THE BIBLE
The Old and New Testaments are inspired of God. The Bible is the word of God given by inspiration (2Tim. 3:16,17). It is not of private interpretation (2Pet. 1:20), and may be twisted to one's destruction (2Pet. 3:16). The Sunnyside church tries to preach and teach the Bible. We are bound by the New Testament not to preach or teach any other creed or dogma (Gal. 1:6,7). Faith comes not by listening to the word of men, but comes from hearing the words of Christ (Rom. 10:17). The Old Testament is not binding on Christians today but should be read and studied for instruction, encouragement and patience (Rom. 15:4). When the Bible is correctly read and studied (2Tim. 2:15), it contains all that is needed for life and godliness (2Pet. 1:3).
HOW TO BECOME A CHRISTIAN
Men and women are saved by the grace of God (Eph. 2:8,9). It is unthinkable that one could ever merit their own salvation. To access that saving grace, God has outlined in His word, how a person comes to have their sins forgiven, becomes a Christian, and is added to the church. To those who have never obeyed the gospel the following is how to be saved:
Sometimes those who have become Christians, later turn away and go back to the world. They live in sin, not wanting to please God any longer (Heb. 10:26-29; 2Pet. 2:20-22). But things are not hopeless; if they come to their senses and desire to come back to faithfulness they may do so:
The Bible instructs Christians to live a faithful life, and this unto death (Rev. 2:10). Fellow Christians are to encourage each other so that no one falls away (Heb. 3:12,13).
THE CHURCH
The church was built by Jesus Christ, just as He promised (Mt. 16:18). This took place on the first day of Pentecost in Jerusalem, following the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (Ac. 2:1ff). There is only one true church for which Jesus died, which is His body (Eph. 1:22,23). The church is the kingdom that was to come. It fulfills the prophecy of the Old Testament (Dan. 2:44; 1Pet. 1:10-12). Those who have become Christians are added to the church by virtue of their obedience to Christ. One does not become a Christian, and then later join the church (1Cor. 12:12,13).
There is not one exclusive name for the church. Phrases in the New Testament are not various names, but descriptive phrases about the church and how it functions. The church is called "the church of God" (1Cor. 1:2); the "churches of Christ" (Rom. 16:16); the "church of the Lord" (Ac. 20:28); the body (Col. 1:18); the kingdom (Heb. 12:28); God's building (1Cor. 3:9); and the flock (1Pet. 5:3). Differing congregations are usually named, not to promote a particular doctrine or person, but to designate location (i.e.; the Sunnyside Road church of Christ is on Sunnyside Rd. in Decatur). When a name is chosen for the church it should glorify the One who died for it.
Christians are called by several names in the New Testament. Such names include "brethren" (Jas. 5:7), "saints" (Col. 1:2), "priests" (1Pet. 2:5), and "disciples" (Ac. 6:1). The work of the church can be viewed from three distinct ministries. First, there is the work (or ministry) of evangelism. This is the preaching of the gospel to the lost. Jesus gave the great commission in support of this work (Mt. 28:18-20; Mk. 16:15,16). The church is to make known the wisdom of God (Eph. 3:10,11). Second, there is the ministry of teaching the saved. Edification builds up and encourages Christians to remain faithful to their Lord. Love edifies (1Cor. 8:1) and the different ministries in the body were given to instruct the saints (Eph. 4:7-15). All things that are done in the worship are to be done for the edification of the body of Christ (1Cor. 14:26). And third, there is the work of benevolence. This is to be done for needy brethren as well as all others (Gal. 6:10). The church is to help the saints (Rom. 12:13), the poor (Gal. 2:10), and the widows and orphans (Jas. 1:27).
Each congregation is independent of the others (1Pet. 5:2). They control their own moneys and ministries. While they may cooperate with other congregations in various works of evangelism and benevolence they are under no compulsion to do so.
COOPERATION
The Sunnyside Road church is happy to cooperate with sister congregations when necessary to help with the spread of the gospel or in benevolent works. We support many other central Illinois churches of Christ in their gospel meetings and other evangelistic efforts. When special needs arise, Sunnyside tries to help with financial assistance to those in need.
The Sunnyside Road church also believes in having our young people attend Christian colleges if at all possible. While not perfect, the Christian college setting has much to offer that secular or state schools do not. Sunnyside does not financially support these schools, but encourages those who want higher education to attend.
LEADERSHIP
God has set up His church exactly as He wants it. It is tempting to try another pattern for the carrying on of the work of the church, thinking that one could improve on such a simple organizational structure. But such is not the case. The structure of the church as outlined in the New Testament is as follows (Sunnyside tries to conform to the following Biblical pattern).
Jesus Christ. He is the head of the church (Col. 1:18). It is His body (Eph. 1:22,23). Everything that is done in the church must come from His authority. If Christ or His apostles did not teach or bind a command or example it is contrary to that which is acceptable.
