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.
See Verses Found in Dictionary
And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it.
This is he that was in the assembly in the wilderness with the anger who spake to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers; who received the living oracles to give to us;
Some therefore were crying one thing, and some another; for the assembly was in confusion, and the greater part knew not wherefore they had come together.
But if ye ask for any thing further, it shall be determined in the lawful assembly.
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up instead that which is wanting of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh on behalf of his body, which is the church;
not by works of righteousness which we did, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the bath of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Spirit,
All that are with me salute thee. Salute those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.
and to the church of the firstborn, who are enrolled in heaven; and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of righteous men made perfect;
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."
See Verses Found in Dictionary
And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it.
But Peter said to them, Repent, and let every one of you be baptized to the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness of sins, and ye will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all that are afar off, as many as the Lord our God shall call.
praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were in the way of salvation.
And Saul was consenting to his death. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and all were scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.
Now there were at Antioch, in the church that was there, prophets and teachers; Barnabas, and Simeon who was called Niger, and Lucius the Cyrenaean, and Manaen, the fosterbrother of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
Some therefore were crying one thing, and some another; for the assembly was in confusion, and the greater part knew not wherefore they had come together.
But if ye ask for any thing further, it shall be determined in the lawful assembly.
boast not over the branches; for if thou boast, thou dost not bear the root, but the root thee. Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in. read more. Be it so. It was for their unbelief that they were broken off, and thou standest through thy faith; be not highminded, but fear. For if God spared the natural branches, take care lest he spare not thee. Behold then the goodness and the severity of God; toward those who fell, severity; but toward thee Gods goodness, if thou continue in his goodness; otherwise thou also wilt be cut off. And they also, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in; for God is able to graft them in again. For if thou hast been cut off from an olivetree wild by nature, and hast against thy nature been ingrafted into a good olivetree, how much more shall these, the natural branches, be ingrafted into their own olivestock?
salute also the church that is in their house. Salute Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first fruit gathered from Asia for Christ.
to the church of God which is at Corinth, the sanctified in Christ Jesus, called, holy, with all that in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours;
For the unbelieving husband hath been made holy by his wife, and the unbelieving wife hath been made holy by the brother; otherwise were your children unclean, but, as it is, they are holy.
For I am the least of the apostles, one not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
For ye have heard of my conduct formerly in Judaism; that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and was destroying it,
Wherefore remember, that in time past ye, the gentiles in the flesh, who are called uncircumcised by those who are called circumcised, having the circumcision of the flesh, performed by hand, that ye were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of the promise, having no hope, and without God, in the world; read more. but now, in Christ Jesus, ye, who formerly were afar off, have been brought nigh by the blood of Christ. For it is he who is our peace, who made both one, and broke down the middle wall of partition between us, that is, the enmity; having abolished in his flesh the law of commandments contained in ordinances; that he might create of the two one new man in himself, thus making peace, and might reconcile both to God in one body by the cross, having slain on it the enmity. And he came and brought the glad tidings of peace to you who were afar off, and of peace to those that were near; for through him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father. So then ye are no longer strangers and foreigners, but are fellowcitizens with the saints, and members of the household of God, and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone; in whom all the building, fitly framed together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom ye also are built together into a dwellingplace of God in the Spirit.
for the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church,he, who is the Saviour of the body.
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it,
that he himself might present to himself the church, glorious, having no spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish.
for no one ever yet hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as Christ doth the church;
Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church in his house.
Nevertheless Gods firm foundation standeth, having this seal, "The Lord knoweth them that are his;" and, "Let every one that nameth the name of the Lord depart from iniquity."
and to the church of the firstborn, who are enrolled in heaven; and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of righteous men made perfect;
To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who 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
See Verses Found in Dictionary
In like manner let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
In like manner let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
It is enough for the disciple to be as his teacher, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they so call those of his household!
It is enough for the disciple to be as his teacher, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they so call those of his household!
Another parable he put forth to them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field.
Another parable he put forth to them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while men slept, his enemy came, and sowed tares among the wheat; and went away.
But while men slept, his enemy came, and sowed tares among the wheat; and went away. But when the blade grew up, and put forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.
But when the blade grew up, and put forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. So the servants of the householder came and said to him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? Whence then hath it tares?
So the servants of the householder came and said to him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? Whence then hath it tares? He said to them, An enemy did this. The servants say to him, Dost thou wish then that we go and gather them up?
