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1 | P a g e According to all that God commanded him, so did he. (Mike Tumandan)
According to all that God commanded him, so did he.
Every time the LORD command, He wants complete obedience as PARTIAL OBEDIENCE IS NOT OBEYING
AT ALL.
I. NOAH
"Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he." (Gen. 6:22)
"And Noah did according unto all that the Lord commanded him." (Gen. 7:5)
II. Abraham
Offering his son,only son Isaac to the Lord. He did all the LORD commanded him. (see Genesis 22)
III. Moses (Exodus 40) King James Version (KJV)
16 "Thus did Moses:according to all that the Lord commanded him, so did he."
19 And he spread abroad the tent over the tabernacle, and put the covering of the tent above upon it; as the Lord
commanded Moses.
21 And he brought the ark into the tabernacle, and set up the vail of the covering, and covered the ark of the
testimony; as the Lord commanded Moses.
23 And he set the bread in order upon it before the Lord; as the Lord had commanded Moses.
25 And he lighted the lamps before the Lord; as the Lord commanded Moses.
27 And he burnt sweet incense thereon; as the Lord commanded Moses.
29 And he put the altar of burnt offering by the door of the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation,and offered
upon it the burnt offering and the meat offering; as the Lord commanded Moses.
32 When they went into the tent of the congregation,and when they came near unto the altar, they washed; as the
Lord commanded Moses.
IV. NAAMAN
2 Kings 5:10-14
King James Version (KJV)
10 And Elisha sent a messengerunto him, saying,Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come
again to thee, and thou shalt be clean.
11 But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought,He will surely come out to me, and stand,
and call on the name of the Lord his God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper.
12 Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and
be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage.

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2 | P a g e According to all that God commanded him, so did he. (Mike Tumandan)
13 And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great
thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash,and be clean?
14 Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God:
and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.
Note: Unless Naaman did all the prophet of God commanded him, he could not be cured.
EXAMPLES OF PARTIAL OBEDIENCE
I. King Saul
1 Samuel 15
King James Version (KJV)
1 Samuel also said unto Saul, The Lord sent me to anoint thee to be king over his people, over Israel: now therefore
hearken thou unto the voice of the words of the Lord.
2 Thus saith the Lord of hosts,I remember that which Amalek did to Israel, how he laid wait for him in the way,
when he came up from Egypt.
3 Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man
and woman, infant and suckling,ox and sheep, camel and ass.
6 And Saul said unto the Kenites, Go, depart, get you down from among the Amalekites, lest I destroy you with
them: for ye shewed kindness to all the children of Israel, when they came up out of Egypt. So the Kenites departed
from among the Amalekites.
8 And he took Agag the king of the Amalekites alive, and utterly destroyed all the people with the edge of the
sword.
9 But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the best of the sheep,and of the oxen, and of the fatlings, and the
lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them: but every thing that was vile and refuse, that they
destroyed utterly.
NOTE: When King Saul just partially did what the Lord commanded, still the conclusion is "11 It repenteth me that
I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my
commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the Lord all night."
Still he said "...Blessed be thou of the Lord: I have performed the commandment of the Lord." v. 13. but not
complying all the commandments of the Lord means "... thou hast rejected the word of the Lord" v. 23
II. Nadab and Abihu
Leviticus 10:1-2
King James Version (KJV)
10 And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense
thereon, and offered strange fire before the Lord, which he commanded them not.
2 And there went out fire from the Lord, and devoured them, and they died before the Lord.
New Testament Time
And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,giving thanks to God the Father through
Him. (Colossians 3:17)
Unless we do all, and unless all of them are by the authority of our Lord Jesus for He said :

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3 | P a g e According to all that God commanded him, so did he. (Mike Tumandan)
Matthew 28:18-20
King James Version (KJV)
18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost:
20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoeverI have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even
unto the end of the world. Amen.
The church is related to Christ thus it is important to study the New Testament Church to know all things He
commanded.
The article below is written by a faithful gospelof our Lord Jesus Christ who strive to do all the Lord commanded.
