Church Characteristics

The Evangelical Herald

Bible Study No. 08-01

Essential Characteristics of the Church

(Whiteboard Illustration --

use this diagram as you present the similiarities

of the purpose of the rose and the church)

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Focus: To show that the true characteristics of the church come by means of the Spirit of God working through faith and love with what He has given the church.

I. What God Has Done (Elements)

A. Calls His Chosen Ones (I Pet 1:1,2, 2:19)(I Cor 1:2)

1. Sets Them Apart (Sanctified)

B. Sheds His Spirit (Acts 1:8)

1. New Creation

2. Reflects the Essence of His Being

C. Deposits His Truth (I Tim 3:15)(Eph 3:10)

1. Keepers of His Word/Truth

II. The Mystery Of Transformation (Photosynthesis)

A. Faith (Eph 1:15,16)

B. Love

III. The Natural Results (Fruits)

A. Joy

B. Communication?Prayer (I Thes 5:16-18)

C. Thanksgiving

D. Service (2Cor 9:130(Rev 2:19)

E. Obedience (I Pet 1:1,2)

F. Witnesses (Acts 1:8)