Pinamungahan Baptist Christian Church

The Body of Christ
Eph. 1:21-23/ Col. 1:16-29
By: Bro. Rey B. Siaboc

Introduction

One of the most controversial doctrines in the Bible is about the church. Different claims among professing Christians, triggers conflicts and lead to confusions among the Christians and the unbelieving world.
The true church theory is common among churches, denominations, sects and religions that profess to believe Christ. There are churches claimed that the name of their church's name is the name of the church which built by Christ. Needless to say, but it is now the great controversies among professing Christian churches that their church is the true church founded by Christ. This is the strategy and approach of desperate preachers to win or convince people to join their congregation.

When Jesus ascended back to heaven, he commanded his disciples to preach the gospel. This gospel is the message of the forgiveness of sins to all people through his shed blood in his name. The Lord never gave the command to preach the name of his church.

The Conception of the body of Christ

When Jesus began his ministry to the nation Israel, he preached about the gospel of the kingdom of heaven. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.(Matt.4:17, 23)
He commanded his disciples to preach the kingdom of heaven to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of Samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matt.10:5-7)
But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. (Matt.15:24)
Jesus first priority was the nation Israel but the Israelites didn't recognize him as their Messiah. He hasn't found so great faith in Israel.
When Jesus heard it, he marveled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And I say unto you, that many shall come from the east and west and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matt.8:10-12)
The Israelites was not prepared when Jesus came and by that reason the kingdom was postponed. And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation. (Luke 19:41-44)
In chapter 16 in the book of Matthew, Jesus was ask by the Sadducees to show them a sign from heaven but he said; A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah. (v.4)
Same with the Pharisees, he answered, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah: for as Jonah was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. (Matt.12:39-40)
Jesus knew that the Israelites were unprepared for the kingdom. They did not acknowledge Jesus as their Messiah, the Christ. When the apostles knew that Jesus was the Christ as it was revealed to Peter by the Father; and upon the confession of Peter, Jesus told them that he will build his church. The conception of the church was due to the fact that the nation Israel was no ready yet for the physical and literal kingdom. It was conceived with the name Christ. After the confession of Peter, and the revealed plan of Jesus to build his church: he charged his disciples, that they should tell no man that he was the Christ. From that time forth began Jesus to show unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.
(Matt.16:21)
The conception of the church started right there when Jesus said I will build my church. Like a seed inside the womb of a woman which grow and develops into a fetus that waits for the exact time to come out from the womb. The apostles and the disciples of Jesus were like a fetus inside the womb that is dependent to the mother; the oxygen, the food, the protection and care. The disciples at that time, from Matt.16 to the death of Christ should be considered as they were still in the womb and have not life in themselves yet of their own.

The Birth of the body of Christ

The question where the church started or the church began is not the appropriate subject to answer. The right question should be, when and where the church, the body of Christ exists? The church is a mystery; and it should be analyzed through an appropriate analogy. Since we have started analyzing it as a seed in a womb, we must proceed to the next step which is the birth of the church.

Christ's suffering pictures a woman in travail of giving birth to a child. Most of mothers sleeps after the baby come out from the womb. The child struggle and cry while the umbilical cord is cut. This was also the picture of what had happened to the disciples when Jesus was on the way to his death. The disciples were panic and they didn't know what to do. When Jesus was raised from the dead he appeared unto his disciples and breathed on them, and saith unto them, receive ye the Holy Ghost.

Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when he had so said, he showed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. Then said Jesus unto them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, receive ye the Holy Ghost: Whosoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whosoever sins ye retain, they are retained. (John 20:19-23)

This is one of the apostolic powers given by our Lord Jesus to the disciples in their ministry.) It is clear that the Holy Ghost was given to the disciples after his resurrection. Christ's resurrection gives the disciples a new hope and a new life perspective. The life was given after the resurrection of Christ. The doctrine of Christ's resurrection is inseparable to the teaching of his death. The death burial and resurrection of Christ is, called the gospel of Christ. The gospel of Christ is the message that gives life to the church and by which also the Spirit of Christ dwells in the heart of a believer. The 10 apostles (excluding Thomas) was the first bunch of believers that had received the Holy Ghost. Thomas was later received the Holy Ghost at the day of Pentecost, and the rests of the disciples in Acts chapter two. A child when it come out from the womb collapsed or die for a moment, then a midwife pat the back of the child and recovers breath with his own. This is the good picture of how the church was born. Remember, Jesus was already acknowledged by the apostles as the Christ the Son of the living God before Acts chapter two and upon that name the church of Jesus is built. Upon the breathing of Jesus of the Holy Ghost on the disciples, the body of Christ begins to have life. The church becomes an organism that will never die.

The body of Christ at Pentecost

After the giving of the commission to preach the gospel to all nations, they were told to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the promise of the Father. And being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the father, which saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but he shall baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. (Acts 1:4-5)
The disciples were waiting for the promise, and the promise was fulfilled in the day of Pentecost. Jesus said to them that they shall receive power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts 1:8)
And, I behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.(Luke 24:49)
Now based on what had happened in Acts 2, the church or the body of Christ was not born there but rather has stated proclaiming that Jesus is both lord and Christ. The coming of the Holy Ghost in Acts 2 was not the beginning of the body of Christ or the birth of the Church but rather the fulfillment of the promises in Acts 1:4-5 and verse 8. It was also the filling of the Holy Ghost to each of them.
Since only the 10 apostles had received the Holy Ghost after the resurrection before the ascension of Jesus Christ; Thomas and Matthias waited it to come at the day of Pentecost along with other disciples which about one hundred twenty. Those were the next bunch of disciples that were able to receive the Holy Ghost at the day of Pentecost. What really occurred at the day of Pentecost was the beginning of the full ministry of the Holy Spirit not the birth or beginning of the body of Christ's existence. The body of Christ begins with Christ upon the acknowledging that Jesus is the Christ which suffers and died on the cross; and raised the third day.
There are fourfold fulfillment occurred in Acts 2 when the Holy Ghost started his full ministry with the church; and these happened simultaneously, the endowment with power from on high, (Luke 24:49) the baptism with the Holy Ghost, (Acts 1:4-5) the empowerment of the disciples by the Holy Ghost. (Acts 1:8) and the filling with the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:4) The disciples have individual, specific and different need; and it was met accordingly in Acts 2. The ten apostles which have received already the Holy Ghost before Acts 2, needs the endowment with power, the empowerment by the Holy Ghost and then the filling with the Holy Ghost. While the two apostles; Thomas and Matthias, needs the four. The rests of the disciples, men and women were baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost.
There are different views among Christians, when and where the church begin or started. From the resurrection to Pentecost the church was like a babe; but when the Holy Ghost was baptized to the believers, the church started to preach that Jesus is both Lord and Christ. The church was not born at Pentecost but rather begins to cry about the Christ.
The modern Paulicians believe that the church began with Apostle Paul upon giving of the grace of God to him. They don't know or understand what the church hath started to begin with. If the church began with Apostle Paul, then the church is the body of Paul.
The church is the body of Christ therefore the church began with Christ. Jesus being the Christ was already in conception in Matt 16, but yet they didn't understand what Jesus said about the sufferings of the Messiah in Luke 18:31-34. Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished. For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on: And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again. And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid unto them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.
But after Christ was already raised from the dead, the Lord opened their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures. And he said unto them, these are the words which I spake with you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. (Luke 24:44-49)
Then during the day of Pentecost the apostles started to preached Christ and his sufferings to the people: And then, thus the beginning of the body of Christ's growth not the birth of the body of Christ or the beginning of the church existence. Praising God, and having favor with all the people, And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:47)

