Reference: Church
American
The Greek word translated church signifies generally an assembly, either common or religious; and it is sometimes so translated, as in Ac 19:32,39. In the New Testament it usually means a congregation of religious worshippers, either Jewish, as Ac 7:38, or Christians, as Mt 16:18; 1Co 6:4. The latter sense is the more common one; and it is thus used in a twofold manner, denoting,
1. The universal Christian church: either the invisible church, consisting of those whose names are written in heaven, whom God knows, but whom we cannot infallibly know, Heb 12:23; or the visible church, made up of the professed followers of Christ on earth, Col 1:24; 1Ti 3:5,15.
2. A particular church or body of professing believers, who meet and worship together in one place; as the churches of Rome, Corinth, Ephesus, Philippi, etc., to which Paul addressed epistles.
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And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock, I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
This is he that was in the congregation in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the Mount Sinai, and with our fathers. This man received the word of life to give unto us,
Some cried one thing, and some another and the congregation was all out of quiet, and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.
Now joy I in my sufferings which I suffer, for you; and fulfill that which is behind of the passions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the congregation -
not of the deeds of righteousness which we wrought, but of his mercy, he saved us, by the fountain of the new birth, and with the renewing of the holy ghost,
All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all, Amen. {Here ends the Epistle of Saint Paul unto Titus, Written from Nicopolis, a city of Macedonia.}
and unto the congregation of the first born sons, which are written in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of just and perfect men:
Easton
Derived probably from the Greek kuriakon (i.e., "the Lord's house"), which was used by ancient authors for the place of worship.
In the New Testament it is the translation of the Greek word ecclesia, which is synonymous with the Hebrew kahal of the Old Testament, both words meaning simply an assembly, the character of which can only be known from the connection in which the word is found. There is no clear instance of its being used for a place of meeting or of worship, although in post-apostolic times it early received this meaning. Nor is this word ever used to denote the inhabitants of a country united in the same profession, as when we say the "Church of England," the "Church of Scotland," etc.
We find the word ecclesia used in the following senses in the New Testament: (1.) It is translated "assembly" in the ordinary classical sense (Ac 19:32,39,41).
(2.) It denotes the whole body of the redeemed, all those whom the Father has given to Christ, the invisible catholic church (Eph 5:23,25,27,29; Heb 12:23).
(3.) A few Christians associated together in observing the ordinances of the gospel are an ecclesia (Ro 16:5; Col 4:15).
(4.) All the Christians in a particular city, whether they assembled together in one place or in several places for religious worship, were an ecclesia. Thus all the disciples in Antioch, forming several congregations, were one church (Ac 13:1); so also we read of the "church of God at Corinth" (1Co 1:2), "the church at Jerusalem" (Ac 8:1), "the church of Ephesus" (Re 2:1), etc.
(5.) The whole body of professing Christians throughout the world (1Co 15:9; Ga 1:13; Mt 16:18) are the church of Christ.
The church visible "consists of all those throughout the world that profess the true religion, together with their children." It is called "visible" because its members are known and its assemblies are public. Here there is a mixture of "wheat and chaff," of saints and sinners. "God has commanded his people to organize themselves into distinct visible ecclesiastical communities, with constitutions, laws, and officers, badges, ordinances, and discipline, for the great purpose of giving visibility to his kingdom, of making known the gospel of that kingdom, and of gathering in all its elect subjects. Each one of these distinct organized communities which is faithful to the great King is an integral part of the visible church, and all together constitute the catholic or universal visible church." A credible profession of the true religion constitutes a person a member of this church. This is "the kingdom of heaven," whose character and progress are set forth in the parables recorded in Mt 13.
The children of all who thus profess the true religion are members of the visible church along with their parents. Children are included in every covenant God ever made with man. They go along with their parents (Ge 9:9-17; 12:1-3; 17:7; Ex 20:5; De 29:10-13). Peter, on the day of Pentecost, at the beginning of the New Testament dispensation, announces the same great principle. "The promise [just as to Abraham and his seed the promises were made] is unto you, and to your children" (Ac 2:38-39). The children of believing parents are "holy", i.e., are "saints", a title which designates the members of the Christian church (1Co 7:14). (See Baptism, Christian.)
The church invisible "consists of the whole number of the elect that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one under Christ, the head thereof." This is a pure society, the church in which Christ dwells. It is the body of Christ. it is called "invisible" because the greater part of those who constitute it are already in heaven or are yet unborn, and also because its members still on earth cannot certainly be distinguished. The qualifications of membership in it are internal and are hidden. It is unseen except by Him who "searches the heart." "The Lord knoweth them that are his" (2Ti 2:19).
The church to which the attributes, prerogatives, and promises appertaining to Christ's kingdom belong, is a spiritual body consisting of all true believers, i.e., the church invisible.
(1.) Its unity. God has ever had only one church on earth. We sometimes speak of the Old Testament Church and of the New Testament church, but they are one and the same. The Old Testament church was not to be changed but enlarged (Isa 49:13-23; 60:1-14). When the Jews are at length restored, they will not enter a new church, but will be grafted again into "their own olive tree" (Ro 11:18-24; comp. Eph 2:11-22). The apostles did not set up a new organization. Under their ministry disciples were "added" to the "church" already existing (Ac 2:47).
(2.) Its universality. It is the "catholic" church; not confined to any particular country or outward organization, but comprehending all believers throughout the whole world.
(3.) Its perpetuity. It will continue through all ages to the end of the world. It can never be destroyed. It is an "everlasting kindgdom."
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"See, I make my covenant with you and your seed after you, and with all living things that is with you: both fowl and cattle, and all manner beast of the earth that is with you, of all that cometh out of the ark, whatsoever beast of the earth it be. read more. I make my covenant with you, that henceforth all flesh shall not be destroyed with the waters of any flood, and that henceforth there shall not be a flood to destroy the earth." And God said, "This is the token of my covenant which I make between me and you, and between all living thing, that is with you forever: I will set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be a sign of the covenant made between me and the earth; so that when I bring in clouds upon the earth, the bow shall appear in the clouds. And then will I think upon my covenant which I have made between me and you, and all that liveth, whatsoever flesh it be. So that henceforth there shall be no more waters to make a flood to destroy all flesh. The bow shall be in the clouds, and I will look upon it, to remember the everlasting covenant between God and all that liveth upon the earth, whatsoever flesh it be." And God said unto Noah, "This is the sign of the covenant which I have made between me and all flesh that is on the earth."
Then the LORD said unto Abram, "Get thee out of thy country and from thy kindred; and out of thy father's house, into a land which I will show thee. And I will make of thee a mighty people, and will bless thee, and make thy name great, that thou mayst be a blessing. read more. And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse them that curse thee. And in thee shall be blessed all the generations of the earth."
Moreover, I will make my covenant between me, and thee, and thy seed after thee; in their times to be an everlasting testament, so that I will be God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.
See that thou neither bow thyself unto them neither serve them: for I, the LORD thy God, am a jealous God, and visit the sin of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me:
Ye stand here this day every one of you before the LORD your God: both the heads of your tribes, your elders, your officers and all the men of Israel; your children, your wives and the strangers that are in thine host, from the hewer of thy wood unto the drawer of thy water; read more. that thou shouldest come under the covenant of the LORD thy God, and under his oath which the LORD thy God maketh with thee this day. For to make thee a people unto himself, and that he may be unto thee a God, as he hath said unto thee and as he hath sworn unto thy fathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Rejoice ye heavens, and sing praises thou earth: Talk of joy ye hills, for God will comfort his people, and have mercy upon his, that be in trouble. Then shall Zion say, "God hath forsaken me, and the LORD hath forgotten me." read more. Doth a wife forget the child of her womb, and the son who she hath born? And though she do forget, yet will not I forget thee. Behold, I have written thee up upon my hands, thy walls are ever in my sight. They that have broken thee down, shall make haste to build thee up again: and they that made thee waste, shall dwell in thee. Lift up thine eyes, and look about thee: all these shall gather them together, and come to thee. As truly as I live, sayeth the LORD, thou shalt put them all upon thee as an apparel, and gird them to thee, as an bride doth her jewels. As for thy land that lieth desolate, wasted and destroyed: it shall be too narrow for them, that shall dwell in it. And they that would devour thee, shall be far away. Then the child whom the barren shall bring forth unto thee, shall say in thine ear, "This place is too narrow, sit nigh together, that I may have room." Then shalt thou think by thyself, "Who hath begotten me these? Seeing I am barren and alone, a captive and an outcast? And who hath nourished them up for me? I am desolate and alone, but from whence come these?" And therefore thus sayeth the LORD God: Behold, I will stretch out mine hand to the Gentiles, and set up my token to the people. They shall bring thy sons in their laps, and carry thy daughters unto thee upon their shoulders. For kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and Queens shall be thy nursing mothers. They shall fall before thee with their faces flat upon the earth, and lick up the dust of thy feet: that thou mayest know, how that I am the LORD. And who so putteth his trust in me, shall not be confounded.
