These questions are a guideline for your personal or small group study based on Sunday's sermon passage. Feel free to study and meditate on the passage more deeply. ​

1. In Pastor Randy's introduction, he stated, "The church is the body of Christ, fulfilling God's purposes in the world."  What does it mean that the church is the "body of Christ"?  What are God's purposes?

2. In Matthew 16, we find the first use of the word "church" in the Bible.  The Greek word is ecclesia, which means "assembly" or "gathering".  How does this meaning relate to the church?

3. Pastor Randy used Matthew 16:16-19 to speak about "The Church Founded" as he talked about the foundation of the church.  Is Jesus the cornerstone and foundation of your life?  If not, what changes can you make to allow Jesus to be your foundation?

4. Pastor Randy used 1 Corinthians 12:12-18 to speak about "The Church Functioning".  What do these verses say to you about how the church should function?

5. 1 Corinthians 12:19 poses an important question:  "And if they were all one member, where would the body be?"  How would you respond to that question?  

6. Pastor Randy also posed a question:  "Are you using your gifts as a part of the body of Christ?"  If not, why?

7. What are some of the reasons given in Ephesians 4:11-16 for differing gifts to be given to those in the church?

8. Pastor Randy emphasized Ephesians 4:15-16 "but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head - Christ - from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love."  Are you contributing to the growth and unity in love of the church?  If not, what can you do to contribute?  How can you contribute?  What do you have to offer the body of Christ?

9. You often hear our staff and elders speak about giving of your time, talents, and treasure.  In which of these areas are you currently giving?  In which of these areas are you not?  How can you contribute in each of these areas?

10. As Paul bid farewell in his second letter to the church at Corinth 
(2 Corinthians 13:11-14), may I also close with this challenge and blessing:  "Finally, brethren, farewell.  Become complete.  Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.  Greet one another with a holy kiss.  All the saint greet you.  The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.  Amen."  God Bless You!