the world. Amen.
Some might wonder about Philip and his authority to baptize the Eunuch, as we noticed in the passages in Acts. Philip was a deacon in the church at Jerusalem. He baptized the Eunuch by the authority of that church in Jerusalem.
There must be a scriptural administrator to perform the ordinance. Many Old Line, conservative, fundamental, Baptists believe that only an ordained minister can render scriptural baptism, and that after having received authority from the church. As we have seen in the previous paragraph, it does not always have to be an ordained minister to carry out the act of baptism. It is the church that has the authority to baptize, as we have seen in Matthew 28:18-20, not the individual. Therefore, whoever the church appoints to baptize is the scriptural administrator to perform the ordinance.
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Acts 1:22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he
was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his
resurrection.
There must be a scriptural place in which to administer the ordinance of baptism. (Enough water for submersion).
Romans 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that
like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even
so we also should walk in newness of life.
Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with
him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from
the dead.
There must be a scriptural motive for desiring the act of baptism. (There must be a desire to keep the Lord's commands).
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of
you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall
receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
What are the negatives of baptism?
Baptism does not produce the remission of our sins.
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no
man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Acts 10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name
whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other
name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
Baptism does not wash away sin.
1 John 1:9-10 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us
our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we
have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
Baptism does not regenerate us.
John 3:3-7 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto
thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4
Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can
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he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? 5 Jesus
answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water
and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which
is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7
Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
Baptism does not make us to become children of God.
Galatians 3:26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
Baptism does not give us access to the Grace of God.
Romans 5:1-2 1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God
through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith
into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Baptism does not secure our salvation.
1 Peter 1:3-5 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a
lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 To an
inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away,
reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are kept by the power of God through
faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Baptism does not save.
Mark 16:16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that
believeth not shall be damned.
1 Peter 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us
(not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good
conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
Baptism is a necessity. Through it the true believer shows his obedience to the commands of Christ.
John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.
2 John 6 And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the
commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk
in it.
Through it a public confession of faith is made as well as being able to enter into proper fellowship with Christ.
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Matthew 3:6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.
Through it glory is given to the Lord.
Ephesians 3:21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout
all ages, world without end. Amen.
Through it true believers are brought into the church.
Acts 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the
same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Baptism makes several declarations.
It declares the New Birth.
Romans 6:4-5 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:
that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father,
even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been
planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness
of his resurrection:
It declares the Godhead.
Matthew 18:19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on
earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of
my Father which is in heaven.
Romans 8:16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are
the children of God:
Romans 5:8-15 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while
we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now
justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For
if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his
Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And
not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom
we have now received the atonement. 12 Wherefore, as by one man sin
entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men,
for that all have sinned: 13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin
is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from
Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of
Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. 15 But
not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one
many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which
is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.
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It declares the Lordship of Christ Jesus. He is the only begotten Son of God. John 3:16 ...He
gave his only begotten Son... Beloved of the Father. Matthew 3:17 ...This is my beloved
Son, in whom I am well pleased. Mark 1:11 ...Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am
well pleased.
It declares the death of Christ.
Romans 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that
like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even
so we also should walk in newness of life.
It declares the burial of Christ.
Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with
him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from
the dead.
It declares the resurrection of Christ.
Romans 6:5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his
death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
It declares the second coming of Christ.
John 14:3-4 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again,
and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. 4 And
whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
It declares a good conscience toward God.
1 Peter 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us
(not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good
conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
The Lord's Supper.
The Lord's Supper is the second and last ordinance that Christ commanded to His church.
The Lord's Supper is to be administered to baptized believers only and in scriptural church capacity.
The institution of the Lord's Supper was initiated by Christ.
Luke 22:19-20 19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and
gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in
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remembrance of me. 20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This
cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
I Corinthians 11:23-26 23 For I have received of the Lord that which also
I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was
betrayed took bread: 24 And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and
said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in
remembrance of me. 25 After the same manner also he took the cup, when
he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do
ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. 26 For as often as ye eat
this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.
It was initiated in the church.
Matthew 26:20 Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve.
Matthew 26:26-28 26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and
blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this
is my body. 27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them,
saying, Drink ye all of it; 28 For this is my blood of the new testament,
which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
It was initiated to be observed. The Lord on several occasions spoke the following words.
This do; do this; as oft as ye do this.
The purpose for the Supper.
To remember His death. Luke 22:19 ...do in remembrance of me.
To manifest and testify to His death.
1 Corinthians 10:16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the
communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the
communion of the body of Christ?
1 Corinthians 11:26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye
do shew the Lord's death till he come.
To proclaim His return.
1 Corinthians 11:26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye
do shew the Lord's death till he come.
John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and
receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
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Eligibility relating to the observance of the Supper. Only baptized believers are eligible.
Matthew 28:18-20 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All
power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and
teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever
I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of
the world. Amen.
Acts 2:41-42 41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and
the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 42
And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and
in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Note carefully that baptism preceded observance of the Lord’s Supper.
Only orderly members are eligible.
2 Thessalonians 3:6-7 6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of
our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that
walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. 7
For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not
ourselves disorderly among you;
Only members having a good conduct are eligible.
1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company,
if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an
idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no
not to eat.
