Changing the pattern of the new testament church

The New Testament Church, as described in the Bible, was a unique and dynamic community that was characterized by several key patterns and practices. While the Church has undergone many changes and developments throughout history, there are some aspects of the New Testament Church's pattern that are still relevant and valuable for us today. Here are some of the key patterns and practices of the New Testament Church that are worth considering:

1. The centrality of Jesus Christ: The New Testament Church was centered on Jesus Christ, who was the focal point of their worship, teaching, and community life. This emphasis on Christ is still essential for the Church today.
2. The authority of Scripture: The New Testament Church was deeply committed to the authority of Scripture, which was the primary source of guidance and instruction for the early Christians. This commitment to Scripture remains essential for the Church today.
3. The importance of community: The New Testament Church was a community of believers who were deeply committed to one another. They shared their resources, supported one another, and were willing to sacrifice for the good of the community. This emphasis on community is still essential for the Church today.
4. The role of elders and deacons: The New Testament Church had a leadership structure that included elders (also known as overseers or bishops) and deacons. These leaders were responsible for guiding the church, caring for the poor, and overseeing the daily operations of the church. This leadership structure is still relevant today.
5. The importance of prayer and worship: The New Testament Church was a community that was deeply committed to prayer and worship. They gathered regularly for prayer, singing, and the Lord's Supper, and they recognized the importance of these practices for their spiritual growth and well-being. This emphasis on prayer and worship remains essential for the Church today.
6. The role of evangelism and missions: The New Testament Church was a missionary church that was committed to spreading the gospel to all nations. This emphasis on evangelism and missions remains essential for the Church today.
7. The importance of simplicity and humility: The New Testament Church was characterized by simplicity and humility. They did not seek to accumulate wealth or power, but rather sought to live simply and humbly, recognizing that all they had was a gift from God. This emphasis on simplicity and humility is still relevant today.

Some of the ways that the pattern of the New Testament Church can be changed or modified to fit the needs of contemporary Christianity include:

1. Adapting to cultural context: The New Testament Church was a Jewish church that was deeply rooted in Jewish culture and tradition. As the Church spread to other cultures and contexts, it was necessary to adapt the pattern of the Church to fit the new cultural context. This is still the case today, as the Church seeks to be relevant and effective in a rapidly changing world.
2. Embracing diversity: The New Testament Church was a diverse community that included people from different ethnic and social backgrounds. Today, the Church is even more diverse, and it is essential that we learn to appreciate and celebrate this diversity.
3. Seeking to be relevant and effective: The New Testament Church was a dynamic and effective community that was able to reach people and make a positive impact on their world. Today, the Church must continue to seek to be relevant and effective in a rapidly changing world.
4. Embracing innovation and creativity: The New Testament Church was a community that was willing to innovate and try new things. Today, the Church must be willing to do the same, embracing new technologies, strategies, and approaches that can help us to reach people and make a positive impact on our world.

In conclusion, while the pattern of the New Testament Church is still relevant and valuable today, it is also important to recognize that the Church must be willing to adapt and change in order to remain relevant and effective in a rapidly changing world. By embracing diversity, seeking to be relevant and effective, and embracing innovation and creativity, we can continue to build on the foundation of the New Testament Church and make a positive impact on our world.