THE CHURCH JESUS BUILT (By Craig Thomas)
I. THE NEED FOR STUDYING THE CHURCH
The word “church” is found 115 times in the New Testament in significant contexts. Matthew records Jesus
promising to build an indestructible “church” upon a rock (Matt. 16:18). Several decades later, this victorious Jesus
tells John that he sent his angel to him to testify to “the churches” (Rev. 22:16).
The concept of Christ’s church ought to stir the deepest interest of spiritually minded people. Because of its
identification with Christ and things spiritual, our desire should be to learn accurately the concept of “the church” as
revealed in the only reliable source of divine information: The Bible.
1) Much confusion about Christ’s church. As with other New Testament concepts,much misinformation exists
about “the church.” This is painfully obvious when you consider, by some counts,there are over 30,000 “churches”
in Christendom! Isn’t there something wrong with that picture when we find that the New Testament says Jesus
built only one church (Matt. 16:18; Eph. 1:22-23; Eph. 4:4)?
2) Understanding the New Testament concept of Christ’s church is critical. This is easily seen by considering three
New Testament facts: 1) God has chosen to reconcile man “in the body of His [Christ] flesh” (Col. 1:22), which is
Christ’s body,the church (Col. 1:18); 2) “the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” (Acts
2:47); and 3) “Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body [church]” (Eph. 5:23).
Our concepts about Christ’s church are not mere academic matters. A definite relationship exists between how we
think and how we act, for “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matt. 12:34). Words and actions
are extensions of how and what we think. If our concepts are improper, our language and actions will reflect these
erroneous ideas. Since an accurate concept of Christ’s church has eternal consequences it is much more than a
theoretical or abstract matter.
Many notions about “the church” spring from tradition rather than truth; from creeds instead of Christ. In this article
we will consider many aspects of Christ’s church as revealed in the New Testament; we will not consult the creeds
and catechisms of men. During this study we implore you to study and think along with us (Acts 17:11) as we
examine New Testament truths pertaining to “the church.” We hope all will be led to a greater understanding and
appreciation for this great New Testament subject.
II. WHAT IS THE CHURCH?
What comes to mind when you hear the word church? A red brick building with a cross-topped spire? A
denomination? A hierarchy of clergy? Let’s see how the Bible defines church.

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4 | P a g e According to all that God commanded him, so did he. (Mike Tumandan)
1) The church is the “called out.” Our English word “church” comes from the Greek word “ekklesia” derived from
two words, “ek” meaning “out of” and “klesis” meaning “a calling.” Thus, in the New Testament the church
consists ofpeople “called out of” one thing into another. God calls men out of darkness (1 Pet. 2:9) into His
kingdom (1 Thess.2:12; Col. 1:13), the church, using the gospel(2 Thess.2:13-14). Upon hearing and obeying the
God’s call through the gospelmen are “saved,” the Lord “adding” them to His church (Acts 2:47); they then have
“fellowship” with “his Son Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Cor. 1:9); and “receive the promise of eternal inheritance.”
(Heb. 9:15)
2) The church never refers to a building. In the New Testament people never “went to church,” they were “the
church.” The New Testament never describes a building as “the church,” it always describes people. Paul says “the
church” and “body of Christ” are one and the same; synonyms describing the same people (Eph. 1:22-23). The
grand purpose of “the church” is where sinful man is reconciled to God; where man finds salvation from sin (Col.
1:18-23). So then, “Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.” (Eph. 5:23)
3) The church never refers to a denomination. In the New Testament “the church” is the “saved,” those answering
God’s call through the gospel. Those answering the gospelcall are also called “saints” (Rom. 1:7), “Christians”
(Acts 11:26), “living stones,a spiritual house,a holy priesthood” (1 Pet. 2:5), “a chosen generation,” a royal
priesthood,a holy nation, His own special people” (1 Pet. 2:9). The church is referred to as the “church of God”
(Acts 20:28), “churches of Christ” (Rom. 16:16), “church of the firstborn” (Heb. 12:23). The church is never
referred to in the New Testament by any of the denominational names so popular today.
4) The church never refers to a hierarchy of clergy. In the New Testament “the church” refers to all men and women
who have obeyed the gospeland are saved. As Paul says,“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every
one members one of another.” (Rom. 12:5) The New Testament never makes the distinctions popular with men
such as “clergy” and “laity.”
