About
The Character of the Church explores what the church is fundamentally like. Useful for training in membership classes, discipleship groups, and elder boards - and even for devotional reading - The Character of the Church is at once theological, practical, and experiential. Readers will not simply be informed, but led to a deeper appreciation of the church of God. For a local church to actually be a church, certain marks are essential. A church that follows the apostles' pattern is one where: The word of God is faithfully preached; The sacraments are rightly administered; Leadership is biblically formed and functioning, Discipline is practiced with grace; The mission of the church is shared by all. Drawing from Scripture, theology, and church history, Joe Thorn expounds each of these in detail, yet leading readers to clear understanding. A book for laymen, The Character of the Church helps Christians know plainly what makes a church a church, and how to conduct themselves accordingly.