On October 6, 1974, Brother Stephen Kaung delivered a ministry in Richmond, Virginia, focusing on the First Letter to Timothy, specifically Chapter 3, verse 15. He emphasized that the church is not an organization but an organism, with Christ's life as its governing principle. The church's government arises from life, not from human systems. Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus address local church governance, while the universal church is governed by Christ. Stephen highlighted Timothy's background, noting his upbringing by godly women and his spiritual growth. He explained that Timothy was a disciple who followed Christ, demonstrating discipline and humility. The church, as God's house, is a dwelling place for Him, built for His purpose and characterized by spiritual sacrifices. Stephen stressed the importance of understanding the church as the assembly of the living God, which is called out and gathered under Christ's name. The church serves as a pillar and base of truth, testifying to Christ. He concluded by urging believers to learn how to conduct themselves in God's house, recognizing the high calling of being part of the church.
Introduction to the ministry and focus on First Timothy 3:15
The church as an organism, not an organization
Paul's letters addressing local church governance
Timothy's background and spiritual growth
The church as God's house and dwelling place
Understanding the church as the assembly of the living God
The church as the pillar and base of truth
Call to conduct oneself appropriately in God's house
15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
6 But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.
14 Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.
18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.