The church of Christ (Romans 16:16) is simply the church that belongs to Jesus--the church He promised to build (Matthew 16:18). Those who have been added to the Lord’s church (Acts 2:47) through repentance (Luke 13:3), confession of faith in Him (Acts 8:37), and immersion in water for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38) are called Christians (Acts 11:26), and--as such--they are members of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27). All such individuals, if faithful to the Lord unto death (Revelation 2:10), will live eternally (Matthew 25:46). Christians that assemble together for worship and mutual edification (Hebrews 10:24,25) and who also desire to be identified as part of the congregation will be warmly embraced as family. And that truly means something here!
The church exists to bring glory to God the Father through the Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 3:21). The purpose of the church is to preach the gospel to the lost and make disciples (Matthew 28:18-20), as well as to help its members grow in the grace and knowledge of God (2 Peter 3:18). The gospel, when it is believed and obeyed (2 Thessalonians 1:8), is the power of God to salvation (Romans 1:16). The aim of the church of Christ is to worship and serve God Almighty (Matthew 4:10) as His holy word authorizes (Colossians 3:17) and not to cling to the vain traditions of men (Matthew 15:9). We also strive to genuinely love our neighbors (Matthew 22:39) and do good unto all (Galatians 6:10).
The church of Christ has no earthly head, but its spiritual head is Christ (Ephesians 1:22). The church is not a denomination since such would imply religious division, which is sinful according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 1:10). The church of Christ is governed by the Bible, the inspired word of God Himself (2 Timothy 3:16,17). Its members are simply called “Christians” although some serve additional roles as shepherds/elders (1 Timothy 3:1-7), deacons (1 Timothy 3:8-13), or evangelists (2 Timothy 4:5).
It's an exciting time for Jesus' church in Clinton! Truth is being taught, love is being shared, and God is being exalted.
Come and see!