Only members united together (coveted together) are eligible.
1 Corinthians 11:18-20 18 For first of all, when ye come together in the
church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it.
19 For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are
approved may be made manifest among you. 20 When ye come together
therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper.
Only members discerning (discriminating, sensitive to) the Lord's body are eligible.
1 Corinthians 11:27 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink
this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of
the Lord.
Only members who have made a close examination of themselves are eligible.
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1 Corinthians 11:28-29 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him
eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 29 For he that eateth and drinketh
unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the
Lord's body.
Only members of the same faith are eligible.
Ephesians 4:5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed?
The elements of the Lord's Supper.
(1)
Unleavened bread.
1 Corinthians 5:7-8 7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a
new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed
for us: 8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with
the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of
sincerity and truth.
(2)
Fruit of the vine.
Matthew 26:28-29 28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is
shed for many for the remission of sins. 29 But I say unto you, I will not
drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new
with you in my Father's kingdom.
Reasons to observe the Supper.
It is an act of obedience to the command of our Savior.
Matthew 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have
commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the
world. Amen.
Acts 5:29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought
to obey God rather than men.
It is an act of remembrance of our Savior.
Luke 22:19 …this do in remembrance of me.
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1 Corinthians 11:24-25 24 Let no man seek his own, but every man another's
wealth. 25 Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question
for conscience sake:
This do in remembrance of me. this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.
It is an act of testimony.
1 John 5:2-3 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we
love God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that
we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
It is an act of fellowship with our Savior and with His church.
1 Corinthians 10:16-17 16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the
communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the
communion of the body of Christ? 17 For we being many are one bread,
and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.
It is an act of praise and thanksgiving for our Savior’s triumph. His body was broken, and His blood was shed that we might be able to praise and thank him.
1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory
through our Lord Jesus Christ.
It is an act of proclamation regarding His second coming.
1 Corinthians 11:26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye
do shew the Lord's death till he come.
There is the need to sustain her discipline.
Consider the need for church discipline. Discipline is sometimes necessary in cases where fellow believers and not holding true to the teaching of God's Word. Discipline is never to be exercised out of a vindictive heart. It must always be the last resort to a difficult problem.
Discipline must be used when necessary in order that contrary members of the church will be caused to render strict obedience to God and to His Word.
Matthew 18:17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church:
but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen
man and a publican.
1 Corinthians 5:12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are
without? do not ye judge them that are within?
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How may discipline be correctly practiced? By encouraging wayward brethren when they are right and discouraging them when they are in error. By standing with the pastor and with the church when disciplinary measures are deemed necessary. By studying the Word of God and acting upon it rather than upon what we think or what we do not want to do. By making discipline a matter of prayer and study before acting in haste.
By making discipline's goal to be the good of the offender. Winning the offending brother or sister back is imperative. We are admonished to restore to fellowship after confession of the sin and upon being asked for restored fellowship. Although discipline is punitive; it is also corrective. It is better to redirect the offender than to allow the offender free rein to continue in his sin.
REMEMBER:
James said that he who converts one from the error of his way shall in so doing save a soul from sin.
There is a to sustain her doctrines.
It does matter what you believe! Doctrine is important. Following a covenant or decree without regard for the Holy Scriptures is to be in error. Any declaration of faith is simply a declaration of what one believes the Scriptures to teach. The declaration must not be used to supplant the Word of God.
Matthew 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the
commandments of men.
How do you know what is doctrine and what is error?
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that
needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
How does the church sustain her doctrines?
By knowing the doctrines.
John 7:16-17 16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine,
but his that sent me. 17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the
doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
By believing the doctrines.
Romans 6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye
have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
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By teaching the doctrines.
Titus 2:1 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:
Titus 1:9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he
may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the
gainsayers.
By practicing the doctrines. Here is where the difficulty lies...in the practicing of the doctrines given of God.
Titus 2:7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine
shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
We engage to contribute
To contribute means to confer, donate, endow, give, present.
Cheerfully: To give cheerfully is to give optimistically, gleefully, joyfully, merrily, happily, lively. Every member of the church should be involved in cheerful giving. The act of giving is a grace that is to be fostered by members of the church.
The question is always asked, "How much should be given?" Giving is based on what God has prospered.
1 Corinthians 16:1-2 1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I
have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. 2 Upon the first
day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath
prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.
Giving is to be bountiful.
2 Corinthians 9:6 But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly;
and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
Christ Jesus is the best example of how much to give.
2 Corinthians 8:9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that,
though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his
poverty might be rich.
Notice 2 Corinthians 9:7 carefully.
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not
grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
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a)
A man is to give as he purposed in his heart.
b)
A man is not to give grudgingly.
c)
A man is not to give of necessity.
d)
A man is to give of a cheerful heart.
Consider 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 as to the result of cheerful giving:
1 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of
Macedonia; 2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their
deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. 3 For to their power, I bear
record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; 4 Praying us with
much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the
ministering to the saints. 5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own
selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.
1. They had joy, verse 2.
2. They increased thanksgiving to God.
2 Corinthians 9:12 For the administration of this service not only supplieth
the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto
God;
3. They glorified God and the gospel.
2 Corinthians 9:13-14 13 Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they
glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for
your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men; 14 And by their
prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.
