Part 1 – Because of its Forecast; Part 2 – Because of its Fulfillment; Part 3 – Because of its Focus
Part 3 of 5
The Bible says, “Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen” (Eph. 3:21). This is the third part in a series of five on The Importance of the Church. The church is important because therein is God glorified.
The church is important because of its Focus.
In previous articles, we have looked at the importance of the church because its forecast and fulfillment. This article will point out the importance of the church because of its focus. The scriptures declares, “Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved” (Acts 2:47). This verse tells us that two things took place. One, they were praising God, which is what we do in worship, and two, the saved were being added to the church which is why we preach the gospel (Mark 16:16). There are many areas in which the church is focused, three of which are: evangelism, edification and benevolence.
The church must be evangelistic. Jesus gave us the Great Commission, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen” (Mt. 28:19-20). From the beginning of the church until this day we must endeavor to save the souls of men. Our focus must be on reaching the lost. Jesus came, the Bible says, “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Lk. 19:10). Paul discusses this important work in the book of Romans chapter ten verses thirteen through seventeen.
The church must edify. In the great commission Jesus said, “…teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you….” Peter spelled it out when he wrote, “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2 Pet. 3:18). We edify not only by teaching but also by worshipping God on the Lord’s Day. Also, “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do” (1 Thess. 5:11).
The church must practice benevolence. The example of the early church to help the poor saints in Jerusalem (Acts 11:29-30) sets a pattern for the church today in helping those who are in need. Paul writes concerning the Corinthians liberality, “Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints” (2 Cor. 8:4).
The church is important because of its forecast, fulfillment and focus.
