The importance of local church

The importance of local church is shown in the teaching of the New Testament.

In Matthew 16:18 Jesus says to Peter "I will build my church", and to settle disputes Jesus teaches that if nothing else prevails we are to "tell it to the church".

The importance of the local church is its purpose, the reason it was called into being. What is a local church? It may be defined as " a community of believers ordained by God in a given locality. Meeting together for worship, mutual edification and service, relating together in submission to the lordship of Christ under a local leadership."

There is some level of accountability to God as Father, there is also some responsibility, but all this must be seen in the light of our new relationship (see church life page ). The belief of the local church inspires unity and harmony with in the church (see statement of faith).

The aim is to create friendships through which churches find sustenance and the kingdom of God is expanded