III. IMPORTANCE OF IDENTIFYING CHRIST’S CHURCH
We’ve been emphasizing our need to study the New Testament concerning Christ’s church. Now let us continue
laying the foundation for our study by addressing the importance of identifying Christ’s church. The importance of
identifying Christ’s church can be seen by considering:
1) The New Testament teaches there is only one true church: To deny that there is only one true church is to deny
what the New Testament plainly, confidently, and unequivocally affirms (Matt. 16:18; Eph. 1:21-23; 4:4). Certainly
if there is only one true church, identifying it is of great importance!
2) The church was planned by God. The New Testament teaches the church is no accident or afterthought on God’s
part. The church was “According to the eternal purpose which he [God] purposed in Christ Jesus ourLord” (Eph.
3:11; 1:4). If Christ’s church was planned and purposed by God it is essentialfor us to correctly identify it!
3) The church was built by Christ. God, the divine architect of the church, gave Christ the blueprint for the church
and He founded it according to the divine pattern given. Jesus said, “I will build my church…” (Matt. 16:18). This
comes to fruition as Acts 2:47 affirms, “the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” If Christ’s
one true church was built by Him it is essentialfor us to correctly identify it!
4) The church was purchased with Christ’s blood. The one true church identified in the New Testament was bought
with the costliest of all prices, for it was “purchased with His [Christ’s] own blood” (Acts 20:28). If the one true
church of the New Testament is so important that Christ “gave himself for it” (Eph. 5:25), shedding His own blood
in doing so; then we must expend every effort and pay any price needed to identify it and become part of it!
5) The church contains the saved. The New Testament teaches that Christ “is the saviour of the body” (Eph. 5:23),
“which is the church” (Col. 1:24). The Lord “adds” the saved to His church (Acts 2:47). Thus,the Lord “saves” or
“adds” people to His church by one and the same process. If salvation is of any importance to us then it is utterly
urgent and immensely vital that we identify Christ’s one true church and become part of it!

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5 | P a g e According to all that God commanded him, so did he. (Mike Tumandan)
But, how can we identify Christ’s one true church? God told Moses concerning the tabernacle, “that thou make all
things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount” (Heb. 8:5). The New Testament reveals God’s mind
concerning the pattern for His one true church (1 Cor. 2:4-13). To identify Christ’s church we must explicitly
follow the divine New Testament pattern. By following that pattern we can be assured of being in His “one body”
(Eph. 4:4). In the following sections we will examine the New Testament pattern for Christ’s one true church.
IV. THE ESTABLISHMENT OF CHRIST’S CHURCH
We’ve been emphasizing our need to study the Bible concerning Christ’s church. Examining God’s word is the only
way to identify Christ’s one true church. Now let us considerthe establishment of Christ’s church. Christ’s church
began...
1) In God’s mind. History shows that denominational churches are of relative recent origin and began on the whims
and desires of men. But, the Lord’s church originated in God’s mind “according to the eternal purpose which He
accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Eph. 3:10-11).
2) In the last days. Most denominations can be traced back in history no further than the late 16th century. The
Catholic Church is a little older, but still did not have its first pope until the early seventh century. Divine prophecy
says the “Lord’s house,” “the church of the living God” (1 Tim. 3:15), would be “established” “in the latter days”
(Isa. 2:2). Acts 2 records what happened “in the last days” (Acts 2:16-17). As Acts 2 closes we see for the first time
in the Bible that Christ’s church is in existence (Acts 2:47). Notice who was in His church: “...the Lord added to
the church...those being saved.”
3) In the city of Jerusalem. All denominations can trace their origins to places like Rome, London, etc. But the
Bible foretold that the Lord’s church would begin in Jerusalem (Isa. 2:3; Zech. 1:16; 8:3). The events of Acts 2,
when the Lord’s church began, transpire in the city of Jerusalem (Acts 2:5) exactly as predicted by divine prophecy.
4) In the lifetime of some disciples. The Lord’s church and the kingdom are one and the same (Matt. 16:16-
19). Jesus promised “That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen
the kingdom of God come with power.” (Mk. 9:1) When the kingdom, or church,was established in Acts 2 many of
those disciples were still alive and witnessed its establishment.
