The Work and Worship of the Church

H. Robert Williams

THE apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 10:12 charges that we should be careful not to "compare ourselves with those who commend themselves: but they, measuring themselves by themselves, are not wise."

There is a very serious question that confronts the conscientious Christian. What does the Bible teach that the church ought to be. What are its divine functions in the world? Many individuals and congregations can boast an enviable record, if their standard of achievement is determined by what others are doing. If we are forever commending ourselves on the progress of some pet project, we become like those mentioned in the text above, of whom Paul said, "they are not wise."

It is rather frightening to notice that a great deal of what is being done in the name of religion (Christianity) is only remotely related to what the Lord requires of us. That which is being done in many instances may not be bad within itself. It may be pleasant, and who can say, perhaps some good is accomplished, but we miss the mark entirely when we cann such activity "church work."

Many folks are truly amazed when they see the striking simplicity of God's plan; but when the truth is actually discovered, we see that there is far more to be done than our time will allow. Christian activity, in every instance, is based upon the principle of obedience and obedience may be simply, yet adequately, defined as doing exactly what the Lord says do, in the the manner which He prescribes, and for the purpose stated. Anything short of that will result in failure and condemnation. Perhaps you will recall the strong rebuke which Samuel aimed at King Saul. He said, "Behold to obey is better than sacrifice and to harken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king." 1 Samuel 15:22-23

What then is the mission of the church and what does the Lord require of us? Generally speaking, the Bible directs the church in four areas of activity:

1. The church is charged with the responsibility to preach the gospel at home and abroad. Matt. 28:18-19 and 2 Timothy 3:15.

2. The church is expected to conduct regularly scheduled worship programs in which God is glorified and Christ is truly esteemed as king. John 4:24; Hebrews 10:25.

3. There must be carefully planned sessions of teaching, training and edifying the body of Christians. See 2 Timothy 2:2 and 1 Peter 3:15.

4. The church is obligated to attend to certain works of love and charity. 1 Cor. 16:1; Acts 11:27; 1 Tim. 5:3.