What do we mean by ‘ church of God in X ,Y,Z’?
• The church of God in a place (say Plumstead) consists of all believers in Plumstead. It is part of the church of God (see question 2). • In the old days (New Testament time), this was easy to see because the Christians came together in one place. They were known. No unbelievers dared to join them (Acts 5:13). If they were too numerous to meet in one place they would meet in different houses, but they did so in fellowship with one another. • Today, things are more complicated (but God’s principles always apply). Men have formed churches, organisations, sects, etc. by introducing memberships (other than the membership of the body of Christ). So how can you ‘see’ or ‘show’ the church of God in a place today? Only by coming together on the basis of Scripture with all those willing to do so – but always bearing in mind that those who come together may not be the whole church in this place’. • The local church (assembly) gives expression to the church (which is universal).
Related Questions
- If the Catholic Church really honors the Bible as the holy Word of God--if she really wants her members to become familiar with its truth--why in times past did she confiscate and burn so many Bibles?
- Why is the Catholic Church opposed to birth control? Where in the Bible is birth control condemned as being contrary to the Will of God?
- What do we mean by ‘ church of God in X ,Y,Z’?
