Do What Makes You Holy Join the Church of His Choice

Matthew 16:13-19

Introduction:

1. Having cut our teeth in a world with thousands of denominations within “Christendom” makes the idea of Christ having but one church seem absurd.

2. The common concept is to try out the options and choose the one that pleases the individual, like buying a car, choosing a house, or ordering off the menu.

3. However, the Lord did not create this situation, and holiness demands we reject it.

Discussion:

I. His Church (Matthew 16:13-19; Acts 20:28)

A. The first critical matter in choosing a church is its founding and ownership.

B. Denominational churches have earthly founders.

C. We must be part of the church Christ founded and owns, having bought it with His blood.

II. His Only Church (Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 4:4-6)

A. The singularity of Christ’s church is clear in the language of His promise to build it.

B. In Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:23 and Colossians 1:18, the church is called the body of Christ.

C. Ephesians 4:4 states He only has one body/church, defying the idea of choosing from many options.

III. His Only Church’s Only Authority (Colossians 1:18; 3:17)

A. How can we find His church and choose it?

B. Though involving many facets to consider, it all comes down to Who/who is in charge.

C. The one body has one Head, and only the one Head has legislative authority (cf. Matthew 28:18).

D. From terms of entry to morality to worship, governance, etc., His church pursues only His will.

Conclusion:

1. As appealing as joining the church of our choice might sound, it is wholly unbiblical.

2. May we all humble ourselves in His sight that He may lift us up (James 4:10).