The Church, para 5

The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding and upholding the foundational structure and functions of a local church as delineated in Scripture. It highlights that the apostles were given authority by Christ to establish churches based on a profession of faith, with church membership requiring more than just a personal confession; it demands visible evidence of God's calling, obedience to His commandments, and willing consent to walk together according to Christ's appointment. The sermon also addresses the concept of church discipline, stressing its necessity within the church body, as well as the need for individual believers to be sanctified and visibly manifest their faith in order to join a local church community. It critiques contemporary practices that bypass these biblical principles, emphasizing the importance of due diligence when welcoming new members into the church fold.