Theology of the Church, Mentor's Guide, MG03

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T H E O L O G Y O F T H E C H U R C H

A Theology of the Church (continued)

B. The Church community imitates Christ in his suffering.

1. Because it purifies from sin (1 Pet. 4.1-2).

2. Because it teaches obedience (Heb. 5.8).

3. Because it allows them to know Christ more fully (Phil. 3.10).

4. Because those who share in Christ’s suffering will also share in his comfort and glory (Rom. 8.17-18; 2 Cor. 1.5; 1 Pet. 5.1).

C. The Church community suffers because it identifies with those who suffer.

1. The body of Christ suffers whenever one of its members suffers (1 Cor. 12.26). 2. The body of Christ suffers because it voluntarily identifies itself with the despised, the rejected, the oppressed, and the unlovely (Prov. 29.7; Luke 7.34; Luke 15.1-2). D. The cross of Christ is both the instrument of salvation and the pattern for Christian life. The cross embodies the values of the Church community. 1. The cross of Christ is the most fundamental Christian symbol. It serves as a constant reminder that the Church is a community of suffering. 2. The basic requirement of discipleship is a willingness to take up the cross daily and follow Jesus (Mark 8.34; Luke 9.23; Luke 14.27).

IX. A Community of Works

A. “Works of Service” are the hallmark of Christian congregations as they do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. 1. The leadership of the Church is charged with preparing God’s people for “works of service” (Eph. 4.12). 2. These good works are central to the new purpose and identity which is given us during the new birth. “For we are his workmanship, created in