Thematic Studies In Bible Basics

Lesson 3 Ù True Unity In Christ The church of Christ Founder: Jesus Christ Mt 16:18 When: A.D. 30 in Jerusalem (Pentecost) Followers: named “Christians” Acts 11:26 “To give a command or admonition; to teach from heaven; to be divinely commanded; to receive a name; be called” Mt 2:12, 22 Rom 7:3 Heb 11:7

Thematic Studies In Bible Basics Lesson 3 Ù True Unity In Christ The church of Christ The name “Christians” was not bestowed until after Acts 10…when Gentiles were included Such illustrates the wisdom of God No doubt, the Jews would have perverted this new identity cp. Acts 15:1

Thematic Studies In Bible Basics Lesson 3 Ù True Unity In Christ The church of Christ The name of Christ is meaningful because it is the only name whereby man can gain his salvation Acts 4:12 Therefore, the name “Christian” should be the only religious name man should want to wear Yet, we see so much division

Thematic Studies In Bible Basics Lesson 3 Ù True Unity In Christ A multiplicity of man-made churches Catholic Church Lutheran Church Presbyterian Church Episcopal Church Baptist Church Methodist Church Mormon Church “Jehovah’s Witnesses”

Thematic Studies In Bible Basics Lesson 3 Ù True Unity In Christ Many downplay the different names worn, believing all are still “united” in Christ Wearing different names also means men practice different things dictated by that name one wears Thus, unity is not achieved

Thematic Studies In Bible Basics Lesson 3 Ù True Unity In Christ Consider Gamaliel’s advice in Acts 5:34-39 He spoke to emphasize the possibility of the apostles’ preaching coming to nothing We consider his words to emphasize that all men’s works (including religious) eventually come to naught Mt 15:3, 6, 7-9, Works must have Christ’s approval Mt 7:21-23