What Is The Scriptural Name Of The Church Of Christ?

This is going to be a long article. What I am going to do is reprint some communication that I have received in the last few weeks. I do this because the material sent to me is identical to some other correspondence that I have encountered in the past. There is a lot of good information here (most of which I agree with). While I disagree with the conclusions reached by this person, he does make valid points. I will remove the identities involved and the location of this person to protect their identity.

Here is the first e-mail I received from him.

From: XXXX from XXXXX.


While there are many articles found on this web site (simplebiblestudies.com) that are good, accurate, and correct, this one is not.

IT IS FALSE!

Under "What saith the Scriptures" the name of the church, (by Tommy Hodge). He says the following. "So, my readers, what is the God given name of His one church? What saith the scriptures? I believe the above refenced ones say clearly, it is the church of Christ. I also believe that a search for even one New Testament scripture, which refers to the church, by any other name would be endless. Some of the passages which refer to it as the church of God, may say: "The church of God the Father;" but this is absolutely the only possible exception."
Tommy Hodge is wrong!

[Note: in this case I have to agree. There are several names or desiginations that could be used for the local church. Limiting it to one and only one phrase is indeed false teaching. Though I do not accuse bro. Hodge for teaching error, his words could have been better chosen. Remember that there are many groups around the world that use the phrase "church of Christ on their signs and legal documents that are not faithful in their service to God. The name of the church is only one factor that needs to be considered. The practices, teaching, organization of the church are other factors to determine the soundness of a church. Obviously a name that does not reflect the ownership or the One who established the church would be wrong.]


Questions for Tommy Hodge.
1. Is the phrase/name church of Christ found in the Bible? Can you please give me the book, chapter, and verse? [It is spoken of in the plural sense, Romans 16:16]
2. Does the Bible ever use the name/phrase church of Christ? If so, please give the book, chapter and verse.[It is spoken of in the plural sense, Romans 16:16]
3. What book, chapter, and verse does God give that says this is THE ONLY name of the only church? [Obviously, it does not].


More Questions for Tommy Hodge?
What is the difference between the following phrases:
1. Church of the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. Church of Jesus Christ.
3. Church of Christ. [Note the name he is so animated that is to be rejected is included in his list of scriptural identities].
4. Kingdom of Christ.
5. Kingdom of Jesus Christ.
6. Kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ.

[Remember that these are identities and descriptions; not names]


Do not ALL these names/phrases/distinctions mean the same thing? Yes they do. However, thats 6 Tommy and not 1! You said there was only one name, but the Bible does not say this.
Notice how the church in Judea is described in the Bible:
1. The church or churches throughout all Judea (Acts 9:31).
2. The churches of Judea which were in Christ (Galatians 1:22).
3. The churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus (1st Thessalonians 2:14).

He continues:
HEAR YE THE WORD OF THE LORD! (WHAT SAITH THE SCRIPTURES)! {True, we should examine the scriptures to see what they teach}.
"Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd THE CHURCH OF GOD which He purchased with His own blood" (Acts 20:28).
"Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to THE CHURCH OF GOD" (1st Corinthians 10:32).
"But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do THE CHURCHES OF GOD" (1st Corinthians 11:16).

(CONCERNING THE LORD'S SUPPER)
"What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise THE CHURCH OF GOD and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this?" (1st Corinthians 11:22).
"For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all THE CHURCHES OF THE SAINTS" (1st Corinthians 14:33).
"For I am least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted THE CHURCH OF GOD" (1st Corinthians 15:9). (WHAT DID PAUL SAY HE PERSECUTED)?
"For you have heard of my former conduct in Judaism, how I persecuted THE CHURCH OF GOD beyond measure and tried to destroy it" (Galatians 1:13). (WHAT DID PAUL SAY HE PERSECUTED)?

NOTE CAREFULLY THE FOLLOWING:
"To the CHURCH of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" (2nd Thessalonians 1:1). "We are bound to thank God always for you, BRETHREN..." (2nd Thessalonians 1:3).
"So that we ourselves boast of you among THE CHURCHES OF GOD for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure" (2nd Thessalonians 1:4).
1. It was written to the church in Thessalonica.
2. Paul called them brethren.
3. He boasted about them among the churches of God.
4. Paul did not say he boasted about them among the churches of Christ!
5. Was Paul a false teacher? Did he not know that one cannot refer to the church by any other name than church of Christ? No! [Sarcasm is not necessary to make your point].
6. Paul was not a false teacher. He rightly called it the church of God several times.
7. Do ye hear the word of the Lord???