Up and receive light, Jerusalem: for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is up over thee. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and a thick mist the nations. But the LORD shall rise as the sun over thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. read more. And the heathen shall walk in thy light, and the kings in the brightness that is risen over thee. Lift up thine eyes round about and see. All these are gathered together and are come unto thee. Thy sons shall come from far, and thy daughters shall be ever by thy side. Then thou shalt see, and shalt have plenty: thine heart shall wonder and break out in joy, when the multitude of the sea are turned to thee, and the armies of the heathen are come unto thee. The abundance of camels shall cover thee, and the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah shall come all of them from Sheba, and bring gold and frankincense, and shall preach the praise of the LORD. All the cattle of Cedar shall be gathered unto thee, the rams Nebaioth shall serve thee, to be offered upon mine altar, which I have chosen, and in the house of my glory which I have garnished. But what are these that flee here like clouds, and as the doves flying to their windows? The isles also shall gather them unto me, and especially the ships of the sea: that they may bring the sons from far, and their silver and their gold with them, unto the name of the LORD thy God, unto the holy one of Israel, that hath glorified thee. Strangers shall build up thy walls, and their kings shall do thee service. For when I am angry, I smite thee; and when it pleaseth me, I pardon thee. Thy gates shall stand open still both day and night, and never be shut: that the house of the Gentiles may come, and that their kings may be brought unto thee. or every people and kingdom that serveth not thee, shall perish, and be destroyed with the sword. The glory of Lebanon shall come unto thee: The fir trees, Boxes and Cedars together, to garnish the place of my Sanctuary, for I will glorify the place of my feet. Moreover, those shall come kneeling unto thee that have vexed thee: and all they that despised thee, shall fall down at thy foot. Thou shalt be called the city of the LORD, the holy Zion of Israel.
And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock, I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptised every one of of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the holy ghost. "For the promise was made unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar, even as many as the Lord God shall call."
and had favour with all the people, and the Lord added to the congregation daily such as should be saved.
Saul had pleasure in his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Jerusalem, and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Jewry and Samaria, except the apostles.
There were at Antioch, in the congregation, certain prophets and teachers: as Barnabas and Symeon called Niger; And Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, Herod the tetrarch's nurse-fellow, and Saul.
Some cried one thing, and some another and the congregation was all out of quiet, and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.
boast not thyself against the branches. For if thou boast thyself, remember that thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Thou wilt say then, "The branches are broken off, that I might be graft in." read more. Thou sayest well: because of unbelief they are broken off, and thou standest steadfast in faith. Be not high minded, but fear: seeing that God spared not the natural branches, lest haply he also spare not thee. Behold the kindness and rigorousness of God: on them which fell, rigorousness: but towards thee, kindness; if thou continue in his kindness. Or else thou shalt be hewn off, and they if they bide not still in unbelief shall be grafted in again. For God is of power to graft them in again. For if thou wast cut out of a natural wild olive tree, and wast grafted contrary to nature in a true olive tree: how much more shall the natural branches be graffed in their own olive tree again?
Likewise, greet all the congregation that is in their house. Salute my well beloved Epaenetes, which is the firstfruit among them of Achaia.
Unto the congregation of God which is at Corinth. To them that are sanctified in Jesus Christ, saints by calling, with all that call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ in every place, both of theirs and of ours.
For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife: and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband. Or else were your children unclean: but now are they pure.
For I am the least of all the apostles, which am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the congregation of God:
For ye have heard of my conversation in times past in the Jews' ways, how that beyond measure I persecuted the congregation of God, and spoiled it:
Wherefore, remember that ye, being in time past gentiles in the flesh, and were called "uncircumcision" to them which are called "circumcision" in the flesh - which circumcision is made by hands - remember, I say, that ye were at that time without Christ, and were reputed aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and were strangers from the testaments of promise, and had no hope, and were without God in this world. read more. But now in Christ Jesus, ye which a while ago were far off, are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, which hath made of both one, and hath broken down the wall in the midst, that was a stop between us, and hath also put away, through his flesh, the cause of hatred - that is to say, the law of commandments contained in the law written - for to make of twain one new man in himself, so making peace. And to reconcile both unto God in one body through his cross, and slew hatred thereby: and came, and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have an open way in, in one spirit unto the father. Now, therefore, ye are no more strangers and foreigners: but citizens with the saints, and of the household of God, and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets - Jesus Christ being the head cornerstone - in whom every building coupled together, groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord, in whom ye also are built together, and made a habitation for God in the spirit.
For the husband is the wife's head, even as Christ is the head of the congregation, and the same is the saviour of the body.
Husbands: love your wives, even as Christ loved the congregation, and gave himself for it,
to make it unto himself a glorious congregation without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame.
For no man ever yet, hated his own flesh; but nourisheth, and cherisheth it: even as the Lord doth the congregation.
Salute the brethren which are of Laodicea, and salute Nymphas, and the congregation which is in his house.
But the sure ground of God remaineth, and hath this seal: the Lord knoweth them that are his, and let every man that calleth on the name of Christ, depart from iniquity.
and unto the congregation of the first born sons, which are written in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of just and perfect men:
Unto the messenger of the congregation of Ephesus write, 'These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, and walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks:
Fausets
From the Greek kuriakee, "house of the Lord," a word which passed to the Gothic tongue; the Goths being the first of the northern hordes converted to Christianity, adopted the word from the Greek Christians of Constantinople, and so it came to us Anglo-Saxons (Trench, Study of Words). But Lipsius, from circus, from whence kirk, a circle, because the oldest temples, as the Druid ones, were circular in form. Ekkleesia in the New Testament never means the building or house of assembly, because church buildings were built long AFTER the apostolic age. It means an organized body, whose unity does not depend on its being met together in one place; not an assemblage of atoms, but members in their several places united to the One Head, Christ, and forming one organic living whole (1 Corinthians 12). The bride of Christ (Eph 5:25-32; 1:22), the body of which He is the Head.
The household of Christ and of God (Mt 10:25; Eph 2:19). The temple of the Holy Spirit, made up of living stones (Eph 2:22; 1Co 3:16; 1Pe 2:5). Ekkleesia is used of one or more particular Christian associations, even one small enough to worship together in one house (Ro 16:5). Also of "the whole church" (Ro 16:23; 1Co 12:28). Ekkleesia occurs twice only in Matthew (Mt 16:18; 18:17), elsewhere called "the kingdom of the heavens" by Matthew, "the kingdom of God" by Mark, Luke and John. Also called Christ's "flock," never to be plucked out of His hand (Joh 10:28), "branches" in Him "the true Vine." Founded on the Rock, "the Christ the Son of the living God," the only Foundation (Mt 16:16,18; 1Co 3:11).
Constituted as Christ's mystical body on Pentecost; thenceforth expanding in the successive stages traced in ACTS. Described in a beautiful summary (Ac 2:41,47). (On its apostasy (See BABYLON .) Professing Christendom numbers now probably 80 million of Greek churches, 90 million of Teutonic or Protestant churches, and 170 million of Roman Catholic churches. The Church of England's definition of the church is truly scriptural (Article xix): "a congregation of faithful men in the which the pure word of God is preached, and the sacraments be duly ministered according to Christ's ordinance in all those things that of necessity are requisite to the same." The church that shall reign with Christ is made up of those written in heaven, in the Lamb's book of life, the spirits of just, men made perfect (Heb 12:22-23; Re 21:27).
The faultless perfection and the glorious promises in Scripture assigned to the church (election, adoption, spiritual priesthood, sure guidance by the Spirit into all truth, eternal salvation) belong not to all of the visible church, but to those alone of it who are in living union with Christ (Eph 5:23-27; Heb 12:22-23). The claim for the visible church of what belongs to the invisible, in spite of Christ's warning parable of the tares and wheat (Mt 13:24-30,36-43), has led to some of Rome's deadliest errors. On the other hand, the attempt to sever the tares from the wheat prematurely has led to many schisms, which have invariably failed in the attempt and only generated fresh separations. We must wait until Christ's manifestation for the manifestation of the sons of God (Ro 8:19; Col 3:4).
The true universal church is restricted to "them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours" (1Co 1:2). They are visible in so far as their light of good works so shines before men that their Father in heaven is glorified (Mt 5:16). They are invisible insofar that it is God alone who can infallibly see who among professors are animated by a living, loving faith, and who are not. A visible community, consisting of various members and aggregations of members, was founded by Christ Himself, as needed for the extension and continuation of Christianity to all lands and all ages. The ministry of the word and the two sacraments, baptism, and the supper of the Lord, (both in part derived from existing Jewish rites, Mt 26:26-28; 1Co 5:7-8).
Baptism, the Lord's Supper were appointed as the church's distinctive ordinances (Mt 28:19-20, Greek text): "make disciples of all nations, baptizing them ... Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and (only on condition of your doing so) I am with you always," etc. (See BAPTISM; LORD'S SUPPER.) The professing church that neglects the precept forfeits the promise, which is fatal to Rome's claims. No detailed church government is explicitly commanded by Jesus in the New Testament. The Old Testament ministry of high priest, priests, and Levites necessarily ended with the destruction of the one and only temple appointed by God. That the Christian ministry is not sacerdotal, as the Old Testament ministry, is proved by the title hiereus, the Greek of the Latin sacerdos, never once being used of Christian ministers.
When used at all as to the Christian church it is used of the whole body of Christians; since not merely ministers, as the Aaronic priests, but all equally, have near access to the heavenly holy place, through the torn veil of Christ's flesh (Heb 10:19-22; 13:15-16; 1Pe 2:19; Re 1:6). All alike offer "spiritual sacrifices." For a minister to pretend to offer a literal sacrifice in the Lord's supper, or to have the sacerdotal priesthood (which pertains to Christ alone), would be the sin which Moses charged on Korah: "Seemeth it but a small thing unto you that the God of Israel hath separated you from the congregation to bring you near to Himself, ... to stand before the congregation to minister to them; and seek ye the priesthood also?" The temple then not being the model to the Christian church, the synagogue alone remained to be copied.
