About Us
At the Seneca church of Christ, we are committed to following the commandments and examples found in the New Testament.
The church was established by Jesus Christ, who is recognized as the Messiah in Matthew 16:18. As such, we adhere solely to the teachings found in Scripture, without any man-made creeds or doctrines. The Church's foundation in Jerusalem was in accordance with the prophecy of Isaiah 2:3 and was realized as described in Acts 2:5-47, on the day of Pentecost, which is detailed in Acts 2.
As Jesus Christ is the founder and head of the church, we exclusively use the name church of Christ. The church is referred to as the Bride of Christ in Romans 7:4, Ephesians 5:23, and Revelation 21:9. Scripture also mentions members as the Body of Christ in Colossians 1:18 and Ephesians 1:23, and as Churches of Christ in Matthew 16:18 and Romans 16:16. Additionally, Paul mentions the Church of God in his epistles, always in the context of teaching about the church established by Jesus Christ. The followers are known as:
Disciples John 15:8 and Acts 11:26
Saints Romans 1:7; 1Corinthians 1:2; Philippians 1:1
Brethren Luke 8:21 and Galatians 6:1
Children of God Galatians 3:26 and 1John 2:1
Christians Acts 11:26 and 1Peter 4:16
In searching the scriptures, one will not find mention of the names commonly associated with prominent religious groups. Church leadership is decentralized, with each congregation being autonomous. Jesus is acknowledged as the Head, as stated in Ephesians 1:22 and 5:23. Local congregations are governed by individuals known as elders, shepherds, overseers, bishops, or pastors, all terms from the Bible that refer to the same role within the congregation. Generally, these leaders are referred to as elders, a position outlined in Titus 1:5 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7.
Elders receive assistance in their local duties from deacons, whose work and qualifications are detailed in Acts 6:1-6 and 1 Timothy 3:8-17.
The local preacher, minister, or evangelist does not hold ultimate authority. His function is to teach, admonish, and uplift the congregation. He is not addressed as reverend or pastor.
The churches of Christ adhere to no global organization or regional leadership bodies. No individual or group on earth holds the authority to modify or govern any assembly of practicing Christians. Our strict guidance comes from the Scriptures, Matthew 7:13-14, Deuteronomy 4:2; 12:32, Proverbs 30:5-6, and Revelation 22:18-19.