DID YOU KNOW:
The word 'pastor' is only found once in the Bible (Ephesians 4:11), yet it has become the universal name for anyone in ministry (Pastor Mike, Pastor Smith, etc.). However, nobody ever wore that name in the Bible! There is not one example of it anywhere. Again, it has been mis-used!

In like manner, the name church of Christ is not found anywhere in the Bible. Why then do men try and bind it as the only authorized name of the church?

[For the record, most of my brethren do not bind the name "Church of Christ" as the only authorized name of the church. I believe most of those whom I fellowship would agree that the phrase "Church Of Christ" is more a description than a name. Most of us are not ashamed of Jesus and proudly claim membership in the church that belongs to Jesus].

Romans 16:16 says churches of Christ and not "church of Christ." This is the only place in the Bible where this phrase is used. So the Bible NEVER says church of Christ! Yet, for some, it is the only name that they claim can be used. Think about it. One phrase never used not one time; yet claimed by many as the only name. Churches of God (found at least twice) AND church of God (found at least 5 times); yet claimed by some as not authorized!

[Note: while accurate in the statement, we also know that the phrase "churches" is a plural form of "church" Several different congregations must have been considered by Paul as he wrote this statement. Using a plural form would indicate to the Romans that many brethren in different places had an interest in their spiritual condition].

The disciples of the Lord (Acts 9:1), called Christians first in Antioch (Acts 11:26), and called saints (Acts 9:32, 41) and brethren (Acts 9:30), were known as the Way (Acts 9:2). Some spoke evil of the Way (Acts 19:9) and great commotion arose about the Way (Acts 19:23). Paul said he persecuted this Way (Acts 22:4), while some called the Way a sect (Acts 24:14). Felix had more accurate knowledge of the Way (Acts 24:22).

WHAT WAS THIS WAY? IT WAS THE CHURCH! And Saul made havoc of it, entering every house (The Church), dragging off men and women (THE CHURCH) to prison (Acts 8:3; 26:10). Later, he defended the Way (Acts 24:14-15), preaching the faith he once tried to destroy (Galatians 1:23). The Christians said, "Is this not he who destroyed those who CALLED ON THIS NAME" (Acts 9:21). Even Ananias said, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to YOUR SAINTS in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind ALL who CALL ON YOUR NAME" (Acts 9:13-14).

Yet it was Paul himself, referring to the Way, whom he said he persecuted. Paul said he persecuted THE CHURCH OF GOD (1st Corinthians 15:9; Galatians 1:13). By persecuting the CHURCH OF GOD, Paul was persecuting Jesus (Acts 9:5; 22:8; 26:14). And yet the Christians were saying, "He who formerly PERSECUTED US now preaches the faith he once tried to destroy" (Galatians 1:23).

"The Way" is a Biblical phrase that can be used concerning brethren or brethren assembled to worship ( Acts 24:14). Either way, when men and women (Acts 8:12) obey the gospel (Romans 10:16; 2nd Thessalonians 1:8; 1st Peter 4:17), which is the same as being obedient to the faith (Acts 6:7; Romans 1:5), they are added to the Lord (Acts 5:14; 11:24) by the Lord (Acts 2:47); delivered by God the Father, from the power of darkness; conveyed into the kingdom of the Son of His love (Colossians 1:13-14), and now are the body of Christ (1st Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 4:12), the Way (Acts 9:2). Notice 3 phrases? Kingdom, body, the Way. All Biblical!

The name church of God is a Biblical name that can be used referring to Christians assembled also. "When you come together as a church (1st Corinthians 11:18)..."Or do you despise the church of God" (1st Corinthians 11:22). "Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat...(1st Corinthians 11:33).
1. Who came together here? The church.
2. What did Paul call the church? The church of God.
3. What were they called? Brethren.
4. You are incorrect in saying we can only say church of Christ.

The church was in the eternal purpose of God (Ephesians 3:11). "Unless the Lord BUILDS the house, they labor in vain who built it" (Psalm 127:1). He who BUILT ALL THINGS is God (Hebrews 3:4). Jesus said He would BUILD His church (Matthew 16:18) and it cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28).

Christians are members of Christ's body (Ephesians 5:30) and members of the household of God (Ephesians 2:19) called the household of faith (Galatians 6:10), built up a spiritual house (1st Peter 2:5). Jesus Christ is high priest over the house of God (Hebrews 10:21), which is the church. Jesus is the head of the church and Savior of the body (Ephesians 5:23).

BUT THERE IS NOT ONE PASSAGE OF SCRIPTURE, NOT ONE BIBLE VERSE , THAT SAYS OR STATES THAT THE ONLY NAME THAT DISCIPLES OF JESUS CHRIST CAN BE CALLED OR REFERRED TO IS CHURCH OF CHRIST!

