There is only one church from the scriptural standpoint – “the church of the first born which are written in heaven,” the “church of the living God,” and “the church of Christ” (Hebrews 12:23, 1 Timothy 3:15, Romans 16:16.) Jesus established this church and gave it no party name. It was merely the church of Christ. Since then, people more or less confused by the errors of the Dark Ages have separated themselves into various bands and churches of human organization and bound themselves together by human creeds. These are known by various names.
None of these churches of men are authorized by the Bible nor mentioned in it. However, the one “church of the Living God” is composed of the saintly people of God in all of these denominations, or outside of all of them, as the case may be. Hence, the oldest church is the church of Christ, and it is the only church in the Divine estimation. Each saint must desire and strive for membership in this church as his greatest privilege. Consecrated believers “join” this church in a probationary sense now, but an entrance into full membership in that church, which is the Body of Christ, will be granted only to the “overcomers,” after they shall have proved faithful unto death (Revelation 2:10) and have become participants in the “first resurrection.”
There has always been one main criteria for those who seek membership in Christ’s church after being called by God – to love God with all one’s mind and heart and to love one’s neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:37-40). Those who truly understand these criteria give up the pursuits and priorities of the society and world in favor of devoting their lives to developing a mind and character that is a reflection of Jesus (Philippians 3:13-14). Pursuing membership in Christ’s church doesn’t require membership in any particular ecclesiastical system or dedication to any specific political or social view. Quite the contrary, the true church’s devotion is to God alone through His son. As many organized religious systems restructure their views and messages to meet societal changes, the true church understands that God’s plan is executing exactly on time and exactly as intended. This message offers not only an explanation for today’s tumultuous times but also promises a grand future full of everlasting joy.
Additional Resource:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1248: What Will We Be Doing When We Get to Heaven? (Part I)
Examining the privilege of heaven, why it is open and how to get there
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CQ Rewind Show Notes
