IntroductionThe Church of Christ is the body of Christ. The church began its history in the first century AD. In Matthew 16:15-18, Christ said to Peter, “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16:15) And Peter response was “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:16).

And so, Christ announces His Church by saying, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” (Matthew 16:15-18). The rock is interpreted as truth or foundation.  The foundation of the Lord’s Church is built on the fact that Christ is the Son of the Living God.

During his journey on earth, Christ selected twelve apostles to usher in the continuing growth and development of the Church’s doctrine and structure. Christ commissioned them and all Christians when he said:

“ALL AUTHORITY IN HEAVEN AND ON EARTH HAS BEEN GIVEN TO ME. THEREFORE, GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS, BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER AND OF THE SON AND OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, AND TEACHING THEM TO OBEY EVERYTHING I HAVE COMMANDED YOU. AND SURELY, I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, TO THE VERY END OF THE AGE.” (MATTHEW 28:19-20)

Through the inspiration of God, the Bible was written for the training and guidance of the church, in the bible we find a clear pattern for the church. (II Timothy 3:16-17)