Tradition is not Bible! Oh if men would stop with their traditions and just follow the Bible!

[This is the end of his first e-mail. Once again for someone to say that "church of Christ is the only name that can be used is error. However I do not believe it is error to use that name because it identifies who the church belongs to].

Notice my reply.

Greetings to you,
I would like to address you by your name, but you did not offer it.
First, thank you for writing and offering the compliment you gave in your first sentence.
Second, I commend you for your efforts to seek the truth, and to correct any perceived error.
Normally, I would address concerns such as yours to the original author, but Tommy Hodge passed away many years ago.
I will seek to address your concerns as stated in your e-mail.

As far as the term "church of Christ" being the only name allowed for His church, I agree with you that there are several descriptive terms found in the scriptures which would be authorized. Limiting it to one name and one name only is error.

You wrote:
What is the difference between the following phrases:
1. Church of the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. Church of Jesus Christ.
3. Church of Christ.
4. Kingdom of Christ.
5. Kingdom of Jesus Christ.
6. Kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Do not ALL these names/phrases/distictions mean the same thing? Yes they do. However, thats 6 Tommy and not 1! You said there was only one name, but the Bible does not say this.

My response: I say that these are just a few of the descriptions, there are many more than just these six, and you referenced many of them later on in the course of your e-mail.

Now in defense of bro. Hodge, I believe the tenor of the article is to teach that the denominations do not have scriptural names. And I believe that was the focus of his article. If you read the other articles he wrote, I think you might see this.

When it comes to the right church:

Is it the Baptist church?
Is it the Methodist church?
Is it the Catholic church?
Is it the (pentecostal) church of God? Yes the phrase church of God is correct, but their practice and belief is not correct.

What about "lifeway" church, or "river of life" church, or "cowboy" church, or "new image" church, etc?

This list could go on.

To properly identify the church, it must be a group of people who follow the teachings of our Lord and do things according to the scriptures. We must believe that Jesus established it (Matthew 16:18), We must believe that Jesus shed His blood for her (Acts 20:28). We must believe that Jesus died for the church. We must believe that those who are Christians belong in His church, because God adds them to it (Acts 2:47).

Jesus was given authority over all things to the church (Ephesians 1:22-23). He is the head of the body(body being the church)(Colossians 1:18).

So, the descriptive term church of Christ is accurate because everything about the church is taught in scripture that it belongs to Christ. It is His church. Church of Christ is just as authorized as all the other scriptural names in your post (and several more).

In a later e-mail, you pointed out that the church and the kingdom are one and the same. I agree.

[Here are the contents of that later e-mail
The kingdom of God (Acts 19:8) and the Way (Acts 19:9) are used interchangeably in the book of Acts.
The Way (Acts 24:22) and faith in Christ (Acts 24:24) are used interchangeably in the book of Acts.
The way of the Lord (Acts 18:25) and the way of God (Acts 18:26) are used interchangeably in the book of Acts.
Jesus used the words church and kingdom interchangeably (Matthew 16:18-19).]

Me: If I have not addressed your concern adequately, please let me know.

I am curious as to where you live and what church you attend if you do not mind giving that information out.

Once again, thank you for writing.

His next e-mail:

Mr. Scott...
My name is XX I live xxxxxxxx.
.
I worship with disciples (John 8:31), Christians (1st Peter 4:16), children of God (1st John 3:2), etc. We meet in a rented room behind a xxxxxx. Regardless of where we assemble, we are the body of Christ and members individually (1st Corinthians 12:27).

The Bible is our only guide (Luke 8:11; 2nd Timothy 3:14-16; 1st Peter 1:23). We have no earthly headquaters or governing body. Jesus Christ is our head (Colossians 1:18).
God is our Savior (1st Timothy 1:1, 2:3, 4:10; Titus 1:3, 2:10) and Jesus Christ is our Savior (Luke 2:11; John 4:42; Acts 5:31; Ephesians 5:23).

FAITH comes from hearing God's word (Romans 10:17); and without FAITH it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Hearts are purified BY FAITH (Acts 15:9). By God's grace we are saved THROUGH FAITH (Ephesians 2:8-9). We are buried with Him (Jesus) in baptism and raised THROUGH FAITH in the working/operation of God (Colossians 2:12). Because of this, that is, because men and women obey the good news, we are all sons of God THROUGH FAITH (Galatians 3:26-27), for as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ!

Jesus said that repentance and forgiveness of sins would be preached in His name to all nations beginning at Jerusalem (Luke 24:47). It was (Acts 2). Those who believed Peter's message did exactly what he told them to do; Repent and be baptized into Christ (Acts 2:38).

