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

5. In what ways today can we say that God has also elected the Church to be his agent and representative in the world? What is the significance that God has elected both Jews and Gentiles to be members of the Church of God in Jesus Christ? 6. What are some of the implications that arise from a biblical understanding of God’s election of Jesus, Israel, and the Church? 7. How might the doctrine of election underscore for us our understanding of the glory of God’s sovereignty, the wonder of his grace, the critical nature of evangelism, and the certainty of our salvation? Give answers for each.

The Church as Witness

Segment 2

Rev. Dr. Don L. Davis

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The mandate from Jesus for his Church to be his witness is summarized in the Great Commission. This Commission can be easily outlined according to three critical elements, which constitute the mission of the Church in the world today. The first element involves the task to “go and make disciples of all nations” which instructs the Church to evangelize the lost. Next, the Church gives witness by “baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,” that is, we are called to baptize new believers in Christ incorporating them as members into the Church. Finally, the Church gives witness through “teaching them to observe all things I have commanded you;” in others words, the Church of Jesus Christ teaches its members to observe all the things Christ commanded. Matt. 28.18-20 - And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” This divine command outlines the dimension of the Church’s witness to Christ and his Kingdom in this present age. We will divide Christ’s command into its various parts, and briefly look at each facet of Jesus’ mandate.

Summary of Segment 2