The Authority of the Church: Communion

Grace Bible Church of Bend

The Authority of the Church: Communion

February 6, 2022 • Pastor Phil Kooistra

In this sermon from our church series, Pastor Phil looks at the authority of the church in communion. The Lord has given communion as an ongoing way for the church to affirm his followers. It is a visual proclamation of the gospel and the unity of the body of Christ, is an ongoing sign of the New Covenant, and is an anticipation of the return of Christ and his kingdom. From our Sunday service at Grace Bible Church of Bend.

The Authority of the Church: Church Discipline

February 13, 2022 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Matthew 18:15–20

In this final sermon from our church series, Pastor Phil focuses on the issue of church discipline. Church discipline involves intensive discipleship and loving correction. It should be motivated by love and obedience to the Lord, should follow Christ’s instructions from Matthew 18, and should always have the goal of repentance and restoration to the redeemed community. From our Sunday service at Grace Bible Church of Bend.

The Authority of the Church: Baptism

January 30, 2022 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Matthew 28:18–20

In this sermon, Pastor Phil looks at the authority of the church in regard to baptism. Baptism declares that we belong to Christ, that we have been cleansed from sin, that we have escaped the judgment of God, and that we are part of God’s church. It is the church’s role not only to baptize, but to provide discipleship and to take responsibility for these believers. From our Sunday service at Grace Bible Church of Bend.

Responsibilities of Members

January 23, 2022 • Pastor Phil Kooistra

In this final sermon on the leadership of the church, we look at the responsibilities of church members. The church has the responsibility to proclaim the gospel, and the authority to determine who is part of the church and who leads it. Jesus delegated his authority to churches rather than individuals, and he holds these churches accountable as one. From our Sunday service at Grace Bible Church of Bend.