OBEDIENCE
Salvation is by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8,9). But the New Testament also teaches obedience as characteristic of the faithful Christian. We must say and do God's will (Mt. 7:21; Jas. 1:25). We must obey God and not man, when their laws conflict (Ac. 5:29). Jesus saves those who obey Him (Heb. 5:8,9). Those who do not obey the gospel will be lost (2Th. 1:8).
SIN
To sin is to "miss the mark" of God's righteousness. Jesus came to save the world from its sin (1Tim. 1:15). All men and women who know the difference between right and wrong, are accountable for their actions, and are deemed by the Bible as sinners. All have sinned (Rom. 3:23); there is not one righteous person (Rom. 3:10). Sin is lawlessness, a disregard for the law of God (1Jn. 3:4-12). Sin is by commission (Rom. 2:12-16) and by omission (Jas. 4:17). Sin separates one from God (Isa. 59:1,2), but cannot be inherited from one generation to the next (Ezek. 18:20). Sins are forgiven by the shed blood of Jesus. He has reversed what Adam has done (Rom. 5:12-21). Baptism is the final act of conversion that brings one into contact with the saving blood of Jesus (Heb. 9:22; Ac. 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4).
UNITY
Jesus prayed for the unity of all believers (Christians) in His great prayer in the garden of Gethsemane before His crucifixion (Jn. 17:11,20,21). Paul preached this same unity (Eph. 4:4-6). This unity includes teaching the same doctrines in all places (1Cor. 1:10; 4:17). The work of the apostles, prophets, elders, evangelists, and teachers is to bring everyone to a maturity in the unity of the faith (Eph. 4:13-16). Division among brethren is condemned in the Scriptures (1Cor. 1:10-13; Eph. 4:14; 1Cor. 3:3-9; Gal. 1:6-10; 2Jn 9-11).
WORSHIP
There are six important things which must be done to properly worship God. It does make a difference as to what is done in worship. God seeks people that will worship Him, as He has directed (Jn. 4:23,24).
BENEVOLENCE
The Sunnyside church believes in benevolence. We try to do as much as possible for the people of Macon County. Our benevolence also goes to those of the Sunnyside "family." Widows, widowers, and other members in need receive first priority. Currently, however, the main thrust of the benevolence program is for those outside the church. Food is purchased (both perishable and non-perishable) and given to needy families. Certain restrictions apply to how often a particular family may be helped. Interested people are urged to call the church office.
ANY QUESTIONS?
If you have any further questions about the Sunnyside Road church of Christ you are welcome to e-mail the church office at SRCC821@yahoo.com.
The Old and New Testaments are inspired of God. The Bible is the word of God given by inspiration (2Tim. 3:16,17). It is not of private interpretation (2Pet. 1:20), and may be twisted to one's destruction (2Pet. 3:16). The Sunnyside church tries to preach and teach the Bible. We are bound by the New Testament not to preach or teach any other creed or dogma (Gal. 1:6,7). Faith comes not by listening to the word of men, but comes from hearing the words of Christ (Rom. 10:17). The Old Testament is not binding on Christians today but should be read and studied for instruction, encouragement and patience (Rom. 15:4). When the Bible is correctly read and studied (2Tim. 2:15), it contains all that is needed for life and godliness (2Pet. 1:3).
HOW TO BECOME A CHRISTIAN
Men and women are saved by the grace of God (Eph. 2:8,9). It is unthinkable that one could ever merit their own salvation. To access that saving grace, God has outlined in His word, how a person comes to have their sins forgiven, becomes a Christian, and is added to the church. To those who have never obeyed the gospel the following is how to be saved:
- Believe the word; including that Jesus is the Son of God (Heb. 11:6).
- Repent of your sins; a change of mind, heart, and action (2Cor. 7:10).
- Confess the name of Christ; He alone can save (Mt. 10:32,33).
- Be baptized [immersed] for the remission of sins (Ac. 2:38; 22:16).
- [This automatically adds one to the church] (Ac. 2:47; KJV).
Sometimes those who have become Christians, later turn away and go back to the world. They live in sin, not wanting to please God any longer (Heb. 10:26-29; 2Pet. 2:20-22). But things are not hopeless; if they come to their senses and desire to come back to faithfulness they may do so:
- Repent of your sins again (Ac. 8:22).
- Confess them as needed (Jas. 5:16,19,20).
- Pray to God for forgiveness (Ac. 8:22).
The Bible instructs Christians to live a faithful life, and this unto death (Rev. 2:10). Fellow Christians are to encourage each other so that no one falls away (Heb. 3:12,13).