They gave regularly. There is no alibi, defense, excuse, explanation, reason, or vindication for the child of God who "tips" God as though He were a waiter. There is no place for haphazard giving from a member of the Lord's church.
They gave to the support of the ministry. When speaking of the ministry, we speak not of those who work but of what that work embraces, comprises, encompasses, includes. It is as reasonable to financially support those having oversight of us as it is for a man to eat grapes off his own vine.
1 Corinthians 9:7 Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who
planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a
flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?
Luke 10:7 And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things
as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to
house.
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Paul applies the principle of Deuteronomy 25:4 to the New Testament ministers while declaring that ministers should be paid for their work..
Deuteronomy 25:4 Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out the
corn.
1 Corinthians 9:8-11 8 Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the
same also? 9 For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle
the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for
oxen? 10 Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt,
this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that
thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. 11 If we have sown unto
you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?
Earthly pay is not an unreasonable thing when considering what the ministry rendered...preaching, teaching, baptisms, funerals, weddings, visitation, hospital calls, etc.
In the Old Testament priests were paid by temple offerings.
Deuteronomy 18:1-8 1 The priests the Levites, and all the tribe of Levi,
shall have no part nor inheritance with Israel: they shall eat the offerings
of the LORD made by fire, and his inheritance. 2 Therefore shall they
have no inheritance among their brethren: the LORD is their inheritance,
as he hath said unto them. 3 And this shall be the priest's due from the
people, from them that offer a sacrifice, whether it be ox or sheep; and they
shall give unto the priest the shoulder, and the two cheeks, and the maw.
4 The firstfruit also of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the first
of the fleece of thy sheep, shalt thou give him. 5 For the LORD thy God
hath chosen him out of all thy tribes, to stand to minister in the name of
the LORD, him and his sons for ever. 6 And if a Levite come from any of
thy gates out of all Israel, where he sojourned, and come with all the desire
of his mind unto the place which the LORD shall choose; 7 Then he shall
minister in the name of the LORD his God, as all his brethren the Levites
do, which stand there before the LORD. 8 They shall have like portions to
eat, beside that which cometh of the sale of his patrimony.
In the New Testament, God's way of paying for the ministry is explained by Paul.
1 Corinthians 9:14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach
the gospel should live of the gospel.
The expenses of the church.
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A church that is growing will have expenses. Even a stagnant or dead one will have expenses.
The church has bills to pay. There is electricity, gas, phone bills. There is Sunday School Literature, building expenses, maintenance expenses, etc,.
There is the expense of paying the minister for the spiritual help he gives. The minister should be willing to fill his office without pay if it is necessary; however, building programs should not be undertaken if the minister is not being financially supported. In many cases the minister is paid peanuts while other projects receive a high-dollar value.
In some cases, the minister is overpaid, underworked, and in the pastorate for the wrong reasons. 1 Corinthians 9:14 makes it clear that in ordaining that His ministers should give their time to their calling, they should be compensated sufficiently that they may be able to live.
It is clear that ministers of the Word should be so paid for the work they do that they can give their time to it. It is necessary for the minister to give his time to secular work for a living when the church fails purposely or because of lack of income to finance the support of the minister.
The relief of the poor.
This expense falls upon and is the responsibility of all who hold membership in the local church. The responsibility is upon every member whether that member can give hundreds of dollars or only pennies. There is no distinction made as to who should give except that all the congregation is to participate.
2 Corinthians 8:12-14 12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted
according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 13
For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: 14 But by an
equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their
want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there
may be equality:
And the spread of the gospel through all nations.
To spread the gospel means to expand its reach, to extend its boundaries, and to scatter it everywhere. To spread the gospel is to broadcast it upon the field so that it may become fruitful in the crop that is "white unto harvest." The elements of the gospel are to be found in 1 Corinthians 15:1, 3-4.
1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto
you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;… 3For I delivered
unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our
sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose
again the third day according to the scriptures:
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We see in these passages of scripture that it is the death of Christ Jesus, the burial of Christ Jesus, and the resurrection of Christ Jesus that defines the Gospel. The spread of the gospel is to be through all nations. To spread to all nations is to include all men. The responsibility for spreading the gospel lies upon the church rather than the leader of the church.
The leader is to be an example and a teacher of the church that they may do the "work of the ministry."
There is a purpose behind spreading the gospel.
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the
power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first,
and also to the Greek.
Examine that verse: (1) The happiness of man lies in not being ashamed; (2) The hope of man lies in the gospel; (3) The help of man lies in the power of God, (4) The healing of man lies in the salvation of God; and, (5) The hindrance before man is believing.
The commission of spreading the gospel was given to the church. The commission was not given to the pastors or to the apostles. Apostles did not go into all the world. Christ promised to be with those to whom he gave the commission unto the end of the age. Apostles did not live until the end of the age.
Because the apostles did not go into all the world and because they did not live unto the end of the age (church age) the commission takes on the character of having been given to a perpetual organization and a living organism.
The commission was given to the church of the living God. To her, He said: (Matthew 16:18)
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of
the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Therefore, we are led by the Holy Spirit to personal salvation, effective work within the framework of the church and proper dealings with the world.
