Firstly I rightfully do not endorse Christians trying to make money of the gospel, asking for money or any of the adds, or the Bibles, books, tapes listed here for sale too..
There are Churches, denominations and there is "The Church"
Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly
framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord."-Ephesians 2:20, 21
The word "ecclesia" is commonly used to refer to a regular gathering of
individuals who desire to study the scriptures. No commitment of membership
is required and no attendance is taken. The origin of this word comes from
the Greek word "ekklesia" (literally, those called out) and is translated as
"church" or "assembly". The meaning refers to a meeting, especially a
religious congregation. Therefore, "ecclesia" is an assembly or congregation
of God's people in the same context as the church or "ekklesia" at Ephesus.
As the theme text suggests, Jesus Christ is the foundation of the true
church of God and all members conform to his example and instruction.
Ephesians 5:23 says that "Christ is the head of the church." All ecclesias
of God's people have Christ as the common head and are bonded in love.
The Ecclesia Arrangement
Jesus promised: Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there
am I in the midst of them (Matt. 18:20).
Certainly this is an encouragement to meet together with those of like faith
and to organize "ecclesias." In recognizing His presence at such gatherings
or meetings, the utmost care is taken to honor His presence with proper
conduct and spiritual focus. Being with fellow brethren is a privilege and
opportunity to please our Lord by leaving worldly concerns and distractions
behind. Gathering together provides an opportunity for spiritual refreshing
and reconfirmation of Christian focus. Truly the church class is as
strangers and pilgrims on this earth and the ecclesia is a temporary oasis
of spiritual refreshment while waiting for a heavenly country.
See (Heb 11:13 KJV) These all died in faith, not having received the
promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and
embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the
earth. 14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a
country.
Each member has a responsibility to embrace the privilege of an ecclesia
arrangement and must recognize that every member has an effect on the
overall spirit of the class. As the holy spirit develops the fruits and the giftsof the spirit in individuals, so these same fruits, gifts of the spirit arereflected in the collective members of an assembly of God's chosen people.
Personal Growth
Personal spiritual development is uniquely interwoven with ecclesia
experiences. Attending studies, participating in choosing leaders,
supporting class activities, and serving in various ways stimulates
Christian growth. Interrelating with the trials and joys of other members,
making brethren's needs a sincere concern and an important part of daily
prayer is vital for Christian development.
"For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for
you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in
all wisdom and spiritual understanding.-Colossians1:9
"Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may
be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth
much."-James 5:16
The Loss Of Self
Intimacy with fellow brethren increases when self is removed and the true
focal point is on the spiritual well being of a brother or sister because
they have been made meet to be partakers of the "inheritance of the saints
in light" (Col 1:12 KJV) Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made
us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who
hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into
the kingdom of his dear Son:14 In whom we have redemption through his
blood, even the forgiveness of sins:
All Submission is voluntary and not enforced.
(1 Cor 16:15 KJV) I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas,
that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves
to the ministry of the saints,) 16 That ye submit yourselves unto such, and
to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth. (Heb 13:17 KJV) Obey them
that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your
souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not
with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
(1 Pet 5:4 KJV) And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive
a crown of glory that fadeth not away. 5 Likewise, ye younger, submit
yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be
clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the
humble. 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he
may exalt you in due time: 7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth
for you.
The apostle Peter reminds us to love the brotherhood ((1 Pet 2:17 KJV)
Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king..
(Gal 6:10 KJV) As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto
all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.) and this
concept carries with it the insistence to be attuned to others needs to the
degree that self becomes not only unimportant, but actually non-existent in
sacrifice and preference for fellow members of the body. By "not forsaking
the assembling of ourselves together" ((Heb 10:25 KJV) Not forsaking the
assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting
one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.) and
actively participating as a member of such an arrangement proves a sincere
appreciation for the privilege of meeting together.
"Speaking the truth in love, may {we} grow up into him in all things, which
is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and
compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual
working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the
edifying of itself in love. And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted,
forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven
you."-Ephesians 4:15, 16, 32
(1 John 2:15 KJV) Love not the world, neither the things that are in the
world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the
eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17
And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will
of God abideth for ever.
Individual Maturity
Truly, the free grace received from God and the privilege of the high
calling has a humbling effect. Sincere concern for the spiritual well being
of others, and a determination to encourage them to be faithful to their
calling reflects the maturity of the new creature; the selfish desires of
the old man are replaced by true Christian love.
"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul,
and with all thy mind. Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."-Matthew
22:37, 39
The importance of the Bible in personal growth
(2 Tim 2:15 KJV) Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that
needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
(2 Tim 2:16 KJV) But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will
increase unto more ungodliness.
The importance of Prayer in personal growth
(James 5:14 KJV) Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the
church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of
the Lord: 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord
shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven
him.
(James 5:16 KJV) Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for
another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous
man availeth much.
(1 Th 5:25 KJV) Brethren, pray for us. 26 Greet all the brethren with an
holy kiss.
(2 Th 3:1 KJV) Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord
may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:
(Heb 13:18 KJV) Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all
things willing to live honestly.
