Many people fall into the trap of thinking one church of Christ is just like another. They think what one practices and preaches is the same as what the others do too. They think what one practices and preaches is the same as all the others. However, when one investigates, he will find that not all “churches of Christ” are the same.
First, there are a few churches of Christ (by name) in Kentucky and Indiana who adhere to Premillennialism. They believe Christ will return and sit upon David’s literal throne in the city of Jerusalem for 1,000 years. This is contrary to Peter’s sermon on the Pentecost when he clearly declared Christ to be on David’s throne at that time (Acts 2:14-36). Also, this denies the fact that the heavens and earth will be destroyed and dissolved when the Lord comes back (2 Pet. 3:10-13). Some “churches of Christ” believe and teach this error, but we do not. There is a difference.
Next, one may notice that some churches of Christ (by name) engage in “fun, food, and frolic.” That is, they are caught up in the social gospel. Some have kitchens and dining halls, while others have gymnasiums and ball teams. This goes against the Bible’s stated nature and purpose of the church to be “the pillar and ground of the truth,” not the promoter and upholder of the hoop (1 Tim. 3:15). Some “churches of Christ” have turned their congregation into meat and drink, but not us (Rom. 14:17; cp. 1 Cor. 11:34). There is a difference.
Further, when one inquires, he will discover that some churches of Christ (by name) operate businesses. For instance, the Central church of Christ, here in Lufkin, runs a Day-Care, while others, like ourselves, do not. We do not engage in such things because the Bible does not authorize it. We stick to what God has authorized the church to do: preach to the lost (1 Thess. 1:7-9); build up the saints (Eph. 4:12-16); and help the needy saints (1 Cor. 16:1-2). We do not enter into enterprises for which we cannot give a “thus saith the Lord.” Therefore, a distinction needs to be made between us and them. There is a difference.
We ask you to investigate the Loop 287 church of Christ. See if it is what the Bible reveals a church should be. If we ARE NOT, then please correct us. If we ARE, then won’t you study with us about being a New Testament Christian and a member of a church which seeks to do God’s will only (1 Pet. 4:11)?
Steven F. Deaton
