The Local Church: What It Is and Why It Matters for Every Christian

by Edward Klink

Overview

In today’s hyperindividualized culture, Edward Klink III not only demonstrates why it’s vital for individuals to connect to a local church, but also reveals why it’s vital to God’s work in the world.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781433571367
Publisher:	Crossway
Publication date:	10/26/2021
Pages:	176
Product dimensions:	5.25(w) x 8.00(h) x 0.36(d)

About the Author

Edward W. Klink III (PhD, University of St. Andrews) is the senior pastor of Hope Evangelical Free Church in Roscoe, Illinois. He previously served as associate professor of New Testament at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. He is the author of several books, including Understanding Biblical Theology and John, a volume in the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament.

Table of Contents

Preface 11

Introduction 15

1 What Isn't the Church? (Problem) 21

2 What Is the Church? (Principle) 39

3 Why Does the Church Exist? (Purpose) 63

4 How Does the Church Function? (Process) 83

5 What Is the Connection between a Christian and a Church? (Participation) 111

6 Twenty Common Questions about the Local Church (Practice) 135

General Index 159

Scripture Index 167

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

“Misconceptions about the nature, purpose, mission, and value of the church abound. Combining a scholar’s mind and a pastor’s heart, Klink reminds us afresh of what the church is and why the local church matters. This book is profoundly biblical, refreshingly accessible, and deeply practical. It is a much-needed, warm-hearted clarion call to understand and embrace God’s purpose for the church in a world that desperately needs the church to be the church.”
—Matthew S. Harmon, Professor of New Testament Studies, Grace College and Theological Seminary; author, Asking the Right Questions

“I can’t think of a better person to write a book on the local church than my friend Edward Klink. Combining a scholar’s head with a pastor’s heart, Klink makes an accessible yet compelling case for the indispensability of the local church in the life of every Christian. This is a marvelous tonic for anyone suffering from ecclesial doldrums. Let it elevate your vision of life together within your local congregation. Highly recommended!”
—Todd Wilson, Cofounder and President, The Center for Pastor Theologians

“Full of biblical insight and pastoral wisdom, The Local Church ties together Jesus and his church. Why do we need the church? What should churches do? How should we behave within her walls? Klink tackles all these questions and more with a theologian’s rigor and a pastor’s heart. A welcome primer for new believers and seasoned pastors alike.”
—Jonty Rhodes, Minister, Christ Church Central Leeds, UK; author, Covenants Made Simple and Man of Sorrows, King of Glory