The church that Jesus built (Matthew 16:18) is an historical creation. It was built nearly 2,000 years ago. The church was established about A.D. 33 on the day of Pentecost, (Acts 2:1-47). The first local church began in Jerusalem.
THE CHURCH THAT JESUS BUILT IS:
Non-denominational.
Non-sectarian.
Non-cult.
THE CHURCH BELONGS TO CHRIST BECAUSE:
He built it. Matthew 16:18
He bought it. Acts 20:28
He saves it. Ephesians 5:23
He is the Head of it. Ephesians 1:22,23; 5:23
He died for it. Romans 5:8
THE BIBLE CALLS THE CHURCH:
The household of God. 1 Timothy 3:15
The temple of the living God. 2 Cor. 6:16; Eph. 2:21
The church of God. 1 Cor. 1:2; Galatians 1:13
The churches of Christ. Romans 16:16
The flock. Acts 20:28
The household of faith. Galatians 6:10
The kingdom. Mark 9:1; Col. 1:13; Rev. 1:9
The body of Christ. Eph. 2:22&23; 4:12.
ITS GOVERNMENT IS AN ABSOLUTE MONARCHY
Jesus is the Head. Matt. 28:18; Eph. 1:20-23
ORGANIZATION IS LIMITED AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
Each church is independent and autonomous, self-governed under the control of Christ. Acts 14:23; 1 Peter 5:1&2.
There are to be elders, deacons and saints. Philip. 1:1.
ITS WORSHIP IS IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH John 4:24.
Giving to support the cause and work. 1 Cor. 16:1&2; 2 Cor. 9:7.
Partake of Lord's Supper. 1 Cor. 11:20-34; Acts 20:7.
Pray together. Acts 2:42; 4:24-31; 12:12; 1 Cor. 14:14-16.
Preaching and teaching. Acts 2:42; 20:7; 1 Cor. 14:12; Acts 20:32.
Singing. Eph 5:19; Col. 3:16.
ITS WORK
Perform limited benevolence and serving to poor saints. 2 Cor. 8:1-7; 1 Cor. 16:1&2.
Edifying the saints. Rom. 14:19; Eph. 4:11-16.
Preaching the gospel to the lost. Matt. 28:18-20; 1 Tim. 3:15; 1 Cor. 14:23-25.