A Close Look At New Testament Churches

by Bryan Gibson

The churches we read about in the New Testament serve as a pattern for us to follow today, because they were all taught the apostles’ doctrine, or the doctrine of Christ (Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 14:37).

What were they called? Or, how were they described?

In Romans 16:16, they are referred to as “churches of Christ”; in 1 Corinthians 11:16, as “churches of God.” Sometimes they were described simply by their location, other times by whom the church was composed. None of the present-day denominational names were used, such as Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, etc.

How were they organized?

Elders (otherwise known as bishops, pastors, overseers) were appointed in every church (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5). These men had to meet certain qualifications in order to be appointed (1 Timothy 3:1-7). They were given the work of ruling, or overseeing the flock (Acts 20:17, 28; 1 Timothy 5:17-18; 1 Peter 5:1-4). The Lord’s plan also called for deacons to serve in these local congregations (Philippians 1:1). They too had to meet certain qualifications before being appointed (1 Timothy 3:8-13). But in no way was all the work done by these men. In New Testament churches, every member had a vital role to play (Ephesians 4:16). Some served as evangelists and teachers (Acts 13:1; 21:8; Ephesians 4:11; 2 Timothy 4:5; Titus 2:3), others helping in any way they could, in keeping with their abilities and opportunities (Romans 12:3-8; 1 Peter 4:10-11). One thing we do not see in these New Testament churches is the clergy-laity system found in so many religious groups today. None wore titles that exalted them above others. One other very important point about organization: There was no organization beyond this local church level. These churches did not join themselves together to form anything larger than the local church. There were no synods, conventions, associations, districts, etc.

What about their worship, particularly on the first day of the week?

Together they sang psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs (1 Corinthians 14:15; Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). Nothing is said about the use of mechanical instruments of music, or choirs. They would also offer prayer to God when they came together (1 Corinthians 14:15; Acts 2:42). Additionally, they were taught to give on the first day of the week (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). They were not taught to give a “tithe,” which was an Old Testament practice. Instead, they gave as they prospered, and as they purposed in their hearts. They were to give gladly, not grudgingly (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). They also ate the Lord’s Supper when they came together, and this was done every first day of the week (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:20-30). Finally, we read of preaching or Bible study being done in these assemblies (Acts 20:7; Acts 11:25-26).

What work were they given to do?

Ephesians 4:11-16 gives us a glimpse of what God has in mind with Christians working together. Still other passages make it clear that these local churches had a spiritual function to perform. God designed these local churches to make people more spiritually fit, not more physically fit. Unlike what we find among churches today, these New Testament churches were not recreational centers, secular education centers, etc. In a nutshell, their work was bringing the lost to Christ, and building up those who were already in Christ.