5) In the days of the Roman kings. The great image Daniel interpreted from Nebuchadnezzar’s dream (Dan. 2)
represented four world empires: Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Greek, and Roman. Daniel revealed that “in the days
of these kings (i.e., Roman) shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed” (Dan.
2:44). Establishment of the church in Acts 2 occurs under Roman rule (Lk. 2:1; Acts 25:21) fulfilling this 580-year
old prophecy.
6) When the word was first preached among the nations. Contrary to the teachings of many, the Lord’s church does
not produce the Word, but the preaching of the Word produces the Lord’s church. Prophecy tells us “the law, and
the word of the Lord” would “go forth” “from Jerusalem” (Isa. 2:2-3). Jesus sent His apostles to preach “remission
of sins” “among all nations beginning at Jerusalem” (Lk. 24:47). Acts 2 records the results of this preaching, “they
that gladly received his word were baptized” (Acts 2:41) and as a result, “…the Lord added to the church daily those
being saved” (Acts 2:47).
What about the “church” to which you belong? Does its origin agree with what the Bible says?
V. THE FOUNDATION OF CHRIST’S CHURCH
We’ve been emphasizing our need to study the Bible concerning Christ’s church for only in the Bible does God
reveal His mind (1 Cor. 2:9-13; Eph. 3:1-5; 2 Tim. 3:16-17). Now let us examine God’s word to determine the
foundation and founder of Christ’s church.
1) Jesus is the foundation of His church. A building’s foundation is its underlying support structure upon which all
the rest of the building depends. Without a strong foundation a building is doomed to decay and destruction. To

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6 | P a g e According to all that God commanded him, so did he. (Mike Tumandan)
fully appreciate the foundation of Christ’s church we need to be reminded that Christ’s church consists ofthe
“saved” (Acts 2:47; Eph. 5:23), those persons “reconciled” to God (Col. 1:19-23). Indeed, Christ’s church consists
of those who will overcome death (1 Cor. 15:50-57) and receive eternal life (Rom. 6:23). His church is the “house
of God” and the “pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Tim. 3:15). Thus,by its very nature, Christ’s church requires an
exceedingly strong foundation. Jesus Himself provides that foundation! He alone qualifies as the foundation
because He alone has conquered the power of death (Acts 2:24, 31-32). As a result, He alone is qualified to be
“both Lord [master] and Christ [savior]” (Acts 2:36). In Matthew 16:16 Peter made this confession concerning
Jesus,“Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” This preeminent truth is the “rock” upon which Jesus built
His church (Matt. 16:18). If Jesus were not “the Christ,” if He were not “the Son of the living God,” He would not
be qualified to be either “Lord” or “Christ” (Acts 2:36; Matt. 28:18; Eph. 5:23). But, Paul affirms that Jesus was
“declared to be the Son of God with power...by the resurrection from the dead” (Rom. 1:4). Thus, Jesus’
resurrection was God’s final seal of approval that Jesus “has become the chief cornerstone” (Acts 4:11) “in whom
the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord” (Eph. 2:21), and “there is no other
name under heaven given among me by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).
2) Jesus is the builder of His church. Denominations were built by such men as Luther, Calvin, Smythe, Wesley and
others. But this is not so with Christ’s church. Jesus plainly stated,“...I will build My church” (Matt. 16:18). For
others to build is folly, for “unless the Lord builds the house,they labor in vain who build it” (Psa. 127:1). We do
not seek to be unkind, but we must plainly teach that which is in God’s book (1 Pet. 4:11). Jesus did not build a
multiplicity of denominational churches,He simply built one church, He established only “one body” (Matt . 16:18;
Eph. 1:22-23; 4:4). Thus, we must carefully ponder Jesus’stark statement, “Every plant, which My heavenly Father
hath not planted, shall be rooted up.” (Matt. 15:13) Dear friend, where will you be on “rootin’ day”? A member of
the Lord’s “one body”? Or a member of a house built by another?
VI. THE SINGULAR NATURE OF CHRIST’S CHURCH
We’ve been emphasizing our need to study the Bible concerning Christ’s church. Examining God’s word is the only
way to identify Christ’s true church. Let us now considerthe singular nature of Christ’s church.