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Paragraph Three
WE ALSO ENGAGE to maintain family and secret devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger; to abstain from the sale and use of intoxicating drink as a beverage, and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior.
“We”
This “we” is the same we as in paragraphs one and two. This keeps the consistency of who is involved. The thrust of the word “we” is that this is a unified effort on behalf of more than one person. It is not a matter that I engage but that we engage. This is a shared and cooperative enterprise in which all work for the same goal...Salvation of the lost.
We also
This is an addition to the first and second engagement. We also are to do something more which involves family, acquaintances, and the world.
We (double up as one unit rather than several single efforts) also engage to maintain (to claim, contend for, insist upon, gird up, shore up) devotion. We set about to do something which cannot be done on a single person basis.
Devotion in both the Old and New Testaments is well defined. There is no doubt what is implied in the word devotion. In the Old Testament the word "devote" means the same as the word "sanctify." We have already seen that the word "sanctify" means to set apart or to separate.
Leviticus 27:21-22, 28 21 But the field, when it goeth out in the jubile, shall
be holy unto the LORD, as a field devoted; the possession thereof shall be
the priest's. 22 And if a man sanctify unto the LORD a field which he hath
bought, which is not of the fields of his possession;… 28 Notwithstanding
no devoted thing, that a man shall devote unto the LORD of all that he
hath, both of man and beast, and of the field of his possession, shall be
sold or redeemed: every devoted thing is most holy unto the LORD.
The speaker is the LORD. Notice the large letters in the word LORD. The reference is to God the Father, Jehovah God, The Almighty Sovereign One. The subject is the vow or vows made to the LORD.
Verses 2-8 regards persons; verses 9-13 regards animals; verses 14-15 regards houses; and verses 16-24 regards lands and how these vows may be released.
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A vow was a voluntary contract with the LORD, that the individual making the vow would do something pleasing to God, or would fulfill some service, in return for a benefit expected from God.
Leviticus 27:21-22, 28 21 But the field, when it goeth out in the jubile, shall
be holy unto the LORD, as a field devoted; the possession thereof shall be
the priest's. 22 And if a man sanctify unto the LORD a field which he hath
bought, which is not of the fields of his possession;… 28 Notwithstanding
no devoted thing, that a man shall devote unto the LORD of all that he
hath, both of man and beast, and of the field of his possession, shall be
sold or redeemed: every devoted thing is most holy unto the LORD.
In the New Testament "devote" denotes the character of men who are: 1)
Religious and God-fearing.
Luke 2:25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was
Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the
consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
Acts 2:5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of
every nation under heaven.
Acts 8:2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great
lamentation over him.
2)
Pious (faithful, godly, holy, spiritual).
Acts 10:2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which
gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.
Acts 22:12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having
a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there,
3)
Hold their religious activities in reverence.
Acts 13:50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women,
and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and
Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.
Acts 17:4, 17 4 And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and
Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women
not a few….17 Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and
with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with
him.
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NOTE: The only time the word "devotions" is used in the Scripture is found in Acts 17:23.
NOTE: The above reference refers to objects of worship. In this case the reference is to the gods which people were ignorantly worshiping. Having some information about the idea of devotion helps to better understand the nature of family and secret devotion.
We also engage to maintain family devotion.
Family devotion is time spent together with emphasis upon focusing on the Object of Worship. There is a saying that "The family that prays together---stays together." Although no one passage of Scripture declares this saying, the principle of giving devotion through prayer is there. Family devotion to God can be given at the time of our family meal. This example is set in two circumstances.
1)
The Lord's Supper, following the Passover meal.
Luke 22:19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave
unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in
remembrance of me.
After the Resurrection.
Luke 24:30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it,
and brake, and gave to them.
2)
Family study of the Scriptures with prayer preceding and following the study. Two men were complimented for their faithfulness in this area: a) Cornelius, and b) Timothy.
Acts 10:2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which
gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.
2 Timothy 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures,
which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in
Christ Jesus.
We also engage to maintain secret devotion.
This is personal time given in consideration of our Great Benefactor. Secret devotion is seen in a habitual prayer-life. It is also to be seen in a habitual study-life.
Secret devotion is taught in both the Old and New Testaments. Three men of the Old Testament speak regarding the use of this time. They were Daniel, David, and Solomon.
Daniel 6:10 (Daniel) Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed,
he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber
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toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and
prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.
Psalm 55:17 (David) Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and
cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.
Proverbs 15:8 (Solomon) The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to
the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.
Secret devotion is an important element in the New Testament. Notice the example of Jesus.
Luke 6:12 And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a
mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.
After the resurrection, the close followers of Jesus give us an example to follow.
Acts 1:13-14 13 And when they were come in, they went up into an upper
room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip,
and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus,
and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. 14 These all
continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women,
and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.
It was the Apostle Paul's admonition that men pray.
1 Timothy 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy
hands, without wrath and doubting.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice evermore.
NOTE: Spirituality in the church is governed by the amount of spirituality in family and secret devotion in the home.
We also engage to religiously (devoutly, spiritually, godly) educate (discipline, instruct, school, train, tutor, enlighten, inform) our children.
