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Submitted: Jun 23 2011 09:21 AM
Last Updated: Jun 20 2025 11:08 AM
File Size: 525K
Views: 4055
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Author: Witherow, Thomas
e-Sword Version: 9.x - 10.x

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Author:
Witherow, Thomas

e-Sword Version:
9.x - 10.x

The Apostolic Church Which Is It?

An Enquiry At The Oracles Of God As To Whether Any Existing Form Of Church Government Is Of Divine Right

By Thomas Witherow

Professor Of Church History, Londonderry

"If a Divine plan of Church Government be extremely necessary by what authority does any man reject the Apostolical?" - Dr. Carson

Contents

The Apostolic Church
Statement of the Question
Meaning of the Word Church
Government of the Church

Apostolic Principles
The First Principle
The Second Principle
The Third Principle
The Fourth Principle
The Fifth Principle
The Sixth Principle

Application of the Test
Prelacy
Independency
Presbytery
The Result

Practical Lessons

Summary of The Apostolic Church: What It Is by Thomas Witherow

Thomas Witherow’s The Apostolic Church: What It Is is a comprehensive exposition of the nature, doctrines, and mission of the early Christian church, emphasizing its apostolic foundations. Written in the 19th century, the book seeks to clarify the identity of the true church based on biblical principles, contrasting it with various sects and religious deviations of the time.

Witherow begins by asserting that the essence of the Apostolic Church is rooted in the teachings and practices established by Jesus Christ and His apostles. He emphasizes that the church’s primary purpose is to glorify God through worship, to spread the gospel, and to cultivate holiness among its members. The author underscores that the church is not merely an organization but a divine institution founded by Christ, with a spiritual authority rooted in Scripture and apostolic succession.

A significant portion of the book is dedicated to defining what constitutes the true church. Witherow argues that the church must adhere strictly to the doctrinal standards set by the apostles—namely, the doctrines of the Trinity, the deity of Christ, the atonement, and the necessity of faith and repentance. He stresses that the true church is characterized by its commitment to biblical truth, its apostolic doctrine, and its adherence to the ordinances instituted by Christ, such as baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

The author explores the nature and role of the Holy Spirit within the church, asserting that the Holy Spirit’s work is essential for empowering believers, guiding doctrine, and fostering spiritual growth. Witherow highlights the importance of the Spirit’s baptism, which he sees as a distinct and vital experience for believers, enabling them to live a holy life and to witness effectively. He aligns this with the Pentecostal outpouring recorded in Acts 2, viewing it as a continuation of the apostolic experience.

Witherow also discusses the organization and worship practices of the early church. He emphasizes the importance of apostolic order, including the roles of elders and deacons, and advocates for a form of worship that is reverent, Spirit-led, and rooted in Scripture. The book advocates for the church’s mission to evangelize and to establish churches throughout the world, following the Great Commission.

A recurring theme in the book is the distinction between the true church and false or corrupt denominations. Witherow contends that many modern religious bodies have deviated from biblical doctrine and apostolic practice. He urges believers to seek the true church based on biblical standards, emphasizing holiness, doctrinal purity, and active evangelism.

In conclusion, The Apostolic Church: What It Is serves as a call to return to the fundamentals of early Christianity. Witherow champions the idea that the church must remain faithful to the apostolic teachings, be empowered by the Holy Spirit, and committed to spreading the gospel. His work remains a significant reference for those interested in historic Christian doctrine and the identity of the true church.

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06/20/25 Added Summary to Description, Uploaded refi module file

rosc

Jan 08 2013 03:39 PM

Interesting discussion of the types of Church government, but it's primarily from a Presbyterian point of view and seeks to justify that view. I wouldn't call it an unbiased examination of the subject. But, there may be useful information for those interested in Ecclesiastical organization and governance.

Quote:

The various forms of Church Government that we find existing at present in the Christian world may be classed under some one or other of these three heads: PRELACY, INDEPENDENCY, and PRESBYTERY. We do not employ these terms in an offensive sense, but as being the best calculated to denote their respective systems.