WHAT MAKES UP THE CHURCH? (MAT 16:15-18)

  1. The foundation of the church. (v.18)

    2. 1Co 3:11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

    We help make up the foundation and the whole building.

    Eph 2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

     

  2. He is the Founder. (v.18) I will build my church.

Jesus is not only the foundation he is the Architect
      1. He designs the building of the church.
      2. We make up the building

Ac 2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
  1. The Building.
    1. We are like a building and make all the parts.
      1. Those that are like the foundation.

        2. Are solid and dependable.

      2. Those that are the 2x10’s, 2x6’s, and 2x4’s that brace.

Hold it together.
    1. Those that make up the walls and roof to keep it dry.

      2. They make sure everything is covered and taken care of.

    2. Those that ad the beauty of the building.
      1. They keep it looking good
      2. They always have a smile.
    1. Those that work to keep it comfortable.
      1. They always welcome others that visit.
      2. They keep it clean.
      3. Make sure it is pleasant to visiters.

 

4. But when does the structure become weak?
      1. When we don’t have enough material.

        2. Mt 9:37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;

      2. When we have to do multiple jobs.

Ro 12:4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:

ILL.

  1. When a block has to be a 2x4 (hard to do)

    2. When we have to put people in a position not qualified.

  2. When a 2x4 has to be a floor. (Takes more than one to do it)
  3. When the roof has to become the furniture. (Cant be done)

That’s why we are limited.

 

Lu 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.