God’s Eternal Purpose Being Realized through the Local Churches

To Head Up All Things in Christ

Concerning the authority given by Christ to the local church, Watchman Nee states:

When Christ was on earth He referred to the church two times—in Matthew 16 and Matthew 18. In the first instance, He referred to the universal church, and in the second instance, He referred to the local church. In speaking of the authority of the local church, He said, “If he refuses to hear the church also, let him be to you just like the Gentile and the tax collector” (18:17). This verse shows us that the authority of the church is derived from its representation of Christ. Christ has given His authority to the church and authorized the church to execute His will on earth.

(Watchman Nee, Mystery of Christ, 61-62)

Again, Watchman Nee clearly says:

The local church declares the headship of Christ.

(Watchman Nee, Mystery of Christ, 62)

In conclusion, Watchman Nee reminds us that the universal church, expressed as local churches, receives her authority from Christ Himself. The clear commission from the Lord to His church is to represent Him by expressing Him and to execute His will on earth. This commission is carried out practically in the local church.

God’s Purpose

Corporate Body

Displaying God’s Wisdom

Satan’s Defeat

Expressing God through Sonship

Heading Up All Things

Bibliography

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