They did not argue with his message, as so many do today. There is no sinner's prayer of forgiveness/pardon found in the Bible. It is false (1st John 4:1). I honestly don't understand why so many have such a hard time with Mark 16:15-16. Its crystal clear!

Nevertheless, we as followers of Jesus do not have to wear a sign on our door or foreheads that says church of Christ. That name is not found in God's word. We are the body of Christ, the household of God, the Temple of God, etc. But we do not have any passage of Scripture that says we are to put up a sign, or display a sign; certainly there is not one in the Bible. And if its not found in God's word, why do it? There is no example of this practice. The article on your site is incorrect and should be taken down.

{note: I will not take it down, but I will add a link to that page for anyone with similar concerns}.

TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTION:
Here is what you said: When it comes to the right church:
Is it the Baptist church?
Is it the Methodist church?
Is it the Catholic church?
Is it the (pentecostal) church of God? Yes the phrase church of God is correct, but their practice and belief is not correct.
What about "lifeway" church, or "river of life" church, or "cowboy" church, or "new image" church, etc?


AGREED! None of these are found in the Bible, except church of God. It is found many times (yes, as well as many other descriptions). However, church of Christ is not found in the Bible.

Are you familiar with the Iglesia Ni Christo (Church of Christ)? They go by INC. That phrase means "Church of Christ." They believe they are the only true church! However, these folks DO NOT believe in the deity of Jesus. They say He was just a "good man." According to 1st John 2:22, they are antichrist. To deny that Jesus is the Christ is to dis-honor God (John 5:23). They are wrong. HOWEVER, what is their name? It is Church of Christ! A phrase not found in the Bible! Their practice and belief is not correct.

[Note: I have heard of this group before who reject the deity of Jesus. That is the spirit of anti-Christ (1 John 4:3). Like I said before, just because a group has a scriptural name does not mean they are accepted of God. As Peter told Cornelius, "but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right, is welcome to Him (Acts 10:35). There are many churches who believe they are the true church of Christ or church of God, but have left the teachings of truth for the deceptiveness of man, and those who participate will be rejected by God (2 John 9-11).]

If the name/description is not found in the Bible, why try and justify it? Why not just utilize a descriptiin that is found in the Bible, instead of adding one?

[Note: It is not adding to call a local church by the name church of Christ. Paul made that clear in Romans 16:16].

You say it does not matter (church of Christ), even though that description is not found in the Bible. Baptist church, Methodist church, Cowboy church, etc., is not found in the Bible. These are man-made names. If its not found in the Bible, why do men use them? I dont know.

At any rate, which of the following names/phrases/descriptions are found in the Bible?
1. Church of God (1st Corinthians 11:22, 15:9; Galatians 1:13).
2. Body of Christ (1st Corinthians 11:27; Ephesians 4:12).
3. Church of Christ (???) [Note: I would challenge this which I will do in a later e-mail.]

My next e-mail:

XXXX

I am planning a page on my web site addressing this issue.
Do I have permission to use your material, and respond to it?.

As you have ably pointed out, your arguments are very well put together.
I have seen the exact argumentation from at least three other people through various means. One on face-book, one on a discussion list I was on years ago, and one by e-mail.

As it turns out, all three demonstrated an animosity towards the church of Christ [although you do not seem to demonstrate such animosity] and its claim to be a church that belongs to Christ. Two of them were honest to answer me when I asked where they attended church. One answered Foursquare church and the other answered 7rRANCH Cowboy church (affiliated with the southern Baptist). They sent the exact same material demanding that the name church of Christ is not found in the Bible, and as such was false teaching (as you have asserted). Yet their churches mentioned are not even found in the Bible (anywhere). So that was perplexing to me. That was the reason I asked you for the name of the church you attended, and your refusal to answer indicates that your group is using a name not found in scripture either.

You are absolutely right in your claim that those who teach there is only one name (church of Christ) is error. There are many names of which the church can be named, and all be scriptural.

As far as the first article you brought to my attention by Tommy Hodge, I agree that what he said needed some clarification. His original article appeared in a local newspaper, and his audience was largely denominational. Most of his potential readers went to churches with all sorts of names of men, methods, doctrines, and so on. His point, which I agree is that only a scriptural name should be acceptable, and many people were in man-made institutions which was wrong.

Now quickly, if you will.
Who established the Church? Was it Jesus Christ? Yes it was. So it is His church, right?
Who said that He would build His church? It was Jesus Christ, So it is His church, right?
Who is said to have purchased this church? It was Jesus Christ. The apostles taught us that.
Where must one be in order to be in this church? They must be IN Christ. Do you agree?
Who is the head of the Church? It is Jesus Christ.
So this church is the church that is established, built, purchased, and governed by Christ.

