03/22/08

By Way of Introduction...

What is the Church of Christ?
How is it different?
Aren't all religious groups the same?

No. All religious groups are not the same. The churches of Christ are different. They are unique in their commitment to restoring, in our  time, one church; one without man-made teachings and traditions; one tracing its beginning to Pentecost, A.D. 33

How? When did this begin?

In the latter part of the 18th century, men of different religious beliefs, studying independently of each other, in various parts of the world, began to ask:

• WHY are we divided religiously?
• WHY not go back beyond division to the simplicity and purity of the first-century church?
• WHY not use the Bible alone?
  "Thy word is truth." (John 17:17)
  "The truth shall make you free." (John 8:32)
• Why not be Christians only?
  "And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." (Acts 11:26)

Back to the Bible

Members of the churches of Christ are absolutely committed to the ideal:

"Speak where the Bible speaks. Be silent where it is silent!"

With the Word of God as our only guide, we seek to determine what the original church was like, what it taught, what it practiced, and to restore that church exactly (Gal 1:8,9). 'Back to the Bible' also means that nothing be required as 'acts of faith' except that which is clearly evident in the scriptures.

We are just Christians.

The confusion in the religious world today is far different from the unity shared by the early Christians. We have no sectarian organization, name, doctrine, or creed. Following the teachings of Christ and His apostles, we are Christians only.

"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42)

The Church of Christ in Lavonia is:

A Concerned Church

We are concerned about others; this is why we give our benevolent and mission programs top priority.

"As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." (Gal 6:10)

A Friendly Church

We strive to open our hearts as well as our doors to all. Visitors are welcome as our honored guests.

"By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:35)

A Bible Studying Church

"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed." (2 Tim 2:15)

In keeping with God's Command, we provide:

• Free Bible Correspondence Courses by mail for those interested in private home study of God's Word.
• Video Bible Study Series for group or private home study.
• Personal Home Bible Studies.

What to Expect in Our Worship Services

Singing:  Our song leader will begin services with a song from books provided in the rack on the pews.  We believe singing to be a very important part of worship, and we encourage everyone to join in. (Ephesians 5:19)

Prayer:  One of our men will lead the congregation in prayer at appropriate times.  This is a time of reverence and thanksgiving as we speak to God collectively as a church family. (1 Timothy 2:1)

The Lord's Supper:  In the Bible (1 Corinthians 11:23, 29) we read of Christians being instructed to 'examine themselves and eat of the bread and drink of the cup.'  This is a time set aside every first day of the week for remembering and reflecting on the death of Christ.  In Acts 20:7 we are given the example of the disciples came together on the first day of the week.  At a designated time in our service, trays with unleavened bread will be passed through the audience.  Christians participate by taking a small portion of the bread.  Following the bread, trays of small cups of grape juice will also be passed for Christians to drink.  Empty cups may be placed back into the tray before passing the tray on the the person next to you.

Offering:  This congregation (like all other churches of Christ) is supported by the free will offerings of its members.  As a visitor, you are our guest and are therefore not expected to contribute, but you may if you choose to do so. (1 Corinthians 16:1, 2)

Message:  A Bible lesson will be taught in the course of our worship service.  We encourage you to bring your Bible and follow along with the lesson.

The Invitation Song:  At the conclusion of the message, the speaker will challenge everyone to make life changing decisions.  If you wish to obey the command of Jesus to be baptized (Mark 16:16), you may walk down the aisle during the singing of the invitation song.  If you wish the prayers of the church, you can respond in this manner as well.  If you do not choose to respond publicly, feel free to speak with someone from the congregation after the service ends and ask any question you may have.

  Is there Anything we can do to help you answer "Life's Great Question."

Church of Christ
4794 Vickery Street, Lavonia, GA 30553