Grace Assembly 09 9

Our final address was given by Phil Arthur from Lancaster. He began by referring to the case of Dr Lloyd-Jones and his 'crazy' move to Aberafan. Phil can identify having left teaching for a northern backwater. Has he too thrown his life away? It all depends on your view of the local church.

He then took us to 1 Timothy 3:14-16. After putting things in context he spoke appropriately on what the church is and what it is for. No doubt much of it was based on what he has preached in Lancaster in the past. Phil's audio sermons on 1 Timothy can be found here.
The church is, of course, God's household, the church of the living God and the pillar and foundation of the truth (1 Tim 3:15). Phil was eloquent on the importance of the local church. When one is absent from a community the impact is devastating.

As for what the church is for we turn to verse 16. Paul speaks of the mystery of godliness being great. Mystery here is, of course, God's revealed plan of salvation. In Ephesus they spoke of Diana being great but the really great message to hold up is the gospel, summed up here in six short statements. There is some debate about how the statements for together but the main point is clear - proclaim Christ.

He appeared in a body the incarnation
was vindicated by the Spirit at many points but especially in the resurrection
was seen by angels, as he ascended, especially
was preached among the nations, beginning at Jerusalem
was believed on in the world,
was taken up in glory probably not the ascension but the return of Christ.
It was good to be reminded of these vital truths stressing the importance of the local church and calling us to press on in proclaiming the gospel for the honour of Jesus Christ.