1) Jesus built only one church. If I were to say to you, “I will build my house” what are some necessary
implications of that statement? First, the house “I will build” would belong to me, it is “my house.” Second, “I”
would be the builder of the house,not someone else. Third, the building of “my house” was an act to be
accomplished in the future (“will” is future tense). And,fourth, because “my” is a singular pronoun,I plan on
building only one house. In Matthew 16:18 Jesus makes a parallel statement concerning His church, “...upon this
rock I will build My church...” Jesus’statement necessarily implies the same four points 1) the church He would
build belongs to Him (cf. Acts 20:28), 2) He is the builder of the church (Eph. 2:20-21), not someone else, 3) the
building of His church was an act to be accomplished sometime after the events recorded in Matthew16 (see Acts
2), and 4) Jesus said He would build “My church” (singular); therefore, He would build only one.
2) New Testament says there is only “one body.” Throughout the New Testament, when describing the church, the
analogy of the “body” is used. For example, in Colossians 1:18 Paul said, .”..He [Jesus]is the head of the body,the
church...” Thus,it is conclusive that the “church” and “the body” are synonyms referring to the same entity, those
people “reconciled” to God (Col. 1:21-22) through obedience to the gospel(Acts 2:41, 47). In Ephesians 4 the
inspired apostle tells us there is only “one body” (vs. 4); thus,all Christians are in the “same body” (Eph. 3:6). In
the physicalrealm everyone knows that a normal body has only one head and a normal head has only one body. The
same is true in the spiritual realm, Christ is the only “head of the body,the church” (Col. 1:18) and those in
submission to Christ are only in the “one body” (Eph. 4:4, 15-16).
3) Denominationalism is contradictory to the New Testament. Denominationalism is diametrically opposed to plain
Bible teaching. Denominationalism promotes “many bodies” not “one body” as stated in Eph.
4:4. Denominationalism has a multiplicity of heads (e.g., popes,presidents,councils, synods,conventions,etc.),
whereas the New Testament says God “gave Him [Jesus] to be head over all things to the church” (Eph.
1:22). Denominationalism also promotes various “faiths,” but the New Testament says there is only “one faith”

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(Eph. 4:5). Are you a member of the “one body” that is in subjection to “the head of the body”? Are you of the
“one faith” (Eph. 4:5)?
VII. THE NAME OF CHRIST’S CHURCH
We continue to emphasize our need to study the Bible concerning Christ’s church. Examining God’s word is the
only way to identify Christ’s true church. Now let us consider the name of Christ’s church.
1) What’s in a name? When discussing the name of the church the usual response is,“What’s in a name?” If there’s
nothing in a name, how could we ever distinguish one thing from another? If I go into your bank and try to
withdraw money from youraccount by signing my name will the teller say,“Sure, take all the money you want,
after all...what’s in a name.” When you pay off your house orcar, whose name is put on the title or deed? Just any
old name? After all, “what’s in a name?” In the Bible the names of people, places and events had great
meaning: “Abraham” (father of a great multitude), “Jerusalem” (foundation of peace), “Jesus” (Jehovah is
salvation), “Immanuel” (God with us). Do you still say,“What’s in a name?” A name says a lot!
2) The church. By understanding the nature of the church in the New Testament, we can better understand the
names given it. The church was built by Christ, “I will build My church” (Matt. 16:18). If Christ is the builder
doesn’t it make sense it should bear His name? The church was purchased by Christ with “His own blood” (Acts
20:28). When you spend dearly for something do you place just anyone’s name on the purchased possession? The
word “church” is used to describe the people God has “called out” of the world through the gospelinto “His own
kingdom and glory” (1 Thess.2:12). Those obeying the gospelmessage are “added to the church” by the Lord (Acts
2:47). They are not “added” to a sect or denomination wearing a human name; teaching and practicing human
doctrines (Matt. 15:9).
3) What names are used in the New Testament? In the New Testament the Lord’s church does not have one
“official” name, but several designations are used: “My church” (Matt. 16:18), “the churches of Christ” (Rom.
16:16), “the church of the Lord” (Acts 20:28), “the church of the firstborn” (Heb. 12:23), “the church of God” (Gal.
