Church: What is it?

There is no shortage of critiques that have been leveled at the church, Christians, and the state of Christianity in the West. One doesn't have to look far to hear the latest confession, blog, book, or article telling a tale of disenchantment with the local church.

"I want Jesus but not the Church!"

Many have rejected the morality taught in churches and don't want other Christians "judging them" if they are living like a nonchristian.  On the other hand, the same critics will say churches are full of hypocrites. Many are advocating for the need to walk away from organized religion into a fuller more satisfying Christian life based on the pursuit of your personalized spiritual needs and interests.

This Sunday, we will consider how the church as the body of Christ is to function in the healthiest way. How clear is the Bible's teaching regarding the importance of the local church and how it is to function?