Provoking Others
Paul encouraged the Hebrews to "draw near with a true heart in full
assurance of faith, having their hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience,
and their bodies washed with pure water" (Heb. 10:22). Upon achieving this
condition the consecrated member is in a position to consider others and to
provoke unto love and good works (Heb. 10:24). A commitment to fellow
brethren is required in order to assist them in their Christian walk.
Indeed, we are our brother's keeper (Gen. 4:9). By "keeping" our brother we
guard him, protect him and attend to his needs. Listening, caring, and
sharing in daily experiences in a nonjudgmental fashion and with an attitude
of brotherly love is not only a privilege, but a responsibility to each
ecclesia member. (Gal 2:9 KJV) And when James, Cephas, and John,
who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me,
they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should
go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. 10 Only they would
that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.
"We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the
brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Hereby perceive
we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to
lay down our lives for the brethren."-1 John 3:14, 16
Class Affairs
The new creature strongly desires to do all things pleasing in God's sight.
(1 John 3:21 KJV) Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we
confidence toward God. 22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him,
because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are
pleasing in his sight. 23 And this is his commandment, That we should
believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as
he gave us commandment. 24 And he that keepeth his commandments
dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us,
by the Spirit which he hath given us. ) He is sensitive and conscientious in
behavior and attitude when dealing with class affairs. When the new creature
is watching and praying for personal guidance within his own life and
concentrated on obedience to God's law of love, spiritual maturity naturally
turns outward and overflows into the lives of others. Through faithfulness
and trust in God's promised grace the fruits and the gifts of of the Holy
Spirit have a fertile heart in which to develop and flourish.
Feature each member contributing his "fruits of the spirit" in an ecclesia
setting as well as the gifts of the Holy Spirit.. (Luke 11:13 KJV) If ye
then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much
more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?
(Gal 5:22 KJV) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
(Eph 5:9 KJV) (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and
righteousness and truth;)
(1 Cor 12:28 KJV) And God hath set some in the church, first apostles,
secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of
healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles?
are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have
all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 31
But covet earnestly the best gifts:
(Eph 4:11 KJV) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some,
evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the
saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of
Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge
of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of
the fulness of Christ:
(1 Cor 14:1 KJV) Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but
rather that ye may prophesy. 2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue
speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit
in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. 3 But he that prophesieth speaketh
unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. 4 He that speaketh in
an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the
church.
The atmosphere is filled with the holy spirit and an awareness. even the
miraculous maifestation of of God's presence by His Spirit..
Here itis the Unity of the spirit prevails and selfish desires are to be
totally absent.
"Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be like-minded, having the same love, being of
one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory;
but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look
not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus."-Philippians 2:2-5
Serving One Another
Love for the brethren reflects love for the Lord. "Inasmuch as ye have done
it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
(Matt.25:40) The assembling of brethren together provides a wonderful
opportunity to serve one another and to provide spiritual gifts for one
another. Encouraging, forgiving, and praying for brethren are means of truly
supplying them with a "drink of water", lifting them up and refreshing them.
Let us be cheerful, zealous and generous in giving spiritual gifts of helps
as well.
"He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth
bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth
in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God
loveth a cheerful giver."-2 Corinthians 9:6, 7
"And whosoever shall give a drink unto one of these little ones a cup of
cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall
in no wise lose his reward."-Matthew 10:42
Ecclesia Maturity
The Christian maturity of each ecclesia will vary depending on the maturity
of the individual members. But, Christ is the ultimate goal both
individually and collectively, and with the power of the holy spirit the
fruits of the spirit are manifested-love, joy, peace, longsuffering,
gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance. (See Gal. 5:22) In
recognizing the influence of the individual's role in the ecclesia, each
member endeavors to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace. (Eph.
4:3) Following in the footsteps of Jesus, all strive to keep the law of love
and dwell together in unity. (Psa. 133:1)
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
The Example At Antioch
As an example of an ecclesia organized under the teachings of the apostles,
the following verses describe and reflect the Christian character of the
brethren at Antioch: "Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was
glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave
unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of
faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. And it came to pass that a
whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much
people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. And in
these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. And there stood up one
of them named Agabus ... that there should be great dearth throughout all
the world . . . Then the disciples, every man according to his ability,
determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea: Which
also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and
Saul."-Acts 11:23-30
Barnabas recognized the grace of God manifested amongst the believers at
Antioch revealed by their faith and conduct. The cleansing and sanctifying
power of the truth amongst these believers was quickly discerned, and
Barnabas "was glad" for them.
This is a beautiful example of Christian development in a young assembly of
brethren. They assembled together and studied the scriptures diligently.
They were sensitive to the needs of their fellow brethren and were organized
in such a fashion that agreement and action could be taken jointly. Their
spirit of sweet sacrifice both spiritually and monetarily reflected in their
decision to send aid to the church in Judaea. They chose leaders with much
prayer and fasting and trusted according to God's will. The result of their
obedience permitted them to serve the Lord by providing for His little ones.
The example of the Christians at Antioch continues to serve as a stimulant
to good works for the church class today.
Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not
forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is;
but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day
approaching.-Hebrews 10:24, 25
(John 13:35 KJV) By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye
have love one to another.
