Church 15 & Church 16

Summary

The sermon emphasizes that Jesus Christ is the direct and sole head of each local church, rejecting hierarchical structures or external authorities over local congregations. It underscores the biblical pattern of church governance consisting of members, pastors (also called elders, bishops, teachers), and deacons, with no apostles existing today as they must have witnessed the resurrected Christ. The responsibility for maintaining doctrinal purity and church oversight rests primarily on the local church and its leaders, especially pastors, who must faithfully follow Scripture. The message calls for churches to adhere strictly to the New Testament model and rely on Jesus as their head without human additions or organizations.