“Our” as used here is in agreement with the “we.” The agreement is that each one is not only responsible for the spiritual education of our own children but are also responsible to look to the education of all our children. For example: Should you see my children acting in a way that is unacceptable you have the liberty to speak godly instruction to them.
children (youngsters, descendants, offspring).
We engage to seek meaning to pursue, ask (intercession) for, solicit (from God Who gives and from persons who need the gift of salvation).
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“The salvation” ---salvation means deliverance, liberation, redemption,
recovery,
rescue.
Of our kindred
Those persons in our immediate and extended families, and acquaintances.
Our acquaintances are those persons whom we come in contact with through the course of living; on the job, in the school, during recreation, etc.,.
We also engage to walk = denoting not the physical stepping off of footage but the character of demeanor, behavior, conduct, deportment.
Circumspectly = carefully so as not to offend, cautiously so as to not be entrapped by the snares of the devil, deliberately so as to not slip or trip in our witness, prudently (discerningly, discreetly, so as to not be foolish, careless, or extravagant).
Ephesians 5:15-16 15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools,
but as wise, 16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
“In” suggesting that our sphere of activity is presently among the people of this planet.
“The world” speaking of the material universe, the aggregate (combination, composite, of the entire world external to the Christian Body---the True Church, inclusive of the present order of things in the secular arena, as well as of the lower world---the earth).
We also engage to be just in our dealing.
“To be” sets the stage for the characteristics of what the Church body is in her fullest glory, as well as covering what we are to reflect in our daily life-walk.
We are to be just in our dealings with God. God has been more than just in His dealings with us. It is to him that we are to give account.
Romans 14:11-12 11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee
shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. 12 So then every
one of us shall give account of himself to God.
We are to be just in both our physical and spiritual life. We are to be just in every circumstance we find ourselves.
Just in our dealings with the Church. We are to abide by the Word of God. We are to allow the truth to be preached and taught. We are to respond to our brethren in a way pleasing to God.
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We are to be faithful in attendance, faithful in giving, and faithful in living. Just in our dealings with ourselves. We are not to fill our hearts with pride. We are not to think of ourselves more highly than we should. We must learn to know ourselves so that we make ourselves to decrease while Christ increases.
We are to be just in our dealings with the world. Christians have a responsibility to the world in that we are to walk a just (righteous) life before it. Any Christian who wrongs, cheats, or defrauds cannot be a just example to the world. What does the Lord require of Christians if not "to love mercy, to do justly, and to walk humbly?"
We engage to be faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment.
Faithful in our engagements = To be faithful is to be constant, dedicated, loyal, and steadfast.
We all are to be constant in the Father's business. We all are to be dedicated to fighting a good fight for the Lord so that the kingdom of God will advance. We all are to be loyal in that once we have started a work, we are loyal to that work until it is finished. We all are to be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. Not tossed about by every wind of doctrine. Not easily shaken in the faith.
Exemplary in our deportment (the behavior, conduct, demeanor, and manner of our Christian existence. Admirable meaning meritorious, splendid, and superb in our walk before the world. Commendable meaning that we are to be credible and respectable in our walk because we represent not ourselves but or Lord and His church.
We engage to avoid some things.
Avoid all tattling. Avoid (by-pass, dodge, escape, evade, abstain, and refrain from). All (altogether, completely, entirely, and wholly)
Tattling, refers to blabbing, gossiping, spreading rumors whether the rumor is true or not. A child of God is not to inform on another for the purpose of hurting or degrading a brother or sister in Christ. There is no place in the Christian's life for tattling or telling on outside of the guidelines which are Biblically correct. There is a proper way to call truth of a matter to light without tattling. There is a proper way to handle an individual who is in error.
The Word of God has much to say about tattlers (tale bearers).
Proverbs 18:8 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down
into the innermost parts of the belly.
Proverbs 20:19 He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets:
therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.
Proverbs 26:20-23 20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so
where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. 21 As coals are to
burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
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22 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the
innermost parts of the belly. 23 Burning lips and a wicked heart are like
a potsherd covered with silver dross.
A tattler is never considered a faithful person.
Proverbs 11:13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful
spirit concealeth the matter.
Avoid back-biting,
Back-biting is something that is done in the presence of fellow believers at the expense of another. To back-bite is to be harsh in our dealing with other people. To back-bite is to make sharp, stinging, and piercing remarks which cut to the bone. To back-bite is to use incisive (penetrating) and sarcastic (mocking, scornful, sneering) language or action to belittle or poke fun at another. To back-bite is to be in violation of the teaching of both the Old and New Testaments. Both Testaments speak regarding the backbiter.
The Old Testament declares the backbiter not fit for God's house.
Psalms 15:1-3 1 (A Psalm of David.) LORD, who shall abide in thy
tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? 2 He that walketh uprightly,
and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. 3 He that
backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh
up a reproach against his neighbour.
The New Testament characterizes those guilty of backbiting as worthy of death.
Romans 1:30-32 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters,
inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding,
covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32
Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things
are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that
do them.
Avoid excessive (unreasonable) anger (fury, outrage, wrath). We are covenanted together that we will not fly into fits of uncontrolled temper or into a state of insane rage.
We engage to abstain from some things. To abstain means to decline opportunity to indulge, refuse anything to do with, to refrain from any contact with.
