The First Church

1900

The People's Forum

Where was the first church set up? By whom, and when? — T. J. W., Glouster, O.

There seems more or less confusion on this subject. Christians in those troublous times met in small bands from house to house, and while collectively they might be called the Church of Jerusalem, or of Antioch, or the Seven Churches in Asia, it is doubtful if it is possible to give any exact information as to priority. It is clearly stated that the disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. On the other hand, if our subscriber will read St. John, the fourth chapter, he will receive some valuable information on this subject in Christ's own words to the woman of Samaria. She says: "Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship." Christ replied: "The hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship him." This would seem to answer our correspondent. It was here at Jacob's well that Christ set up a universal church, not bounded by brick and mortar, but united by those unbreakable ties of spiritual communion with the Father of all. The members of this church were called "worshippers." Its creed was, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ." It was founded on Christ and Christ alone. Its gospel was the gospel proclaimed by Christ. Nineteen hundred years have passed away and with all the progress which has been made the words of Christ to the woman of Samaria are hardly yet comprehended.

—The Ram's Horn, March 17, 1900, p. 8.