We are a group of Christians who are dedicated to worshiping and actively working as a congregation according to the teachings of Jesus Christ and His apostles. There is no man or group of men who legislate for the church. Christ is the head of the church (Ephesians 1:22). He has all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). Therefore, we strive to abide in His word (John 8:31; 2 John 9). We fully believe that the only answer to the denominational spirit which exists among professed Christians is to let the Bible constitute our only creed and drop all denominational names, titles, creeds, and organizations. We have no desire to be a part of any denomination. We understand that the Lord adds the saved to the church which He purchased with His own blood (Acts 2:47; 20:28), and since God and His Son are owners, we are content to be known as belonging to the church of God or the church of Christ. We will not be ashamed to wear the name that brings glory to our Savior and be known individually as Christians. We do not claim to be "the only Christians," but we do seek to go back to the Bible for every practice, and therefore to be only what men of the first century were, that is, "Christians only." We desire worship that is both devout and scriptural. Jesus taught that acceptable worship was to be done in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24). We are determined to emphasize a reverent and orderly worship that is designed to draw people closer to God, to provide spiritual strength, and to glorify God. The Bible teaches that the gospel (Jesus Christ and Him crucified) is the power of God unto salvation and is God's sole drawing call to men (Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 2:1-5; 2 Thessalonians 2:14), therefore, we do not use gimmicks and offer facilities for recreation and entertainment to satisfy the carnally minded. Our goal is to change the hearts of men through the preaching of the gospel so they may please the Lord and have eternal life. Jesus said, "Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life,..." (John 6:27). While as individual Christians we seek each other's association socially and do engage in wholesome recreation, the church is not a social club or agency, and therefore, the Lord's money contributed each first day of the week is not used to promote social functions or works. Our aim is spiritual. We do not claim to be infallible and therefore welcome anyone who can teach us the way of God more perfectly (Acts 18:25-26). Even though our views at this time might not agree with those you hold, if we both believe the Bible to be truth, an open investigation of that truth together can only do good for all involved. We will be glad to study with you personally in your home if you live in the area, or to correspond with you by email. Our phone number is 573-265-8628. You may send us an email at sjchurch@fidnet.com. |