What should we restore?
Some of the elements that existed in the church in New Testament times were specific to the first- century and are not important to restore. For example, we do not need to dress in first-century clothing and use oil lamps. However, there are teachings and practices of the original church that were put in place by Jesus' inspired apostles that were meant to be permanent teachings and practices in Christ's church. For example:
- How did people become Christians in the original church? We need to teach people to become Christians in the same way today.
- What did the original church do in its Sunday worship services? We need to include the same things in our worship services today.
- What kind of organization existed in the original church? We need to have the same leadership and structure in the church today.
- What motivated the first Christians to live to please God? We need to develop the same motivation in our daily lives to please God.