The Growth of the body of Christ

The first cry of the church was happened when they were filled with the Holy Ghost. Peter preached that Jesus was both Lord and Christ. At that stage the church was yet a babe in condition. Peter had the privilege of leading the church at that time. The condition of the church growth was dependent upon the condition of the apostles convictions. They still put emphasis on their preaching; the baptism and repentance than believing the gospel. They still had John the Baptists theory of preaching as we could see in Acts 2 when Peter preached. The only thing new in their message was that Jesus was preached being the Christ the Son of the living God. Jesus Christ was inserted as necessary name of authority for the remission of sins, and the receiving of the gift of the Holy Ghost shall follow. The church was immature at that time that they were hesitant to enter Samaria. The apostles did not take the initiative of preaching the word of God to Samaria. It was Philip (one of the ordained elders in Acts chapter six) that takes the initiative of preaching the word of God there in Samaria. The apostles (12 apostles) conditions were like children, tossed to and fro. They failed to be a witness in Samaria and became inconsistent with their dealings to the Gentiles. Peter was blamed by Apostle Paul of the dissimulation and was scolded. (Gal.2:1-21) There was a doctrinal conflict happened among the believers at that time which is a sign of spiritual immaturity of the church. (Eph.4:14; Acts 15:1-29) The church condition during the leadership of Peter was yet a child. The three apostles; Peter, James and John were not good pillars of the early church. These were they that always stayed closed to Jesus. James was beheaded early, John was exiled in the island of Patmos, while Peter was captured and executed. They only focused their ministry to the circumcision (Jews) and the case of opening Samaria and the Gentile world were not their initiative. Philip opened Samaria and shared the Ethiopian eunuch about Christ. When Peter went to the house of Cornelius, he was hesitant and in doubt. (Acts 10) After the conference in Acts 15, there was a dissimulation happened when Peter visited Antioch. Peter was the cause of the conflict. The church during the time of the apostles was yet a child. Christians at that time didn't understand fully the grace of God particularly to the Jews. They only knew about the first benefit of the Christ sufferings which is forgiveness of sins to which they had agree that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ both Jews and Gentiles shall be saved. (Acts 15:11) But they don't know about the mystery of the body of Christ for it was only revealed to the apostle Paul. The written revelation about the body of Christ was not yet put into writing.
The book of Acts is the history of the early Christian church. There are twenty eight chapters in that book. The first 13 chapters were the description of the early condition of the body of Christ centered to the Jews. In chapter 13 Paul and Barnabas made a declaration to turn to the Gentiles because the Jews were not worthy. Chapter fourteen was the transition period wherein the conflicts also arise between the Jews and the Gentiles. Then in chapter 15 they talked over the conflict and made their final judgment. Chapter 16 to 28 was the story about the ministry of Paul holding the right hand of the fellowship. The body of Christ grew in quantity and in quality when Paul came in. More Gentiles were added to the body of Christ under the ministry of Apostle Paul. The weak part of the body of Christ are the Jews bearing the left hand of the fellowship while the strong part of the body of Christ are the Gentiles bearing the right hand of the fellowship. And when James, Ce-phas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given to me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. (Gal.2:9) The strength of the body of Christ is the Gentiles as we could see in the history of the church. The Jew converts under grace is called the remnant according to the election of grace. (Rom.11: 1-7) Minority are the Jews while the Gentiles are the majority in the body of Christ.
The apostles in Acts 1, has fulfilled the route of being a witness. They started in Jerusalem, and Judea, and in Samaria through the initiative of Philip, and then also they were able to be a witness to the uttermost part of the earth at that time which is Rome, through Cornelius a Roman centurion. But after that they never go to the ends of the earth. Only the apostle Paul did make it. The growth of the body of Christ is through the contributing factor of the apostles; the twelve apostles to the Jews and Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles. Through their preaching, teaching, and of course their epistles the body of Christ grew. Converts of Christianity are fruits of Christ and of the apostles.
When Jesus prayed to the Father for his disciples, he also included those which shall believe on him through their word. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word. (John 17:20)
God has a purpose of the primary members of the body of Christ. The spiritual growth of the members of the body of Christ should be accounted to the officers. And he gave some apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto the perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (Eph.4:11-16)
The body of Christ grew in number every time that someone got saved.
Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:47)
Individual salvation is dependent upon the indwelling presence of the Spirit. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (1Cor.12:13)
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Gal.3:27-28)

The Body of Christ is the Church.

Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church , which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all. (Eph. 1:21-23)
For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the first-born from the dead; that in all things he might have the pre-eminence. (Col.1:18) Who now rejoice in my sufferings fore you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake.
This church is the composition of all believers in Christ, which means all that had been saved from the cross to the rapture. Everyone that has the Spirit of Christ is a member of the body of Christ. Both Jews and Gentiles become members of the one body, the body of Christ, which is his church. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (1Cor.12:13)
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. (Col.3:15)
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither male or female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Gal.3:26-29)
Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which called Circumcision (Jews) in the flesh made by hands: That at time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were afar off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, (Jews & Gentiles) and hath broken the middle wall of partition between us: (Jews & Gentiles) Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain (Jew & Gentiles) one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both (Jew & Gentiles) unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, (Gentiles) and to them that were nigh. (Jews) For through him we both (Jew & Gentiles) have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, (Old testament saints) and of the household of God; (heavenly creatures) and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together growth unto a holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together (Jews & Gentiles) for a habitation of God through the Spirit. (Eph.1:11-22)
Receiving the Holy Spirit is the common way of being accepted as members of the body of Christ. This common way is diversely explained into different terminology such as; Sealed with the holy Spirit, (Eph.1:13) dwelt by the Spirit, (Rom.8:9) baptized with the Holy Ghost (Acts 1:5) poured out with the Holy Ghost, (Acts 10:44-47) baptized by the Spirit, (1Cor.12:13). These to makes sure the believer's security on salvation. We receive the Spirit of God because God give it to us. (1Jn.4:13) Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
Who hath sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. (2Cor.1:22)
And because ye are sons, god hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, Abba, Father. (Gal.4:6)
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (Rom.8:15)
The body of Christ has given the power to become the sons of God; those who received (Jews) and those who believed (Gentiles). But as many as received him , to them gave power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. (John 1:12)
The body of Christ shall be far and above all principality, and power and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. Members of the body of Christ shall be superior over heavenly creatures in heavenly places because Christ is the head. the Body of Christ is the fullness of him that fills all in all. The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all. (Eph.1:18-22)
The body of Christ will replaced the vacant positions which are left by the heavenly creatures.
Who is the image of the invisible God, the first-born of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him are all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the first-born from the dead; that in all things he might have the pre-eminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all the fullness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. (Col.1:15-20)

Biblical Analogies of the Body of Christ

There are four biblical analogies used in the bible that describes the relationship of Christ to his followers. All four has a common message implied which is the sureness of salvation.

The church as his Wife and as his body.

Some believed that the bride of Christ is the church since also the church is his body. They got this logical belief from Eph.5:23-32. Now let's see how and what the passage implied a certain truth. The truth implied here is, the church as his wife not as the bride of Christ.
For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
This is one of the biblical analogies used to explain the security or assurance of salvation of the believers in Christ. Christ twofold position in relation to the body, the church; He is the head, and He is the Savior. These are the reason why the church should be subject to Christ. The main message implied in this analogy is the security and assurance of salvation. Once we are related to Christ, we are eternally secured of our destiny. The church here as the wife, holds the position that Christ is already her savior. We became bone of his bones and flesh of his flesh implying our oneness to him.
Christ loved the church, and gave himself for it. His love for the church is the motive of sanctifying and cleansing the church by using his word. His love also is the cause that he might present us to himself a glorious church.
The assurance of the member of the body of Christ, rely upon the promises of him. The security of salvation of the church, which is his body, is in his power being the Savior of it. The husband and wife relationship; gives us an indication of a strong, close and inseparable bond of relationship of Christ with his church. Christ has no capacity of hatred to the members of his body. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh, for we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. Christ as the husband of the church, we've got the name from him, the earnest of our inheritance which is the Spirit. (Eph.1:13-14) The Spirit is Christ that dwells in our hearts, which is also the name upon the church, is built. (Rom.8:9-10; Matt.16:13-20)