He said to them, An enemy did this. The servants say to him, Dost thou wish then that we go and gather them up? But he said, Nay; lest, while ye gather up the tares, ye root up the wheat with them.
But he said, Nay; lest, while ye gather up the tares, ye root up the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest; and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather up first the tares, and bind them in bundles, to burn them; but gather the wheat into my barn.
Let both grow together until the harvest; and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather up first the tares, and bind them in bundles, to burn them; but gather the wheat into my barn.
Then he sent the multitudes away, and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.
Then he sent the multitudes away, and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field. He answered and said, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man.
He answered and said, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man. The field is the world; the good seed is the sons of the kingdom; but the tares are the sons of the Evil One;
The field is the world; the good seed is the sons of the kingdom; but the tares are the sons of the Evil One; the enemy that sowed them is the Devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are angels.
the enemy that sowed them is the Devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are angels. As therefore the tares are gathered up and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the world.
As therefore the tares are gathered up and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the world. The Son of man will send forth his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all the stumblingblocks, and those who do iniquity,
The Son of man will send forth his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all the stumblingblocks, and those who do iniquity, and will cast them into the furnace of fire; there will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
and will cast them into the furnace of fire; there will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then will the righteous shine forth as the sun, in the kingdom of their Father. He that hath ears, let him hear.
Then will the righteous shine forth as the sun, in the kingdom of their Father. He that hath ears, let him hear.
And Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
And Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it.
And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it.
And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it.
And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it.
And if he disregard them, tell the matter to the church; but if he disregard the church also, let him be to thee as a heathen and a publican.
And if he disregard them, tell the matter to the church; but if he disregard the church also, let him be to thee as a heathen and a publican.
And if he disregard them, tell the matter to the church; but if he disregard the church also, let him be to thee as a heathen and a publican.
And if he disregard them, tell the matter to the church; but if he disregard the church also, let him be to thee as a heathen and a publican. Truly do I say to you, Whatever ye shall bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever ye shall loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
Truly do I say to you, Whatever ye shall bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever ye shall loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
And, as they were eating, Jesus took a loaf, and having blessed, broke it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.
And, as they were eating, Jesus took a loaf, and having blessed, broke it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took a cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
And he took a cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is shed for many for remission of sins.
for this is my blood of the covenant, which is shed for many for remission of sins.
Go, and make all nations my disciples, baptizing them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit;
Go, and make all nations my disciples, baptizing them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; teaching them to observe all things, whatever I have commanded you. And, lo! I am with you always, unto the end of the world.
teaching them to observe all things, whatever I have commanded you. And, lo! I am with you always, unto the end of the world.
and I give them everlasting life; and they shall never perish, nor shall any one tear them out of my hand.
and I give them everlasting life; and they shall never perish, nor shall any one tear them out of my hand.
And I am no longer in the world; and they are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father! keep them in thy name which thou hast given me, that they may be one, even as we are.
And I am no longer in the world; and they are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father! keep them in thy name which thou hast given me, that they may be one, even as we are.
I do not pray thee to take them out of the world, but to keep them from evil.
I do not pray thee to take them out of the world, but to keep them from evil.
They therefore received his word, and were baptized; and there were added on that day about three thousand souls.
They therefore received his word, and were baptized; and there were added on that day about three thousand souls.
praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were in the way of salvation.
praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were in the way of salvation.
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, Rulers of the people, and elders of Israel!
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, Rulers of the people, and elders of Israel!
But beckoning to them with his hand to be silent, he related how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go and tell these things to James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went to another place.
But beckoning to them with his hand to be silent, he related how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go and tell these things to James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went to another place.
And after they had done speaking, James answered, saying, Brethren, hearken to me.
And after they had done speaking, James answered, saying, Brethren, hearken to me. Simeon hath related how God first visited the gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.
Simeon hath related how God first visited the gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. And with this agree the words of the Prophets, as it is written:
And with this agree the words of the Prophets, as it is written: "After this I will return, and will rebuild the tabernacle of David which hath fallen; and I will rebuild its ruins, and will set it up;
"After this I will return, and will rebuild the tabernacle of David which hath fallen; and I will rebuild its ruins, and will set it up; that the rest of men may seek after the Lord, and all the gentiles, who have been called by my name, saith the Lord, who doeth these things,
that the rest of men may seek after the Lord, and all the gentiles, who have been called by my name, saith the Lord, who doeth these things, which were known from the beginning."
which were known from the beginning." Wherefore my judgment is, that we should not trouble those who from among the gentiles are turning to God;
Wherefore my judgment is, that we should not trouble those who from among the gentiles are turning to God;
And Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed in the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians upon hearing believed, and were baptized.
And Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed in the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians upon hearing believed, and were baptized.
And the day following Paul went in with us to James; and all the elders were present.
And the day following Paul went in with us to James; and all the elders were present.
And after five days Ananias, the highpriest, came down with the elders and a certain orator named Tertullus; and they brought a complaint before the governor against Paul.
And after five days Ananias, the highpriest, came down with the elders and a certain orator named Tertullus; and they brought a complaint before the governor against Paul.
For the earnest expectation of the creation is waiting for the manifestation of the sons of God.
For the earnest expectation of the creation is waiting for the manifestation of the sons of God.
salute also the church that is in their house. Salute Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first fruit gathered from Asia for Christ.
salute also the church that is in their house. Salute Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first fruit gathered from Asia for Christ.
Gaius my host, and the host of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the treasurer of the city saluteth you, and Quartus, the brother.
Gaius my host, and the host of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the treasurer of the city saluteth you, and Quartus, the brother.
to the church of God which is at Corinth, the sanctified in Christ Jesus, called, holy, with all that in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours;
to the church of God which is at Corinth, the sanctified in Christ Jesus, called, holy, with all that in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours;
in the name of our Lord Jesus, when you and my spirit with you are assembled together, with the power of our Lord Jesus,
in the name of our Lord Jesus, when you and my spirit with you are assembled together, with the power of our Lord Jesus,
Every first day of the week let each of you lay by him something in store, according as he hath prospered; that the collections may not have to be made when I come.
Every first day of the week let each of you lay by him something in store, according as he hath prospered; that the collections may not have to be made when I come.
And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that gospel which I preach among the gentiles; but privately to those who were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.
And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that gospel which I preach among the gentiles; but privately to those who were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.
and when they knew the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the gentiles, and they to the circumcised;
and when they knew the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the gentiles, and they to the circumcised;
For before certain persons came from James, he used to eat with the gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew, and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision.
For before certain persons came from James, he used to eat with the gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew, and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision.
and put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the church,
and put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the church,
So then ye are no longer strangers and foreigners, but are fellowcitizens with the saints, and members of the household of God,
So then ye are no longer strangers and foreigners, but are fellowcitizens with the saints, and members of the household of God,
in whom ye also are built together into a dwellingplace of God in the Spirit.
in whom ye also are built together into a dwellingplace of God in the Spirit.
endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye were called in one hope of your calling;
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism,
one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all.
one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all.
And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints for the work of ministration, for the building up of the body of Christ;
for the perfecting of the saints for the work of ministration, for the building up of the body of Christ; till we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a fullgrown man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;
till we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a fullgrown man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro and borne about by every wind of teaching, through the dishonest tricks of men, and their cunning in the wily arts of error;
that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro and borne about by every wind of teaching, through the dishonest tricks of men, and their cunning in the wily arts of error; but cleaving to truth in love, may grow up in all things unto him who is the head, even Christ;
but cleaving to truth in love, may grow up in all things unto him who is the head, even Christ;
but cleaving to truth in love, may grow up in all things unto him who is the head, even Christ;
but cleaving to truth in love, may grow up in all things unto him who is the head, even Christ; from whom the whole body, well put together and compacted by means of every supplying joint, is, according to the working of each part in its proportion, building itself up in love.
from whom the whole body, well put together and compacted by means of every supplying joint, is, according to the working of each part in its proportion, building itself up in love.
from whom the whole body, well put together and compacted by means of every supplying joint, is, according to the working of each part in its proportion, building itself up in love.
from whom the whole body, well put together and compacted by means of every supplying joint, is, according to the working of each part in its proportion, building itself up in love.
for the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church,he, who is the Saviour of the body.
for the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church,he, who is the Saviour of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so let wives be to their husbands in everything.
