THE "HEART" OF THE CHURCH OF CHRIST 
                                                                Col. 1:18-23

                         Introduction:
                         1. In speaking about the church of Christ the emphasis will
                             be on the Christ of His church.
                         2.  Looking at the "heart" - (i11. a professor at Vanderbift said
                             religious groups have a "core belief - peel an onion layer
                             by layer until you get to the "heart.)
                         3.  Presentation will be based on the book of Colossians.
                         4.  The exalted, honored, preeminent position of Jesus
                              Christ.

                         Body:
                         1. Why Recognize Christ As Head?
                             A. Agent of creation.
                             B.  Two rebels: sinful angels; sinful people.
                             C.  People who stop rebelling against God's will
                                 church: ecciesia: "the called out ones".
                             D.  Jesus Christ is "head". (Col. 1:18).
                             E.  Identity of people who comprise His church.
                                  1. Saved.
                                  2. Body concept.
                                  3. Congregational autonomy.

                         II. How Christ Rules.
                             A. Not here on earth. (Col. 3:1-3).
                             B. Controls by His will/testament. (Heb. 9:16,17).
                             C. Not by mysticism. (Col. 2:22,23).

                         111.  How 'Christ In Control" Works In Our Lives. (Col. 3).
                             A. Sanctification a process. (Col. 3:5-ff)..
                             B.  Significant change in being saved: old and new.
                             C.  Balance in:
                                 1. Attitudes - heart condition.
                                 2. Actions - (Col. 3:17).
                             D.  Worship - Regulated by Christ/N.T. (Col. 3:15-17).
                                 1. Singing!  Why?
                                 2. Worship: Directed by God. (John 4:24).
                             E. Life. (Col. 3:18-M.
                                 1. Wife and husband relationships.
                                 2. Master-Servant!
                             Conclusion:
                             1. The "heart" of the church is in it's 'Head"!
                             2. In order to be Christ's church we must submit to the rule of Christ.
                                 of Christ in all areas of life.
                             3. How get into this church? (Acts 2:42).