Orlinda Church of Christ

                                                                            Orlinda church of Christ building, 1953

Let us start our introduction by telling you about our beginning. The church of Christ really began in the mind of God long, long ago. The apostle Paul stated in Eph: 3: 8-11 that God had an “eternal plan” which was fulfilled in the church (Matt. 16:18). The church began shortly after Jesus went back to Heaven. We are told of that beginning in Acts chapter 2. The local church of Christ is trying to be just like the New Testament Church Jesus established in Jerusalem about 33 AD (more about that later.) Locally, the Orlinda church of Christ began in 1953. We have experienced much growth through the years. God is blessing the church with growth and interest. Many non-member visitors attend our worship services. We would like you to be among them. 

“This is a true saying, If a man desire the

office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. Likewise must the deacons be grave, not double tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly: 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. And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” 
                                        1 Timothy 3

Friendly. The church of Christ strives to be a "visitor friendly" church. Since many of the members were at one time visitors themselves, we know just how people feel on their first visit. We make it our goal to be "the friendliest church you ever visited." We aim to treat others the way that we want to be treated, like Jesus said in Matthew 7:12. You'll receive a warm greeting and find assistance to locate your class (or your children's) and/or a comfortable seat in the worship service. You will not be singled out, made to stand, encouraged to give any "testimony," or made to feel embarrassed in any other way. The services are simple, reverent, practical, and meaningful.

 

Bible-Based, Christ-Centered, Heaven- Bound. When you visit, you will meet people who are just like you and sincerely want to follow the teachings of the Bible and live a pleasing life for God. You'll find that every sermon and class is based on the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17) and that everyone is urged to bring their own Bible and follow along. We strive to do Bible things in Bible ways, and to call Bible things by Bible names - nothing more and nothing less. We seek to exalt Christ in our songs, prayers, sermons, and lives (Colossians 1:18). The atmosphere of hope fills the church as we think of the beautiful promise of heaven for God's children (Revelation 21).

 

Lord's Supper observed each Sunday. The church of Christ has communion every week, just as they did in New testament times (cf. Acts 20:7). It is a highlight of the week to be able to commemorate Christ's death and celebrate His promised return.

 

Beautiful Singing. The whole congregation sings a capella style (without mechanical instruments), just as they did in New Testament times (Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16). Visitors are encouraged to sing along (song books provided), but some first time visitors choose not to and simply listen. Then they comment on "how beautiful the singing is." Some say they find it easier to focus on the song's meaning since the words are more easily understood  without musical instruments.

 

Christ's Church is for Everyone. Christ's church is made up of all kinds of people

(1 Corinthians 12; Galatians 3:27-28). You will find that when we say everyone is welcome, we truly mean "everyone is welcome."