In the Old Testament the Lord was working through the nation of Israel to take the message of redemption to the world, and the coming of the Messiah to the world. As Christ came, He presented Himself to the world as the Redeemer and Savior of all who would come to Him for salvation. In doing so, He also established a body for those who turn to Him from their sin. That body is called the church. This is more than a universal body, that all believers are apart of, it is manifested locally as a fellowship of believers who have joined together for discipleship, and reaching out to the community that they are planted. The key to this kingdom living, starts with Jesus. Jesus builds his church on the confession made by Peter in Matthew 16:16, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God!” Jesus is building His church upon people who believe the the truth of the gospel. This truth is manifested in a recognition that I am a sinner (validated by the reality that I will one day die – Romans 6:23), and that I am in need of a Savior (Ephesians 2:8-9). It is established by believing in my heart that Christ rose from the dead, and making confession with my mouth of that truth (Romans 10:9-10). This leads me to choose to follow Him (Luke 9:23) and being obedient to that relationship out of my love and appreciation for what Jesus has done for me (John 14:15). This body which Jesus establishes, and we become apart of is determined by our relationship with Christ, and is a living vital relationship which ties us to a church family in a local body. This body is to be salt and light in the community that they are planted. Are you apart of a living fellowship of believers, the Church, is a vital part of our relationship with Christ, being a member is identifying with a community of believers, who give us encouragement and direction, something we can not receive by worshipping by our selves in the seclusion of our homes. Make your presence at church a vital part of your life and service, because remember Christ died to establish that body, and it is one of the ways we demonstrate our commitment to Him.