The Community Of Believers

This book is about identifying the people of God and questioning whether the word "church" correctly describes them. The religious landscape in America is filled with different churches hoping to build their membership. They all have requirements that are expected in order to be in good standing with the organization. Is this scene found in the Bible? If not, what has happened historically that produced what we have, today? In answering this question, we explore the translation of the Greek word from which "church" is translated and distinguish it from the denominations/churches with the unique facets of their own tradition.

Our purpose is to challenge the reader to review their own traditions in light of the Biblical description. Definitions are critical in any study and this one requires an understanding of terms before we are able to make any true comparisons. But, more importantly, we are very interested in pointing out how the Greek word "ekklesia" is used in the contexts of Scripture. It is believed that the interaction of early Christians looked very different that they do today. Did they form themselves into an organization that owns property with hours of operation posted on it? Does this arrangement that hires men and women to perform certain tasks, such as preaching in their pulpits, describe the work of the early church? If not, where does that practice originate?

Our goal in answering these questions is to demonstrate a pattern in the Scriptures that reveal a very simple way of life among the people of God and present some historical events that we believe developed the Christianity that we know, today. I recognize that in publishing this book, I risk the support and fellowship of dear friends. I only pray that all readers carefully study the material.