Continuing Stedfast Kilskeery

Communion Service (October 25th, 2015)

"Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers," Acts 2:41-42.

We receive four young people into membership today.

There are those who state that there is 'no other qualification for membership of and fellowship in the Church of Christ than being born again.' I believe that such a notion is wrong. It is a dangerous innovation and will open the door to all that will eventually choke the witness of truth and holiness amongst God's people.

No, mere profession is not enough. It is true that regeneration is sufficient to get you into the Kingdom of God but fellowship amongst the people of God demands more.

Entrance to heaven is dependent alone upon our faith in the righteousness of Christ our substitute and sacrifice. However, our Christian testimony is dependent upon our conformity to the teachings of God's precious Word. Entrance to heaven is by FAITH but the Christian's testimony is dependent upon WORKS!

Our works declare our hearts. Faith is invisible to the eye and is only revealed by obedience to the Word of God, James 2:18. Therefore a mere profession is not enough to gain membership of a Christian congregation.

A man who may well be in heaven may be found unsuitable for membership of a Christian fellowship here on earth. "Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly," 2 Thess 3:6.