In the absence of the temple during the captivity the people assembled together on sabbaths and other days to be instructed by the prophet (Eze 14:1; 20:1; 33:31). In Ne 8:1-8 a specimen is given of such a service, which the synagogues afterward continued, and which consisted in Scripture reading, with explanation, prayers, and thanksgivings. The synagogue officers consisted of a "ruler of the synagogue," the "legate of the church" (sheliach tsibbur), corresponding to the angel of the church (Revelation 1-3), a college of elders or presbyters, and subordinate ministers (chazzan), answering to our deacons, to take care of the sacred books. Episcopacy was adopted in apostolic times as the most expedient government, most resembling Jewish usages, and so causing the least stumbling-block to Jewish prejudices (Ac 4:8; 24:1).
James, the brother of our Lord, after the martyrdom of James, the son of Zebedee and the flight of Peter (Ac 12:17), alone remained behind in Jerusalem, the recognized head there. His Jewish tendencies made him the least unpopular to the Jews, and so adapted him for the presidency there without the title (Ac 15:13-19; 21:18; Ga 2:2,9,12). This was the first specimen of apostolic local episcopacy without the name. The presbyters of the synagogue were called also (See BISHOPS, or overseers. "Those now called 'bishops' were originally 'apostles.' But those who ruled the church after the apostles' death had not the testimony of miracles, and were in many respects inferior, therefore they thought it unbecoming to assume the name of apostles; but dividing the names, they left to 'presbyters' that name, and themselves were called 'bishops'" (Ambrose, in Bingham Ecclesiastes Ant., 2:11; and Amularius, De Officiis, 2:13.)
The steps were apostle; then vicar apostolic or apostolic delegate, as Timothy in Ephesus and Titus in Crete, temporarily (1Ti 1:3; 2Ti 4:21; Tit 3:12; 1:5), then angel, then bishop in the present sense. Episcopacy gives more of centralized unity, but when made an absolute law it tends to spiritual despotism. The visible church, while avoiding needless alterations, has power under God to modify her polity as shall tend most to edification (Mt 18:18; 1Co 12:28-30; 14:26; Eph 4:11-16). The Holy Spirit first unites souls individually to the Father in Christ, then with one another as "the communion of saints." Then followed the government and ministry, which are not specifie
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Now when the seventh month drew nigh, and the children of Israel were in their cities, all the people gathered themselves together as one man upon the street before the Watergate, and said unto Ezra the scribe that he should fetch the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD commanded to Israel.
Now when the seventh month drew nigh, and the children of Israel were in their cities, all the people gathered themselves together as one man upon the street before the Watergate, and said unto Ezra the scribe that he should fetch the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD commanded to Israel. And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and of all that could understand it, upon the first day of the seventh month.
And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and of all that could understand it, upon the first day of the seventh month. And read therein in the street that is before the Watergate, from the morning until the noon day before men and women, and such as could understand it: and the ears of all the people were inclined unto the book of the law.
And read therein in the street that is before the Watergate, from the morning until the noon day before men and women, and such as could understand it: and the ears of all the people were inclined unto the book of the law. And Ezra the scribe stood upon a high pulpit of wood, which they had made for the preaching, and beside him stood Mattithiah, Shema, Ananiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his righthand: and on his left hand stood Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchiah, Hashum, Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam.
And Ezra the scribe stood upon a high pulpit of wood, which they had made for the preaching, and beside him stood Mattithiah, Shema, Ananiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his righthand: and on his left hand stood Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchiah, Hashum, Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam. And Ezra opened the book before all the people, for he stood above all the people. And when he opened it, all the people stood up.
And Ezra opened the book before all the people, for he stood above all the people. And when he opened it, all the people stood up. And Ezra praised the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, "Amen, Amen," with their hands up, and bowed themselves, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground.
And Ezra praised the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, "Amen, Amen," with their hands up, and bowed themselves, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground. And Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to give heed unto the law, and the people stood in their place.
And Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to give heed unto the law, and the people stood in their place. And they read in the book of the law of God distinctly and plainly, so that men understood the thing that was read.
And they read in the book of the law of God distinctly and plainly, so that men understood the thing that was read.
In the seventh year, the tenth day of the fifth Month, it happened that certain of the elders of Israel came unto me, for to ask counsel at the LORD, and sat them down by me.
In the seventh year, the tenth day of the fifth Month, it happened that certain of the elders of Israel came unto me, for to ask counsel at the LORD, and sat them down by me.
These come unto thee, after the manner of a great people: yea, my people sit down before thee, and hear thy words, but they do not thereafter: for in their mouths they show themselves, as though they were fervent, but their heart goeth after their own covetous lucre.
These come unto thee, after the manner of a great people: yea, my people sit down before thee, and hear thy words, but they do not thereafter: for in their mouths they show themselves, as though they were fervent, but their heart goeth after their own covetous lucre.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father which is in heaven.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father which is in heaven.
It is enough for the disciple to be as his Master is, and that the servant be as his Lord is. If they have called the Lord of the house Beelzebub: how much more shall they call them of his household so?
It is enough for the disciple to be as his Master is, and that the servant be as his Lord is. If they have called the Lord of the house Beelzebub: how much more shall they call them of his household so?
Another similitude put he forth, unto them saying, "The kingdom of heaven is like unto a man which sowed good seed in his field.
Another similitude put he forth, unto them saying, "The kingdom of heaven is like unto a man which sowed good seed in his field. But while men slept, there came his foe, and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.
But while men slept, there came his foe, and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. When the blade was sprung up, and had brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.
When the blade was sprung up, and had brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. The servants then came to the householder, and said unto him, 'Sir, sowest not thou good seed in thy close, from whence then hath it tares?'
The servants then came to the householder, and said unto him, 'Sir, sowest not thou good seed in thy close, from whence then hath it tares?' But he said to them, 'The envious man hath done this.' Then the servants said unto him, 'Wilt thou then that we go and weed them out?'
But he said to them, 'The envious man hath done this.' Then the servants said unto him, 'Wilt thou then that we go and weed them out?' But he said, 'Nay, lest while ye go about to weed out the tares, ye pluck up also with them the wheat by the roots.
But he said, 'Nay, lest while ye go about to weed out the tares, ye pluck up also with them the wheat by the roots. Let both grow together till harvest come: and in time of harvest, I will say to the reapers, Gather ye first the tares, and bind them in sheaves to be burnt: but gather the wheat into my barn.'"
Let both grow together till harvest come: and in time of harvest, I will say to the reapers, Gather ye first the tares, and bind them in sheaves to be burnt: but gather the wheat into my barn.'"
Then sent Jesus the people away, and came to house. And his disciples came unto him, saying, "Declare unto us the similitude of the tares in the field."
Then sent Jesus the people away, and came to house. And his disciples came unto him, saying, "Declare unto us the similitude of the tares in the field." Then answered he and said to them, "He that soweth the good seed, is the son of man,
Then answered he and said to them, "He that soweth the good seed, is the son of man, and the field is the world. And the children of the kingdom, they are the good seed. And the tares are the children of the wicked.
and the field is the world. And the children of the kingdom, they are the good seed. And the tares are the children of the wicked. And the enemy that soweth them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the world. And the reapers be the angels.
And the enemy that soweth them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the world. And the reapers be the angels. For even as the tares are gathered, and burnt in the fire, so shall it be in the end of this world.
For even as the tares are gathered, and burnt in the fire, so shall it be in the end of this world. The son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that do offend, and all them which do iniquity,
The son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that do offend, and all them which do iniquity, and shall cast them into a furnace of fire. There shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
and shall cast them into a furnace of fire. There shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the just men shine as bright as the sun in the kingdom of their father. Whosoever hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Then shall the just men shine as bright as the sun in the kingdom of their father. Whosoever hath ears to hear, let him hear.
And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock, I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock, I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock, I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock, I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
If he hear not them, tell it unto the congregation: if he hear not the congregation, take him as a heathen man, and as a publican.
If he hear not them, tell it unto the congregation: if he hear not the congregation, take him as a heathen man, and as a publican.
If he hear not them, tell it unto the congregation: if he hear not the congregation, take him as a heathen man, and as a publican.
If he hear not them, tell it unto the congregation: if he hear not the congregation, take him as a heathen man, and as a publican. Verily I say unto you whatsoever ye bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven. And whatsoever ye loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven.
Verily I say unto you whatsoever ye bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven. And whatsoever ye loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven.
As they did eat, Jesus took bread and gave thanks, brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take. Eat. This is my body."
As they did eat, Jesus took bread and gave thanks, brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take. Eat. This is my body." And he took the cup, and thanked, and gave it them, saying, "Drink of it every one.
And he took the cup, and thanked, and gave it them, saying, "Drink of it every one. This is my blood of the new testament, that shall be shed for many, for the forgiveness of sins.
This is my blood of the new testament, that shall be shed for many, for the forgiveness of sins.
Go therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and the son and the holy ghost;
Go therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and the son and the holy ghost; teaching them to observe all things, whatsoever I commanded you. And lo, I am with you always even until the end of the world."
teaching them to observe all things, whatsoever I commanded you. And lo, I am with you always even until the end of the world."