So the logical explanation is that this church is the church by Christ's design, The church of Christ, built by Christ, The church In Christ as all in the body of Christ are in the church of Christ, which is His body.

If the term church of Christ is used as a description, it is logical that we are talking about the church designed by God and the rest of Deity (Jesus and the Holy Spirit).
Sure there are many names by which we can call ourselves.

But there is reason we do not use some names also. The church of God is definitely a scriptural name as He designed it from the foundation of the world. But when He gave all authority to Christ, He gave Christ the naming rights to such church (and remember Peter said there is none other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Not only that, there is a group of Pentecostals that use the phrase church of God. While their name may be scriptural, their doctrine and practice is not, and many brethren do not want to be associated with such a group by name recognition.

In closing, you are correct that to teach one, and only one name, name for the church is error. I agree.

Yet at the same time, you appear to throw out all logic when it comes to determining who the church belongs to. It belongs to Christ, and thus the description falls within the guidelines of the scriptures, and we can adequately describe the church as a church of Christ.

I hope this does not upset you, and I hope you will continue to study God's word without the apparent animosity towards those who identify as being a member of the church that belongs to Christ, (also known as the church OF Christ).

His next e-mail.

I have read several articles on the "What is the Church of Christ" index page. There are many good articles with good information.
However, there is also false teaching found therein. For example (Andy Sochor article - Why were they called "churches of Christ"?) He said, "If a local church cannot be accurately described as a "church of Christ," it is not a sound church."
[Note: the phrase is correct that Andy used. "a church of Christ' is to identify who it belongs to, not necessarily the name on the sign or building].


1. Where does it say this in the Bible?
2. If this is true, then Paul was a false teacher. He said twice that he persecuted the "church of God" (1st Corinthians 15:9 and Galatians 1:13).
3. In both of these, his referring to the "church of God" was in a UNIVERSAL sense and not a specific location.

I notice how conviently certain passages are left out of many articles on this page. Most do not mention any passage that says church of God, though few do. Its called "selective" identification: that is, only place passages that line up with my doctrine/belief.

UNIVERSAL CHURCH
"But if anyone seems to be contintious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God" (1st Corinthians 11:16).
1. What did Paul call the universal church here?
2. Was Paul a false teacher? No!
3. He was inspired...therefore this is an accurate and Biblical way to describe the church universal.

THE LOCAL CHURCH AT CORINTH
"For first of all, when you come together as a CHURCH, I hear that there are divisions aming you, and in part I believe it" (1 Corinthians 11:18). "What! Dont you have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the CHURCH OF GOD" (1st Corinthians 11:22). "Therefore, my BRETHREN, when you come together to eat (the assembled church), wait for one another" (1st Corinthians 11:33).
1. This was the local church at Corinth. When Paul addressed them in this letter, he said, "To the CHURCH OF GOD which is at Corinth" (1st Corinthians 1:2).
2. He asked them if they despise the church of God?
3. They were brethren (Christians).
Therefore, Christians CAN be called the church of God, as the inspired apostle Paul said. To claim they cannot, is false!
Is the phrase church of Christ found in the Bible? What book, chapter, and verse is it located in?


[Note: yes, a group of God's servants and members of His church can call themselves a church of God, and be scriptural. I would have no problem fellowshipping someone like that. However, if you travel and look for a church to attend while away from home, and look in any list of churches to find a church of God, you will find the penecostals in a building marked "church of God". Often we choose the name of our church as an identifier so that other saints may locate us.]

He sent me another e-mail:

Dear Mr Carey
Just wondering if you had the opportunity to read my last email. I did not hear back from you.

I am not trying to start a war or cause division. I was always taught to examine the Scriptures...speak where they speak/keep silent where they are silent.
I was also always told to test and examine everything that is being taught (2nd Thess 5:21; 1st John 4)....put it to the old Berean Test (Acts 17:11).

Thats all I did. And I noticed that the same people who taught me to do this, got either mad or displeased. Perhaps its because it was "steping on toes." But I truly believe the reason why so many have gotten upset is because it did not align with TRADITION.
Anytime a person "cuts against the grain" if you will, somebody is going to be upset. Thats all I did. And I realized through study that God never named the church. I realized there were several descriptions of the same body. I realized that I had been taught a false doctrine!

"I was told/taught that the only AUTHORIZED name of the church found in the NT is church of Christ." (A description/phrase not even found in the Bible)
Once I realized this was not true, and I taught that it was not true...the U-Haul was at the door, implying its time for you to go. And Why? Because error was exposed; yet the same folks taught me to search the Scriptures! But when taught the truth (because it conflicted with tradition), I realized they could not handle the truth nor wanted it.
They could not accept the fact that it was not true. So when I read some articles on your site, I found the same basic language. "Unless we are called church of Christ (the only authorized true name of identity) we are not the true church, etc."
That is not true! Therefore, it is false! It is a false doctrine/teaching.

