The marks of a New Testament church, drawn from the Scriptures.
It is a local, independent, and self-governing congregation with all its members being equal.Acts 6:3-5; 15:22
Its Head and Founder is Jesus Christ.Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 1:22, 23; 5:23
Its only rule of faith and practice is the Bible.II Timothy 3:16, 17; Colossians 2:5-8; Matthew 28:20
Its members are only baptized believers who walk in the commandments of the Lord.Acts 2:41, 47
Its officers are pastors and deacons.1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9
Its ordinances are Believer's baptism followed by the Lord's Supper.Mark 16:16; Luke 22:17-20; 1 Corinthians 11:1, 2, 23-26
Its work is to make disciples, baptize them, and teach them to the glory of God throughout all ages.Matthew 28:18-20; Ephesians 3:21
Its support is of tithes and offerings.1 Corinthians 16:1, 2; Malachi 3:10
It is independent and separate of state, of any religious society, and of the world.Matthew 22:21; II Thessalonians 3:6; 1 Corinthians 5:9-13
Its weapons of warfare are spiritual and not carnal.II Corinthians 10:4; Ephesians 6:10-18
It will teach the succession of the New Testament Churches from the time of Christ unto the present day, and they will continue on until the Head of the church, Jesus Christ, returns for her.Ephesians 3:21; Revelation 3:11
