Perhaps, you’ve noticed the unassuming yet welcoming facade of the Church of the New Testament. It stands as a testament to a rich history rooted in faith and community. The Church of the New Testament extends a warm welcome to all believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. They personally embrace Him as their Savior. Members love Him deeply. They strive to prioritize Him in every aspect of their lives.
Established in Austin in 1973, the Church of the New Testament emerged from humble beginnings. About 35 Christians started meeting as a church in Austin. This was inspired by classical writings of 19th and 20th century Bible teachers. Actively preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and shepherding one another, they have grown to over 700 members.
The church finds joy in being cleansed by Jesus’s blood and filled with the Holy Spirit. They highly treasure the Holy Bible. It is God’s revelation of Himself and of His eternal purpose.
As is true of all believers in Christ, members of the Church of the New Testament are part of His one Body. In order to practice the oneness of the Body with all the Christians in Austin, they meet as the church in Austin. They are in fellowship with over 2,000 local churches worldwide. This expresses the one Body of Christ.
The church’s beliefs center on core tenets of Christianity. The Bible is the complete divine revelation. It is inspired word by word by God through the Holy Spirit. God is uniquely one, yet triune. He is the Father, the Son, and the Spirit. The Son of God, even God Himself, was incarnated as a man. He is Jesus Christ. Christ died on the cross for our sins. He shed His blood for our redemption. Christ resurrected from among the dead on the third day. Christ ascended to the right hand of God. He is Lord of all.
Whenever any person repents to God and believes in the Lord Jesus Christ, he is regenerated and becomes a living member of the one Body of Christ. Christ is coming again to receive His believers to Himself.
The history of local churches like the Church of the New Testament traces back to Jesus and the apostles. Jesus mentioned the church in Matthew 16:18 and 18:17. The church is universal, including all believers regardless of time and space. It also exists specifically with regard to time and space, as local churches.
After Jesus’s resurrection, about 3,000 people in Jerusalem repented. They believed, were baptized, and continued in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship. They gathered daily. They met in the temple and in their homes. They shared food with joy. They praised God. The first use of “church” in Acts refers to believers in Jerusalem. It means the called-out congregation or assembly.
In addition to Sunday gatherings, members of the Church of the New Testament meet in homes. These gatherings are for prayer, fellowship, and Bible reading throughout the week. The Church of the New Testament welcomes all to join them in their worship. It is a beacon of faith. It is a testament to the enduring power of community.