Yes you may use the materials. I hope you will!

Here is the last e-mail from him. Please pay attention to what he says carefully. Much of this would make a good sermon.

I thought that I had answered your questions as to "what" church I attend. If I did not reply in a manner giving a proper answer, I apologize. First, there is only ONE church in the Bible. It has many descriptions (body of Christ, household of faith, temple of God, kingdom, etc). There is no passage in the Bible where someone was asking another, "What church do you attend?" For in the Bible, there is but ONE.

1. I meet with "Christians" only. We are non-denominational. We have only one textbook, the Bible.
2. We rent a room xxxx. This is where we, as the church, assemble to worship on Sunday mornings. We do not own a facility.
3. The name of the place is xxxxx. It does not belong to us.
4. Our rented room has no name on it anywhere. It is a banquet hall/room we rent.
5. In order for a person to become a Christian, He/She must hear the gospel (Romans 10:17), believe that Jesus is the Christ (John 3:16, 8:24), confess His name (Romans 10:9-10; 1st John 4:15), repent of sins (Luke 13:1-5; Acts 17:30-31), and be baptized for the remission of sins (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38). Then he/she will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38, 5:32). This is not earning; its simply obeying Gods commands as found in the New Testament.
6. There is no joining or voting into the church of your choice. This is a false teaching. Men and women are added to the Lord (Acts 5:14, 11:24) by the Lord (Acts 2:47) and by God who conveys/translates us into the kingom (Colossians 1:13-14).

No question that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Jesus (Matt 28:18-20).
No question Jesus said He would build His church, and He did (Matt 16:18).
No question salvation is only in Jesus Christ (2 Tim 2:10).
No question that Jesus is head of the church (Ephesians 5:23).
No question that every knee will bow to Jesus and confess His name (Philippians 2:10).
No question that God exalted Him and gave Him the name above every name (Philippians 2:9).
No question He (Jesus) purchased the church with His own blood (Acts 20:28).
No question that Jesus is the only way, truth, life (John 14:6).
No question that Jesus Christ is the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him (Hebrews 5:9).
No question that there is only ONE body (1 Corinthians 12:20; Ephesians 4:4-6).
No question that God said "Hear Him" (Matt 17:5).
No question that Jesus Christ Is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).
No question that Jesus is the "giver" of living water (John 4:10).
No question that Jesus is the bread of life (John 6:35).
No question that Jesus is the door (John 10:7).
No question that Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd (John 20:11), the Great Shepherd (Heb 13:20), the Chief Shepherd (1st Peter 5:4), the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls (1st Peter 2:25).
No question that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God (John 6:69).
No question that Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12).
No question that Jesus is the True Vine (John 15:1).
No question that we are baptized into Christ (Galatians 3:26-27) and raised with Christ through faith in the operation/working of God (Colossians 2:12).

THE GREAT INVITATION FROM JESUS
Jesus said "Come to Me " (Matt 11:28), "Come after Me" (Mark 8:34), "Believe in Me" (John 17:20), "Learn from Me" (Matt 11:29), "Follow Me" (Matthew 9:9), "Abide in Me" (John 15:4).

Calling on the name of the Lord (Romans 10:13-15), Obeying the gospel (Romans 10:16; 2nd Thess 1:8; 1st Peter 4:17), and being obedient to the faith (Acts 6:7; Romans 1:5) ALL refer to the same thing: becoming a Christian! Nevertheless, many reject Jesus as being Lord of their lives (Luke 19:27). They refuse to be born again, which is one birth involving two elements; water (baptism) and The Spirit (Holy Spirit) (John 3:3-5). Jesus is calling ALL people to repentance (Matthew 9:13), that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance (Hebrews 9:15). Christians are the called of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:6), called to be saints (Romans 1:7); called in one hope of your calling (Ephesians 4:4). If we reject Christ and His invitation, we are without hope/without God (Ephesians 2:11-12).

GOD IS ALSO INVITING US
God is light (1st John 1:5). God calls us out of darkness, INTO His marvelous light (1st Peter 2:9-10). God calls us INTO His own kingdom and glory (1st Thess 2:12). God calls ALL people through the gospel (2nd Thess 2:13-14). God calls us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus (1st Peter 5:10). God calls us with a holy calling (2nd Timothy 1:9). We are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28) and told to make our call and election sure (2nd Peter 1:10). He who calls is faithful (1st Thess 5:24) and holy (1st Peter 1:15) and whom God calls He justifies (Romans 8:30).