But as the church is subject to Christ, so let wives be to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it,
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it,
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it,
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it, that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the bath of the water in the word;
that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the bath of the water in the word;
that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the bath of the water in the word;
that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the bath of the water in the word; that he himself might present to himself the church, glorious, having no spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish.
that he himself might present to himself the church, glorious, having no spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish.
that he himself might present to himself the church, glorious, having no spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish.
that he himself might present to himself the church, glorious, having no spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish. In like manner husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his own wife loveth himself;
In like manner husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his own wife loveth himself; for no one ever yet hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as Christ doth the church;
for no one ever yet hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as Christ doth the church; 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 cleave to his wife, and they two shall be one flesh."
"For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife, and they two shall be one flesh." This mystery is a great one; but I am speaking of Christ and of the church.
This mystery is a great one; but I am speaking of Christ and of the church.
when Christ, our life, shall be manifested, then will ye also be manifested with him in glory.
when Christ, our life, shall be manifested, then will ye also be manifested with him in glory.
where there is no Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bondman, freeman; but Christ is all, and in all.
where there is no Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bondman, freeman; but Christ is all, and in all.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, spiritual songs, in grace singing in your hearts to God;
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, spiritual songs, in grace singing in your hearts to God;
As I besought thee, when I set out for Macedonia, to remain still in Ephesus, that thou mightst charge certain persons not to teach other doctrine,
As I besought thee, when I set out for Macedonia, to remain still in Ephesus, that thou mightst charge certain persons not to teach other doctrine,
For this cause I left thee behind in Crete, that thou shouldst set in order the things that are wanting, and appoint elders in every city, as I directed thee;
For this cause I left thee behind in Crete, that thou shouldst set in order the things that are wanting, and appoint elders in every city, as I directed thee;
When I shall have sent Artemas to thee, or Tychicus, use diligence to come to me to Nicopolis; for there I have determined to pass the winter.
When I shall have sent Artemas to thee, or Tychicus, use diligence to come to me to Nicopolis; for there I have determined to pass the winter.
Having therefore, brethren, boldness for entrance into the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus,
Having therefore, brethren, boldness for entrance into the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, a new and living way, which he consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, his flesh,
a new and living way, which he consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, his flesh, and having a great priest over the house of God,
and having a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having had our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience; and having had our bodies washed with pure water,
let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having had our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience; and having had our bodies washed with pure water,
but ye have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem; and to myriads, the general assembly of angels;
but ye have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem; and to myriads, the general assembly of angels;
but ye have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem; and to myriads, the general assembly of angels;
but ye have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem; and to myriads, the general assembly of angels; and to the church of the firstborn, who are enrolled in heaven; and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of righteous men made perfect;
and to the church of the firstborn, who are enrolled in heaven; and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of righteous men made perfect;
and to the church of the firstborn, who are enrolled in heaven; and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of righteous men made perfect;
and to the church of the firstborn, who are enrolled in heaven; and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of righteous men made perfect;
Through him therefore let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips giving thanks to his name.
Through him therefore let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips giving thanks to his name. But works of kindness and liberality forget not; for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
But works of kindness and liberality forget not; for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
For if there come into your assembly a man with a gold ring, in splendid apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment,
For if there come into your assembly a man with a gold ring, in splendid apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment,
and made us a kingdom, priests to God his Father, to him be the glory and the dominion for ever. Amen.
and made us a kingdom, priests to God his Father, to him be the glory and the dominion for ever. Amen.
I know thy affliction and poverty, (but thou art rich,) and the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews, and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
I know thy affliction and poverty, (but thou art rich,) and the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews, and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
And there shall not enter into it anything unclean, or that worketh abomination and falsehood; but only they that are written in the Lambs book of life.
And there shall not enter into it anything unclean, or that worketh abomination and falsehood; but only they that are written in the Lambs 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
I indeed baptize you in water, for repentance; but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to bear; he will baptize you in the Holy Spirit and in fire.
From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
But the sons of the kingdom will go out into the outer darkness; there will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
and he that doth not take his cross, and follow me, is not worthy of me.
but, having no root within him, endureth only for a time; and when tribulation or persecution ariseth on account of the word, he immediately falleth away.
Another parable he put forth to them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field.
Which is the least indeed of all seeds; but when it is grown, it is greater than the herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in its branches.
The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hid in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy thereof he goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking goodly pearls.
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net, cast into the sea, and bringing together fish of every kind;
And Jesus, having come into the region of Caesarea Philippi, asked his disciples, saying, Who do men say that the Son of man is? And they said, Some, John the Baptist; but some, Elijah; and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. read more. He saith to them, But who do ye say that I am? And Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answering said to him, Blessed art thou, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven. And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it.
