Background

     When the Lord's church began, it was far different from any present day denomination. Throughout the generations,  many aspects of Christ's original church have been altered, including its teachings, its worship, and its practices. Today, many religious organizations claim to follow the Bible, but believe, practice, and teach different things. This makes searching for GOD's truth (John 8.32) very confusing and difficult. 

     Here at the Oyster Bay Church of Christ, we are dedicated to the restoration of true New Testament Christianity. We believe that all things pertaining to life and godliness (2 Peter 1.3) are contained in GOD's perfect Word. Because of this, we strive to be a Bible-centered congregation, uninfluenced by the preferences and traditions of men. Unlike the mainstream denominations of the day, we can confidently provide book, chapter, and verse for every aspect of our Worship to GOD. We invite you to join us in our quest to return to true New Testament Christianity (Revelation 2.5). 

     We will stop at nothing to replicate the Biblical pattern of true New Testament Christianity in all we do. 

the worship setting

     The worship setting of the New Testament congregation is a simple one: some congregations meet in homes or in rented facilities. Others meet in a modest building that is suitable for the purpose of worship. At our meeting place, we have no elaborate architecture or costly furnishings; instead, you'll find a simple structure where GOD's people can get together to praise and worship Him.
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     We seek to provide an atmosphere that promotes worship to GOD in spirit and in truth (John 4.24). Instead of being divided into classes or groups, all our members assemble together (Hebrews 10.25). We hope you will be touched by the simplicity and dignity of our worship. 
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Prayer

     Throughout our worship service, you'll hear us say several prayers. Prayer is designed to praise GOD, to thank Him for His blessings, to intercede for others, and to ask for blessings and guidance (Philippians 4.6, Matthew 6.9-13). You may notice that each prayer is typically given by a different member, none of which will have any special garment or robe designed to set them apart from others. With the establishment of the New Testament, a universal priesthood has been given to all Christians (1 Peter 2.9, Revelation 5.10). This means that we no longer have to go to a special ordained "priest" to pray on our behalf.

     You may also notice that people pray in many different positions. Contrary to popular belief, there is no designated pose a Christian must assume to pray to GOD. Some bow their heads or kneel to pray (1 Kings 8.54). Others pray looking upwards (Mark 6.41). Some even fall on their faces (Genesis 17.3). Whatever you choose to do, we politely ask that you humble yourself in some way when we approach the throne of GOD together.
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contribution

     The New Testament church is funded entirely by contributions from its members. Every first day of the week, we lay something aside (1 Corinthians 16.1-2). The Bible outlines many ways in which the contribution is to be used, including evangelism, support of needy Christians, and support for elders and evangelists. If you are interested in how we are spending our contribution, feel free to ask! Here at Oyster Bay Church of Christ, we have nothing to hide. 

     Much like during the communion, please do not feel pressured to participate in the contribution. The contribution is not a solicitation of your funds.

singing

     When you enter our meeting place, the first thing you may notice is the lack of any musical instruments. As New Testament Christians, we are commanded to sing and make melody in our hearts to the Lord (Ephesians 5.19, Colossians 3.16). One of the most special parts about true New Testament worship is that Christians don't need any man-made tools or instruments to reach GOD with our praises. Rather, all we need are the words on our lips and a song in our hearts. We think you'll find that there is no experience this side of Heaven quite like lifting praises to GOD through the medium He provided us with – the voice.
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teaching

     The teaching at Oyster Bay Church of Christ is accomplished by men speaking one at a time (1 Corinthians 14.40). You may notice that the teacher will have no title and will not be wearing any special garments designed to set him apart from others. Scriptures like 1 Peter 2.9 and Revelation 5.10  teach us that all Christians are priests. 

     The teaching portion of service is designed to instruct and exhort in ways of righteousness. We encourage you to follow along in your bible (Acts 17.11) as the speaker presents his lesson. Taking notes for further study or asking questions after service is also encouraged. Our goal is to present sound, Biblical teaching in such a way that everyone in attendance leaves edified.
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Communion

    When visiting on a Sunday morning, the Lord's Supper will be observed just as it was on the night our Lord introduced it (Matthew 26.26-28, Luke 22.19-20). The brother attending the table will take a loaf of bread (representing Christ's body), bless it, break a piece from it, eat, and pass it from person to person until each Christian has broken and eaten. He will then take a cup (representing the New Covenant) containing grape juice (representing Christ's blood), bless it, drink from it, and pass it from person to person until each Christian drinks from it (1 Corinthians 10.16-17).

     We follow this simple New Testament pattern every first day of the week (Acts 20.7). Much like during the contribution, if you choose not to participate in the communion, feel free to pass it on to the next person. We will not think any differently of you or pressure you in any way.

Oyster Bay • Church of christ

Copyright 2020