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Opinions -
Editorials
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Contributed by Phil Spadaro
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Monday, 10 April 2006 |
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Page 2 of 3
Ephesians 5:22-33 gives us insight into the church’s relationship with the spiritual realm. On earth we have a (universal [catholic]) body for which Christ sacrificed himself (v25) and desires to set apart (v26) through baptism and His word (v26b). Jesus’ desire is present his people “…as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.” (v27b). 1 Corinthians 1:10 states no (human) division should be found among God’s people but our unity comes from our baptism in Jesus Christ. These are the biblical attributes of a “perfect” church on earth.
These attributes do not answer the day to day questions of a “perfect” church. Issues like; what polity and standards should we employ, when should we meet, one cup or more, instruments or a cappella, institutions or not, the list goes on and on. The Bible answers some of these (and other) issues more straightforward than others. Should people repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit? Acts 2:38 explicitly address this question. Should we meet on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights for services? Should we have small groups or one large assembly? Should our discipleship be formalized around a system or not? Good questions without solid Bible answers that address each specific scenario.
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Last Updated ( Monday, 10 April 2006 )
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Opinions 
