Ecclesiology: A Study of the New Testament Church

Ecclesiology
A Study of the N.T Church
General Outline
08/21/2005
West End Church of Christ
Bro. Orpheus Heyward

Unless otherwise indicated all Scriptures are taken from the King James Version

1. Introduction

The New Testament Church is a vital subject that is essential to the overall scheme of redemption. The Church is commonly a misunderstood subject, in which some believe it is totally irrelevant, while others take the position that it was an afterthought that resulted from the Jews rejection of the Kingdom (premillenialism). It is therefore essential that we study the church to understand the biblical view of this divine institution. This study is designed to convey the understanding that the Church is God’s plan to save man.

• Definition of the term church
• ekklesia – a called out assembly
• Used in two senses in reference to the Lord’s Church
• Universal usage: Matthew 16:18 – Refers to all the saved in every geographical location
• Local usage: Romans 16:16, 1 Thess 2:13-14:

Refers to the varied congregations of the One Church

• The New Testament Church-God’s plan of salvation from the foundation of the World
• The Mystery of God – His plan that was unknown until made known
• Mystery Defined: That which is hidden, or not fully manifested.
• Romans 16:25-27
• A hidden planned
• Now revealed
• Demands obedience
• Protected by God
• 1 Cor 2:6-8
• Revealed through the Apostles
• Ephesians 1:9-11 – To sum up all things under the authority of Christ
• Ephesians 3:1-6 – The uniting of Jew and Gentile into one Body by the Gospel (emphasis on v. 4)

This is the outline from the lesson that we studied. In order to get the full benefit from the class, you really need to be there. For more information about West End Church of Christ, please visit the website at www.thewestender.com