Christ and the Church (Truth Lectures 2023)

Christ and the Church (Truth Lectures 2023)

The studies contained in this volume were prepared in connection with the 2023 Truth Lectures, delivered in Athens, Alabama, July 17-20, 2023 on the campus of the Athens Bible School. This lectureship first developed as an opportunity for members of the board of directors and advisers of Truth Publications, Inc. and the staff of the CEI Bookstore (which it operates) to study and encourage one another while together for their summer board meetings. Over time, this expanded and has grown into a public event welcomed and anticipated in the Athens area and by Christians throughout the United States and beyond via live stream.

ISBN 10: 1-58427-564-2

ISBN 13: 978-1-58427-564-0

Publisher: Truth Publications, Inc.

Christ and the Church, edited by Mark Mayberry and Kyle Pope. The establishment of His church was a stated intention of Christ while on the earth (Matt. 16:18). This was in keeping with the eternal plan of God (Eph. 3:9-11). This body of faithful believers purchased by the blood of Christ (Acts 20:28) is honored to be considered the bride of Christ (Eph. 5:24-32). How important it is that those who seek to follow Jesus in spirit and truth appreciate and value the role this assembly of His people should have in service to Him. May the studies that are offered in this book prove beneficial in accomplishing that goal.

Edited by Mark Mayberry and Kyle Pope

Table of Contents

Preface by Kyle Pope

Introduction: “The Manifold Wisdom of God”, by Mark Mayberry

Christ, Our Savior, Lord, and Teacher

The Church and Her Savior (Eph. 5:23), by Kyle Pope

The Church and Her Lord (Acts 2:32-36), by Stephen Russell

The Church and Her Teacher (Matt. 23:8-10), by Jesse Flowers

The Identity of God’s People

Chosen of God (Eph. 1:4), by Marshall McDaniel

Family of God (Eph. 3:15), by Justin Monts

Kingdom of God (Col. 1:13-18), by Sean Cavender

Is There a Pattern for the Local Church?

Is There a Pattern?, by Jeff Wilson

Pattern for the Organization and Work of the Local Church, by Danny Linden

Pattern for the Worship of the Local Church, by David Dann

Unspotted from the World

Restoration: Then and Now, by Brent Forsyth

Dealing with Cultural Influences, by Kyle Campbell

Dealing with Denominational Influences, by Joe Price

Working Together: Men’s Studies

Promoting Unity within the Local Church (Eph. 4:1-6), by Mark Mayberry

Encouraging Accountability and Discipline in the Local Church, by Jim Deason

Developing Spiritual Leadership within the Local Church (2 Tim. 2:2), by Max Dawson

Working Together: Women’s Studies

Promoting Unity within the Local Church (Eph. 4:1-6), by Deborah Williams

Encouraging Accountability and Discipline in the Local Church, by Donna Keith

Developing Spiritual Leadership within the Local Church (2 Tim. 2:2), by Sherelyn Mayberry

Appendix: The Church of Christ

Its Origin, by Mike Willis

Its Head, by Daniel H. King, Sr.

Its Organization, by Gary Watt

Its Work, by Scott Willis

Its Worship, by Steve Wolfgang

Its Membership, by Tom Mitchell