And I give unto them eternal life: and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
And I give unto them eternal life: and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
And now am I no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy father, keep in thine own name them which thou hast given me, that they may be one as we are.
And now am I no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy father, keep in thine own name them which thou hast given me, that they may be one as we are.
I desire not that thou shouldest take them out of the world: but that thou keep them from evil.
I desire not that thou shouldest take them out of the world: but that thou keep them from evil.
Then they that gladly received his preaching were baptised; And the same day, there were added unto them about a three thousand souls.
Then they that gladly received his preaching were baptised; And the same day, there were added unto them about a three thousand souls.
and had favour with all the people, and the Lord added to the congregation daily such as should be saved.
and had favour with all the people, and the Lord added to the congregation daily such as should be saved.
Then Peter, full of the holy ghost, said unto them, "Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
Then Peter, full of the holy ghost, said unto them, "Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
And he beckoned unto them with the hand to hold their peace, and told them by what means the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, "Go show these things unto James and to the brethren." And he departed and went into another place.
And he beckoned unto them with the hand to hold their peace, and told them by what means the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, "Go show these things unto James and to the brethren." And he departed and went into another place.
And when they held their peace, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren hearken unto me;
And when they held their peace, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren hearken unto me; Simeon told how God at the beginning did visit the gentiles, and received of them people unto his name.
Simeon told how God at the beginning did visit the gentiles, and received of them people unto his name. And to this agreeth the words of the prophets, as it is written,
And to this agreeth the words of the prophets, as it is written, 'After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down, and that which is fallen in decay of it will I build again and I will set it up,
'After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down, and that which is fallen in decay of it will I build again and I will set it up, that the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and also the Gentiles upon whom my name is named saith the Lord, which doth all these things.'
that the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and also the Gentiles upon whom my name is named saith the Lord, which doth all these things.' Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.
Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them which from among the gentiles are turned to God:
Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them which from among the gentiles are turned to God:
Howbeit, one Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians gave audience and believed, and were baptised.
Howbeit, one Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians gave audience and believed, and were baptised.
And on the morrow, Paul went in with us unto James. And all the elders came together.
And on the morrow, Paul went in with us unto James. And all the elders came together.
After five days, Ananias the high priest descended, with elders and with a certain orator named Tertullus, and informed the ruler of Paul.
After five days, Ananias the high priest descended, with elders and with a certain orator named Tertullus, and informed the ruler of Paul.
Also, the fervent desire of the creatures abideth looking when the sons of God shall appear;
Also, the fervent desire of the creatures abideth looking when the sons of God shall appear;
Likewise, greet all the congregation that is in their house. Salute my well beloved Epaenetes, which is the firstfruit among them of Achaia.
Likewise, greet all the congregation that is in their house. Salute my well beloved Epaenetes, which is the firstfruit among them of Achaia.
Gaius mine host and the host of all the congregations, saluteth you. Erastus, the chamberlain of the city, saluteth you. And Quartus, a brother, saluteth you.
Gaius mine host and the host of all the congregations, saluteth you. Erastus, the chamberlain of the city, saluteth you. And Quartus, a brother, saluteth you.
Unto the congregation of God which is at Corinth. To them that are sanctified in Jesus Christ, saints by calling, with all that call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ in every place, both of theirs and of ours.
Unto the congregation of God which is at Corinth. To them that are sanctified in Jesus Christ, saints by calling, with all that call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ in every place, both of theirs and of ours.
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of the Lord Jesus Christ,
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of the Lord Jesus Christ,
Upon some Sunday, let every one of you put aside at home, and lay up whatsoever he thinketh meet, that there be no gatherings when I come.
Upon some Sunday, let every one of you put aside at home, and lay up whatsoever he thinketh meet, that there be no gatherings when I come.
Yea, and I went up by revelation, and commended with them of the gospel, which I preach among the gentiles - but between ourselves with them which were counted chief, lest it should have been thought that I should run, or had run in vain.
Yea, and I went up by revelation, and commended with them of the gospel, which I preach among the gentiles - but between ourselves with them which were counted chief, lest it should have been thought that I should run, or had run in vain.
and therefore when James, Cephas, and John, which seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the righthands, and agreed with us that we should preach among the heathen, and they among the Jews:
and therefore when James, Cephas, and John, which seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the righthands, and agreed with us that we should preach among the heathen, and they among the Jews:
For yer that certain came from James, he ate with the gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision,
For yer that certain came from James, he ate with the gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision,
And hath put all things under his feet, and hath made him above all things, the head of the congregation:
And hath put all things under his feet, and hath made him above all things, the head of the congregation:
Now, therefore, ye are no more strangers and foreigners: but citizens with the saints, and of the household of God,
Now, therefore, ye are no more strangers and foreigners: but citizens with the saints, and of the household of God,
in whom ye also are built together, and made a habitation for God in the spirit.
in whom ye also are built together, and made a habitation for God in the spirit.
and that ye be diligent to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace, being one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling.
being one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling. Let there be but one Lord, one faith, one baptism:
Let there be but one Lord, one faith, one baptism: one God and father of all, which is above all, through all, and in you all.
one God and father of all, which is above all, through all, and in you all.
And the very same, made some Apostles, some Prophets, some Evangelists, some Shepherds, some Teachers:
And the very same, made some Apostles, some Prophets, some Evangelists, some Shepherds, some Teachers: that the saints might have all things necessary to work and minister withal, to the edifying of the body of Christ,
that the saints might have all things necessary to work and minister withal, to the edifying of the body of Christ, till we, everyone - in the unity of faith, and knowledge of the son of God - grow up unto a perfect man, after the measure of age which is of the fullness of Christ:
till we, everyone - in the unity of faith, and knowledge of the son of God - grow up unto a perfect man, after the measure of age which is of the fullness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, wavering and carried with every wind of doctrine, by the wiliness of men and craftiness, whereby they lay a wait for us to deceive us.
That we henceforth be no more children, wavering and carried with every wind of doctrine, by the wiliness of men and craftiness, whereby they lay a wait for us to deceive us. But let us follow the truth in love, and in all things grow in him which is the head, that is to say Christ,
But let us follow the truth in love, and in all things grow in him which is the head, that is to say Christ,
But let us follow the truth in love, and in all things grow in him which is the head, that is to say Christ,
But let us follow the truth in love, and in all things grow in him which is the head, that is to say Christ, in whom all the body is coupled and knit together, in every joint, wherewith one ministereth to another - according to the operation as every part hath his measure - and increaseth the body, unto the edifying of itself in love.
in whom all the body is coupled and knit together, in every joint, wherewith one ministereth to another - according to the operation as every part hath his measure - and increaseth the body, unto the edifying of itself in love.
in whom all the body is coupled and knit together, in every joint, wherewith one ministereth to another - according to the operation as every part hath his measure - and increaseth the body, unto the edifying of itself in love.
in whom all the body is coupled and knit together, in every joint, wherewith one ministereth to another - according to the operation as every part hath his measure - and increaseth the body, unto the edifying of itself in love.
For the husband is the wife's head, even as Christ is the head of the congregation, and the same is the saviour of the body.
For the husband is the wife's head, even as Christ is the head of the congregation, and the same is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the congregation is in subjection to Christ, likewise let the wives be in subjection to their husbands in all things.
Therefore as the congregation is in subjection to Christ, likewise let the wives be in subjection to their husbands in all things. Husbands: love your wives, even as Christ loved the congregation, and gave himself for it,
Husbands: love your wives, even as Christ loved the congregation, and gave himself for it,
Husbands: love your wives, even as Christ loved the congregation, and gave himself for it,
Husbands: love your wives, even as Christ loved the congregation, and gave himself for it, to sanctify it, and cleansed it in the fountain of water through the word,
to sanctify it, and cleansed it in the fountain of water through the word,
to sanctify it, and cleansed it in the fountain of water through the word,
to sanctify it, and cleansed it in the fountain of water through the word, to make it unto himself a glorious congregation without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame.
to make it unto himself a glorious congregation without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame.
to make it unto himself a glorious congregation without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame.
to make it unto himself a glorious congregation without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame. So ought men to love their wives, as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife, loveth himself.
So ought men to love their wives, as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife, loveth himself. For no man ever yet, hated his own flesh; but nourisheth, and cherisheth it: even as the Lord doth the congregation.
For no man ever yet, hated his own flesh; but nourisheth, and cherisheth it: even as the Lord doth the congregation. For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. "For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall continue with his wife, and two shall be made one flesh."
"For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall continue with his wife, and two shall be made one flesh." This is a great secret, but I speak between Christ and the congregation.
This is a great secret, but I speak between Christ and the congregation.
When Christ, which is our life, shall show himself; then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
When Christ, which is our life, shall show himself; then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
Where is neither gentile nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarous or Scythian, bond or free: But Christ is all in all things.
Where is neither gentile nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarous or Scythian, bond or free: But Christ is all in all things.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you plenteously in all wisdom. Teach and exhort your own selves, in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs which have favour with them, singing in your hearts to the Lord.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you plenteously in all wisdom. Teach and exhort your own selves, in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs which have favour with them, singing in your hearts to the Lord.