We are to abstain from the sale of intoxicating drinks as a beverage. This includes either the selling of legal or bootleg intoxicating drinks.
Intoxicating drink is a tool of sin. It brought shame to Noah.
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Genesis 9:21 And he drank of the wine, and was drunken; and he was
uncovered within his tent.
It brought sexual sin to Lot's home.
Genesis 19: 32, 36 32 Come, let us make our father drink wine, and we
will lie with him, that we may preserve seed of our father….36 Thus were
both the daughters of Lot with child by their father.
It brought the murder of Ammon.
2 Samuel 13:28 Now Absalom had commanded his servants, saying, Mark
ye now when Amnon's heart is merry with wine, and when I say unto you,
Smite Amnon; then kill him, fear not: have not I commanded you? be
courageous, and be valiant.
It brought the judgment of God upon Israel.
Isaiah 5:11, 22 11 Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that
they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame
them!... 22 Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of
strength to mingle strong drink:
It brought the death of Belshazzar and the downfall of Babylon.
Daniel 5:1-2 1 Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his
lords, and drank wine before the thousand. 2 Belshazzar, whiles he tasted
the wine, commanded to bring the golden and silver vessels which his
father Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the temple which was in
Jerusalem; that the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines,
might drink therein.
Daniel 5:5 In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and
wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaister of the wall of the
king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.
Daniel 5:30-31 30 In that night was Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans
slain. 31 And Darius the Median took the kingdom, being about
threescore and two years old.
Intoxicating drink is denounced in both the Old and New Testaments.
1) Old Testament
Proverbs 20:1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is
deceived thereby is not wise.
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Proverbs 23:31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth
his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.
Proverbs 31:4-5 4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink
wine; nor for princes strong drink: 5 Lest they drink, and forget the law,
and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.
2)
New Testament
Ephesians 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be
filled with the Spirit;
To absolutely abstain from the sale and use of drinks which intoxicate is the best policy.
1)
Intoxicating drink destroys physical health.
2)
Intoxicating drink destroys mental health.
3)
Intoxicating drink destroys the personality.
4)
Intoxicating drink destroys moral values.
5)
Intoxicating drink destroys spiritual values.
6)
Intoxicating drink destroys society.
7)
Intoxicating drink destroys your effectiveness as a disciple of Christ.
The church can no longer harbor the wrong kind of attitude toward church members who sell and use intoxicating drinks as a beverage.
1)
The church can no longer have an attitude of indifference.
2)
The church can no longer have an attitude of compromise.
3)
The church can no longer have an attitude of ignorance.
4)
The church must return to the landmark of total abstinence from alcoholic beverages.
I read somewhere that "The first step in temperance reform is to close the liquor business that is carried on between my own nose and chin."
The Scripture would have us know that we are to abstain from the sale of intoxicating drink as a beverage.
Habakkuk 2:15 Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest
thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on
their nakedness!
Abstain from the use...of intoxicating drinks as a beverage.
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Proverbs 23:20-21 20 Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of
flesh: 21 For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and
drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.
We engage not only to abstain from some things; we engage to indulge in some things.
To be zealous means that we are to be earnest in our commission, enthusiastic in our obligations, fervent in our work, and intense in our Christian responsibilities. Being zealous is characteristic of the people of God.
Titus 2:14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all
iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
Being properly zealous will result in a good influence over others.
2 Corinthians 9:2 For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I
boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and
your zeal hath provoked very many.
For zeal to be proper one must have knowledge as a co-partner with zeal. Zeal alone is not enough. Knowledge is gained only through much study. To be zealous in our efforts (labor, struggle, and endeavor with a particular goal in mind...the goal to advance the kingdom of our Savior).
An advancing kingdom is a kingdom that is moving ahead, being furthered and exalted, being promoted and uplifted, and is making headway and progression. The kingdom of our Savior is His domain and dominion. The domain and dominion of our Savior is His church. Things which advance the kingdom of our Savior.
Evangelism of the world means winning lost souls to the Savior. It means scriptural observance of the Ordinances. It means strict adherence to the full truth of the Word of God.
It means meeting together in fellowship with one another and with the Savior. It means having prayer with and for one another. It means looking to the physical and spiritual needs of the kingdom. It means following the examples of Christian living as given in scripture.
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Paragraph Four
WE FURTHER ENGAGE to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember each other in prayer; to aid each other in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the rules of our Savior, to secure it without delay.
We Further Engage.
“We” for the fifth time in this short document attention is called to the fact that the obligation and responsibility falls not to us as individuals but as a collective body.
“We further” meaning an additional agreement is to follow and that this extra responsibility is subsequent to the agreement which has just preceded.
“We further engage” meaning this we is the same in the preceding three paragraphs. The importance of this we is that our covenant one with the other is furthered, expanded, made more inclusive of additional responsibilities.
Not only are we obligated to fulfill the responsibilities of the preceding sections but voluntarily go beyond to additional obligations. We further obligate ourselves: We further engage to watch (look out for, guard as would a sentry on duty, protect, chaperon when necessary, mind, and tend to all in the group designated as we). We are to watch over one another. The pastor being the under shepherd of Christ and an overseer of the church has particular responsibilities to feed and shepherd the flock.
