Some people may have never heard of the church of Christ (COC). Others may have heard of us, but do not know who we are. Here are some answers to common questions that are often asked about the COC:
Is the church of Christ a new religious organisation?
No. The church of Christ has existed for about 2000 years, established on the Jewish feast day of Pentecost (Acts 2).
Where did the church begin?
It began in Jerusalem (Acts 2:5, 14), but Jesus instructed His followers to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every person (Mark 16:15). While congregations exist worldwide, the Church is one spiritual body (Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:4).
Who founded the church of Christ?
The church of Christ was not founded by any man, but by the Lord Jesus himself, who said, "... on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:18).
What books or standard of authority does the church of Christ follow?
The church of Christ follows only the teachings of the Bible and no other human tradition or creed book. This is because the Bible is God-inspired and sufficient for all doctrine and instruction (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
What denomination is the church of Christ?
The church of Christ is non-denominational. We are not connected with the Roman Catholic church, Mormon church, denominations from the Protestant Reformation, or any other group.
Where is the church of Christ's headquarters?
The church of Christ has no earthly headquarters. We have no pope, president or person on earth who controls the thousands of congregations throughout the world. Each congregation is self-governing, with Jesus as our head (Ephesians 5:23).
Why do you call yourselves the church of Christ?
We are the church of Christ because the church belongs to Christ (Matthew 16:18). There are several descriptions of the church in the New Testament, such as 'church of God' (1 Corinthians 1:2), 'churches of Christ' (Romans 16:16) and 'body of Christ' (Ephesians 1:22, 23).
On which day does the church of Christ worship? What do you do during worship?
We assemble on the first day of the week, Sunday (Acts 20:7). Worship consists of five parts:
Singing hymns (Colossians 3:16)
Prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Preaching (Ephesians 4:11-13)
The Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11: 23-26, Acts 20:7)
Collection (1 Corinthians 16:2)
What must one do to become a member of the church of Christ?
A person becomes a member of the church when they obey the gospel of Christ. This includes:
Hearing the gospel of God’s gift of salvation to all mankind (Mark 16:15)
Believing that Jesus Christ died for us so we may have eternal life (John 3:16)
Repenting of one's sins and seeking to walk in a new life with God (Acts 3:19)
Confessing the Lord Jesus is Saviour and that God has raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9)
Being baptised in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38)
Staying faithful till our last days, trusting and obeying Christ till the end (2 Timothy 4:7-8)