The church as a building;

And I say also unto thee that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matt.16:18)
The church of Jesus Christ is likening to a building as it is describe by using the rock as the foundation. The church being the people of Jesus Christ is founded upon the name Christ. Christ is the rock, the foundation stone.
And did all drink that same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that rock was Christ. (1Cor.10:4)
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. (1Cor.3:11) "ye are God's building." (1Cor.3:9)
Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit.(Eph.2:19-22)
The church as a building becomes the habitation of God. Every member of the church of Jesus Christ is Spirit dwelt and the physical body is the temple of the Spirit. In Christ we are built together for a habitation of God through the Spirit.

The church as his flock;

Jesus is the chief Shepherd of the flock of God. Our security depends upon the shepherd's capability to protect the sheep.
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. (Acts 20:28)
The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight therof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being example to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. (1Pet.5:1-4)
The flock of God is already purchased by the blood. The church position is already own by God.
And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. (John 10:16)
The church is the composition of Jews and Gentile believers in Christ.

A body and the body of Christ

Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. (1Cor.12:27)
There are several bodies of Christ and also there is a particular body of Christ. Several body of Christ is the visible, separate church situated or located in a certain place. During the time of the apostles, several churches existed like as of today. These are described as the flocks in 1Pet.5:2. Feed the flock of God which is among you. In our modern theology we call it as local church, although the term is strange in our King James Bible. A local church is also called the body of Christ as we could see it in the verse; now ye are the body of Christ. The verse is obvious that Paul was referring to the Corinthian church, since he sent his epistle to them. The local church is the visible representation of the particular body of Christ wherein at the same time the local churches are members in that particular body of Christ. The several flocks of sheep are at the same time, is the flock of the chief Shepherd. Likewise also, all the building fitly framed together becomes a holy temple in the Lord. In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord.(Eph.2:21)
For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. (Eph.5:30)
Local churches could not be in the position being in Christ; for being in Christ is an individual and personal position of a believer. No local church could claim that all of their members are saved. The only church that all members are saved; and is in the position of being in Christ is the body of Christ which he himself is the head of it. Local churches headed by pastors, are not one hundred percent sure that the members are saved. All members of the one body of Christ, the church, are all baptized by one Spirit into one body, whether Jews or Gentiles. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (1Cor.12:13; Gal.3:27) This is the particular body wherein all saved are members.
That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him. (Eph.1:10)
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. (Col.3:15)
And that he might reconcile both (Jew & Gentiles) unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, (Gentiles) and to them that were nigh. (Jews) For through him we both (Jew & Gentiles) have access by one Spirit unto the Father. (Eph.2:16-18)