THE CHURCH
The church was built by Jesus Christ, just as He promised (Mt. 16:18). This took place on the first day of Pentecost in Jerusalem, following the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (Ac. 2:1ff). There is only one true church for which Jesus died, which is His body (Eph. 1:22,23). The church is the kingdom that was to come. It fulfills the prophecy of the Old Testament (Dan. 2:44; 1Pet. 1:10-12). Those who have become Christians are added to the church by virtue of their obedience to Christ. One does not become a Christian, and then later join the church (1Cor. 12:12,13).
There is not one exclusive name for the church. Phrases in the New Testament are not various names, but descriptive phrases about the church and how it functions. The church is called "the church of God" (1Cor. 1:2); the "churches of Christ" (Rom. 16:16); the "church of the Lord" (Ac. 20:28); the body (Col. 1:18); the kingdom (Heb. 12:28); God's building (1Cor. 3:9); and the flock (1Pet. 5:3). Differing congregations are usually named, not to promote a particular doctrine or person, but to designate location (i.e.; the Sunnyside Road church of Christ is on Sunnyside Rd. in Decatur). When a name is chosen for the church it should glorify the One who died for it.
Christians are called by several names in the New Testament. Such names include "brethren" (Jas. 5:7), "saints" (Col. 1:2), "priests" (1Pet. 2:5), and "disciples" (Ac. 6:1). The work of the church can be viewed from three distinct ministries. First, there is the work (or ministry) of evangelism. This is the preaching of the gospel to the lost. Jesus gave the great commission in support of this work (Mt. 28:18-20; Mk. 16:15,16). The church is to make known the wisdom of God (Eph. 3:10,11). Second, there is the ministry of teaching the saved. Edification builds up and encourages Christians to remain faithful to their Lord. Love edifies (1Cor. 8:1) and the different ministries in the body were given to instruct the saints (Eph. 4:7-15). All things that are done in the worship are to be done for the edification of the body of Christ (1Cor. 14:26). And third, there is the work of benevolence. This is to be done for needy brethren as well as all others (Gal. 6:10). The church is to help the saints (Rom. 12:13), the poor (Gal. 2:10), and the widows and orphans (Jas. 1:27).
Each congregation is independent of the others (1Pet. 5:2). They control their own moneys and ministries. While they may cooperate with other congregations in various works of evangelism and benevolence they are under no compulsion to do so.
COOPERATION
The Sunnyside Road church is happy to cooperate with sister congregations when necessary to help with the spread of the gospel or in benevolent works. We support many other central Illinois churches of Christ in their gospel meetings and other evangelistic efforts. When special needs arise, Sunnyside tries to help with financial assistance to those in need.
The Sunnyside Road church also believes in having our young people attend Christian colleges if at all possible. While not perfect, the Christian college setting has much to offer that secular or state schools do not. Sunnyside does not financially support these schools, but encourages those who want higher education to attend.
LEADERSHIP
God has set up His church exactly as He wants it. It is tempting to try another pattern for the carrying on of the work of the church, thinking that one could improve on such a simple organizational structure. But such is not the case. The structure of the church as outlined in the New Testament is as follows (Sunnyside tries to conform to the following Biblical pattern).
Jesus Christ. He is the head of the church (Col. 1:18). It is His body (Eph. 1:22,23). Everything that is done in the church must come from His authority. If Christ or His apostles did not teach or bind a command or example it is contrary to that which is acceptable.
- Elders. Each congregation is to be led by the example of Elders (1Pet. 5:3). These men have qualifications for this ministry (1Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). They rule the church by shepherding the flock among them (Ac. 20:28). They are called by different names in the New Testament but all refer to the same work; pastors (Eph. 4:11), shepherds (1Pet. 5:2-4), rulers (Heb. 13:17), bishops or overseers (Ac. 20:28).
- Deacons. Special men called deacons are asked to serve in the congregation under the direct oversight of the Elders. Because of the seriousness and importance of their work, certain qualifications for this ministry are outlined in the New Testament (1Tim. 3:8-13). They help relieve the burden of the work that the Elders are responsible for (Ac. 6:1-4).
- Preachers. Preachers, sometimes called evangelists (2Tim. 4:5) do the work of preaching and teaching the gospel. They serve under the authority and oversight of the Elders in the congregation where they preach. These men must know the Word and speak it in such a way as to convict and inspire.
- Teachers. The apostles Paul considered himself to also be a teacher of the gospel (2Tim. 2:11). Teachers may be women, if they instruct other women (Titus 2:3-5) or children (1Tim. 2:12). Other passages to see on the ministry of teaching are; Phil. 2:25; Eph. 4:12; Col. 4:17; Rom. 10:14.
OBEDIENCE
Salvation is by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8,9). But the New Testament also teaches obedience as characteristic of the faithful Christian. We must say and do God's will (Mt. 7:21; Jas. 1:25). We must obey God and not man, when their laws conflict (Ac. 5:29). Jesus saves those who obey Him (Heb. 5:8,9). Those who do not obey the gospel will be lost (2Th. 1:8).
