Christians may use any name which is divinely authorized. The church belongs to Christ (…my church, Matthew 16:18); He purchased it with His blood (Acts 20:28); He is the head of the church (Ephesians 1:22-23); and the church is called the “church of Christ” (Romans 16:16). One may b e confident of conviction and/or practices as long as it is in accord with the word of God. One should not be called by a religious name which is not found in the Bible! Are youcalled by a Bible name?

WHERE IS THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE CHURCH OF CHRIST? As a result of modern denominationalism, this question is logical. Christ’s church has its headquarters in Heaven (Ephesians 1:22-23), there are no headquarters of the church on earth. Each congregation is independent, and is related to other congregations of Christ’s people only as a part of the universal body of saved people.

HOW ARE THE CHURCHES ORGANIZED? With complete independence, each congregation is a self governing body (in subjection to Christ); having Elders and Deacons in every congregation (Acts 14:23; Philippians 1:1). These Elders are over only one local family of saints (1 Peter 5:2 “…which are among you”). There is no such thing as a “mother” church, or “overseeing” church in the scriptures.

HOW IS THE PROGRAM OF THE CHURCH FINANCED? Any together function entails financial responsibility, and the Lord foreseeing this, authorized the church treasury (Acts 4:32-35; Acts 5:2). The functions of the church from this treasury include benevolent responsibility to the saints (1 Corinthians 16:1-2) and the support of gospel preachers (2 Corinthians 11:8; Philippians 4:15-16). The only way for funds to get into this treasury is by free-will offerings (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). There are not efforts to force people to give into the treasury. Neither are unauthorized means of fund raising utilized: i.e., rummage sales, pie suppers, meals, side shows, etc. Christians give out of love for God!

HOW DOES ONE BECOME A MEMBER OF THE CHURCH OF CHRIST, THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH? The only way to get into the church of Christ is to get intoChrist! One cannot get into Christ without obeying Him (Hebrews 5:9). If you believe that Jesus is the promised Messiah (John 8:24), and will repent of your sins (Luke 13:3; Acts 17:30-31), and be buried by baptism into Christ (Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5) then youcan get into Christ(Galatians 3:26-27) wherein is salvation.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN, ‘BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST’? IS SPRINKLING OR POURING ACCEPTABLE? Baptism is the only way the Bible talks about one getting “into Christ” (Galatians 3:26-27; Romans 6:3-5). The scripture says explicitly “buried” (Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:12). Burial in water (immersion) is taught in the scriptures. Sprinkling and pouring have been added by man, not God. One knows that immersion is acceptable, for God said so. Why take a chance on what man said? (1 Corinthians 4:6).

WHO ARE THE PRIESTS IN THE CHURCH OF CHRIST? All Christians are priests (1 Peter 2:4,9). There is no such thing as a priestly class, as modern religionist would teach. This is but another influence of man’s doctrine. One can go to God in prayer without the intercession of another person, excepting Christ. The idea of confessionals, prayers through saints or through Mary are not taught in the scriptures. Jesus said for one to pray (1 Thessalonians 5:17) in His name and He would grant unto man (John 14:14).

WHAT KIND OF CHURCH ENTERTAINMENT IS PROVIDED? The church of Christ is a “spiritual” institution; not social! Individuals, not the church, have responsibility to provide the proper social environment for their children. Denominationalism has moved from the soul-saving campaign to the body-entertaining notion. Some churches even have sponsored “dances” for young people. Had God authorized such action, it would be approved; but in the absence of approval, the church cannot engage in these activities.

WHAT MUST ONE WEAR TO WORSHIP WITH THE CHURCH OF CHRIST? The church of Christ is not a “fashion” house! People attend to worship God. One may wear any modest apparel which would be pleasing in the sight of God. There is no respect shown toward the outward clothing which a person may wear, for God has specifically forbidden this (James 2:1-9). Christians are interested in people wearing a proper disposition when in worship (John 4:23-24).

WHAT IS THE LORD’S SUPPER, AND WHY DO YOU PARTAKE? Before Jesus died, He instituted the Supper (Matthew 26:26-30; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:19-20) and told Christians to partake of both the unleavened bread and the fruit of the vine (some religious institutions restrict the observance to but one, i.e.…the breaking of bread). The Lord’s Supper is a memorial to Christ in which the individual centers his mind around Christ’s life, death, burial and resurrection, knowing that his blood purchased our salvation and thus looking unto the day when He shall come again (1 Corinthians 11:24-26).

DO YOU HAVE WOMEN PREACHERS? No! Public proclamation of Christ’s gospel has been given to the men. Women are in subjection to the men (1 Corinthians 11:3). The women may teach, but not over the man (1 Timothy 2:12). They may teach younger women. (Titus 2:4-5).

WHY DO YOU NOT USE THE MECHANICAL INSTRUMENT OF MUSIC IN YOUR WORSHIP? There is only one motivating reason for all that disciples do, and that is God’s word. One lives under the law of Christ. Read the following passages: Matthew 26:30; Acts 16:25; 1 Corinthians 14:15; Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 2:12; James 5:13. They say one thing: sing! This is what one is to do. Had the scripture said, “Sing and play a mechanical instrument”, then that would be permitted. In the absence of authority, it would be presumptuous to say that God will accept the song service accompanied by the instrument, for He has not indicated that this is what He wants. Let us offer “the fruit of our lips” in praise unto God (Hebrews 13:15).

WHAT DO YOU TEACH ABOUT THE MORAL RESPONSIBILITY OF PEOPLE? Christ’s people should be the best people on earth. They are to set their affection on things which are above (Colossians 3:1-3); having put to death their evil desires upon the earth (Colossians 3:5). Christians are not approved in the sight of God if they continue to walk in sin. Sin cuts one off from God (Isaiah 59:1-2). If a Christian were to say, “I belong to God” while walking in sin, he is a liar (1 John 1:5-7). A Christian cannot pursue sin. Of course, being human, every person occasionally does things which he should not do, but then the blood of Christ can restore one to faithfulness (Hebrews 4:15).

DO YOU HAVE A BIBLE QUESTION? It would be a joy to discuss further teachings of God word. If you have a question, you can send an email to klparrishsr@msn.com or harvinf@hotmail.com or domingo_genarocuadra@hotmail.com . We are interested only in what Christ taught, therefore we request that you open your Bible and read to understand.