The name of the body of Christ

The true church theory is common among professing Christians in these last days. This is one of the major themes of debates among searchers and seekers of the name of Christ's church; that leads to big conflict and divisions in different sects, denominations, churches, organizational fellowships, bible colleges, bible institutes and seminaries.
The Mohammedans or Muslims finds a big reason of criticizing the Christians because of the conflict and divisions, it is because of disunity among professing Christians.
It is the work of the devil to confuse mankind; to stay the seekers of the truth, to discourage the searchers, to weaken the faith of the believers, and to destroy the work of the Lord as well. When there is a principal doctrine taught in the bible, the devil will make a replica on it in order to deceive the seekers of the truth. The devil knew that;the truth shall set us free.
One of the principal doctrines or rather one of the important doctrines taught in the bible from the time of Christ is about the church. No wonder the devil makes a joke of it by planting many counterfeits. And the result may claim a false position, conviction or a stand of belief without their knowledge.
Among professing Christians that make the claim that their church is the true church are; Roman Catholic Church, Iglesia ni Cristo, (INC) Mormon Church or the Church of Jesus Christ in Latter day Saints, the Church of Christ (oneness Pentecostal) and the Baptist Church (Baptist Briders). These group only as far as I know that make the claim.
It is true that the Lord Jesus Christ builds his church; but the question is, did the Lord give name his church? Could we find the proper name, word for word in the bible? Absolutely nowhere we could find.
In the book of Matthew chapter 16 verse 18, Jesus only said that he will build his church. The statement;I will build my church doesn't imply or indicates of giving a proper name or rather giving name to his church. The Iglesia ni Cristo made a proper name out of the statement. The Baptist briders make a position that the church was started in Matthew 16:18; and make a claim also that the church's name is Baptist Church because Christ was baptized by a Baptist prophet, John the Baptist. Therefore to them, Christ is a Baptist and the church he built is a Baptist church. The reasoning of the Baptist Briders is based on logic that makes themselves an illogical fanatic. The Catholic claimed that their church is the true church because they said they are many. I found two reasons why they are many; first, based on biblical perspective, Christ has said, And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying I am Christ; and deceive many,(Matt.24:4-5) Second, based on the historical evidence, the Roman Catholics have killed millions of protestants and invade lands and islands forcing people to become Catholics.
These different religious organizations claim is due to the fact that indeed Jesus Christ build his church. The search for the true church could only be found in the bible. We know that the church is the people called out. Christ said, I will build my church after he found out that the Israelites didn't recognize him as their Messiah; as we could see in the passage in Matthew 16:13-20. Jesus was unknown to his own people as their Christ. He then projected to the future to build his church by saying, I will.
His church is likened to a wife. BY this kind of analogical comparison, we could understand the common and could be the proper name of Christ's church.
The wife's surname is changed after the surname of the husband when they got married. The first man and woman had a common name, their name was called Adam. (Gen.5:1-2) The position of the church in Ephesians 5 is as a wife. Every person that accepts the Lord as his Savior has received the Spirit of Christ. One of the names of the Lord is Christ. Christ dwells in our hearts and now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. These Spirit is the Spirit of his Son, sent into our hearts. This is of course the third person of the trinity. Christ is the root word of the word Christian. Christian simply means any one that possessed Christ in the heart.
The specific name of the Spirit is Christ. This is the name upon the church of Christ is built. Christ is the specific name of the Spirit that dwells in the hearts of the believers.

Let us check these verses for confirmation:

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Take note the expression in my name in the verse. (Jn.14:26)
And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. (Rom.8:10)
When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elijah; others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God, And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock (refers to the confession of Peter that Jesus is the Christ) I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matt.16:13-18)
Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was the Christ. (Matt.16:20)
Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the son of the living God. (Jn.6:68-69)
For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. (Matt.24:5)
Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye crucified, both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye being rooted and grounded in love. (Eph.3:17)
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. (Col.1:27)
Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you and shall be in you. (Jn.14:17)
Based on the biblical evolution of name; the followers of Jesus were called disciples and later in the book of Acts, they were called Christians. (Acts 11:26)
No doubt the body of Christ which is his church could be called in a common and proper name that is Christian Church. The Christian church is the appropriate name as we could see that it is built upon the name Christ. True Christians are blood bought by the blood of Christ or God. (Acts 20:28)

Because the Christian Church is the body of Christ, Satan try to confuse people with many counterfeits. Satan will do all means and ways to destroy the Christian Church by means of fake churches through counterfeit teachings of Christianity. But Jesus said,;And the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. The devil may and could destroy local and visible churches which professed Christianity; organizations, denominations, fellowships. but never the body of Christ. The body of Christ is an organism that never will die because the life in it is the Lord and every member of it is has Christ in his heart.



