Bernard Waites
Today one of the outstanding features of the Churches of Christ lies in the acceptance of the Bible as a true and completely adequate revelation. This basic concept has resulted in such characteristic practices as weekly observance of the Lord's Supper, baptism by immersion, a ca****la singing, a vigorous prayer life, support of church needs through voluntary giving, and a program
of preaching and teaching the Bible. This concept also explains the autonomy of local churches, governed by elders and deacons appointed under New Testament qualifications, dignified worship services, enthusiastic mission campaigns, and far-flung benevolent programs all financed by the local churches. The great scriptural doctrines usually classified as "conservative" are received in the Churches of Christ, including the concept of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost as members of one Godhead; the incarnation, virgin birth, and bodily resurrection of Christ; the universality of sin after the age of accountability and its only remedy in the vicarious atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ. Strong emphasis is also laid on the church as the body and bride of Christ. A figurative rather than a literal view is prevalent with reference to the book of Revelation. Membership is contingent upon the faith of the individual in Jesus Christ as the only begotten Son of God, repentance, confession of faith, and baptism by immersion into Christ for the remission of sins. Church attendance is stressed.