(John 12:25 KJV) He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth
his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
(1 John 2:9 KJV) He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother,
is in darkness even until now.
(1 John 2:11 KJV) But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and
walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness
hath blinded his eyes.
(1 John 3:15 KJV) Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know
that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
(1 John 4:20 KJV) If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a
liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love
God whom he hath not seen?
Ecclesia Elections
Following the example of the early churches, each ecclesia has the privilege
and responsibility to elect leaders the elders and also the deacons to
minister help to the poor ..by stretching out the hand. (2 Cor. 8:19)
"For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the
things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed
thee".-Titus 1:5
Among the brethren are usually found those who have leadership qualities
either as an elder or deacon. They are humbly devoted and obedient to the
Lord, and they are self-sacrificing. Their knowledge and understanding of
the scriptures is doctrinally sound, and they have a sincere desire to serve
their fellow brethren. Each should be totally willing to either be elected
or not.
In electing servants of the class a serious responsibility falls upon each
consecrated member. All candidates for office should be prayerfully
considered, leaning upon the Lord's spirit of love and wisdom to make a
final decision.
Once elders, deacons and other assigned roles are determined, the
responsibility does not end. Even more important is to continue praying and
fasting in support of the leaders. Preparing and participating in studies
and other meetings, cooperating in activities, and assisting when possible,
strengthens the class and permits the leaders to fulfill their
responsibilities to the flock. Each member has an opportunity to be a
blessing by contributing to the spiritual nourishment of all.
Liberty
As the new creature progresses in his Christian walk, he recognizes his
failures, weaknesses and imperfection. An appreciation is developed for the
heavenly Father's mercy and patience, and the provision of the robe of
righteousness to cover fleshly weaknesses. In the humbleness of this
reality, liberty for fellow brethren is achieved.
Each individual called is entitled to a personal walk with Christ. The
necessary experiences to make his calling and election sure is unique. No
one is capable of fully understanding the personal trials and experiences of
each member, and only God knows their needs. Therefore, liberty and mercy
toward fellow members must prevail!
"For the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is
liberty."-- 2 Corinthians 3:17
"Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God."-1
Corinthians 7:24
"For the body is not one member, but many. . . . But now hath God set the
members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. There should
be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one
for another. And whether one member suffereth, all the members suffer with
it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with
it."-1Corinthians 12:14, 18, 25, 26
"Be ye kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour
preferring one another."-Romans 12:10
Conventions
Each ecclesia is recognized as Christians bonded together in the faith, and
each in turn is bonded to other ecclesias of like faith. Thus, as the theme
text indicates, each class is "fitly framed together", growing unto the same
holy temple. Consecrated Christians gather in various ecclesias around the
world. Continuing to this day is the blessing of uniting with members from
other ecclesias in a convention setting to share the depth and beauty of the
riches of God's plan, and participate in an even greater realization of the
bond of love in one body, one faith. Praise the Lord!
"In all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another
in love; endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your
calling".-Ephesians 4:2-4
(11) Bear with one another's peculiarities of disposition, freely forgiving,
learn to correct ourselves (2:13). The Lord's body is viewed arrayed in
these qualities of heart, and love is the "girdle" which holds in place the
folds of the robe of Christ's righteousness with its various graces. These
graces are not matters of courtesy or policy. We will not be perfected in
heart nor fit for the Kingdom until these graces of our will are bound by
cords of love-for the Lord, righteousness, the brethren, and the world. We
do the will of God by praying for knowledge and wisdom to know his will.
Love is the spirit of the Lord. Let the peace of God rule in our hearts
(Phil. 4:7) as the regulator of our hearts.
Beware also of the false brethren within us.
(2 Cor 11:25 KJV) Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice
I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; 26 In
journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by
mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in
perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false
brethren;
(Gal 2:4 KJV) And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who
came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that
they might bring us into bondage: 5 To whom we gave place by subjection,
no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.
(Acts 20:29 KJV) For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous
wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30
Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw
away disciples after them. 31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the
space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with
tears.
(1 John 2:18 KJV) Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have
heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists;
whereby we know that it is the last time. 19 They went out from us, but
they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have
continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that
they were not all of us. 20 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and
ye know all things.
(1 Tim 5:20 KJV) Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may
fear. 21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect
angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before
another, doing nothing by partiality. 22 Lay hands suddenly on no man,
neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.
(2 Tim 4:2 KJV) Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season;
reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time
will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own
lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And
they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto
fables.
The role of the women in the meetings is to include..
(Titus 2:3 KJV) The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as
becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of
good things; 4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love
their husbands, to love their children, 5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers
at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not
blasphemed.
(Titus 2:11 KJV) For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared
to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we
should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13
Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God
and our Saviour Jesus Christ;Raj Powar(John 3:16 KJV) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
A house divided against itself cannot stand (Mark 3:25) applies to Churches, and our homes, and our marriages too.God Bless you.Please do see also these good sites AFOLLOWEROFCHRIST JesusisoursoleLord Jesusisstillourlord Jesus_says_come http://pbulow.tripod.com/index.html