The Glorification of the Body of Christ



Unto him be glory in the church by Jesus Christ throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

The body of Christ is the fulfillment of God's mystery plan. God inserted the mystery of the making of the body of Christ when Israel had rejected their Messiah. Since Christ is the head of the body; he got the pre-eminence in all things, for it pleased the Father that in Christ should all fullness dwells: then the body which his church also become joint heir with Christ in heavenly places. The spiritual blessings in heavenly places are for the believers in Christ (Christians). We are predestinated to obtain the inheritance in heavenly places. The positions vacated by the angels who followed Lucifer; the angels that left their first estate of habitation in heaven will be replaced by the members of the body of Christ.
Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all. (Eph.1:21-23)
The body of Christ will be exalted far above all creatures in heaven, in earth, and under the earth. There are three divisions of God's creatures; the terrestrial, the celestial, and the infernal. (Phil.2:10)
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth.
All the creatures will be under Christ's body, since he is the head.
For by him were all things all things created, that are in heaven, and that in earth, visible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were made by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by himall things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead: that in all things he might have the pre-eminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all the fullness dwell. (Col.1:16-19)
And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it. (Col.2:15)
During the millennium, the saints shall judge this present world and also that world which is to come. Angels shall be judged by the body of Christ.
Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that we shall judge angels? How much more things pertain to this life? (1Cor.6:2-3)
Christians are challenged by the apostle Paul to seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. There we could see the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints.
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on thongs on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.(Col.3:1-4)
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ; That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.(Eph.2:6-7)
The glorification of the body of Christ is due to the fact that he is the head of the body. This glorification was the request of Christ in his prayer to the Father in John 17.
Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. (Jn.17:24)
The body of Christ (the Christians) shall be the joint heirs of the pre-eminence of Christ in heavenly places. But before the future glorification of the church it must go through the process of sanctification and cleansing.
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (Eph.5:26-27)
The goal of Jesus Christ for his church is that he might present to himself a glorious church. Before entering into the Kingdom of God (that means eternity in the new heaven and new earth and the New Jerusalem) the church goes through sanctification and cleansing with the washing of water by the word. This process will extend in the millennium. During the Judgment Seat of Christ, faithful spiritual Christians shall be rewarded while the carnal shall suffer loss and differ nothing from a servant with the babes in Christ in the kingdom of Christ. Carnal and babes in Christ will be under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. Imagine, a popular preacher, doctor, pastor will be under tutors and governors in the millennium because he was an extravagant, luxurious, materialistic in his lifestyle when he was caught up? Imagine, a rich Christian today will serve his or her servant before, in the millennium?
Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. (Gal.4:1-2)
To see and to enter into the kingdom is no problem at all, for Jesus did pay the entrance. But to inherit is another thing that which Christians are required to work for it. The positions prepared in the kingdom of Christ and of God are reserved to the faithful members of the body of Christ. Christians are challenge by Apostle Paul to run in race for the incorruptible crown.
Know ye not that hey which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mystery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown: but we an incorruptible.(1Cor.9:24-25)
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulteres, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (1Cor.6:9-10)
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have told you in time past, that hey which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. (Gal.5:19-21)
For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (Eph.5:5)
There will be rankings in the kingdom. Glory differs in degree in eternity. Paul said ye are my glory. A soul winner will definitely expand his glory.
For what is our hope, or crown of rejoicing? Are ye not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at hi coming? For ye are our glory and joy. (1Thess.2:19-20)
Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. (Phil.4:1)
It is possible that apostle Paul will be exalted in a high rank office in the body of Christ.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2Cor.4:17-18)

