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The Other Side of God · Lesson 09

Why I Believe in the ChurchPart II

Ephesians 1:22–23 · Matthew 16:18

A complete manuscript curriculum lesson from the preserved writings of Rev. Dr. Tony Lloyd Lewis — structured for study, leadership development, and theological reflection.

Chapter Outline · All Chapters
  1. 01. Avoiding the Perils of Popularity
  2. 02. How to Win the War That Is Raging in My Soul
  3. 03. Why I Believe in the Church
  4. 04. The Lord of the Leftovers
  5. 05. Living Life in the Second Mile Lane
  6. 06. The Religion of a Strange Woman
  7. 07. Avoiding the Perils of Popularity (Part II)
  8. 08. How to Win the War That Is Raging in My Soul (Part II)
  9. 09. Why I Believe in the Church (Part II)
  10. 10. The Lord of the Leftovers (Part II)
  11. 11. The Joy Counters
  12. 12. The Other Side of God
  13. 13. The Other Judas
I. Chapter Overview

The central movement of this lesson

This segment explores the identity of Jesus as the foundation of the Church and characterizes the Church as a divine institution engaged in a spiritual mission. By examining Jesus' query at Caesarea Philippi and his mission of redemption, the text argues that the Church transcends secular concerns to address ultimate, eternal issues. It concludes by defining the Church as an offensive force, empowered by the resurrection, that operates under Christ's absolute headship.

II. Theological Themes

Doctrine and Kingdom emphasis

  1. The identity and supremacy of Jesus Christ
  2. The foundation and authority of the Church
  3. Spiritual warfare and the offensive nature of the Church
  4. Ultimate versus temporal issues
  5. The peril of intellectual and religious curiosity
  6. Divinity vs. human-instituted religion
III. Scripture Focus

Biblical texts in view

  1. Matthew 16:13-18
  2. Luke 9
  3. Matthew 24
  4. Malachi 4:5
  5. Jeremiah 20:8-9
  6. Hebrews 13:8
  7. 1 Corinthians 15:14
  8. Acts 1:3
  9. Acts 1:9-11
IV. Teaching Points

Homiletical and theological insights

  1. The Church is built upon the truth of Christ's identity, not on human leaders.
  2. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever; He does not change with the times.
  3. The Church is a divine institution designed by God, not an organization created or owned by human ambition.
  4. We are called to move from the 'Now' of worldly concerns to the 'Not Yet' of eternity.
  5. The gates of hell represent a fortress that the Church is divinely authorized to breach through its rescue mission.
  6. The resurrection is the historical and essential foundation upon which all Christian faith rests.
V. Leadership Lessons

Formation for Kingdom leaders

  1. Effective leadership requires withdrawing from public success for prayer rather than seeking recognition.
  2. True ministry is not governed by public opinion polls or trends.
  3. Leaders must shift the focus from what 'people say' to personal conviction and confession.
  4. A leader must not be deterred by temporary failure, as persistence leads to development.
  5. Leaders must recognize they are stewards, not owners, of the work God builds.
VI. Ministry Applications

How the lesson moves into practice

  1. Practice intentional retreats from public accolades after ministry successes to cultivate intimacy with God.
  2. Evaluate ministry programs to ensure they address ultimate, eternal needs rather than just humanitarian or social ones.
  3. Foster a culture of ownership that honors Christ as the only Founder, discouraging individuals from claiming personal rights over the congregation.
  4. Encourage members to move beyond curiosity and public opinion to a personal declaration of faith in Christ.
  5. Model an offensive, outward-focused mission to rescue those trapped in despair, rather than maintaining a defensive posture within church walls.
Study Tools

Reflection & Study Notes

  1. Why is a correct theological understanding of who Jesus is essential to salvation?
  2. How does the identity of the Church as a 'divine work' change how we relate to our local congregations?
  3. What is the difference between an 'ultimate' issue and an 'important' issue in the context of ministry?
  4. In what ways does the Church function as an offensive force rather than a defensive one?
  5. How can contemporary leaders avoid the trap of seeking kudos after accomplishing meaningful success?
Related Kingdom Lessons

Sermons that carry this chapter's thread

Sermons from the Rev. Dr. Tony Lloyd Lewis Legacy Learning Series that carry the same Kingdom threads.

The absolute necessity of spiritual regeneration to enter and live within the Kingdom of God, transcending worldly achievements and religious observances.

Ye Must Be Born Again

John 3:7, with supporting references to John 1:29, John 7:50, and 2 Corinthians 4:4.

This sermon dissects a foundational Christian doctrine, the new birth, arguing for its indispensable nature over external religiosity or social standing. It challenges listeners to move beyond superficial adherence to faith to experience a transformative inner change, offering both a spiritual and practical framework for understanding true discipleship and Kingdom living.

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The assertive pursuit of deliverance from spiritual oppression through unwavering faith in Jesus, leading to transformation within the home.

Get The Hell Out Of My House

Matthew 15:21-28

This sermon powerfully addresses the omnipresent reality of spiritual warfare within the sanctity of the home, providing a clear, actionable path to confront and overcome demonic influence. It challenges complacency in parenting and spiritual leadership, urging a 'bulldogged determination' rooted in faith rather than worldly solutions. The profound message of the Syrophoenician woman's unwavering faith against all odds offers a timeless template for seeking divine intervention, emphasizing that even 'crumbs' from the Master's table are sufficient for deliverance and household transformation. The sermon’s relevance extends to anyone grappling with persistent spiritual or familial challenges, offering hope and a strategic blueprint for victory.

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Defense and Vindication of God's Church and People through the Holy Spirit and Christ's Intercession

In Defense of Pentecost

Acts 2:14-21, Leviticus 23:15, Ephesians 5:18

This sermon passionately defends the Church and the Holy Spirit's work, providing a foundational understanding of Pentecost while also addressing the ongoing opposition faced by believers. It matters because it reassures Christians that their faith and experience, even when ridiculed, are rooted in divine command and power. It also provides a robust theological framework for understanding Christ's ongoing intercession and its eternal implications for the believer's salvation. For the contemporary listener, it offers encouragement to stand firm in faith, live an obedient life, and trust in Christ's advocacy, despite worldly scorn or internal struggles. It powerfully asserts the enduring nature and divine purpose of the Church as the 'only hope for a lost and perishing world.'

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