The Church Of Christ: A Chosen Generation And Royal Priesthood

The Church Of Christ: A Chosen Generation And Royal Priesthood

By Theodore Jao Quist

Introduction

The Church of Christ stands distinct from all denominations and man-made churches due to its faithful adherence to the Scriptures. As Peter writes in 1 Peter 2:9-10, "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy" (NKJV). This passage highlights the unique identity and purpose of the church, setting it apart in its mission and practices. By exploring the concepts of a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and the call to proclaim God's praises, we can develop a congregation that truly reflects the uniqueness of the Church of Christ.

I. Identity As A Chosen Generation - Instilling A Sense Of Identity And Purpose In The Congregation

The Church of Christ is unique due to its biblical origin, divine purpose, and distinctive characteristics, and is not a denomination. All other churches are denominations. The church traces its origin to the Bible itself, being established by Jesus Christ according to God’s plan and purpose from the beginning of creation (Ephesians 3:10-11). The church was promised by Christ as the body of believers who would carry out His mission on earth (Matthew 16:18). It was inaugurated on the day of Pentecost in Jerusalem, fulfilling that promise (Acts 2).

The church has distinctive Characteristics. Individuals enter the church by hearing the gospel, believing in Jesus as the Son of God, repenting from sin, confessing their faith in Christ, and being baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38). The Lord Himself adds the saved to the church (Acts 2:47). The church contains the saved, and no one can be saved outside the body of Christ, which is the church (Ephesians 5:23). These unique characteristics distinguish the Church of Christ from all other churches, making it the true and exclusive body of believers established by God.

A foundational element of the Church of Christ is understanding its identity as the chosen generation, in this dispensation. This concept instils a sense of belonging and purpose among the members. The church is not just another religious institution; it is a community specifically called and set apart by God. As Paul writes in Ephesians 1:4, "He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love" (NKJV). This divine selection gives the church a unique identity and a special role in God's plan.

II. Teaching About The Church's Special Role In God's Plan

Understanding the church's special role in God's plan involves recognising its mission to proclaim the Gospel and live out God's commandments. This includes a commitment to sound doctrine, as Paul emphasizes in 2 Timothy 4:2-3, "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine" (NKJV). Adhering to biblical teachings distinguishes the Church of Christ from other denominations that may diverge from scriptural authority.

III. Royal Priesthood - Understanding The Privileges And Responsibilities Of Being God's Priests

As a royal priesthood, members of the Church of Christ hold both privileges and responsibilities. The privilege includes direct access to God through Jesus Christ, as emphasised in Hebrews 4:16, "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (NKJV). This access empowers believers to serve as intermediaries, bringing the needs of others before God in prayer.

However, this privilege also comes with responsibilities. Members are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, as Paul writes in Romans 12:1, "Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service" (NKJV). This means living lives that reflect God's holiness and serving others in His name.

IV. Practical Ways To Live Out This Priesthood In The Community

Living out the priesthood involves active participation in community service and ministry. Practical steps include organising public evangelism, visiting the sick, and supporting those in need. James 1:27 states, "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world" (NKJV). By engaging in such activities, the congregation not only fulfils its priestly duties but also demonstrates the love of Christ to the wider community.

V. Holy Nation And Special People – Encouraging Holiness And Distinctiveness In Lifestyle

As a holy nation and God's special people, the Church of Christ is called to live distinctively. This distinctiveness is reflected in holy living, set apart from worldly practices. Peter writes in 1 Peter 1:15-16, "But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, 'Be holy, for I am holy'" (NKJV). Encouraging members to pursue holiness involves teaching and modelling biblical principles in everyday life.

Church leaders can promote holiness through practical steps such as accountability groups, where members support each other in maintaining biblical standards, and by providing resources on Christian living. Titus 2:11-12 reminds us, "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age" (NKJV).

VI. Building A Community That Reflects God's Values

Building a community that reflects God's values involves cultivating an environment of love, respect, and mutual support. Paul exhorts the Ephesians to "walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us" (Ephesians 5:2 NKJV). Practical ways to build such a community include fostering a culture of encouragement and support through regular fellowship events and small group meetings.

Additionally, emphasising the importance of family and community in church activities can help reinforce these values. For example, organising family-friendly events, community service projects, and outreach programs can strengthen the bonds within the church and with the broader community.

VII. Proclaiming God's Praises – Fostering A Culture Of Worship And Testimony

A key aspect of the Church of Christ's uniqueness is its commitment to proclaiming God's praises. This involves fostering a culture of worship and testimony. As Peter highlights, believers are called "that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9 NKJV). Worship services must honour God and provide opportunities for members to share testimonies of His faithfulness.

VIII. Encouraging Evangelism

Evangelism is another critical component of proclaiming God's praises. Members should be equipped and encouraged to share the Gospel with others. Matthew 28:19-20, the Great Commission, commands, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you" (NKJV). Training programs, workshops, and resources on evangelism can help members feel confident and prepared to share their faith.

Organising evangelistic events, community outreach programs, and mission trips can also provide practical opportunities for members to engage in evangelism. By actively participating in these efforts, the church fulfils its mission to proclaim God's praises and bring others into His marvellous light.

IX. Transformation And Mercy – Emphasising The Transformative Power Of God's Mercy

The transformative power of God's mercy is a fundamental aspect of the message of the church. Peter reminds us that believers "once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy" (1 Peter 2:10 NKJV). Emphasizing this transformation involves teaching about God's grace and the new life available in Christ.

Regularly sharing stories of transformation within the congregation can inspire and encourage others. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new" (NKJV). Highlighting these stories in sermons, newsletters, and social media can reinforce the message of God's transformative mercy.

X. Encouraging Gratitude And Grace Within The Congregation

Cultivating a spirit of gratitude and grace is essential for a spiritually healthy congregation. Encouraging members to express gratitude for God's mercy and grace fosters a positive and supportive church environment. Colossians 3:15-17 advises, "And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom...And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him" (NKJV).

Practical steps include incorporating regular thanksgiving prayers and testimonies in worship services, encouraging acts of kindness and service within the congregation, and promoting a culture of forgiveness and reconciliation. By doing so, the church can reflect the grace and mercy of God in its daily interactions.

Conclusion

The Lord’s church is unique and set apart by its faithful adherence to the Scriptures, its identity as a chosen generation, its role as a royal priesthood, its commitment to holiness, and its mission to proclaim God's praises. By emphasising these biblical principles and implementing practical steps, the congregation can develop a spiritually vibrant and distinct community that stands apart from all denominations and man-made churches. As we live out our calling, let us remember the words of Peter, embracing our identity and mission with gratitude and grace, and reflecting the light of Christ in all that we do.