Understanding Church History and Evangelism Today
Summary
In our discussion tonight, we delved into the rich tapestry of church history and its role in shaping our understanding of the Bible. Church history serves as a repository of wisdom, offering insights from various cultures and times that can deepen our understanding of Scripture. It is a treasure trove of interpretations that can illuminate the text for us today. We also explored the nuances between Presbyterian and Dutch Reformed church governance, highlighting the subtle yet significant differences in how these traditions view the role of ministers and the structure of church authority.
We addressed the question of why the office of evangelist, as seen in Ephesians 4, is not commonly found in churches today. Traditionally, Reformed circles have viewed certain offices as foundational and not ongoing, with evangelism now being a collective responsibility of the church. This led us to discuss the importance of evangelism and the role of every believer in sharing the gospel.
The theme of Jesus building His church was a focal point, especially in light of declining church attendance statistics. We emphasized that Jesus' promise to build His church is not failing; rather, it is about gathering true disciples across the globe. The Spirit of God works in different parts of the world at different times, and our confidence should remain in Christ's assurance that not one of His own will be lost.
We also touched on the challenges faced by those without access to Reformed churches, encouraging them to seek fellowship in Bible-believing communities and to consider starting new congregations if possible. The discussion on the interpretation of Jesus' words to Peter in Matthew 16:18 provided clarity on the Protestant perspective, emphasizing the foundational role of Peter's confession of Christ rather than the establishment of a papal office.
Finally, we explored the differences between dispensationalism and covenant theology, with a focus on the continuity of God's covenant of grace throughout history. Covenant theology stresses the unity of God's people and the fulfillment of Old Testament promises in the New Testament church.
Key Takeaways:
- Church history is a valuable resource that offers diverse interpretations and insights into the Bible. It helps us understand how different cultures and times have approached Scripture, enriching our own study and application. [01:42]
- The differences between Presbyterian and Dutch Reformed governance highlight the importance of understanding church structure and authority. These differences, though subtle, can significantly impact the relationship between ministers and congregations. [04:06]
- Evangelism is a collective responsibility of the church, rooted in the foundational work of the apostles and early church leaders. Every believer is called to share the gospel, reflecting the ongoing mission of the church. [08:42]
- Jesus' promise to build His church is about gathering true disciples, not necessarily increasing numbers. The Spirit of God works in different regions at different times, and our confidence should be in Christ's assurance that His church will prevail. [12:45]
- Covenant theology emphasizes the unity and continuity of God's covenant of grace, contrasting with dispensationalism's view of distinct dispensations. This understanding underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament promises in the New Testament church. [28:41]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:14] - Introduction and Questions
[00:40] - The Role of Church History
[02:31] - Presbyterian vs. Dutch Reformed Governance
[05:44] - Understanding Church Hierarchies
[07:18] - The Office of Evangelist
[09:26] - Jesus Building His Church
[11:01] - Church Attendance and Jesus' Promise
[13:44] - Finding a Church When None Are Nearby
[17:10] - Peter and the Rock: Protestant Perspective
[21:49] - Responding to Prayers from Other Faiths
[25:38] - Dispensationalism vs. Covenant Theology
[32:01] - Understanding the Psalms
[34:41] - Early Church Beliefs and Protestantism
[38:09] - Responding to Chronic Pain and Suffering
[41:49] - Praying for Family Members' Conversion
[51:29] - Growing in Prayer Life
[54:16] - Jesus and the Pharisees: Understanding the Law
[56:22] - Technological Advances and the Church
[59:36] - Responding to God's Holiness
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Ephesians 4:11-13
2. Matthew 16:18
3. Ephesians 2:14-16
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Observation Questions:
1. How does church history serve as a repository of wisdom for interpreting the Bible, according to the sermon? [00:40]
2. What are the key differences between Presbyterian and Dutch Reformed church governance as discussed in the sermon? [02:31]
3. Why is the office of evangelist, as mentioned in Ephesians 4, not commonly found in churches today? [07:18]
4. How does the sermon explain Jesus' promise to build His church in the context of declining church attendance? [10:32]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. In what ways does church history enrich our understanding of Scripture, and how can this be applied to modern Bible study? [01:42]
2. How do the differences in church governance between Presbyterian and Dutch Reformed traditions impact the relationship between ministers and congregations? [04:06]
3. What implications does the collective responsibility of evangelism have for individual believers in the church today? [08:42]
4. How does covenant theology's emphasis on the unity of God's people contrast with dispensationalism, and what does this mean for the fulfillment of Old Testament promises? [28:41]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when church history provided you with a deeper understanding of a Bible passage. How can you incorporate historical insights into your regular Bible study?
2. Consider the governance structure of your own church. How does it affect your relationship with church leaders and your involvement in church activities? [04:38]
3. Evangelism is described as a collective responsibility. Identify one specific way you can contribute to your church's evangelistic efforts this month. [09:12]
4. In light of Jesus' promise to build His church, how can you maintain confidence in the growth and health of the church despite declining attendance statistics? [12:45]
5. If you are in a region without access to a Reformed church, what steps can you take to find fellowship in a Bible-believing community or start a new congregation? [14:13]
6. How does understanding the continuity of God's covenant of grace influence your view of the Old and New Testaments? How can this understanding impact your daily walk with God? [28:41]
7. Reflect on the role of Peter's confession in Matthew 16:18. How does this shape your understanding of church leadership and authority? [17:10]
Devotional
Day 1: Church History as a Lens for Understanding Scripture
Church history is a vast repository of wisdom that offers diverse interpretations and insights into the Bible. By examining how different cultures and times have approached Scripture, believers can enrich their own study and application of the Word. This historical perspective allows for a deeper understanding of the text, as it reveals how the Spirit has moved through various contexts to illuminate God's truth. Engaging with church history can help believers appreciate the continuity and diversity of the Christian faith, encouraging them to explore the richness of biblical interpretation across the ages. [01:42]
"For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." (Romans 15:4, ESV)
Reflection: How can you incorporate insights from church history into your personal Bible study this week to gain a deeper understanding of Scripture?
