Definition of ECCLESIOLOGY noun \i-ˌklē-zē-ˈä-lə-jē\ 1: the study of church architecture and adornment 2: theological doctrine relating to the church *Citation - “Ecclesiology." Merriam-Webster.com. Merriam-Webster, n.d. Web. 11 Jan Jan. 2014. . “A Philosophy of ministry is more specific than the church’s purposes (the “Why?” of a church) but less specific than the ministry program (the “What?” of a church) or even its goals and objectives. Instead, it describes how a church will go about reaching its community for Christ.” - Dr. Timothy Keller (Church Planter’s Manual pg. 85) *Note - Dr. Tim Keller’s Church Planter’s Manual (Chapter 5), was consulted and served as a framework for the composition of the Philosophy of Ministry Statement of CBC
Acts 2:40-47 Acts 2:40 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.”Acts 2:41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.Acts 2:42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.Acts 2:43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles.Acts 2:44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common.Acts 2:45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.Acts 2:46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,Acts 2:47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. (English Standard Version)
Transformation – (Save ourselves from this crooked generation) We must understand that we strive to “transcend” the culture and not “reflect” it. The world has a “view” of how things work, operate, are tolerated, and its own standard of ethic (if we can call it that) all of which changes when we become a Christian. Our work ethic, relationships, family, cultural identity and outlook are all held under a different light cast by the spirit and truth of God. Romans 12:2 Rom. 12:2Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (English Standard Version)
Learning – (Devoted themselves to the apostle’s teaching) They devoted themselves to the teaching and not just tolerated it. They were very committed to learning not just “general education” but more specifically the “teaching of the apostles” which are now found in the scriptures. We are committed to providing every opportunity for learning in our services, Sunday school, affiliate schools, conferences, and our community groups. We understand the importance of disciples of Christ who know what they believe and why they believe it, equipped for every good work. Ephesians 4:11-14 Eph. 4:11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, Eph. 4:12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, Eph. 4:13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood,* to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, Eph. 4:14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 1 Peter 3:15-16 1Pet. 3:15 but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; 1Pet. 3:16 yet do it with gentleness and respect,
Fellowship – (Devoted themselves…and fellowship v46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts) We believe that fellowship is vital to the individual and to the body of Christ. We see the importance of us caring and loving one another, being supportive and holding each other accountable. We seek to provide opportunities through services, events, conferences, meetings, outings, and community and special interest groups. It is our desire to be committed to fellowship just as the early Christians were in “devoting themselves” to it. Hebrews 10:24-25 Heb. 10:24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, Heb. 10:25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Worship – (Devoted themselves…, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. v 47 Praising God…) Worship is foundational to all that we do at Central. He is our God and we are His people. We love Jesus and we want to give him all glory and honor. We gear our services to include the preaching of the Word, the singing of the hymns and songs, the Lord’s supper and Baptism, and a sincere commitment to prayer. 2 Timothy 4:2 2Tim. 4:2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. Ephesians 5:19 Eph. 5:19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart, Luke 22:19 Luk. 22:19 “…Do this in remembrance of me.” Matthew 21:13 Matt. 21:13 He said to them, “It is written, “My house shall be called a house of prayer…”
Evangelism – (…And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.) Evangelism is a key aspect to the ministry here at Central. We desire to have a heart for God’s love for His people and to fulfill the great commandment. We are committed to “the proclamation of the Gospel”- in getting it right then getting it out with the power of God bearing the fruit of evangelism. We understand evangelism is the presentation of the gospel and conversions to be the fruit of that presentation by the power of God. Yes…we enthusiastically support missions. Matthew 28:19 Matt. 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,
Service – (v. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. v. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.) We believe in service and giving of our time and efforts to aid others in need. We also give financially to the church and other missions entities within our affiliation. We seek to be a church that will be an encouragement and a loving body to our community and especially our members. Galatians 6:10 Gal. 6:10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.
Service Times: Sunday 9:00am - Sunday Morning Bible Study Sunday 10:30am - Sunday Morning Worship
