In recent years there has been a new phrase used, “The Electronic Church”, (we hear this often today) referring to religion on radio and television.

WHY THE ELECTRONIC CHURCH WILL NOT WORK

 1. IT IS NOT AN ASSEMBLY

The Lord informs us in Hebrews 10:25 that we are to assemble, the meaning of the word church is, “called out assembled.” When a person sits by his television in his home, he is not assembled with other Christians.

2. THE ELECTRONIC CHURCH IS NOT A CHURCH ORGANIZATION AND CANNOT BE.

A local New Testament church must have at least one elder or pastor under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. It must have deacons appointed by the congregation and it must have a membership.

3. IT CANNOT MEET THE NEEDS OF THE FAMILY

A true biblical church has a responsibility to the member’s family. Religious training for children begins at home but must be augmented in Sunday School classes, special training programs, youth study, and discussion.

4. IT CANNOT CARRY OUT THE ORDINANCES.

There are two ordinances given to the church by Christ – water baptism after salvation and periodically observing the Lord’s Table with unleavened bread and the fruit of the vine (wine). These are clearly church ordinances and can only be carried out properly by the local church.

5. THE ELECTRONIC CHURCH CANNOT CARRY OUT DISCIPLINE

People who claim that they get all they need from radio or television are comfortable knowing that they cannot be disciplined for sin in their lives. Properly carried out, discipline is one of the main functions of the local church.

6. THE ELECTRONIC CHURCH DOES NOT PERMIT PARTICIPATION

The Bible-believing New Testament church is a training ground for Christians to become effective servants of Christ. It gives us the opportunity to put into practice the things we learn. You readily see that a television or radio ministry gives no such opportunity.