Montrose, Colorado

Rev. Willis A. (Bert) Jones, a country preacher

February 2, 2015

The Church, the Body of Jesus Christ, just what is it? It was not "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints." Nor is the protestant, nor catholic churches of today. So just what was it?

"From Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus-To all God's people in Philippi who are in union with Christ Jesus, including the church leaders and helpers: May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace." --Philippians 1:1-2 (TEV)

The true local churches of Jesus Christ were house churches with traveling evangelists, prophets and teachers along with the local Elders that led the local congregations in discipleship and worship. Among these leaders were Phillip, Paul, Peter and John. Each local congregation would be made up of one to several house churches.

The church, established by Jesus himself really became a reality on the day of Pentecost following Jesus' resurrection. Fifty days after the resurrection, the Holy Spirit (God) filled the people during a prayer meeting in the upper room. Then they gave praises in many unknown languages. This became the prayer language of the Early Church as each new member became filled with the Holy Spirit.

This Church did not vote on everything, but prayed until they came to a common understanding or God's will and then followed the Spirit in action. The Elders lead the congregation in prayer worship and action.

Our mission: pray for the leadership in your church, as will I for the leaders in my church.