1:13; 1 Cor. 1:2), etc. In 1 Peter 4:11 God’s word admonishes us that “If any man speaks,let him speak as the
oracles of God.” Most denominational names are not found in “the oracles of God.” Many denominational names
give honor to a person (e.g., Luther, Wesley), a doctrine (e.g., Seventh Day Adventist),or form of church
government (e.g., Presbyterian). The one who built the church, who purchased it with His own blood is stripped of
the honordue Him by such human-devised designations. Let us reject human names and give glory to God through
Jesus Christ (Eph. 3:20). Does the church you attend honorJesus in its name? Does it use one of the names used in
the New Testament? Nothing in a name? If you believe that, please send me your bank account number.
VIII. THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST’S CHURCH
We continue to emphasize our need to study the Bible concerning Christ’s church for only in the Bible does God
reveal His mind (1 Cor. 29-13; Eph. 31-5; 2 Tim. 316-17). Let us now examine God’s word concerning the doctrine
Christ’s church is to teach and practice.
1) Doctrine of Christ. Many ask, “What is the doctrine of your church?” First, we don’t have a “church,” it is
Christ’s church. The Father planned Christ’s church from eternity (Eph. 3:10-11); Jesus built it (Matt. 16:18) and
purchased it with His own blood (Acts 20:28). The church consists ofthe people who have obeyed God’s call
through the gospel (2 Thess.2:13-14) and as a result of their obedience to the gospel the Lord has “added” them to
His church (Acts 2:47). The New Testament teaches that the doctrine belongs to Christ and the church itself does
not have doctrine, but rather obeys and follows “the doctrine of Christ” (2 Jn. 9-11). Christ’s doctrine is revealed in
His will, or testament (Heb. 9:16-17); the New Testament for which He shed His blood (Matt. 26:28) and by which
“will” we are “sanctified” (Heb. 10:10) if we are an obedient believer (Heb. 5:8-9).
2) Apostle’s doctrine. In Acts 2:42 we find the first converts to Christ continuing “steadfastly in the apostle’s
doctrine.” Is the “apostle’s doctrine” different from “the doctrine of Christ”? No, for Jesus promised the apostles
that He would send them “the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all
things,and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” (Jn. 14:26) Furthermore, the purpose of the

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Holy Spirit was to “guide” the apostles into “all truth” (Jn. 16:13). Acts 2 records the coming of the Holy Spirit on
the apostles. In 1 Corinthians 2 Paul even said that the very words the apostles spoke and wrote were chosen by the
Holy Spirit (vs. 13). Thus,the “apostle’s doctrine” is also “the doctrine of Christ” and so we can rest assured that
the things the apostles wrote “are the commandments of the Lord” (1 Cor. 14:37). Thus, when we read that which
they wrote we can have the same understanding ofGod’s will they enjoyed (Eph. 3:1-5).
3) Doctrines of men. Unfortunately many who claim to be Christians are ignorant of, or not satisfied with, the
“doctrine of Christ” and teach as doctrine “the commandments of men” (Matt. 15:9). Although sad, departures from
the truth of Christ’s doctrine were foretold from the very beginning of His church (Acts 20:30; 1 Tim. 4:1-3; 2
Thess.2:3ff). When we listen to religious teaching we must do as the Bereans and search the Scriptures to make
sure the things taught are in agreement with God’s inspired word (Acts 17:11). In our teaching and practice we must
only speak as God’s word speaks (1 Pet. 4:11). Sincerity alone is not enough; we must do God’s revealed will
(Matt. 7:21-23). What about you my friend? Do you abide in the “doctrine of Christ”?
IX. THE WORSHIP OF CHRIST’S CHURCH
God has always required man to worship Him. Jesus said “true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and
truth” (Jn. 4:23-24). Let’s examine the New Testament so we may learn how to be “true worshipers” that “worship
the Father in spirit and truth.”