The Judgment for the Body of Christ

The judgment for the body of Christ is none other but ;The Judgment Seat of Christ. This is part of the mystery revealed to the apostle Paul about the church. The Judgment Seat of Christ is a special separate judgment intended for the Christians; it is a mystery to the unbelieving world. What the most of the religion knew about judgment is general judgment for all human beings from Adam to the last man born on earth. The Judgment Seat of Christ is not to determine Christians destiny in eternity, but to obtain a reward. Paul included himself in that judgment. “But why dost thou judge thy brother? Or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. (Rom.14:10-12)
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. (2Cor.5:10)
Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. (1Cor.4:5)
Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood hay stubble; Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. (1Cor.3:12-15)
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one recieveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly ; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: but I keep under my body, and bring it unto subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. (1Cor.9:24-27)
The supposed faithfulness of believers now will be revealed by Christ before the eyes of millions of Christians. Oh! What a great reckoning for every one of us. Justice will be served to Christians that being defraud by fellow Christians. That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified. (1Thess.4:6)
The Christians that will be crowned should reign with Christ. They will run the world with peace justice for one thousand years. Christ will be the King on earth and the crowned Christians as kings. But before it happened, Christians (the body of Christ) will be raptured first, and there up in heaven we shall be judged to determine what would be the reward of our works. Our works today is an investment for a certain position in the millennium. Crowns are symbols of honor and a position. Not all Christians will reign but all Christians will be there in the earthly, physical, literal, Palestinian, Davidic, and Messianic kingdom of Christ. (Read my article entitled CASES ON TRIAL AT THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST)

The Body of Christ in the Kingdom of Christ.

In Matthew chapter eight in verse ten, Jesus declared, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And he foretold that many shall come from the east and the west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. Since the Christians are the children of Abraham by faith in Christ Jesus, the body of Christ, the church will be with Christ in the kingdom. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many, but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. (Gal.3:16)
And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Gal.3:29)
The body of Christ composing both Jews and Gentiles become one body in Christ will inhabit the whole land of Palestine. The Christian Jews will run the twelve tribes (nation Israel) headed by the twelve apostles as Christ had promised to them. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Matt.19:27-28)
While the Gentile crowned Christians will lead the Gentile nations. Israel shall be the head of the nations again. The whole land of Palestine shall be territory of the children of Abraham: from the river Nile in Egypt to the great river, the river of Euphrates. In the same day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river , the river Euphrates: The Kenites, and the kenizzites, and the Kadmonites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Rephaims, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Girgashites, and the Jebusites. (Gen.15:18-21)
The mature faithful spiritual Christians, (Jews & Gentiles) members of the body of Christ shall reign with Christ, while the carnal, spiritual babes in Christ shall be under tutors and governors until the time appointed. The children who have died without the Spirit of Christ which have not reached the age of accountability shall enter into the kingdom. Suffer the little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. (Matt.19:14)
There are a lot of things yet to know more about the Body of Christ in the bible. That's why Paul make mention in his prayers for the believers. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all. (Eph.1:17-22)
Every member of the body of Christ should learn to be grateful to God. That was the prayer also of the apostle Paul for the believers. For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:(Millennium) In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consists. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the first-born from the dead; that in all things he might have the pre-eminence. (Col.1:9-18)
The body of Christ, the church is also called the church of the first-born. To the general assembly and church of the first-born, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect. (Heb. 12:23)

Conclusion

Wherefore being in Christ is at the sane time being a member of the body of Christ, which is the church. And, therefore become heir of God and certain of the destiny in eternity with God. The spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ become ours as blessings for us which are in Christ. Christians is the most blessed believers of God throughout the history of human existence. It was made possible by the sacrifice of Christ on the cross.
AMEN!!! AND GLORY TO GOD FOR ALL ETERNITY!!!!
TO THE PRAISE OF THE GLORY OF HIS GRACE, WHEREIN HE HATH MADE US ACCEPTED IN THE BELOVED. (Eph.1:6)

"Other Articles of Brother Rey:"

Eternal Life

The Law of Faith

Mystery of His Will!

Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth

Bible Believer and Paulician

Books in the Book of Books

John the Baptist's Ministry

Cases On Trial at the Judgment Seat of Christ

Faith