As I besought thee to abide still in Ephesus when I departed into Macedonia; even so, do: that thou command some that they teach no other wise,
As I besought thee to abide still in Ephesus when I departed into Macedonia; even so, do: that thou command some that they teach no other wise,
For this cause left I thee in Crete: that thou shouldest perform that which was lacking and shouldest ordain elders in every city as I appointed thee.
For this cause left I thee in Crete: that thou shouldest perform that which was lacking and shouldest ordain elders in every city as I appointed thee.
When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me unto Nicopolis. For I have determined there to winter.
When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me unto Nicopolis. For I have determined there to winter.
Seeing, brethren, that by the means of the blood of Jesus, we may be bold to enter into that holy place,
Seeing, brethren, that by the means of the blood of Jesus, we may be bold to enter into that holy place, by the new and living way, which he hath prepared for us, through the veil, that is to say by his flesh.
by the new and living way, which he hath prepared for us, through the veil, that is to say by his flesh. And seeing also that we have a high priest which is ruler over the house of God,
And seeing also that we have a high priest which is ruler over the house of God, let us draw nigh with a true heart in a full faith sprinkled in our hearts, from an evil conscience, and washed in our bodies with pure water,
let us draw nigh with a true heart in a full faith sprinkled in our hearts, from an evil conscience, and washed in our bodies with pure water,
But ye are come unto the mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the celestial Jerusalem: and to an innumerable sight of angels,
But ye are come unto the mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the celestial Jerusalem: and to an innumerable sight of angels,
But ye are come unto the mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the celestial Jerusalem: and to an innumerable sight of angels,
But ye are come unto the mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the celestial Jerusalem: and to an innumerable sight of angels, and unto the congregation of the first born sons, which are written in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of just and perfect men:
and unto the congregation of the first born sons, which are written in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of just and perfect men:
and unto the congregation of the first born sons, which are written in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of just and perfect men:
and unto the congregation of the first born sons, which are written in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of just and perfect men:
For by him offer we the sacrifice of praise always to God: that is to say, the fruit of those lips, which confess his name.
For by him offer we the sacrifice of praise always to God: that is to say, the fruit of those lips, which confess his name. To do good, and to distribute, forget not: for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
To do good, and to distribute, forget not: for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
If there come into your company a man with a golden ring, and in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment,
If there come into your company a man with a golden ring, and in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment,
and made us kings and priests unto God his father, be glory, and dominion for evermore amen.
and made us kings and priests unto God his father, be glory, and dominion for evermore amen.
I know thy works and tribulation and poverty, but thou art rich. And I know the blasphemy of them which call themselves Jews and are not, but are the congregation of Satan.
I know thy works and tribulation and poverty, but thou art rich. And I know the blasphemy of them which call themselves Jews and are not, but are the congregation of Satan.
And there shall enter into it none unclean thing; neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh lies, but they only which are written in the Lamb's book of life.
And there shall enter into it none unclean thing; neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh lies, but they only which are written in the Lamb's book of life.
Hastings
1. The word ecclesia, which in its Christian application is usually tr 'church,' was applied in ordinary Greek usage to the duly constituted gathering of the citizens in a self-governing city, and it is so used of the Ephesian assembly in Ac 19:39. It was adopted in the Septuagint to tr a Heb. word, q
See Verses Found in Dictionary
And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger: even all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and will be their God."
And ye shall keep him inward, until the fourteenth day of the same month. And every man of the multitude of Israel shall kill him about even.
And Moses spake in the ears of all the congregation of Israel the words of this song, unto the end of them.
Then they said, "What are they of the tribes of Israel that came not up to Mizpeh to the LORD?" And behold there came none of the inhabiters of Jabeshgilead unto the congregation.
O think upon thy congregation, whom thou hast purchased, and redeemed of old; the staff of thine inheritance, whom thou hast redeemed, even this hill of Zion wherein thou dwellest.
O think upon thy congregation, whom thou hast purchased, and redeemed of old; the staff of thine inheritance, whom thou hast redeemed, even this hill of Zion wherein thou dwellest.
Incline your ears, and come unto me, take heed, and your soul shall live. For I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.
And I will return the captivity of Judah and Israel: and will set them up again as they were afore.
In the days of these kings, shall the God of heaven set up an everlasting kingdom, which shall not perish, and his kingdom shall not be given over to another people. Yea, the same shall break and destroy all these kingdoms, but it shall endure forever.
Then gave he him power and dignity regal, that all people, tribes and tongues should serve him. His power is an everlasting power, which shall never be put down: and his kingdom endureth uncorrupt.
"At that time will I build again the tabernacle of David, that is fallen down, and hedge up his gaps. And look: what is broken, I shall repair it. Yea, I shall build it again, as it was a fore time,
And unto thee, O thou tower of Eder, thou stronghold of the daughter Zion, unto thee shall it come: even the first lordship and kingdom of the daughter Jerusalem.
I baptise you in water in token of repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptise you with the holy ghost and with fire:
From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
And the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into the utter darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
And he that taketh not his cross and followeth me, is not meet for me.
yet hath no roots in himself, and therefore dureth but a season: for as soon as tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he falleth.
Another similitude put he forth, unto them saying, "The kingdom of heaven is like unto a man which sowed good seed in his field.
But when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and it is a tree: so that the birds of the air come, and build in the branches of it."
"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in the field, the which a man findeth and hideth it: and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant, that seeketh good pearls,
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net cast into the sea, that gathereth of all kinds:
When Jesus came into the coasts of the city which is called Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples saying, "Whom do men say that I, the son of man, am?" They said, "Some say that thou art John Baptist, some Elijah, some Jeremiah, or one of the prophets." read more. He said unto them, "But whom say ye that I am?" Simon Peter answered, and said, "Thou art Christ, the son of the living God." And Jesus answered, and said to him, "Happy art thou, Simon the son of Jonas, for flesh and blood hath not opened unto thee that, but my father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock, I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock, I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou bindest upon earth, it shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou loosest on earth, it shall be loosed in heaven."
And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou bindest upon earth, it shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou loosest on earth, it shall be loosed in heaven." Then he charged his disciples, that they should tell no man that he was Jesus Christ.
Then he charged his disciples, that they should tell no man that he was Jesus Christ.
If he hear not them, tell it unto the congregation: if he hear not the congregation, take him as a heathen man, and as a publican.
Jesus said unto them, "Verily I say to you, When the son of man shall sit in the seat of his majesty, ye which follow me in the second generation shall sit also upon twelve seats, and judge the twelve tribes of Israel.
Moreover, the people that went before, and they also that came after, cried, saying, "Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest."
And as he sat upon the mount Olivet, his disciples came unto him secretly, saying, "Tell us, when these things shall be: and what sign shall be of thy coming, and of the end of the world?"
When ye, therefore, shall see the abomination that betokeneth desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place: let him that readeth it, understand it:
"When the son of man shall cometh in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the seat of his glory
Then shall the King say to them on his right hand, 'Come, ye blessed children of my father, inherit ye the kingdom prepared for you from the beginning of the world.
Jesus said to him, "Thou hast said. Nevertheless I say unto you, hereafter shall ye see the son of man sitting on the righthand of power, and come in the clouds of the sky."
After that John was taken, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, "The time is full come, and the kingdom of God is even at hand. Repent, and believe the gospel."
But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt, the kingdom of God is come upon you.
Fear not little flock, for it is your father's pleasure, to give you a kingdom.
When he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, "The kingdom of God cometh not with waiting for. Neither shall men say, 'Lo here, lo there.' For behold, the kingdom of God is within you."
Neither shall men say, 'Lo here, lo there.' For behold, the kingdom of God is within you."
Then Jesus said unto them, "Verily, verily I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the son of man, and drink his blood, ye shall not have life in you.
For John baptised with water but ye shall be baptised with the holy ghost, and that within this few days."
And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples and said - the number of names that were together, were about a hundred and twenty -
that the one may take the room of this ministration, and apostleship from the which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place."
And there appeared unto them cloven tongues, like as they had been fire, and it sat upon each of them: and they were all filled with the holy ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, even as the spirit gave them utterance.
And they continued in the Apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayer.
And they continued daily with one accord in the temple, and brake bread in every house, and did eat their meat together with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and had favour with all the people, and the Lord added to the congregation daily such as should be saved.
And the multitude of them that believed, were of one heart; And of one soul. Also, none of them said that any of the things which he possessed was his own: But had all things common.
And great fear came on all the congregation; and on as many as heard it.
In those days, as the number of the disciples grew, there arose a grudge among the Greeks against the Hebrews, because their widows were despised in the daily ministration.
Then there arose certain of the Synagogue, which are called Libertines, and Cyrenians, and of Alexandria, and of Cilicia, and of Asia: and disputed with Stephen.
This is he that was in the congregation in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the Mount Sinai, and with our fathers. This man received the word of life to give unto us,
This is he that was in the congregation in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the Mount Sinai, and with our fathers. This man received the word of life to give unto us,
Saul had pleasure in his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Jerusalem, and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Jewry and Samaria, except the apostles.
Saul had pleasure in his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Jerusalem, and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Jewry and Samaria, except the apostles.
Saul had pleasure in his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Jerusalem, and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Jewry and Samaria, except the apostles.
Saul had pleasure in his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Jerusalem, and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Jewry and Samaria, except the apostles.
But Saul made havoc of the congregation, entering into every house: and drew out both man and woman, and thrust them into prison.