1) God is the only the object of our worship. When tempted to worship Satan, Jesus said,“Thou shalt worship the
Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve” (Matt. 4:10). We are not to worship men (Acts 10:25-26). Nor are
we to worship angels (Rev. 22:8-9). We are to simply “worship God.” (Rev. 22:9)
2) Preaching and teaching. In the Great Commission Jesus said the disciples were to be taught “to observe all things
that I have commanded” (Matt. 28:20). When the church came together, “Paul preached to them” (Acts 20:7); just
as the first church “continued steadfastly in the apostle’s doctrine (i.e., teaching)” (Acts 2:42). Real preaching and
teaching makes its appeal to scripture (Rom. 4:3; 2 Tim. 4:1-4), not to the “philosophy” and “tradition of men” (Col.
2:8). Appeals made to other sources beside “scripture” make our worship “vain” (Mk. 7:7).
3) Laying by in store. To support the work of the church, Paul instructed that “upon the first day of the week let
every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him…” (1 Cor. 16:1-2). Christians giving of their
means, as they’ve been prospered by God, on every first day of the week is the only scripture-approved method to
raise money for supporting the work of Christ’s church. Christ’s true church does not support itself with bake sales,
car washes,raffles, etc.!
4) Breaking of bread. The breaking of bread done in our assembly refers to the Lord’s supper(Acts 2:42; 1 Cor.
10:16). The first Christians met “upon the first day of the week to break bread” (Acts 20:7). If we are going to
follow the New Testament pattern we will partake of the Lord’s supperevery Sunday, not quarterly, annually,
etc. Common and ordinary meals are not part of the work of Christ’s church. Concerning such meals the apostle
Paul under inspiration of God said, “What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the
church of God…Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you.” (1 Cor. 11:22)
5) Prayer. The early church “continued steadfastly…in prayers” (Acts 2:42). Such prayers were made in all
“supplication with thanksgiving” (Phil. 4:6) as the saints “made known” their “requests…to God” (Phil. 4:6). Their
prayers were directed to God through Christ (Col. 3:17). Their prayers were not addressed to or through Mary, or to
some “saint.”
6) Singing. The church in the New Testament worshiped with vocal music only. For example, the Hebrew writer
said, “in the midst of the church will I sing unto thee” (Heb. 2:12). The early church had neither instrumental music,
choirs, nor soloists. On the contrary, each member sang as they spoke “to one anotherin psalms and hymns and
spiritual songs,singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord” (Eph. 5:19).
If we “worship the Father in spirit and truth” we will observe these six things in our worship. Do you?
X. THE ORGANIZATION OF CHRIST’S CHURCH

9.
9 | P a g e According to all that God commanded him, so did he. (Mike Tumandan)
We’ve been emphasizing our need to study the Bible concerning Christ’s church for only in the Bible does God
reveal His mind (1 Cor. 29-13; Eph. 31-5; 2 Tim. 316-17). Let us now examine God’s word concerning the
organization of Christ’s church.
1) Universal church. Although the term “universal church” does not appear in the New Testament, the concept
certainly does. By “universal church” we mean the entire company of believers regardless of geography or
time. This is what Jesus was referring to when He said, “I will build My church” (Matt. 16:18). Whethera faithful
believer is in Michigan, Japan, or the Antarctic; or whether one is alive or dead, he/she is a member of Christ’s body
(1 Cor. 12:20). In this regard, the only organization is “Christ is the head of the body,the church” (Col. 1:18) and
believers are “members of His body” (Eph. 5:30). There is no earthly headquarters,for Christ, the head (Col. 1:18),
“has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God” (1 Pet. 3:22). The “head” of anything is located at the
“headquarters.” The headquarters of Christ church is located in heaven (Mk. 16:19; Heb. 8:1; 9:24), not Rome or
any othercity on earth.
2) Local church. Again the term “local church” does not appear in the New Testament, but the concept certainly
does. By “local church” we mean a specific company of believers in a specific locality that have banded togetherto
work and worship together. For example, Paul addressed the epistle of 1 Corinthians “To the church of God which
is at Corinth” (1 Cor. 1:2). Local churches are still subject to Christ; however, God has provided local churches with
an “organization.” This organization is very simple. Paul describes it when he wrote “To all the saints in Christ
Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons.” (Phil. 1:1) Thus,the “local church” consists of “saints,”
“deacons,” and “bishops.” Any other organizational structure is foreign to the New Testament!