The church covenant spells out the particulars of the flocks obligations and responsibilities to one another in the concept of we. We as a congregation of baptized believers are covenanted together to carry out the will of the Lord. This is a basic definition of what the word "church" is. We as a church agree to watch out for the body. The “we” of the covenant lays strong emphasis upon both collective and individual responsibility. This looking out for can only be done in love and must be done only in the context of love.
Watch over one another in brotherly love; Watching over one another in brotherly love is consistent with Biblical teaching. It does not matter what one's status is in life...all in Christ...are brothers.
Watching over one another in brotherly love is addressed in the Word of God. As brothers we are taught of God to love one another.
1 Thessalonians 4:9 But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write
unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.
As brothers we are responsible to help an erring brother.
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2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 14 And if any man obey not our word by this
epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be
ashamed. 15 Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a
brother.
As brothers, our relationship one with another is the evidence, confirmation, proof, and witness that we are truly sons of God.
1 John 3:14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because
we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
An explanation of 1 John 3:14: He that loveth not his brother in a literal sense means "the one not loving," the one without true affection or love, hints that he is like Cain, unregenerate, lost, and a despiser of God. As such, the one not loving remains in the realm of death. The conclusion to be drawn from a professor only is that one is lost and is without God.
Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the
Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ,
he is none of his.
1 John 4:8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
If we do not help our brothers in need then how does the love of God dwell in us?
1 John 3:17-18 17 But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother
have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how
dwelleth the love of God in him? 18 My little children, let us not love in
word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
The proper behavior for Christian brethren is described in Romans 12:10.
Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour
preferring one another;
We further engage to remember something important. Not only are we to watch over one another in brotherly love we are to do more. We are to remember each other.
A great amount of emphasis should be given to the word "other" especially in light of our association with one another. We are to remember each other in prayer.
We as Christians face many obstacles and hindrances in our daily routine of living. For this reason, it is very important that we remember each other in prayer. The model prayer found in Matthew 6:9-15 and Luke 11:1-13 has an important message for us. Not one time did Christ Jesus teach us to pray using "I" or "me," "my" or "mine." The prayer Jesus gave us as
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an example is expressed by plural words as "our" and "us." This is a clear teaching that prayer must include others and that it is not to be selfish.
We are to pray for the physical needs of others. We are to pray for the spiritual needs of others. We are to pray about the sins of others. We are to pray about the trials our fellow brothers undergo. We are to pray for the peril (dangers, hazards, threats) which our brethren must face. We are to put feet to our prayers because praying is not enough by itself. Pray, then allow the Lord to use us for the benefit of others.
We further engage to aid each other. After we pray, we are to aid each other. To aid each other means that we are to comfort, relieve (help and strengthen) each other. Love manifests itself in deeds.
In the case of sickness. For the church to grow, we must give ourselves to the needs of others as did the early church.
Acts 2:44-47 44 And all that believed were together, and had all things
common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all
men, as every man had need. 46 And they, continuing daily with one
accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat
their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and
having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily
such as should be saved.
Acts 4:34-35 34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as
many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the
prices of the things that were sold, 35 And laid them down at the apostles'
feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.
Also in the case of distress (agony, misery, trouble, pain (physical or spiritual), grief, torment).
Merely entering a covenant with one another is not enough...we must act on that covenant.
Action gets the attention of God. When He sees our action, He will then bless, and the church will grow numerically and spiritually. Too many church members expect the pastor to do all the visiting whether it is at the hospital, in the church family, or in witnessing to the lost.
The membership of the church pledge themselves to also do this work.
Deacons were ordained in the early church to relieve the under shepherds of their added duties in order that they would have time to meet their primary obligations, duties and responsibilities in the church.
Acts 6:2-3 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto
them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and
serve tables. 3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of
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honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint
over this business.
We further engage to cultivate
The Christian life is viewed here as a farm which requires developing the land, enhancing the production capability, improving the soil content, encouraging growth by irrigation, plowing and tilling.
As Christians, we are to develop certain beneficial characteristics that foster growth in our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling. This means we are to develop Christian sympathy in feeling. The way we relate to fellow Christians will determine our effectiveness as Christians.
Sympathy is to be cultivated. As one plows, another plants, and another waters, and another gathers the crop; so; Christian sympathy is cultivated by compassion, understanding, and support.
As Christians, we must not hold back anything which will help the weaker to grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord.
Romans 12:15-16a 15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with
them that weep. 16a Be of the same mind one toward another….
We are to cultivate courtesy in speech. Courtesy in speech reflects gentleness, good manners, politeness, kindness, and benevolence. Courtesy does not jeopardize our position but reflects upon Christian character.
Proverbs 15:23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word
spoken in due season, how good is it!
Courtesy of speech is of great value. Proper words are well suited to meet with kindness
and truth when applied to correction, instruction, comfort, and encouragement. The idea of a wise reprover, and a gracious reproved is highlighted in the following passages.
Proverbs 25:11-12 11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures
of silver. 12 As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a
wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
We further engage ourselves in matters of reconciliation.
We are to be slow (delay, prolong, curb, check) to take offence. It is important to note that this slowing to take offence is on the part of the one who is offended rather than on the part of the offender. A Christian is obligated to endure those things which would lead to being offended. That tendency to get a "chip on the shoulder" should not exist in the Christian life.
