1400 Troy Road
Collinsville, Illinois 62234
618-667-6708
secretary@ctcofc.net
Worship Service 9:30 AM
Bible Classes 11:00 AM
Special Activities 11:50 AM
Bible Class (Adult) 1:30 PM
Bible Classes (All Ages) 7:00 PM
What is a church? Or for that matter, what is a church of Christ? A concise answer as written in the Bible is, a church belonging to Jesus the Christ. After all, Jesus said, "...I will build my church" (Matthew 16:18). The church of Christ then, is a church that belongs to Christ, a church that was built by Christ. But what does a church of Christ look like? She preaches the Word. She preaches Jesus. Come and see (John 1:29).
We are: A 21st Century church following God's first century pattern in worship. Proclaiming the Good News (1 Corinthians 15:1, 2) and caring through local evangelism and supporting national and international missions.
We worship God in the simple manner of the New Testament scriptures. We worship because, "... true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him" (John 4:23).
We are Christians: ...the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch (Acts 11:26).
Come join us, for reverent worship to God.
Just off Interstate 55/70 at Exit 17 in Troy, Ilinois, is a nondenominational congregation of Christians who base their worship, service, and life on the principles found in the Holy Bible. We follow no creed but Christ, no manual but the Bible, and no spiritual authority but God. When you visit you will not participate in an entertainment-oriented exercise, but in a God-centered worship patterned after the truth and simplicity of New Testament worship (John 4:23). We strive to follow Paul's instruction, "And whatsoever ye do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him" (Colossians 3:17).
Therefore, when we assemble on the first day of the week, prayers of praise and adoration will be offered to God, as well as prayers of request (1 Corinthians 14:15). All are encouraged to sing songs of praise to God, that also encourage one another, as New Testament Christians did (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). We participate in communion (the Lord's supper) as the early church did (Acts 20:7). Those who are members contribute of their monetary means (no bake, rummage, or other sales) to support the work of the Lord (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Non-members are not expected to give.
The preacher will preach from God's word, as Paul did at the Troas church (Acts 20:7). At the close of the sermon, the preacher will offer the opportunity for anyone to respond publicly who has a spiritual request, such as to be baptized or to have prayers of encouragement. Life can be difficult.
Come join us for reverent worship to God. Come to focus on God's word, find the truth, follow the Lord.
Let's talk about heaven. We all want to go there, right? God wants you to be there. So do we. The place to start the straight talk:
"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Mark 10:36-37).
Of all the words we ever listened to, of all we ever want to be, will any of it matter if we aren't saved the New Testament way? Here it is straight from the New Testament. What must I do to be saved?
(Hover over the below verse to see the text.)
6. Sins washed away (now saved, forgiven) through baptism (Acts 22:16)And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.'
And that's the Bible truth. So, after we heard it all and done it all, here is what really counts: (Ecclesiates 12:13-14).
Sharing the Good News: We present Jesus' hope and encouragement through the message of the scriptures by articles (see right side), door-knocking campaigns, tracts, and pamphlets distribution (House to House, Heart to Heart). Look outside. One may be in your mailbox or hanging on your doorknob. Jesus makes the difference. Read all about Him.
Sharing in the Work: The Far East and Russia. Apologetics Press. In Search of the Lord's Way, Gospel Broadcast Network. Potter Children's Home. Shults Lewis Child & Family Services. Spanish Ministry of the West End Church of Christ. Supporting and encouraging students at preacher training schools....
"The fool says in his heart, 'There is not God.'" Psalm 14:1, ESV
In last week's article we began to discuss arguments for God's existence. We focused on the incredible sophistication and complexity of DNA. This week we will look at the other side of the argument. Why do so many deny the existence of God even though there seems to be ample evidence of intelligent design? Different people will offer different answers and objections. Some are scientific others are philosophical. We will focus on one of the more common philosophical objections to God - suffering.
The argument is that if God truly exists and is all loving then there should be no suffering. Since there is suffering either God does not exist, or He is not loving. How can we answer this question? Why would a loving God allow suffering?
First, I would want to consider the fact that God created us as free moral agents. Throughout scripture we see this concept. Adam and Eve had a choice (Genesis 2-3). The people of Israel had a choice (Joshua 24:15). We all have a choice. Unfortunately, many people choose evil which often has a profoundly negative impact on those around them. God gives us the freedom of choice, but we must own up to the consequences of our choices.
