God's Church is people born again into His family from all ages, races, cultures and lands, bound by shared beliefs, faithfulness to God, devotion to one another and Jesus as our Lord and Savior.

1. Began with Devotion
   (Acts 2:42-47)
• Teaching, fellowship, prayer and meals in homes
• Awe, praise of God, sharing and added numbers
  Should we strive for such devotion in churches today?
2. Is Built on Jesus Christ
   (Read Ephesians 2:19-21)
• The family of God on the cornerstone of Christ (Colossians 1:18)
• The foundation: Apostles and prophets
  How does one make sure that the foundation is correct?
3. Has Clear Family Guidelines
   (Read Ephesians 4:1-16)
• All are called to be humble, gentle and patient
• Guidelines (7) define the core convictions of the church
  
  
  
  
• Jesus gave gifts to prepare the church for unity, knowledge, maturity and fullness
• God designed the body to have boundaries in order to protect His family against external forces
• He defined the family to be protected from craftiness. Where do lures usually come from?
• The body matures as each member does his or her part with the goal—grow up into Christ
  What part of this directive stands out to you?
4. Has Many Parts
   (Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-27)
• All members come into the body of Christ through baptism/Spirit
• Each member is unique and fulfills a crucial role; nobody is unwanted or not needed
• Each member needs others and must accept those who are different
• In the church, there will be an assortment of strengths, weaknesses, age-groups, backgrounds, ethnicities and appearances
5. Has Responsibilities
   (Read Romans 12:1-8)
• Using your "different gifts" to build up the body
• Read 1 Corinthians 9:7-14. Giving—members give to support gospel ministers, expenses, the poor, etc.
• Read Hebrews 10:19-25. Meeting together—the privilege of "access" leads to purpose, encouragement and spurring one another
• Etc. (taking care of the needy, serving each other, carrying out the great commission, help one another in various life challenges)
  How does the thought of responsibly giving your time and resources to Christ’s church sound to you?

Do you desire to be part of the church intended by God?

Further Reading:

• 1 Corinthians 3:1-9—Unity vs. division  
• Hebrews 3:12-14—Daily encouragement
• Romans 15:1-7, 14—One heart/mind
• 2 Corinthians 8-9—Other needs