THE HOLY SPIRIT IS ALSO CALLING
The Spirit and the bride say, "COME!" (Revelation 22:17). Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: "Today, if you will hear His voice" (Hebrews 3:7).

ALL THREE CALL THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD:
(JOHN 5:25) - "Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and NOW IS, when the dead will HEAR THE VOICE of the Son of God; and those who HEAR will live. (See John 10:27, 18:37).
(JOHN 5:37-38) - "And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither HEARD HIS VOICE at any time, nor seen His form. But you do not have HIS WORD abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe." (See Jeremiah 3:25, 9:13).
(1st TIMOTHY 4:1) - "Now THE SPIRIT EXPRESSLY SAYS that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons." (See Hebrews 3:7, 4:7).

NOW WHAT SAITH THE SCRIPTURES? (And you say that I am not using logic??)

1. Did Paul ever refer to the church as the church of Christ? Which verse did Paul use to refer to the church as the church of Christ?
[Paul spoke of the church in the plural form in Romans 16:16].

2. If the only authorized name for the church is "church of Christ," would not the Bible say so? [Yes it would].

3. If church of Christ is the only logical choice (as you state) why did Paul not use it? [He did in Romans 16:16, your only hangup is the fact that he said it in the plural. You reject the singular which is a logical understanding].

4. Did Paul not say that he persecuted the church of God (universal sense) twice? (1st Corinthians 15:9; Galatians 1:13). Was Paul a false teacher because he said church of God and not church of Christ? [No, Paul was not a false teacher].

5. In both 1st and 2nd Corinthians, Paul addressed both letters to "To the church of God which is at Corinth" (1st Corinthians 1:2; 2nd Corinthians 1:1). If church of Christ is the only logical expression, why did Paul never use it? [Never? Romans 16:16].

6. Paul said the brethren (those in Thessalonica/local) became imitators of the churches of God (local) which are in Judea in Christ Jesus (1st Thess 2:14). Why did Paul not say churches of Christ? [He could have if he wanted to].

7. In 2nd Thessalonians, Paul addressed the brethren in Thessalonica (local). He said we boast of you (the local body of believers) among the churches of God (universal).

8. "Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God (universal) (1st Corinthians 10:31-32).

9. Concerning head coverings, Paul said we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God (universal) (1st Corinthians 11:16).

10. Concerning the Lord's Supper: "when you come together as a church (local) (1st Corintians 11:18)..."when you come together in ONE PLACE (local) (1st Corinthians 11:20)..."do you despise the church of God (local, as he is referring to this place at Corinth) and shame those who have nothing (1st Corinthians 11:22)..."therefore, my BRETHREN, when you come together (local body) to eat, wait for one another" (1st Corinthians 11:33-34). What did Paul call these? Brethren. What were the brethren doing? Coming together in one place; but it was not to eat the Lord's supper! Then Paul said, "What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the CHURCH OF GOD, and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I shall not praise you" (1st Corinthians 11:22).

11. The whole church (local body) can come together in one place (1st Corinthians 14:23). It can be anywhere, as long as that local body follows the teachings of the Bible. [True].

Again..."How is it then BRETHREN? Whenever you COME TOGETHER (local body) (1st Corinthians 14:26). Then Paul says, "For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in ALL the churches of the saints (universal) (1st Corinthians 14:33). It seems they were abusing spiritual gifts! He then made mention that various spiritual gifts would be done away with (1st Corinthians 13:8-10) when that which is perfect has come (James 1:25); and 3 things would remain...not 4, 5, or 6. But 3 things would remain; faith, hope, and love (1st Corinthians 13:13).

12. Concerning unity and diversity in the one body, Paul said you (Christians) are the body of Christ (universal) and members individually (see all of 1st Corinthians 12).