When the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard say that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
When the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard say that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,
Then had the congregations rest, throughout all Jewry and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified, and walked in the fear of the Lord; And multiplied by the comfort of the holy ghost.
Then had the congregations rest, throughout all Jewry and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified, and walked in the fear of the Lord; And multiplied by the comfort of the holy ghost.
And he beckoned unto them with the hand to hold their peace, and told them by what means the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, "Go show these things unto James and to the brethren." And he departed and went into another place.
There were at Antioch, in the congregation, certain prophets and teachers: as Barnabas and Symeon called Niger; And Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, Herod the tetrarch's nurse-fellow, and Saul.
And when they had ordained them elders by election in every congregation, after they had prayed and fasted, they commended them to God on whom they believed.
And when there was risen dissension and disputing not a little unto Paul and Barnabas, against them: they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should ascend to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.
And when they held their peace, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren hearken unto me;
Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole congregation, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They sent Judas, called also Barsabbas, and Silas, which were chief men among the brethren: and gave them letters in their hands after this manner, "The apostles, elders, and brethren send greetings unto the brethren which are of the gentiles in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia. read more. Forasmuch as we have heard that certain which departed from us, have troubled you with words, and cumbered your minds saying ye must be circumcised and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment. It seemed therefore to us a good thing, when we were come together with one accord, to send chosen men unto you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul: men that have jeopardized their lives, for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, which shall also tell you the same things by mouth. For it seemed good to the holy ghost and to us, to put no grievous thing to you more than these necessary things, that is to say: that ye abstain from things offered to images, from blood, from strangled and fornication. From which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. So fare ye well."
Wherefore from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the congregation.
Wherefore from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the congregation.
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, whereof the holy ghost hath made you overseers: to rule the congregation of God, which he hath purchased with his blood.
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, whereof the holy ghost hath made you overseers: to rule the congregation of God, which he hath purchased with his blood.
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, whereof the holy ghost hath made you overseers: to rule the congregation of God, which he hath purchased with his blood.
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, whereof the holy ghost hath made you overseers: to rule the congregation of God, which he hath purchased with his blood.
And on the morrow, Paul went in with us unto James. And all the elders came together.
"But after many years, I came and brought alms to my people and offerings,
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by the means of sin; And so death went over all men, insomuch that all men sinned. For even unto the time of the law was sin in the world: but sin was not regarded, as long as there was no law: read more. Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them also that sinned not, with like transgression as did Adam: which is the similitude of him that is to come. But the gift is not like as the sin. For if, through the sin of one, many be dead: much more plenteous, upon many, was the grace of God and gift by grace: which grace was given by one man, Jesus Christ. And the gift is not over one sin, as death came through one sin of one that sinned. For damnation came of one sin unto condemnation: But the gift came to justify from many sins. For if by the sin of one, death reigned by the means of one, much more shall they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life by the means of one; that is to say, Jesus Christ. Likewise, then, as by the sin of one, condemnation came on all men: even so, by the justifying of one cometh the righteousness that bringeth life, upon all men. For as by one man's disobedience many became sinners: so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. But the law, in the meantime, entered in that sin should increase. Neverthelater, where abundance of sin was, there was more plenteousness of grace. That as sin had reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life, by the help of Jesus Christ.
Remember ye not, that all we which are baptised in the name of Christ Jesus, are baptised to die with him? We are buried with him by baptism for to die: That likewise as Christ was raised up from death by the glory of the father: even so we also should walk in a new life.
Likewise, greet all the congregation that is in their house. Salute my well beloved Epaenetes, which is the firstfruit among them of Achaia.
Salute one another among yourselves with a holy kiss. The congregations of Christ salute you.
Unto the congregation of God which is at Corinth. To them that are sanctified in Jesus Christ, saints by calling, with all that call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ in every place, both of theirs and of ours.
Are ye not aware that ye are the temple of God, and how that the spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy. For the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.
Purge therefore the old leaven, that ye may be new dough, as ye are sweet bread. For Christ our Easter lamb is offered up for us. Therefore let us keep holiday, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of maliciousness and wickedness - but with the sweet bread of pureness and truth.
Is not the cup of blessing which we bless, partaking of the blood of Christ? Is not the bread which we break, partaking of the body of Christ? Because that we - though we be many - yet are one bread, and one body inasmuch as we all are partakers of one bread. read more. Behold Israel which walketh carnally. Are not they which eat of the sacrifice, partakers of the altar?
When ye come together in one place, a man cannot eat the Lord's supper. For every man beginneth afore to eat his own supper. And one is hungry, and another is drunken. read more. Have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? Or else despise ye the congregation of God? And shame them that have not? What shall I say unto you? Shall I praise you? In this praise I you not.
Have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? Or else despise ye the congregation of God? And shame them that have not? What shall I say unto you? Shall I praise you? In this praise I you not. That which I delivered unto you I received of the Lord. For the Lord Jesus the same night in the which he was betrayed, took bread, read more. and thanked and brake, and said, "Take ye, and eat ye. This is my body which is broken for you. This do ye in the remembrance of me." After the same manner he took the cup when supper was done saying, "This cup is the new testament in my blood, this do as oft as ye drink it, in the remembrance of me." For as often as ye shall eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye shall show the Lord's death, till he come. Wherefore whosoever shall eat of this bread, or drink of the cup unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. Let a man therefore examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he that eateth or drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh his own damnation, because he maketh no difference of the Lord's body. For this cause many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. If we had truly judged ourselves, we should not have been judged. But when we are judged of the Lord we are chastened, because we should not be damned with the world. Wherefore my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another. If any man hunger, let him eat at home, that ye come not together unto condemnation. Other things will I set in order when I come.
To one is given, through the spirit, the utterance of wisdom; to another is given the utterance of knowledge by the same spirit; to another is given faith, by the same spirit; to another the gifts of healing, by the same spirit; read more. to another, power to do miracles; to another prophecy; to another, judgment of spirits; to another divers tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: and these all worketh even the self same spirit, dividing to every man several gifts even as he will.
Ye are the body of Christ, and members one of another. And God hath also ordained in the congregation, first the apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, then them that do miracles; after that, the gifts of healing, helpers, governors, diversity of tongues.
For I am the least of all the apostles, which am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the congregation of God:
and therefore when James, Cephas, and John, which seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the righthands, and agreed with us that we should preach among the heathen, and they among the Jews:
For yer that certain came from James, he ate with the gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision,
For all ye that are baptised, have put on Christ. Now is there no Jew, neither gentile, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither man nor woman: but ye are all one thing in Christ Jesus.
And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon Israel that pertaineth to God.
the same in himself to have it declared when the time were full come: that all things, both the things which are in heaven, and also the things which are in earth, should be gathered together, even in Christ. That is to say, in him in whom we are made heirs, and were thereto predestinate according to the purpose of him which worketh all things after the purpose of his own will:
which is the earnest of our inheritance, to redeem the possession purchased, and that unto the laud of his glory.
And hath put all things under his feet, and hath made him above all things, the head of the congregation: which is his body, and fullness of him, that filleth all in all things.
which is his body, and fullness of him, that filleth all in all things.
remember, I say, that ye were at that time without Christ, and were reputed aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and were strangers from the testaments of promise, and had no hope, and were without God in this world.
remember, I say, that ye were at that time without Christ, and were reputed aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and were strangers from the testaments of promise, and had no hope, and were without God in this world. But now in Christ Jesus, ye which a while ago were far off, are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
But now in Christ Jesus, ye which a while ago were far off, are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
But now in Christ Jesus, ye which a while ago were far off, are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, which hath made of both one, and hath broken down the wall in the midst, that was a stop between us, read more. and hath also put away, through his flesh, the cause of hatred - that is to say, the law of commandments contained in the law written - for to make of twain one new man in himself, so making peace. And to reconcile both unto God in one body through his cross, and slew hatred thereby:
For through him we both have an open way in, in one spirit unto the father.
For through him we both have an open way in, in one spirit unto the father.
For through him we both have an open way in, in one spirit unto the father.
For through him we both have an open way in, in one spirit unto the father. Now, therefore, ye are no more strangers and foreigners: but citizens with the saints, and of the household of God,
For by revelation showed he this mystery unto me, as I wrote above in few words, whereby, when ye read ye may know mine understanding in the mystery of Christ, read more. which mystery in times past was not opened unto the sons of men as it is now declared unto his holy apostles and prophets by the spirit: That the gentiles should be inheritors also, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise that is in Christ, by the means of the gospel, whereof I am made a minister, by the gift of the grace of God given unto me, through the working of his power. Unto me, the least of all saints, is this grace given; that I should preach among the gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make all men see what the fellowship of the mystery is, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, which made all things through Jesus Christ, to the intent that now, unto the rulers and powers in heaven, might be known by the congregation the manifold wisdom of God, according to that eternal purpose, which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord,
And the very same, made some Apostles, some Prophets, some Evangelists, some Shepherds, some Teachers:
And the very same, made some Apostles, some Prophets, some Evangelists, some Shepherds, some Teachers: that the saints might have all things necessary to work and minister withal, to the edifying of the body of Christ,
that the saints might have all things necessary to work and minister withal, to the edifying of the body of Christ,
that the saints might have all things necessary to work and minister withal, to the edifying of the body of Christ, till we, everyone - in the unity of faith, and knowledge of the son of God - grow up unto a perfect man, after the measure of age which is of the fullness of Christ:
in whom all the body is coupled and knit together, in every joint, wherewith one ministereth to another - according to the operation as every part hath his measure - and increaseth the body, unto the edifying of itself in love.