And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it. I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever thou shalt bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever thou shalt loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever thou shalt bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever thou shalt loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Then he charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ.
And if he disregard them, tell the matter to the church; but if he disregard the church also, let him be to thee as a heathen and a publican.
And Jesus said to them, Truly do I say to you, that, in the renovation when the Son of man sitteth on the throne of his glory, ye who have followed me shall also yourselves sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
And the multitudes that went before him, and that followed, were crying out, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heavens!
And as he was sitting upon the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, Tell us, when will these things be? and what will be the signs of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
When, therefore, ye see the abomination of desolation, spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place, (let him that readeth understand,)
And when the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the angels with him, then will he sit on the throne of his glory,
Then will the king say to those on his right hand, Come, ye blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
Jesus saith to him, I am. Moreover I say to you, Henceforth ye will see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.
But after John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the glad tidings of God, [saying,] The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe the glad tidings.
But if I cast out the demons through the finger of God, then hath the kingdom of God already come to you.
Fear not, little flock! for it is your Fathers good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
And being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not in such a manner as to be watched for; nor will they say, Lo here! or there! for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.
nor will they say, Lo here! or there! for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.
Jesus therefore said to them, Truly, truly do I say to you, Unless ye eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.
for John indeed baptized with water, but ye will be baptized in the Holy Spirit not many days hence.
And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the brethren, and said, (the number of the names together was about one hundred and twenty,)
to take the part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell away, that he might go to his own place.
and there appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributing themselves; and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, even as the Spirit gave them utterance.
And they were constantly attending on the teaching of the apostles, and the imparting [of their substance], the breaking of bread, and the prayers.
And attending daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread in a private house, they partook of their food with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were in the way of salvation.
And the multitude of those who believed were of one heart, and of one soul; and not one of them said that aught of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
And great fear came upon all the church, and upon all that heard of these things.
But in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a murmuring of the Hellenists against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.
But some of those who belonged to the socalled synagogue of the Freedmen, and of the Cyrenaeans and Alexandrians, and of those from Cilicia and Asia, arose and disputed with Stephen;
This is he that was in the assembly in the wilderness with the anger who spake to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers; who received the living oracles to give to us;
This is he that was in the assembly in the wilderness with the anger who spake to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers; who received the living oracles to give to us;
And Saul was consenting to his death. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and all were scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.
And Saul was consenting to his death. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and all were scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.
And Saul was consenting to his death. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and all were scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.
And Saul was consenting to his death. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and all were scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.
But Saul ravaged the church, entering house after house, and dragging both men and women, committed them to prison.
And the apostles at Jerusalem, hearing that Samaria had received the word of God, sent to them Peter and John;
And the apostles at Jerusalem, hearing that Samaria had received the word of God, sent to them Peter and John;
But Saul, yet breathing out threatening and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest,
The church therefore throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria had peace, being built up, and walking in the fear of the Lord; and by the exhortation of the Holy Spirit it was greatly increased.
The church therefore throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria had peace, being built up, and walking in the fear of the Lord; and by the exhortation of the Holy Spirit it was greatly increased.
But beckoning to them with his hand to be silent, he related how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go and tell these things to James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went to another place.
Now there were at Antioch, in the church that was there, prophets and teachers; Barnabas, and Simeon who was called Niger, and Lucius the Cyrenaean, and Manaen, the fosterbrother of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
And having appointed for them elders in every church, they prayed with fasting, and commended them to the Lord, in whom they believed.
But when Paul and Barnabas had had no small dissension and debate with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others of them, should go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and elders about this question.
And after they had done speaking, James answered, saying, Brethren, hearken to me.
Then it was decided by the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, to choose men from among themselves, and send them to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas called Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren. And they wrote by them, "The apostles, and the elders, and the brethren, to the brethren who are from the gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, greeting. read more. Whereas we have heard, that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, to whom we gave no command; it seemed good to us, having become of one mind, to choose men and send them to you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men who have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who will themselves tell you the same things by word of mouth. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us, to lay upon you no further burden except these necessary things: to abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication; from which if ye keep yourselves, ye will do well. Farewell."
But if ye ask for any thing further, it shall be determined in the lawful assembly.
And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.
And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.
Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit made you overseers, to feed the church of the Lord, which he purchased with his own blood.
Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit made you overseers, to feed the church of the Lord, which he purchased with his own blood.
Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit made you overseers, to feed the church of the Lord, which he purchased with his own blood.
Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit made you overseers, to feed the church of the Lord, which he purchased with his own blood.
And the day following Paul went in with us to James; and all the elders were present.
And after some years I came to bring alms to my nation, and to make offerings;
So then as through one man sin entered into the world, and through sin death, and thus [death] came through unto all men, because all sinned (for all the time before the Law sin was in the world; but sin is not set to ones account when there is no law. read more. Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned in the manner in which Adam transgressed; who is a type of him who was to come. But the free gift was not as the transgression. For if through the offence of the one the many died, much more hath the grace of God, and the gift which is by the grace of the one man Jesus Christ, abounded to the many. And the free gift is not like what happened through one man who sinned. For sentence of condemnation followed one offence; but the free gift is a justification after many offences. For if by one trespass death reigned through the one man, much more will they who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.) As then through one trespass all men have come under condemnation, so through one act of righteousness all obtain the gift of righteousness unto life. For as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so through the obedience of the one man will the many be made righteous. Moreover the law came in in addition, that the trespass might abound; but where sin abounded, grace abounded much more; that as sin reigned in death, so grace might reign through righteousness to everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Are ye ignorant, that all of us who were baptized into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death? We then by this baptism into his death were buried with him; that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.
salute also the church that is in their house. Salute Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first fruit gathered from Asia for Christ.
Salute each other with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ salute you.
to the church of God which is at Corinth, the sanctified in Christ Jesus, called, holy, with all that in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours;
Know ye not, that ye are Gods temple, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any one defaceth the temple of God, God will deface him; for the temple of God is holy, and such are ye.
Cleanse out the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened; for our passover also hath been sacrificed, even Christ. So then let us keep the feast, not with the old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a partaking of the blood of Christ? the loaf which we break, is it not a partaking of the body of Christ? For we, the many, are one loaf, one body; for we all share in that one loaf. read more. Look at Israel by natural descent. Have not those who eat of the sacrifices, communion with the altar?
When ye come together then in the same place, there is no eating of the Lords supper. For, when ye eat, every one taketh before any distribution his own supper, and one is hungry, and another is drunken. read more. What! have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? Or despise ye the church of God, and shame those who have nothing? What am I to say to you? Shall I praise you? In this I do not praise you.
What! have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? Or despise ye the church of God, and shame those who have nothing? What am I to say to you? Shall I praise you? In this I do not praise you. For I received of the Lord, what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took a loaf, read more. and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, This is my body, which is for you; this do in remembrance of me. In like manner also the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new covenant, in my blood; this do, as oft as ye drink, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink the cup, ye show forth the Lords death, till he come. So that whoever eateth the bread or drinketh the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty with respect to the body and the blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and thus let him eat of the bread, and drink of the cup; for he that eateth and drinketh eateth and drinketh judgment to himself, if he do not discern the body. For this cause many among you are weak and sickly, and some are falling asleep. But if we judged ourselves, we should not be judged; but when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, wait for one another. If any one hunger, let him eat at home; that ye may not come together to condemnation. And the rest I will set in order when I come.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit; to another faith, by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing, by the one Spirit; read more. to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another divers kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. But all these worketh the one and selfsame Spirit, allotting to each one severally as it will.
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God appointed some in the church to be, in the first place, apostles, in the second place, prophets, in the third place, teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, those of helping and of governing, divers kinds of tongues. Are all apostles?
For I am the least of the apostles, one not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
and when they knew the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the gentiles, and they to the circumcised;
For before certain persons came from James, he used to eat with the gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew, and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision.
for as many of you as were baptized into Christ, did put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is no male and female; for ye are all one in Christ Jesus;
And as many as walk by this rule, peace be upon them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.
in reference to the dispensation of the fullness of the times, to gather for himself into one all things in Christ, the things which are in the heavens, and the things on the earth; even in him, in whom we also obtained the inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will,
which is a pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of his glory.
and put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who filleth all with all;
which is his body, the fullness of him who filleth all with all;
that ye were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of the promise, having no hope, and without God, in the world;
that ye were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of the promise, having no hope, and without God, in the world; but now, in Christ Jesus, ye, who formerly were afar off, have been brought nigh by the blood of Christ.
