The Church   Matthew 16:18

This post concerns a proper understanding of the church of the New Testament.

‘The Church’ discusses its origin and function. Most denominations teach that salvation and truth arrive from the church. However, this does not align with that found in the New Testament.

Firstly, before any congregations existed, Jesus said, Matthew 16:18, “I will build my church.” After He ascended to heaven, this prophecy came true. The promise of remission of sins to everyone occurred after he ascended. When the Holy Spirit fell on the apostles, Peter preached, Acts 2:14-36. He began with a prophecy from Joel about salvation, covered the life and crucifixion of Jesus, and ended with a pronouncement, Acts 2:36. “…God …made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”

Then, some in the audience asked what to do about their sins. Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, replied, Acts 2:38. “Repent and… baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…”

So, the result of this preaching and baptizing resulted in many conversions, Acts2:41. “…those who received his word… baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.”

Thus, God added the saved to an elite group, and continued to add the saved, Acts 2:47. “…And the Lord added to their number day by day those who …saved.”

In addition, Peter did not mention a group or any human organization that stood between the baptized believer and salvation.

Therefore, neither salvation nor truth originates from the church as claimed by many denominations.

Let us find and obey God’s commands so that He will add us to the saved group.

So, what did we learn?

1.God adds the saved to the church.

2.Salvation comes from hearing and believing preaching about Jesus and after repentance and being baptized, not from membership in some church.

3.We need to be a part of the New Testament church.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#GodAddsSavedToChurch #salvationFromPreachingJesus #baptismProvidesSalvation