Husbands: love your wives, even as Christ loved the congregation, and gave himself for it,
Husbands: love your wives, even as Christ loved the congregation, and gave himself for it,
Husbands: love your wives, even as Christ loved the congregation, and gave himself for it,
Husbands: love your wives, even as Christ loved the congregation, and gave himself for it,
to make it unto himself a glorious congregation without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame.
And he is the head of the body, that is, to wit, of the congregation: he is the beginning and first begotten of the dead, that in all things he might have the preeminence.
and by him to reconcile all things unto himself, and to set at peace by him through the blood of his cross both things in heaven and things in earth. And you - which were in times past strangers and enemies, because your minds were set in evil works - hath he now reconciled read more. in the body of his flesh through death, to make you holy, unblameable, and without fault in his own sight,
Now joy I in my sufferings which I suffer, for you; and fulfill that which is behind of the passions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the congregation -
Salute the brethren which are of Laodicea, and salute Nymphas, and the congregation which is in his house. And when the epistle is read of you, make that it be read in the congregation of the Laodiceans also: and that ye likewise read the epistle of Laodicea.
And when the epistle is read of you, make that it be read in the congregation of the Laodiceans also: and that ye likewise read the epistle of Laodicea.
Paul, Silvanus and Timothy. Unto the congregation of the Thessalonians, in God the father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with you, and peace from God our father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul, Silvanus and Timothy. Unto the congregation of the Thessalonians, in God the father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with you, and peace from God our father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
And without nay, great is that mystery of godliness. God was showed in the flesh, was justified in the spirit, was seen of angels, was preached unto the gentiles, was believed on in earth and received up in glory.
which gave himself for us, to redeem us from all unrighteousness, and to purge us a peculiar people unto himself, fervently given unto good works.
which gave himself for us, to redeem us from all unrighteousness, and to purge us a peculiar people unto himself, fervently given unto good works.
saying, "I will declare thy name unto my brethren, and in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee."
For with one offering hath he made perfect forever them that are sanctified.
And seeing also that we have a high priest which is ruler over the house of God, let us draw nigh with a true heart in a full faith sprinkled in our hearts, from an evil conscience, and washed in our bodies with pure water,
let us draw nigh with a true heart in a full faith sprinkled in our hearts, from an evil conscience, and washed in our bodies with pure water,
and unto the congregation of the first born sons, which are written in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of just and perfect men: and to Jesus, the mediator of the new testament, and to the sprinkling of blood that speaketh better than the blood of Abel.
We have an altar whereof they may not eat, which serve in the tabernacle. For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the holy place by the high priest to purge sin, are burnt without the tents. read more. Therefore Jesus, to sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate. Let us go forth therefore out of the tents, and suffer rebuke with him. For here have we no continuing city: but we seek a one to come. For by him offer we the sacrifice of praise always to God: that is to say, the fruit of those lips, which confess his name. To do good, and to distribute, forget not: for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
If there come into your company a man with a golden ring, and in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment,
Yea, and a man might say, "Thou hast faith, and I have deeds: Show me thy faith by thy deeds: and I will show thee my faith by my deeds."
and ye, as living stones, are made a spiritual house, and a holy priesthood, for to offer up spiritual sacrifice, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a peculiar people, that ye should show the virtues of him that called you out of darkness into his marvelous light,
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a peculiar people, that ye should show the virtues of him that called you out of darkness into his marvelous light,
The companions of your election that are of Babylon, saluteth you, and Mark my son.
Unto the messenger of the congregation of Ephesus write, 'These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, and walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks:
Morish
This English word is said to be derived from the Greek ???????? , which signifies 'pertaining to the Lord,' and is commonly used both for an association of professing Christians, and for the building in which they worship. It is the scriptural use of the word ????????, or 'assembly,' that is here under consideration.
The word is used in reference to Israel in the N.T. on one occasion in Ac 7:38, and to a Gentile throng in Ac 19:32,41. Its first occurrence in relation to Christianity is in Mt 16:18, where upon Peter's confession that Jesus was the Son of the living God, the Lord rejoins, "upon this rock I will build my assembly," etc. Historically this spiritual building, (for 'building' never refers to a material edifice) was begun after His death and resurrection, when the Holy Ghost descended at the day of Pentecost. In this aspect of the church there is no room for any failure
See Verses Found in Dictionary
And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock, I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Verily, verily I say unto you, except the wheat corn fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone. If it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
This is he that was in the congregation in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the Mount Sinai, and with our fathers. This man received the word of life to give unto us,
Some cried one thing, and some another and the congregation was all out of quiet, and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.
For in one spirit are we all baptised to make one body, whether we be Jews or gentiles: whether we be bond or free, and have all drunk of one spirit.
And hath put all things under his feet, and hath made him above all things, the head of the congregation: which is his body, and fullness of him, that filleth all in all things.
For to show, in times to come, the exceeding riches of his grace, in kindness to us ward, in Christ Jesus.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, unto the which God ordained us before, that we should walk in them.
and to make all men see what the fellowship of the mystery is, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, which made all things through Jesus Christ, to the intent that now, unto the rulers and powers in heaven, might be known by the congregation the manifold wisdom of God,
to the intent that now, unto the rulers and powers in heaven, might be known by the congregation the manifold wisdom of God,
being one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling.
to sanctify it, and cleansed it in the fountain of water through the word, to make it unto himself a glorious congregation without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame.
Now therefore as elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering, forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel to another; even as Christ forgave you, even so do ye. read more. Above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfectness, and the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which peace ye are called in one body: and see that ye be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you plenteously in all wisdom. Teach and exhort your own selves, in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs which have favour with them, singing in your hearts to the Lord. And all things, whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the father by him.
And this say we unto you in the word of the Lord, that we which live and are remaining in the coming of the Lord, shall not come before they which sleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, and the voice of the archangel, and trump of God. And the dead in Christ shall arise first: read more. then shall we which live and remain, be caught up with them also in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so shall we ever be with the Lord. Where-fore comfort yourselves one another with these words.
But and if I tarry long, that then thou mayst yet have knowledge how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the congregation of the living God, the pillar and ground of truth.
Notwithstanding, in a great house are not only vessels of gold and of silver: but also of wood and of earth: Some for honour, and some unto dishonour.
Lusts of youth avoid, and follow righteousness, faith, love, and peace, with them that call on the Lord with pure heart.
to whom ye come as unto a living stone, disallowed of men, but chosen of God and precious: and ye, as living stones, are made a spiritual house, and a holy priesthood, for to offer up spiritual sacrifice, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
Smith
Church.
1. The derivation of the word is generally said to be from the Greek kuriakon (kuriakon) "belonging to the Lord." But the derivation has been too hastily assumed. It is probably connected with kirk, the Latin circus, circulus, the Greek kuklos (kuklos) because the congregations were gathered in circles.
2. Ecclesia (ekklesia) the Greek word for church, originally meant an assembly called out by the magistrate, or by legitimate authority. It was in this last sense that the word was adapted and applied by the writers of the New Testament to the Christian congregation. In the one Gospel of St. Matthew the church is spoken of no less than thirty-six times as "the kingdom." Other descriptions or titles are hardly found in the evangelists. It is Christ's household,
the salt and light of the world,
Christ's flock,
Mt 26:31; Joh 10:15
its members are the branches growing on Christ the Vine, John 15; but the general description of it, not metaphorical but direct, is that it is a kingdom,
From the Gospel then we learn that Christ was about to establish his heavenly kingdom on earth, which was to be the substitute for the Jewish Church and kingdom, now doomed to destruction
The day of Pentecost is the birthday of the Christian church. Before they had been individual followers Jesus; now they became his mystical body, animated by his spirit. On the evening of the day of Pentecost, the 3140 members of which the Church consisted were -- (1) Apostles; (2) previous Disciples; (3) Converts. In
we have indirectly exhibited the essential conditions of church communion. They are (1) Baptism, baptism implying on the part of the recipient repentance and faith; (2) Apostolic Doctrine; (3) Fellowship with the Apostles; (4) The Lord's Supper; (5) Public Worship. The real Church consists of all who belong to the Lord Jesus Christ as his disciples, and are one in love, in character, in hope, in Christ as the head of all, though as the body of Christ it consists of many parts.
See Verses Found in Dictionary
"Ye are the salt of the earth: but and if the salt have lost her saltiness, what can be salted therewith? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden underfoot of men.
neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it lighteth all them that are in the house.
It is enough for the disciple to be as his Master is, and that the servant be as his Lord is. If they have called the Lord of the house Beelzebub: how much more shall they call them of his household so?
And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou bindest upon earth, it shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou loosest on earth, it shall be loosed in heaven."
Therefore say I unto you, the kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and shall be given to the Gentiles, which shall bring forth the fruits of it.
Then said Jesus unto them, "All ye shall be offended by me this night. For it is written, 'I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.'
