THE [LOCAL] CHURCH FUNCTIONING
Matthew 16:18
  1. Christ Founded His Church and Commissioned Her to Carry On His Work.   Matt.
    16:18; 28:18-20.

    1. Traditional churches put emphasis on buildings, professionally- trained pastors,
      maintaining status, high-profile image, etc.
    2. Are we prepared to express our faith and worship in other manners and forms?
    3. The first Churches did not have Temples or buildings.
    4. When our building are closed, will this mean the end of our Christianity?

  2. The First Church Was Persecuted Severely!   How Did They Respond?

    1. They met quietly in private homes.   Acts 5:42.
    2. "Lay Christians" faithfully shared their testimony.   Acts 8:1,4.
    3. They took advantage of every opportunity to witness and testify.   Acts 16:12,13.
    4. They taught informally (personal discipleship).   Acts 11:25,26.
    5. They fellowshipped together while ministering.   Acts 2:46,47.
    6. They worshipped under every circumstance and opportunity.   Acts 16:23-25.

  3. Alternative Means of Worship, Fellowship and Witness Were Observed.

    1. House churches were the norm.   Rom. 16:3-5; I Cor. 16:19.
    2. Persecuted Christians and "Unregistered" churches use birthdays, weddings and
      funerals as opportunities to meet as a body.
    3. Can you suggest some forms and ways?

  4. Some Means That Satan Uses to Defeat Christians and Churches During Persecution.

    1. Satan uses isolation as a tool against churches.
    2. Satan uses guilt and offenses as a weapon against churches.
      1. The Devil is the "accuser of our [the] brethren[.]"
      2. The accusations of Satan are continuous and never ending.
      3. The evil one watchfully waits to pounce when sin has not been confessed.
      4. Much care has to be taken to continually maintain communion and fellowship
        with the Lord.   I John 1:9.
      5. Personal offences not confronted become very serious and can grow into
        "mountainous" problems.
      6. Satan does his best to cause Christians to carry "false guilt" after sin has been
        forgiven.   Rom. 5:1,2; 8:33,34.
      7. Instead of doubting and asking "why," say, "Lord, what would you have me to
        do?"

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