but now, in Christ Jesus, ye, who formerly were afar off, have been brought nigh by the blood of Christ.
but now, in Christ Jesus, ye, who formerly were afar off, have been brought nigh by the blood of Christ. For it is he who is our peace, who made both one, and broke down the middle wall of partition between us, that is, the enmity; read more. having abolished in his flesh the law of commandments contained in ordinances; that he might create of the two one new man in himself, thus making peace, and might reconcile both to God in one body by the cross, having slain on it the enmity.
for through him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father.
for through him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father.
for through him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father.
for through him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father. So then ye are no longer strangers and foreigners, but are fellowcitizens with the saints, and members of the household of God,
that by revelation the mystery was made known to me, as I wrote before in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ; read more. which in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it hath now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; that the gentiles are fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers with us of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel; of which I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God, given to me according to the effectual working of his power. To me, who am less than the least of all saints, was this grace given, to make known among the gentiles the glad tidings of the unsearchable riches of Christ, to make all men see what is the dispensation of the mystery, which hath been hidden for ages in God, who created all things; to the intent that now to the principalities and powers in the heavenly regions might be known through the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to his purpose for ages, which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord;
And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints for the work of ministration, for the building up of the body of Christ;
for the perfecting of the saints for the work of ministration, for the building up of the body of Christ;
for the perfecting of the saints for the work of ministration, for the building up of the body of Christ; till we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a fullgrown man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;
from whom the whole body, well put together and compacted by means of every supplying joint, is, according to the working of each part in its proportion, building itself up in love.
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it,
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it,
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it,
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it,
that he himself might present to himself the church, glorious, having no spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish.
And he is the head of the body, the church; since he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that he may be in all things preeminent;
having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him, I say, whether the things on earth, or those in the heavens. And you, that were once alienated, and enemies in your mind in wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled read more. in the body of his flesh through his death, to present you holy and blameless and irreproachable in his sight;
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up instead that which is wanting of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh on behalf of his body, which is the church;
Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church in his house. And when the letter hath been read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that ye likewise read the letter from Laodicea.
And when the letter hath been read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that ye likewise read the letter from Laodicea.
Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be to you, and peace.
Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be to you, and peace.
And confessedly great is the mystery of godliness, in him who was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory.
who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify to himself a people to be his own, zealous in good works.
who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify to himself a people to be his own, zealous in good works.
saying, "I will declare thy name to my brethren, in the midst of the congregation will I sing praise to thee."
For by one offering he hath perfected for ever those who are sanctified.
and having a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having had our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience; and having had our bodies washed with pure water,
let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having had our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience; and having had our bodies washed with pure water,
and to the church of the firstborn, who are enrolled in heaven; and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of righteous men made perfect; and to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant; and to a sprinkling with that blood which speaketh something better than Abel.
We have an altar, of which they cannot eat who serve the tabernacle. For the bodies of those beasts whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the highpriest are burned without the camp. read more. Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people by his own blood, suffered without the gate. Let us then go forth to him without the camp, bearing his reproach; for here we have no abiding city, but are seeking that which is to come. Through him therefore let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips giving thanks to his name. But works of kindness and liberality forget not; for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
For if there come into your assembly a man with a gold ring, in splendid apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment,
But some one will say, Thou hast faith, and I have works; show me thy faith without works, and I will show thee my faith by my works.
be ye yourselves also, as living stones, built up, a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for a possession, that ye may show forth the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light;
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for a possession, that ye may show forth the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light;
The church in Babylon, chosen with you, saluteth you; and Mark, my son.
To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who 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
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And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it.
Truly, truly do I say to you, Unless a grain of wheat fall into the ground and die, itself abideth alone; but if it die, it beareth much fruit.
This is he that was in the assembly in the wilderness with the anger who spake to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers; who received the living oracles to give to us;
Some therefore were crying one thing, and some another; for the assembly was in confusion, and the greater part knew not wherefore they had come together.