Day 2: Understanding Church Governance
The differences between Presbyterian and Dutch Reformed governance highlight the importance of understanding church structure and authority. These subtle distinctions can significantly impact the relationship between ministers and congregations, influencing how church members experience leadership and community. By exploring these governance models, believers can gain a greater appreciation for the diversity within the body of Christ and the various ways churches can be organized to fulfill their mission. Understanding these differences can also foster unity and respect among different Christian traditions, as believers recognize the unique contributions each brings to the broader church. [04:06]
"Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you." (Hebrews 13:17, ESV)
Reflection: How does your understanding of church governance influence your relationship with church leaders and your participation in the church community?
Day 3: The Collective Responsibility of Evangelism
Evangelism is a collective responsibility of the church, rooted in the foundational work of the apostles and early church leaders. Every believer is called to share the gospel, reflecting the ongoing mission of the church. This shared responsibility emphasizes the importance of each member's role in spreading the good news and making disciples. By embracing this calling, believers can actively participate in the growth of God's kingdom, trusting that the Spirit will work through their efforts to reach others with the message of Christ. [08:42]
"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." (1 Peter 2:9, ESV)
Reflection: Who is one person in your life that you can share the gospel with this week, and what steps can you take to initiate that conversation?
Day 4: Jesus' Promise to Build His Church
Jesus' promise to build His church is about gathering true disciples, not necessarily increasing numbers. The Spirit of God works in different regions at different times, and believers can have confidence in Christ's assurance that His church will prevail. This perspective encourages Christians to focus on faithfulness and discipleship rather than numerical growth, trusting that God is sovereignly at work in building His church. By aligning with this promise, believers can find hope and assurance in the midst of challenges and declining attendance, knowing that God's purposes will ultimately be fulfilled. [12:45]
"And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." (Matthew 16:18, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to the spiritual growth and discipleship of your church community, even if attendance numbers are declining?
Day 5: Covenant Theology and the Unity of God's People
Covenant theology emphasizes the unity and continuity of God's covenant of grace, contrasting with dispensationalism's view of distinct dispensations. This understanding underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament promises in the New Testament church, highlighting the consistent and unifying work of God throughout history. By embracing covenant theology, believers can appreciate the interconnectedness of God's redemptive plan and the unity of His people across time. This perspective encourages Christians to see themselves as part of a larger story, united with believers past and present in the unfolding of God's purposes. [28:41]
"For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being." (Ephesians 3:14-16, ESV)
Reflection: How does understanding the unity of God's covenant of grace impact your view of the church and your role within it?
Quotes
Church history is a repository of the wisdom of various Christians Through the Ages as to how they read the Bible and interpret the Bible, and we can see in church history what we might call various Traditions or schools of interpretation. [00:48:48]
Church history really provides a treasure for us of wisdom of knowledge of people who've been very well educated. It's also true that people from different cultures and times will have different insights into aspects of the Bible. [01:36:56]
The principal difference I would say is that in most Presbyterian churches the ministers are members of the presbyter and the presbyter is seen as a regional Church. In Dutch reformed churches the ministers are members of the local congregation. [03:22:56]
The calling of evangelism is now not vested in a special office but is vested in the ordinary offices and in the church as a whole. So that would be the way it has been traditionally understood. [08:31:44]
Jesus is continuing to build his church. He never said I will build my church by attracting more and more numbers through the centuries more and more numbers in any given Place. What he meant by building his church is that he would gather true disciples. [12:30:75]
The Spirit of God seems to work so powerfully and intensively in a certain part of the world in a given era, and then the spirit seems to be working in other parts of the world in other eras. [13:00:78]
Covenant theology wants to much more stress the unity and continuity of God's ways with his people in the Old Testament and in the New Testament. So covenant theology as it developed and as it matured said there are two great covenants in history. [28:02:68]
Covenant theology says that all of those saved in the Old Testament were saved by grace, obviously with some different administration of how Grace was operating with his people but old Old Testament people and New Testament people are fundamentally one people. [28:43:23]
The motive to try to reform is a very reformed motive but we have to be realistic about what we can accomplish. You know I think sometimes we just think about how a decision like that impacts me individually but if I'm married with a family I have to think about how it impacts the whole family. [16:32:96]
The teaching of Peter as we find it in his two letters is a rock on which the church is built in all sorts of ways. We know that Jesus in speaking to Peter is playing on Words a little bit because Peter's original name was Simon and Jesus changes his name to Peter. [19:41:84]
The sufferings of this present life are not to be compared to the glories that will be revealed. That's not said to minimize the suffering or trivialize the suffering or just to encourage us to be stiff upper lip Brits or Aussies but that the suffering will pass away. [41:00:46]
God wants prayer to be our speaking to him honestly and openly lovingly as his children and he's not there with a stopwatch he wants honest communication so persevere Jacob that's so important and even the disciples said to Jesus teach us to pray. [53:35:16]
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