Most people claim that we do not have to be members of the church to be saved. If they mean a member of some denomination, they are exactly right. But, if they mean the blood-purchased church of the New Testament, they are dead wrong. Membership in Christ's church is essential to salvation.

First, every spiritual blessing is in Christ (Ephesians 1:3). How can one be saved apart from every spiritual blessing.?

Second, it is the church that Jesus saved (purchased) with His blood. Church members were bought with blood (Acts 20:28). Surely God did not allow Jesus to die for something that was non-essential. The church is the only thing bought with blood; therefore, those not in this blood-bought church are lost.

Third, Paul said Christ is the Savior of the body, the church (Ephesians 5:23; 1:22-23). He is not the Savior of those outside.

Fourth, Paul argues that we are reconciled (brought back together with God) in the one body (the church) by the cross. in no other relationship is one reconciled to God.

Fifth, the church is that group of people that Jesus is to present to Himself (Ephesians 5:27). If man is saved, he is added to the church, and is in a position to be presented to Jesus as one who belongs to Him

Sixth, since the church is the family of God, to say one can be saved outside the church is the same as saying one can be saved without being a member of God's family (1 Timothy 3: 15).

Seventh, if one is not in the kingdom (the church), one is still in the power of darkness. God had delivered the Colossians "from the power of darkness, and has translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son" (Colossians 1: 13). This "translation" is another way of saying these had been born again, of water and the spirit (John 3:3-5).

When people today do exactly what people did in New Testament times to become Christians, they are added to the church Being a member of the church represents one's spiritual covenant relationship with Christ.

Our annual “Cupid’s Café” fellowship (where the men prepare the meal for the ladies) is scheduled for next Sunday. Men, if you have not yet signed-up to provide either some of the ingredients and/or labor (cooking, serving, etc.) – please do so today, on the list posted on the bulletin board in the foyer.

Our hearts go out in sympathy to the family and friends of brother Sam McCampbell, who died on Thursday evening (Feb. 3rd). He was 87 years old and in a Nursing Home in Hermitage, Tennessee. The McCampbells were members here at Orange Street for many years and winter visitors for several years thereafter. The funeral and burial will be in Tennessee. There is a sympathy card for all who wish to sign it in the foyer.

Mother's Meeting
All of our mothers of small children and our expectant mothers are asked to meet in assembly room “B” after the PM services this evening to discuss the nursery facilities here at the building. Your attendance will be appreciated.

Youth Devotional
The monthly teen devo and fellowship is scheduled for this evening after services. See Matt Faneuf for mor details.

Life is very much like war. Wars are not usually won by a single battle. But battle after battle must be fought before the victory is won. In a way, some of those are lost, but victory belongs to those who win the last battle.