For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or freemen; and were all made to drink one Spirit.
and put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who filleth all with all;
that he might show in the ages to come the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God before prepared that we should walk in them.
to make all men see what is the dispensation of the mystery, which hath been hidden for ages in God, who created all things; to the intent that now to the principalities and powers in the heavenly regions might be known through the church the manifold wisdom of God,
to the intent that now to the principalities and powers in the heavenly regions might be known through the church the manifold wisdom of God,
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye were called in one hope of your calling;
that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the bath of the water in the word; that he himself might present to himself the church, glorious, having no spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Clothe yourselves, therefore, as the chosen of God, holy and beloved, with compassionate affections, kindness, lowliness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with each other, and forgiving each other, if any one have a complaint against another; even as Christ freely forgave you, do ye also freely forgive; read more. and over all these things put on the robe of love, which is the bond of perfectness; and let the peace of Christ, to which ye were called in one body, rule in your hearts; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, spiritual songs, in grace singing in your hearts to God; and whatever ye do, in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God, the Father, through him.
For this we say to you in the word of the Lord, that we who are living, we who are left till the coming of the Lord, shall not anticipate those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a loud summons, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trump of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first; read more. then we who are living, we who are left, shall be caught up together with them in clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we be ever with the Lord. So then comfort one another with these words.
but if I should tarry long, that thou mayst know how thou oughtest to conduct thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also wooden and earthen ones; and some for honor, and some for dishonor.
But flee youthful lusts, and follow righteousness, faith, love, peace, with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
To whom coming, a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but in the sight of God chosen, honored, be ye yourselves also, as living stones, built up, a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through 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.
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Ye are the salt of the earth. But if the salt have lost its savor, wherewith shall itself be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot by men.
nor do men light a lamp, and put it under the bushel, but on the lampstand; and it giveth light to all that are in the house.
It is enough for the disciple to be as his teacher, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they so call those of his household!
I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever thou shalt bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever thou shalt loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
Therefore I say to you, that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you, and given to a nation yielding the fruits thereof.
Then Jesus saith to them, This night will all of you fall away from me; for it is written, "I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered."
even as the Father knoweth me, and I know the 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,
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And they were constantly attending on the teaching of the apostles, and the imparting [of their substance], the breaking of bread, and the prayers.
The church therefore throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria had peace, being built up, and walking in the fear of the Lord; and by the exhortation of the Holy Spirit it was greatly increased.
Some therefore were crying one thing, and some another; for the assembly was in confusion, and the greater part knew not wherefore they had come together.
But if ye ask for any thing further, it shall be determined in the lawful assembly.
And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.
Let us then no longer judge one another; but let this rather be your judgment, not to put a stumblingblock, or an occasion to fall, in a brothers way.
Cleanse out the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened; for our passover also hath been sacrificed, even Christ.
But this is what I wrote you, not to keep company with any one called a brother, if he be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such a one not even to eat.
All things are lawful, but all things are not profitable; all things are lawful, but all things are not edifying. Let no one seek his own pleasure, but the good of others. read more. Whatever is sold in the market that eat, without asking questions for the sake of conscience; for "the earth is the Lords, and the fullness thereof." And if one who is an unbeliever inviteth you to a feast, and ye choose to go, eat whatever is set before you, without asking any questions for the sake of conscience. But if any one say to you, This hath been offered in sacrifice to an idol, do not eat of it, on account of him that showed you this, and from a regard to conscience; conscience I mean, not thine own, but that of the other. For why is my liberty to be judged by another conscience [than my own]? If I partake with thankfulness, why am I to be evil spoken of in a matter for which I give thanks? Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Give no occasion of stumbling either to Jews or Greeks, or to the church of God; as I also strive to please all in all things, not seeking my own advantage, but that of the many; that they may be saved.
Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.
"Wherefore come out from the midst of them, and be separated, saith the Lord, and touch not anything unclean;" "and I will receive you,
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith working by love.
Brethren, even if a man be detected in a fault, do ye who are spiritual restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
Brethren, even if a man be detected in a fault, do ye who are spiritual restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one anothers burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.
And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
praying with all prayer and entreaty at all times in the Spirit; and watching to this end with all perseverance and entreaty for all the saints,
Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church in his house.
Now we charge you, brethren, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which they received of us.
and let us consider one another, to excite to love and to good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. read more. For if we sin willingly after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remaineth a sacrifice for sins; but a certain fearful looking for judgment, and an indignation by fire, which will devour the adversaries.
Remember your leaders, who spoke to you the word of God; and considering well the end of their manner of life, imitate their faith.
What doth it profit, my brethren, if any one say that he hath faith, and have not works? Can his faith save him?
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.
being born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the word of God, which liveth and abideth.