As my father knoweth me: even so know I my father. And I give my life for the sheep,
Watsons
CHURCH. The Greek word ????????, so rendered, denotes an assembly met about business, whether spiritual or temporal, Ac 19:32,39. It is understood also of the collective body of Christians, or all those over the face of the earth who profess to believe in Christ, and acknowledge him to be the Saviour of mankind; this is called the visible church. But, by the word church, we are more strictly to understand the whole body of God's true people, in every period of time: this is the invisible or spiritual church. The people of God on earth are called the church militant, and those in heaven the church triumphant. It has been remarked by Dr. John Owen, that sin having entered into the world, God was pleased to found his church (the catholic or universal church) in the promise of the Messiah given to Adam; that this promise contained in it something of the nature of a covenant, including the grace which God designed to show to sinners in the Messiah, and the obedience which he required from them; and that consequently, from its first promulgation, that promise became the sole foundation of the church and of the whole worship of God therein. Prior to the days of Abraham, this church, though scattered up and down the world, and subject to many changes in its worship through the addition of new revelations, was still but one and the same, because founded in the same covenant, and interested thereby in all the benefits or privileges that God had granted, or would at any time grant. In process of time, God was pleased to restrict his church, as far as visible acknowledgment went, in a great measure, to the seed of Abraham. With the latter he renewed his covenant, requiring that he should walk before him and be upright. He also constituted him the father of the faithful, or of all them that believe, and the "heir of the world." So that since the days of Abraham, the church has, in every age, been founded upon the covenant made with that patriarch, and on the work of redemption which was to be performed according to that covenant. Now wheresoever this covenant made with Abraham is, and with whomsoever it is established, with them is the church of God, and to them all the promises and privileges of the church really belong. Hence we may learn that at the coming of the Messiah, there was not one church taken away and another set up in its room; but the church continued the same, in those that were the children of Abraham, according to the faith. It is common with divines to speak of the Jewish and the Christian churches, as though they were two distinct and totally different things; but that is not a correct view of the matter. The Christian church is not another church, but the very same that was before the coming of Christ, having the same faith with it, and interested in the same covenant. Great alterations indeed were made in the outward state and condition of the church, by the coming of the Messiah. The carnal privilege of the Jews, in their separation from other nations to give birth to the Messiah, then failed, and with that also their claim on that account to be the children of Abraham. The ordinances of worship suited to that state of things then expired, and came to an end. New ordinances of worship were appointed, suitable to the new light and grace which were then bestowed upon the church. The Gentiles came into the faith of Abraham along with the Jews, being made joint partakers with them in his blessing. But none of these things, nor the whole collectively, did make such an alteration in the church, but that it was still one and the same. The olive tree was still the same, only some branches were broken off, and others grafted into it. The Jews fell, and the Gentiles came in their room. And this may enable us to determine the difference between the Jews and Christians relative to the Old Testament promises. They are all made to the church. No individual has any interest in them except by virtue of his membership with the church. The church is, and always was, one and the same. The Jewish plea, is, that the church is with them, because they are the children of Abraham according to the flesh. Christians reply, that their privilege on that ground was of another nature, and ended with the coming of the Messiah: that the church of God, unto whom all the promises belong, are only those who are heirs of the faith of Abraham, believing as he did, and are consequently interested in his covenant. These are Zion, Jerusalem, Israel, Jacob, the temple, or church of God.
2. By a particular church we understand an assembly of Christians united together, and meeting in one place, for the solemn worship of God. To this agrees the definition given by the compilers of the Thirty-nine Articles of the Church of England: "A congregation of faithful men, in which the true word of God is preached, and the sacraments duly administered according to Christ's ordinances, in all those things that of necessity are requisite to the same," Ac 9:31; 20:17; Ga 1:2,22; 1Co 14:34; Col 4:15. The word is now also used to denote any particular denomination of Christians, distinguished by particular doctrines, ceremonies, &c, as the Romish church, the Greek church, the English church, &c.
3. On the subject of the church, opinions as opposite or varying as possible have been held, from that of the Papists, who contend for its visible unity throughout the world under a visible head, down to that of the Independents, who consider the universal church as composed of congregational churches, each perfect in itself, and entirely independent of every other. The first opinion is manifestly contradicted by the language of the Apostles, who, while they teach that there is but one church, composed of believers throughout the world, think it not at all inconsistent with this to speak of "the churches of Judea," "of Achaia," "the seven churches of Asia," "the church at Ephesus," &c. Among themselves the Apostles had no common head; but planted churches and gave directions for their government, in most cases without any apparent correspondence with each other. The Popish doctrine is certainly not found in their writings; and so far were they from making provision for the government of this one supposed church, by the appointment of one visible and exclusive head, that they provide for the future government of the respective churches raised up by them in a totally different manner, that is, by the ordination of ministers for each church, who are indifferently called bishops, and presbyters, and pastors. The only unity of which they speak is the unity of the whole church in Christ, the invisible head, by faith; and the unity produced by "fervent love toward each other." Nor has the Popish doctrine of the visible unity of the church any countenance from early antiquity. The best ecclesiastical historians have showed, that, through the greater part of the second century, the Christian churches were independent of each other. "Each Christian assembly," says Mosheim, "was a little state governed by its own laws, which were either enacted, or at least, approved, by the society. But in process of time, all the churches of a province were formed into one large ecclesiastical body, which, like confederate states, assembled at certain times in order to deliberate about the common interests of the whole." So far indeed this union of churches appears to have been a wise and useful arrangement, although afterward it was carried to an injurious extreme, until finally it gave birth to the assumptions of the bishop of Rome, as universal bishop; a claim, however, which, when most successful, was but partially submitted to, the eastern churches having, for the most part, always maintained their independence. To very large association of churches of any kind existed till toward the close of the second century, which sufficiently refutes the papal argument from antiquity. The independence of the early Christian churches does not, however, appear to have resembled that of the churches which, in modern times, are called Independent. During the lives of the Apostles and Evangelists they were certainly subject to their counsel and control,
See Verses Found in Dictionary
Moreover, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in leaving praying for you and to show you the good and right way.
They shall be satisfied with the plenteousness of thy house, and thou shalt give them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
Such as be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of the house of our God.
For the LORD hath chosen Zion, to be a habitation for himself; he hath longed for her.
I will deck her priests with health, and her saints shall rejoice and sing.
And they shall come, and rejoice upon the hill of Zion, and shall have plenteousness of goods, which the LORD shall give them: Namely, wheat, wine, oil, young sheep and calves. And their conscience shall be as a well-watered garden, for they shall no more be hungry.
And they continued in the Apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayer.
Then had the congregations rest, throughout all Jewry and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified, and walked in the fear of the Lord; And multiplied by the comfort of the holy ghost.
Some cried one thing, and some another and the congregation was all out of quiet, and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.
Wherefore from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the congregation.
Let us not, therefore, judge one another any more. But judge this, rather: that no man put a stumbling block, or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
Purge therefore the old leaven, that ye may be new dough, as ye are sweet bread. For Christ our Easter lamb is offered up for us.
but now I write unto you that ye company not together. If any that is called a brother, be a fornicator, or covetous, or a worshipper of images, either a railer, either a drunkard, or an extortioner: with him that is such see that ye eat not.
All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient. All things are lawful to me, but all things edify not. Let no man seek his own profit: but let every man seek another's wealth. read more. Whatsoever is sold in the market, that eat, and ask no questions for conscience sake. For the earth is the Lord's, and all that therein is. If any of them which believe not bid you to a feast, and if ye be disposed to go, whatsoever is set before you eat, asking no question for conscience sake. But and if any man say unto you, "This is dedicated unto idols," eat not of it, for his sake that showed it, and for hurting of conscience - the earth is the Lord's and all that therein is - Conscience I say, not thine: but the conscience of that other. For why should my liberty be judged of another man's conscience? For if I take my part with thanks: why am I evil spoken of for that thing wherefore I give thanks? Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the praise of God. See that ye give none occasion of evil: neither to the Jews, nor yet to the gentiles, neither to the congregation of God. Even as I please all men in all things not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they might be saved.
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. Old things are passed away: behold, all things are become new.
Wherefore, "Come out from among them, and separate yourselves," saith the Lord, "and touch none unclean thing: so will I receive you,
and was unknown, as touching my person, unto the congregations of Jewry, which were in Christ.
For in Jesus Christ, neither is circumcision anything worth, neither yet uncircumcision: but faith, which by love is mighty in operation.
Brethren, if any man be fallen by chance into any fault, ye which are spiritual, help to amend him, in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
Brethren, if any man be fallen by chance into any fault, ye which are spiritual, help to amend him, in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burden; and so fulfill the law of Christ.
And the very same, made some Apostles, some Prophets, some Evangelists, some Shepherds, some Teachers:
and pray always with all manner prayer and supplication - and that in the spirit - and watch thereunto with all instance and supplication for all saints,
Salute the brethren which are of Laodicea, and salute Nymphas, and the congregation which is in his house.
We require you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh inordinately, and not after the institution which ye received of us.
and let us consider one another to provoke unto love, and to good works: and let us not forsake the fellowship that we have among ourselves, as the manner of some is: but let us exhort one another, and that so much the more, because ye see that the day draweth nigh. read more. For if we sin willingly after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins: but a fearful looking for judgment, and violent fire, which shall devour the adversaries.
Remember them which have the oversight of you, which have declared unto you the word of God: consider the conversation of their living, the end of whose conversation see that ye look upon, and follow their faith.
What availeth it, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, when he hath no deeds? Can faith save him?
For as the body without the spirit is dead, even so faith without deeds is dead.
for ye are born anew, not of mortal seed, but of immortal seed, by the word of God which liveth, and lasteth forever.