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Ephesians 4:1-3 1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that
ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 2 With all
lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in
love; 3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
A Christian is born of love and is to act out of love that produces a spirit of longsuffering.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5 4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth
not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself
unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
We are to always be ready for reconciliation. Not only are we as Christians not to become offended easily, we are if offended, to secure reconciliation without delay. There is no room for grudges in the Christian family. We are all to have the same mind as is in Christ.
Reconciliation lies at the heart of Christianity.
Romans 5:10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by
the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by
his life.
Having been reconciled to God obligates us to a ministry of reconciliation.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled
us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of
reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world
unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath
committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
Reconciliation to God will not permit any deliberate refusal to be reconciled to a brother.
1 John 2:9 He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in
darkness even until now.
It is inconsistent to boast of our reconciliation to God when we refuse reconciliation to the people of God. It is futile for us to preach the message of reconciliation to the lost man, when we fail to be reconciled to the saved man.
To be mindful (aware, cognizant, conscious, heedful to, observant of, thoughtful toward) of that which will facilitate reconciliation. The rules that will effect reconciliation are: (canon, precepts, practices, commands, dominion, and jurisdiction). We are to obey the canon of Scripture which the Lord has given us by inspiration.
The precepts in the Scripture are for the good of the believer. Every member of the local church is to make the commands of the Lord a matter of daily practice. The rules of our Lord
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are to be obeyed even when it hurts because through suffering the chastisement of the Lord, we are brought to maturity.
The Christian must abide by "Thus saith the Lord." The Word of God is where we, as the children of God, find safe and infallible instruction for our Christian existence.
The Savior is One of reconciliation. Based on our Savior having purchased us (delivered) out of the slave market of sin we are his to command, as He desires. We are not our own because we have been bought with a price. His desire is that we as brethren conduct ourselves accordingly.
The action of reconciliation. We are instructed by the Savior and His rules of reconciliation to secure it (reconciliation) without delay.
Matthew 5:23-24 23Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there
rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy
gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and
then come and offer thy gift.
We have covenanted together and have engaged ourselves in matters relating to the Almighty, the church, the family, the world, and to one another.
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Paragraph Five
WE MOREOVER ENGAGE that, when we remove from this place, we will as soon as possible unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God's Word.
We
This is the same “we” of the previous four paragraphs. There is not one "I" or "me" in the entire covenant; because, the covenant is inclusive of the entire church. When one member is out of fellowship, all are out of fellowship. When all are in fellowship the church will grow as never before.
We moreover (as well, besides all the other, in addition to the preceding obligations and responsibilities)
We moreover engage (contract, commit)
We moreover engage that when (if, at the time of a happening or action). We remove (relocate to another place, detach ourselves from where we presently are, or in such a circumstance that we are not actively participating where we are numbered) from this place.
This is a reference to this local body of baptized believers. When we move to another area, we are by covenant obligated to follow certain guidelines.
We will as soon as possible.
The phrase “as soon as possible” constitutes a pledge that something will be done when going to another area... and it will be done in a timely fashion. This involves an action of significant importance. It is an action that will be undertaken without undue delay: unite (join ourselves to, become a part of, associate ourselves with) with some other church.
This has reference to some other church of like faith, order, and practice. This means some other church that is fundamentally the same as the church we are leaving. It does not mean another anything else called a church. A church where we can carry out (fulfill, complete, uphold, foster) the spirit (intent, sense, allegiance, loyalty, essence).
Carrying out the spirit of this covenant will help prevent backsliding. There is a great danger that we will fall into a trap if we do not stick to the spirit of this covenant.
We are pledged to unite with another church of like kind as soon as possible when we move to another place. The spirit of this covenant,
Reflecting our agreement to and with one another so that the letter of this covenant does not fall by the wayside. Our covenant is only as good as we make it. We have a bond, one to the other to move our membership as soon as possible.
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The covenant is not a replacement for the Word of God and does not circumvent the principles of God's Word.
The bottom line of the church covenant is that we will make an earnest effort to maintain the spirit of our agreement.
Conclusion
How is one to move his membership from one church to another? The normal and scriptural way is to move by a letter of recommendation. Paul in the letter to the church at Rome recommended Phebe from the church at Cenchrea.
Romans 16:1-2 1 I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant
of the church which is at Cenchrea: 2 That ye receive her in the Lord, as
becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath
need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.
Apollos was recommended to the churches in Achaia by the Ephesian church.
Acts 18:27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren
wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come,
helped them much which had believed through grace:
The custom of having a letter of recommendation is implied in 2 Corinthians 3:1.
Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others,
epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?
Epaphroditus was recommended to the church at Philippi with a letter.
Philippians 2:25, 29-30 25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you
Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier,
but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants…. 29 Receive
him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:
30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding
his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.
In cases where churches have disbanded, records destroyed or lost, an individual may be received into the church by statement. I found no scripture for this; however, it is customarily done.
On occasion when a member of the church has been "churched", "fellowship withdrawn",
"excluded from fellowship", disciplined", that individual may be returned to the fellowship of the church by making an appropriate apology relating to the reason for church exclusion and being accepted into the church again by the right hand of church fellowship.
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