If someone were to ask me which house on Sabine Court in Hurst was mine, my description of it would focus on those traits that distinguish it from the other houses on the street. Every home has its unique characteristics. The same is true with churches. To analyze the religious landscape is to realize quickly that not every church is the same, a fact that begs for an explanation. Why do we do the things that distinguish us from others? Why do we believe what we believe? Why do we teach what we teach?
Has someone asked you those kinds of questions? Have you struggled for answers? Beginning this afternoon at our 5 o’clock worship assembly, we will begin a brief series of lessons exploring these kinds of questions. For example, why do we emphasize the need for biblical authority for what we do in the church? Why do we guard our fellowship in the church and not consider ourselves to be in partnership with everyone else in the religious community? Why do we sing in worship without instrumental accompaniment? Why is our singing congregational and not choral? Why do we only have male leadership in the church?
My goal in this series is to answer these questions simply and positively, presenting the truth in a way that both honors the word of God and exhibits love and respect for those with whom we differ (Eph. 4:15). I want the material to be something that you would feel comfortable sharing with your friends, neighbors, and family. In addition, I hope that it will benefit our own teens and young adults who, as a natural part of growing up, wonder about the reasons behind our doctrine and practice. Finally, for those who have been members of the body of Christ for a long time and have studied these distinctive features of the church many times already, I will borrow the words of Peter, “I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder” (2 Pet. 1:13).
As always, may our Lord be glorified and his word honored in all that we say and do (Col. 3:17).