Faith & Reason Nexus

1. ORGANIZATION
   • There is no central organization on earth. The church’s headquarters is in Heaven.
   • There is no earthly ecclesiastical organization; each congregation is independent.
   • Every congregation has its own elders and deacons, who provide leadership and guidance.
2. AUTONOMY OF CONGREGATIONS
   • Each congregation is independent and not controlled by another.
   • Congregations fellowship and work together, but each congregation remains under the guidance of its own elders.
   • The church is non-denominational, as it is not divided into various sects or earthly authorities.
3. OBEDIENT PERSONS ARE ADDED TO THE CHURCH BY CHRIST
   • Acts 2:47
     Only those who obey Christ’s commands are added to the church. This addition happens by the authority of Christ alone.
4. WORSHIP PRACTICES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
   • Prayer – Acts 2:42
     The early church devoted itself to prayer, and prayer remains a vital part of Christian worship.
   • Preaching & Teaching – Acts 20:7
     The preaching of the gospel and teaching of God’s Word is a central aspect of worship.
   • Singing – Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16
     The church worships through singing, making melody in the heart to the Lord.
   • Lord’s Supper (Every Lord’s Day) – 1 Corinthians 11:24-25
     The church partakes of the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week (Sunday), remembering Christ’s sacrifice.
   • Giving – 1 Corinthians 16:1-2
     The congregation is to give generously on the first day of the week as a part of worship.
5. TEACHES THE PLAN OF SALVATION FOUND IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
   • Hear the Gospel – Romans 10:14
     The gospel must be preached and heard in order for salvation to be possible.
   • Believe (Faith) – Hebrews 11:6; Romans 10:17
     Faith in Christ is essential for salvation; faith comes by hearing the Word of God.
   • Repentance – Luke 13:3, 5; Acts 2:38
     Repentance, or turning away from sin, is necessary for forgiveness.
   • Confess Christ – Matthew 10:32-33
     Public confession of faith in Christ is required for salvation.
   • Baptism (immersion) for the remission of sins – Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21
     Baptism is a vital step in obeying Christ, through which sins are forgiven.

These principles outline the distinctive characteristics of the true church as established in the New Testament.