The word greet/salute is:
Aspazomai
Definition to draw to one's self, to salute one, greet, bid welcome, wish well to; to receive joyfully, welcome.
ROMANS 16:5 - "Likewise GREET THE CHURCH that is in their house."
ROMANS 16:11 - ..."GREET those who are of the household of Narcissus WHO ARE IN THE LORD."
ROMANS 16:14 - "GREET Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and THE BRETHREN who are with them."
ROMANS 16:16 - "GREET one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ GREET you."
ROMANS 16:23 - "Gaius, my host and the host of THE WHOLE CHURCH, GREETS you. Erastus, the treasurer of the city, GREETS you, and Quartus, A BROTHER."
1st CORINTHIANS 16:19-20 - "The churches of Asia GREET you. Aquila and Priscilla GREET you heartily IN THE LORD, with the CHURCH that is in their house."
2nd CORINTHIANS 13:12-13 - "GREET one another with a holy kiss. All the SAINTS GREET YOU."
PHILIPPIANS 4:21-22 - "GREET every SAINT in Christ Jesus. The BRETHREN who are with me GREET you. All the SAINTS GREET you, but especially those who are of Ceasar's household."
COLOSSIANS 4:14-15 - "Luke the belived physican and Demas GREET YOU. GREET THE BRETHREN who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the CHURCH in her house."
1st THESSALONIANS 5:26 - "GREET all THE BRETHREN with a holy kiss."
2nd TIMOTHY 4:19-21 - "GREET Prisca and Aquila, and the HOUSEHOLD of Onesiphorus. Erastus stayed in Corinth, but Trophimus I have left in Miletus sick. Do your upmost to come before winter. Eubulus GREETS you, as well as Pudens, Linus, Claduia, and ALL THE BRETHREN."
TITUS 3:15 - "All who are with me GREET you. GREET those who love US IN THE FAITH. Grace be with you all. Amen."
PHILEMON 23 - "Epaphras, my fellow prisoner IN CHRIST JESUS GREETS YOU.
HEBREWS 13:24 - "GREET all those who rule over you, and ALL THE SAINTS. Those from Italy GREET YOU."
1st PETER 5:13-14 - "She who is in Babylon, ELECT TOGETHER WITH YOU, GREETS you; and so does Mark my sin. GREET one another with a kiss of love. Peace to you ALL WHO ARE IN CHRIST JESUS. Amen."
2 JOHN 13 - "The children of your ELECT SISTER GREET YOU. Amen."

QUESTIONS (remember to use logic!)
1. What does greet mean?
To draw to one's self, to salute one, greet, bid welcome, wish well to; to receive joyfully, welcome.
2. Notice carefully it is used by Paul, Peter, and John!
3. The phrase, "the churches of Christ greet you" is the same as "the saints greet you!"
4. "Greet the brethren" and "greet those in the faith" mean the same thing!
5. Elect sister/elect together is a reference to brethren/saints/Christians!
6. "Greeting the brethren" and "greeting those who love us in the faith" refer to Christians.
Whether it is the saints greet you, or the brethren greet you, or those who are in the Lord greet you, or those elect together with you greet you, or those who love us in the faith greet you...IT MEANS THE SAME THING!

NOTE CAREFULLY THE 4 EXAMPLES BELOW:
(1) "Churches of the saints" (1st Corinthians 14:33) and
(2) "All the saints greet you" (2nd Corinthians 13:13) refer to the same universal body of believers!
(3) "To the saints who are in Ephesus" (Ephesians 1:1) and
(4) "To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi" (Philippians 1:1) refer to two distinct local body of believers, both having the same gospel, same doctrine, etc.
Paul could just have easily said to the brethren at Philippi or to the church at Philippi, etc. They would have meant the same! The Holy Spirit allowed "to the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi."

What about Colosse? How did Paul address the Christians here? "To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse" (Colossians 1:2). Did Paul not get the memo? Did he not know it can only be called Colosse church of Christ?

But when the same inspired writer (along with Silvanus and Timothy) wrote to the brethren in Thessalonica, it was very different. It was not addressed to the "Thessalonica church of Christ," rather, "To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father AND the Lord Jesus Christ" (1st Thessalonians 1:1). In who? In God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

JUDEAN CHURCH (3 different descriptions).
(1) Then the churches throughout all JUDEA had peace (Acts 9:31).
(2) And I was unknown by face to the churches of JUDEA which were in Christ (Galatians 1:22).
(3) For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in JUDEA in Christ Jesus (1st Thess 2:14).

Today, man has changed the doctrine of the Bible. Man has come along and said, "Boys, we must only call ourselves church of Christ, even though Paul, Peter, and John never did!" And although that description is NEVER found or used by any inspired Bible writer, according to some false teachers, it is the only "authorized" description! Amazing how a phrase/description never found in God's word has evolved into doctrine...ITS CALLED TRADITION! And when anyone challenges tradition, feathers are ruffled!

Now, Mr. Carey, you were saying something about me not using logic?

That is the end of the correspondence. Many have challenged the name of the church. If we treat the phrase "church of Christ" as a description, it is very scriptural. Yes, it would be false teaching to teach that this phrase is the only authorized name we can or should use. There are several names and descriptions of the church that this writer did not even mention which would be scriptural.

How a group chooses to identify themselves is up to that local group. Sometimes consideration of others such as visitors or travellers would need to be considered. I know brethren who worship in places that does not use the name "church of Christ", but that does not discount them as being a faithful, sound church.

By Carey Scott

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