When you come to the Highland Church of Christ, we hope you feel very welcome and comfortable to make it easier for you let me tell you what to expect when you visit the Highland Church of Christ.
Background
The New Testament Church was established on the day of Pentecost in Jerusalem according to Acts 1&2. Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church (Colossians 1:18, Eph.5:23). Today as Christians, we strive to practice only what is authorized in the Bible (The Word of God) as Christ intended it to be.
In Worship
When you enter our building you will soon enter what is commonly referred to as the auditorium. This is where we conduct our Worship service, there are no reserved seats feel free to sit anywhere you chose. Worship service is conducted on the first day of the week (Sunday) according to instructions in the Bible.
Singing
We Start our worship with "A cappella" Singing, there are no Musical Instruments, this is a Commandment in the Bible not just a preference, we only worship according to the New Testament pattern. Musical Instruments were available in the First century but they were never used during worship. Since the New Testament leaves Instrumental music out, we exclude it also. (1 Corinthians 14:15, Eph 5:18-19, Colossians 3:16, Heb 2:12)
Prayer
There will also be several prayers during worship service. This is how we talk to the Lord (James 1:5-8,Acts 4:24-31,Matthew 6:4-6, Colossians 4:12,James 5:16-17,Matthew 21:22,John 14:13,Romans 1:8,Colossians 3:17, James 1:5-8,Matthew 6:12,James 5:14-16,Matthew 5:11 and Matthew 6:10)
Lords Supper
If you visit us on a Sunday morning, The Lords Supper will be included in the worship service, because the Church of Christ observes this memorial EVERY Sunday. Christ Instituted the Lords Supper prior to his arrest and eventual crucifixion. The purpose is to remember HIS sacrifice, it’s a memorial to HIS death (Luke 22:19-20) Jesus himself said "do this in remembrance of me" which is our desire to follow New Testament teaching. The First century church celebrated this observance every first day of the week (Acts 20:7) Unleavened bread will be passed throughout the congregation, The bread symbolizes the body of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 11:23-25) Every Christian will partake. There will also be small cups containing "the fruit of the vine" this symbolizes the blood of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 11:23-25) Every Christian will partake.
The Offering
After the Lords Supper trays will be passed to collect the financial offering (1 Corinthians 16:12, 2 Corinthians 9:6-9) this offering is used to continue work for the church which includes such things as helping the needy and supporting our minister.
Preaching
A sermon from Gods word will be delivered to the congregation by David Fox. This provides an opportunity for every person to learn what the Bible teaches. It also allows one to be encouraged to live a faithful life (Acts 20:7) you may notice the Minister doesn’t have a title, he will probably be referred to as Brother or by his first name , his goal is to preach the Gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15) Preach to every nation (Matthew 28:19) Preach the Gospel to the lost (Acts 5:42) he should edify and exhort the church ( 2 timothy 4:2, Eph. 4:11-12) many of these responsibilities apply to All Christians.
Invitation
As the Sermon comes to a close, the minister will extend an invitation to those who realize the need to make a commitment to Christ or request Prayer, He will encourage those who wish to respond to come to the front of the auditorium, while the Congregation sings a hymn. Some may for Baptism, some to confess public sin, prayer on their behalf for forgiveness, some may ask for prayers for another specific need. If anyone responds for Baptism, you will witness the baptism during this service. The Baptism will be by immersion for the remission of sins (Acts 8:35-39, Romans 6:3-4, Colossians 2:1 2, Acts 2:38)
What will be expected of you?
Absolutely nothing, as a visitor you are welcome and encouraged to participate, but do not feel obligated to do so. You may be asked to fill out a visitors card this provides information so the congregation can write to thank you for visiting. Supply the info only if you feel comfortable doing so, its ok if you wish not to.
We also offer a Free Bible Correspondence Course if you want to receive this just simply sign the Guest book and request it.