0941. The Age of the Church

The Age of the Church

There seems to be much confusion among many-Christians concerning the teachings of the Word of God as to the relationship which exists between the Church and Israel, on the one hand; and as to the particular age and mission of the Church on the other hand.

When the Church and Israel are not clearly differentiated, much confusion occurs.

Illustration: Some years ago we heard Joshua Gravett of Denver give an illustration which sets forth this confusion.–He imagined that a letter he had addressed to the sexton fell into the hands of his young daughter; at the same time a letter addressed to the daughter reached the sexton. The daughter was greatly excited as she read instructions as to how she was to run the furnace and to do other chores not at all suitable to one of her tender years. The sexton was quite as nonplussed, marveling that the dignified pastor would address him in such tender terms and assure him of a box of candy at the end of the trip.

When the Word of God is read, we must remember to whom God is speaking, and of whom He is speaking, as well as what He is speaking.

The Church should never rob Israel of the promises which are distinctly hers; the Church should never undertake a task which is Israel's task; the Church should never seek to foster upon herself rites or ceremonies or ordinances or doctrines which are distinctly written to Israel.

The Church should never seek her task from the Old Testament Scriptures. The Church is a Heavenly people, Israel is an earthly people.

The rewards of the Church are Heavenly; the rewards of Israel are earthly.

The destiny of the Church is Heavenly, the destiny of Israel is earthly.

Missionary sermons should never contain the Old Testament promises to Israel as proof texts for taking the world for Christ.

The particular message and mission of the Church, as well as her doctrines, are all given in the Epistles of Paul.

The above are things which we consider most vital and which will be fully developed under the sub-headings as we proceed.

Autor: R.E. NEIGHBOUR