Have you ever wanted to know more of what the Bible says about the church? These six studies are deceptively short, simple, and clear. Each one can be read quickly, but if you really delve into them checking the Scriptures, working through the Bible studies, thinking through the reflection questions you will find a rich study resource. The Bible Themes resource at the end is a useful alphabetical listing of key Bible themes that gives practical and teaching help along with Scripture references. The see also cross references are linked within the section. You can use this ebook for personal Bible study or for group study. The church of Jesus Christ is the whole company of redeemed people. It is an organism rather than an organization, a living fellowship rather than mere buildings, a close family rather than a collection of individuals. Throughout its 2,000-year history, the church's survival has been in question. It has been written off by critics. It has been persecuted and oppressed. It has been divided by contentious schisms. It has been plagued by heresies. It has been weakened by prosperity and popularity. And although it has taken many forms, it has always survived. In these studies we will learn of its characteristics, its nature and mission, its relationship to Christ, its authority, and its ordinances.
