Christianity for Beginners
The Church
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is to examine the New Testament church found in scripture. Additional information is provided on various misunderstandings. Teachers should review the relevant materials and have students review the materials before class.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Distinguish between the New Testament Church and the world’s view of church.
- Feel: Value the importance of the New Testament Church in helping Christians remain faithful and grow spiritually.
- Do: Make participation in the Christian community a priority.
Body of the Lesson
Discussion Questions
Below are suggested questions to use during the guided discussion portion of the lesson. There are also suggested responses to questions to help students grasp the various concepts. These are provided to assist the discussion and are not considered as “right or wrong” responses.
1. What was your perception of the church in the past and how you do you perceive it now? If it changed, why?
Answers will vary but look for agreement with some of the misconceptions spoken of in the lesson. If there has been a change, look for responses based on biblical information. If there has not been a change, encourage students to discuss what would be a change they would look for.
2. Why have we developed the misperception that the "church" is a building?
Many people associate church with a location rather than a body of believers. This has many reasons, but it is generally a lack of knowledge about what church is and how it is to function based on the Bible.
3. Defend this statement:
Look for responses that there are many churches throughout the world that claim to be the "right" church or that it doesn't matter what church you go to so long as it worships Jehovah God. But any church claiming to be based on biblical standards must follow the Bible in all respects. Any church founded by a man is inherently not biblical since Jesus is the founder and Lord of the Church, and as such provides the proper instructions as to the form and function of His church.
4. What function of the church means the most to you, and why?
Answers will vary but look for responses that indicate how the church meets a human need as well as a spiritual need. Reinforce the concept that this is part of the purpose of the church. It is why the statement in Hebrews 10:25 is important for Christians.
5. Read Psalms 122:1 and Hebrews 10:25. What spirit or attitude would a person possess to believe these statements and how can we develop it in ourselves?
Look for responses such as a better understanding of the importance and purpose of church activities, an awareness of God's will about our attendance, and the value we receive from staying connected as a community of believers.
6. What makes a church a New Testament church?
Look for responses that center on how the church is founded, patterned and functions according to biblical standards and not man's standards.
7. What is the difference between "non-denominational" and "pre-denominational"?
Non-denominational refers to a church that is not tied to any specific denomination. Pre- denominational refers to a church that existed before denominations began. As such, the church found in the Bible is pre-denominational since denominations began many centuries later. We are attempting to restore the pre-denominational church established in Acts 2 in the modern age.
8. What church did Peter, Paul, and the other apostles and first century Christians belong to?
They belonged to the church established in Acts 2. They did not belong to any denomination founded by man.
9. How can you as a student use this to grow spiritually and help others come into a relationship with Jesus?
Look for responses that indicate an acceptance the concepts presented in this lesson and other sources. Other indicators may include responses such as the scope and depth of the information provide clarity of the inspiration and validity of the Bible.