3) Saints, bishops and deacons. “Saints” refers to individual members of Christ’s church (Eph. 1:1). Every baptized
believer is a “saint”; death and “canonization” are not required! The word “saint” describes one “set apart by God”
as a result of obeying the gospeland becoming a member of Christ’s church. The New Testament teaches that
“bishops,” “elders” and “pastors” are synonymous (Acts 20:17, 28). The elders (pastors,bishops)are to spiritually
“feed the flock,” or local church, over which they’ve been appointed (1 Pet. 5:2; Acts 20:28). A careful reading of
these verses,and others (Acts 14:23), show that the authority of elders is limited: A) to God’s word (i.e., they do not
legislate new doctrine); and 2) to overseeing only the local church, or congregation,over which they were appointed
(1 Pet. 5:2-4). The New Testament also teaches that each fully organized congregation is to have a plurality of
elders (1 Pet. 5:1; Acts 14:23). Deacons are special servants in the local church whose primary concern revolves
around the physical needs of the saints (Acts 6:1-4). Is the church of which you are a member and attend organized
like the New Testament church?
XI. THE WORK OF CHRIST’S CHURCH
The New Testament church can only be identified by examining the divine pattern revealed in the Bible. For only in
the Bible does God reveal His mind (1 Cor. 29-13; Eph. 31-5; 2 Tim. 316-17). Now let us examine the New
Testament concerning the work of Christ’s church.
1) Evangelism. The one true church founded by Jesus Christ is described as “the pillar and ground of the truth” (1
Tim. 3:15). Its primary work is to spread the gospelto a world lost in sin (1 Thess.1:7). Evangelism can be
accomplished through preaching from the pulpit, newspaper articles, radio programs, tracts, etc. It is also
accomplished through the church by the church supporting those who preach the gospel. The church at Philippi sent
support directly to Paul when he preached in Thessalonica (Phil. 4:15-16). Several churches sent directly to Paul as
he preached in Corinth (2 Cor. 11:8-9). The church in the New Testament never formed a separate organization
(e.g., Missionary Society) to support preaching the gospel. Nor did the church in the New Testament ever form a
“sponsoring church” arrangement where one church received funds from many churches and then distribute those
funds to preachers in the field. Furthermore, the local church needs to equip every member so they also can take the
saving message to the lost (1 Pet. 3:15; Acts 8:4).
2) Edification. As souls obey Christ’s gospel they are “added” by the Lord to His church (Acts 2:37-47). One
purpose of the local church is to strengthen each member in “the faith” (Eph. 4:11-16). Spiritual edification is
needed so each member attains spiritual maturity (1 Cor. 14:20; 2 Pet. 1:5-11), brings forth spiritual fruit (Gal. 5:22),
and is not “tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine” (Eph. 4:14). Spiritual maturity is gained

10.
10 | P a g e According to all that God commanded him, so did he. (Mike Tumandan)
as each member, like a “newborn babe,” “desire[s] the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby” (1 Pet.
2:2) that they might perfect “holiness in the fear of God” (2 Cor. 7:1). It is critical for each member to realize they
must “beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness,being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow
in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Pet. 3:17-18), because “the devil walks about
like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Pet. 5:8). The whole body benefits as each Christian grows
(Eph. 4:16). This edification is achieved in worship, Bible study,and continual teaching so that each saint observes
all God has commanded (Matt. 28:20).
3) Benevolence. The benevolent work of the church is well-illustrated by the early disciples in Jerusalem: “all who
believed…sold their possessionsand goods,and divided them all, as anyone had need” (Acts 2:44-45). Churches
with an abundance sent to destitute saints (Rom. 15:26; 1 Cor. 16:1-2). Local churches were also charged with the
care of impoverished widows among their number, but even then those widows had to meet very specific and
stringent qualifications (1 Tim. 5:16). Out of their own treasury, local churches were only responsible to needy
“saints” (Acts 11:29; Rom. 15:26; 1 Cor. 16:1). However, every individual Christian has the duty,as they have
“opportunity” to “do good unto all men” (Gal. 6:10; cf. Jas. 1:27; Matt.25:31-46).
The church’s work does not include entertainment, secular education,recreation, politics, or benevolence to the
world in general. Only when the church does the scripturally authorized work above does it showforth God’s
wisdom (Eph. 3:10-11).