SIN
To sin is to "miss the mark" of God's righteousness. Jesus came to save the world from its sin (1Tim. 1:15). All men and women who know the difference between right and wrong, are accountable for their actions, and are deemed by the Bible as sinners. All have sinned (Rom. 3:23); there is not one righteous person (Rom. 3:10). Sin is lawlessness, a disregard for the law of God (1Jn. 3:4-12). Sin is by commission (Rom. 2:12-16) and by omission (Jas. 4:17). Sin separates one from God (Isa. 59:1,2), but cannot be inherited from one generation to the next (Ezek. 18:20). Sins are forgiven by the shed blood of Jesus. He has reversed what Adam has done (Rom. 5:12-21). Baptism is the final act of conversion that brings one into contact with the saving blood of Jesus (Heb. 9:22; Ac. 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4).
UNITY
Jesus prayed for the unity of all believers (Christians) in His great prayer in the garden of Gethsemane before His crucifixion (Jn. 17:11,20,21). Paul preached this same unity (Eph. 4:4-6). This unity includes teaching the same doctrines in all places (1Cor. 1:10; 4:17). The work of the apostles, prophets, elders, evangelists, and teachers is to bring everyone to a maturity in the unity of the faith (Eph. 4:13-16). Division among brethren is condemned in the Scriptures (1Cor. 1:10-13; Eph. 4:14; 1Cor. 3:3-9; Gal. 1:6-10; 2Jn 9-11).
WORSHIP
There are six important things which must be done to properly worship God. It does make a difference as to what is done in worship. God seeks people that will worship Him, as He has directed (Jn. 4:23,24).
- Singing. One of the most enjoyable parts of worship is that of singing. Christians are to sing in a way to show praise (Jas. 5:13) and adoration to God. Jesus sung hymns (Mt. 26:30). Each person is to sing (Eph. 5:19), and understand what they sing (1Cor. 14:15). This is true because Christians teach one another by their singing (Col. 3:16). While one finds various references to the use of instrumental music in the Old Testament, there is no authorization for its use in the New Testament. New Testament worship is spiritual and is to come from the heart (Jn. 4:23,24; Eph. 5:19).
- Prayer. Jesus taught His disciples how to pray (Mt. 6:5-15). The early church prayed (Ac. 2:42). Christians are to pray in the name of Christ (Col. 3:17). Prayer is to be offered for one another, even for enemies (Mt. 5:44). Prayers are to be offered in faith while practicing forgiveness (Mk. 11:24).
- Giving. The New Testament example of giving upon the first day of the week (1Cor. 16:1,2). Such giving is to be done bountifully, as purposed, and cheerfully (2Cor. 9:6-9). The Old Testament Law of Moses required a tithe (10% of one's income), but the New Testament makes no such requirement. Christians are free to give as much or little as they have purposed to give, in keeping with how they have been blessed (prospered).
- The Lord's Supper. Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper as a memorial to Himself. He wanted His followers to be continually reminded of the great sacrifice that secured their salvation. The Lord's Supper is to be observed every week on the Lord's Day (Ac. 20:7). It is a communion with the Lord and with one another (1Cor. 10:16). The manner in which this Supper is to be observed is outlined in 1Cor. 11:23-24; consisting of eating unleavened bread, and drinking the fruit of the vine. The bread has the spiritual significance of Christ's body, and the fruit of the vine has the spiritual significance of Christ's shed blood.
- Preaching. Because the church is to be busy with evangelism and edification, the preaching of the Word is very important. The early church ceased not to preach and teach the word (Ac. 5:42), they went everywhere doing so (Ac. 8:4). The gospel (the good news) is that Jesus has died, but has also been resurrected (1Cor. 15:1-4). The world is to hear the gospel to be saved by preaching (1Cor. 1:21). Because of the great apostasy (1Tim. 4:1-3), the word is to be preached to keep all faithful and allow sinners to be saved (2Tim. 4:2).
- Fellowship. The early church was devoted to fellowship. Mutual edification and encouragement was a large part of their being together (Ac. 2:42). As brethren gather to worship they are to do so in a way that will bring encouragement and a spirit of love unto good deeds (Heb. 10:24,25).
BENEVOLENCE
The Sunnyside church believes in benevolence. We try to do as much as possible for the people of Macon County. Our benevolence also goes to those of the Sunnyside "family." Widows, widowers, and other members in need receive first priority. Currently, however, the main thrust of the benevolence program is for those outside the church. Food is purchased (both perishable and non-perishable) and given to needy families. Certain restrictions apply to how often a particular family may be helped. Interested people are urged to call the church office.
ANY QUESTIONS?
If you have any further questions about the Sunnyside Road church of Christ you are welcome to e-mail the church office at SRCC821@yahoo.com.